Antarctica Cruise Tours in 2026
Polar Expedition
Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctica Active: All Inclusive Activities
15 Days
USD
$21,495
per person
twin share
Polar Expedition
Falkland~Malvinas Islands
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula
23 Days
USD
$22,797
From
$37,995
per person
twin share
Polar Expedition
Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctic Explorer
12 Days
USD
$12,597
From
$20,995
per person
twin share
Participating in an AE Expeditions Antarctica journey is an experience you’ll never forget. The scenery is unbelievably beautiful, and the people you meet are like-minded adventurers who often become lifelong friends.
AE Expeditions' ships are state-of-the-art and perfectly designed for expedition cruising. The expedition staff and ship crew are among the best in the industry, supported by a highly knowledgeable sales and support team based in Sydney.
Small Ships | Big Adventures
Highlights of Our 2026 Antarctic Cruise Tours
Prepare to embark on an immersive journey of exploration on an Antarctic 2026 Cruise, as we push the frontiers of expedition travel, visiting more of the white continent – in more ways – and experiencing more landscapes, wildlife, and history than ever before.
32 Departures!
We are offering 32 different ways to explore the epic white continent onboard one of our purpose-built small ships, the Greg Mortimer, the Sylvia Earle and the newly launched Douglas Mawson, which are designed for discovery.
Sail to new horizons
We return to the Ross Sea and East Antarctica after 13 years, and prepare to visit new frontiers of Australia and New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands on a selection of curated voyages unlike any other.
8 New Itineraries
Embark on an exhilarating journey with our eight bold new itineraries, meticulously crafted to ignite your spirit of adventure. Explore new destinations, encounter unique wildlife, and create unforgettable memories.
Fly/Sail and Fly/Fly Options
Get the most from our itineraries – whether you want to maximise your time on the white continent with our fly options or take on the fuller, more traditional experience of sailing the Drake.
2 All-Inclusive Activity Voyages
Join one of these action-packed voyages to experience the wonders of Antarctica on a deeper level. Enjoy a variety of activities from snowshoeing and sea kayaking to Zodiac excursions and guided walks.
Voyages to Antarctica From AU & NZ
This season offers more ways than ever to access the white continent. For the first time, adventurers can set sail for Antarctica from Australia and New Zealand on four of our new departures.
Best time to go to Antarctica in 2026
FAQs about 2026 Cruises to Antarctica
How long is a typical cruise to Antarctica?
Antarctica cruises in 2026 generally range from 9 to 34 days, with most itineraries lasting between 12 and 21 days. The length of your journey depends on your chosen route and departure point—shorter voyages highlight key destinations, while longer expeditions explore remote regions like South Georgia and the Ross Sea.
How far in advance should I book an Antarctica cruise?
Booking early is essential for Antarctica cruises in 2026, whether you're travelling solo, with family, or in a group. We recommend reserving your spot 12 to 18 months ahead, especially if you're planning to travel during January or February, or over the Christmas and New Year period, when demand for staterooms and flights is highest.
What is the best month to cruise to Antarctica in 2026?
The ideal time to cruise to Antarctica in 2026 is during the peak summer season—December, January, and February. These months offer the best conditions for wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and comfortable exploration, making them perfect for a truly memorable polar experience.
You can reach Antarctica from the southern tip of South America or from 2025, start your trip from Hobart, Australia or Dunedin, New Zealand. Two popular departure points for Antarctica cruises are Ushuaia, Argentina, and Punta Arenas, Chile, both located in the Patagonian region and are among the southernmost towns on Earth.
Antarctica cruises commencing in Ushuaia typically involve crossing the Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula or voyaging to the Subantarctic Islands of the Falklands or South Georgia before continuing onward to Antarctica.
Alternatively, passengers departing from Punta Arenas can enjoy a unique experience by flying to Antarctica, specifically King George Island, via a charter flight arranged exclusively for their expedition.
The cost of an Antarctica cruise can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as voyage duration, stateroom type, and the chosen itinerary.
When considering an Antarctica cruise with Aurora Expeditions, you can expect prices to start from USD$13,195 per person when sharing a twin Aurora Stateroom. However, there are also early bird discounts available.
Shipboard attire leans toward the informal and casual side, you’ll find jeans, jumpers, and long-sleeved shirts comfortable indoors. It’s wise to have your jacket within reach for impromptu wildlife encounters.
While there’s no need for formal clothing, some travellers like to dress up for the captain’s welcome and farewell drinks.
Each passenger on our Antarctic cruises will receive an expedition jacket. Though, you should pack suitable cold and wet weather gear for onshore landings during your Antarctica cruise.
To help you prepare, consult our suggested packing list, which outlines the recommended types of layers and materials for an Antarctica cruise.
