Antarctica is the only continent with no permanent residents and is home to 90% of the world’s ice. Its landscape is as beautiful as it is forbidding, stand in awe at an endless ocean, towering icebergs painted in shades of white and blue, saw-toothed mountains and changing skies.

Antarctica may only be the fifth largest continent, but in many other ways it is ahead of the pack. It is the driest, coldest and windiest continent. With this in mind, be sure to pack the appropriate clothing such as base layers, gloves, hand warmers and not forgetting sunglasses and sun cream!

The penguins of Antarctica will capture your heart and your camera lens too. From chinstraps and gentoos to those majestic kings and emperors, you’re sure to witness these entertaining creatures in their masses. Enjoy shore visits where you can sit and watch them parading or if you’re lucky enough to get a spot on a kayak, see them porpoising in nearby waters. 

Another highlight is the number of whales in the region - the Southern Ocean is a rich feeding ground for many whale species so keep your eyes and binoculars at the ready. Be it a blue, humpback or orca, seeing a whale is always a special moment as these huge mammals gracefully glide through the water.

In areas like South Georgia and the Falklands, you might also come across impressive elephant seals and the wandering albatross, creatures as spectacular as the place they call home.

Trailfinders work with a wide range of cruise lines such as Hurtigruten, Silversea and many others who offer unforgettable Antarctica Cruises. Each of our partnered cruise lines have purpose-built expedition ships to help you explore in comfort as you uncover this continent steeped in mystery, history and an abundance of wildlife. 

Classic Antarctica cruises generally depart from Ushuaia on the very southern tip of Argentina and travel to the Antarctic Peninsula. Longer Antarctic expedition cruises may also visit the biologically diverse Falkland Islands & South Georgia. You’ll be able to learn all about the wildlife, history and geology of the great white continent from a team of onboard expedition experts, always on hand to make sure you are maximising your cruising experience. 

Activities are split between zodiac boat rides through sculpted icebergs and shore excursions along the Antarctic Peninsula, where you will encounter some of the most extreme environments on earth! With limitations on the number of people allowed to step foot on the continent per day, you’ll be one of only 100 humans standing on Antarctica and soaking up some of the most beautiful unspoiled views anywhere on the planet.

You will also find a range of additional activities on offer (depending on your expedition and some at an additional charge) including kayaking, photography master classes and lectures on a broad range of subjects. Another must-do experience for many of our clients is the ‘Polar Plunge’- an opportunity to dunk yourself into the icy waters of Antarctica for the ultimate adrenaline rush!

Here are some personal highlights and top tips from two of our cruise consultants lucky enough to have embarked on a cruise to Antarctica:

“The days at sea are as good as the days visiting shore – the Marine Biologists and Ornithologist would be out on deck looking for whales and sea birds… the staff are a huge part of the experience. Oh, and embrace the Drakes Passage, whatever it throws at you!”

– Dave, Premium Travel and Cruise consultant, Bath Travel centre

‘Camping on the ice and the polar plunge are a must! Another highlight were the zodiac trips, as we were lucky enough to stand on sea ice and pass a floating iceberg. The whole experience felt really laid back, and it was amazing being surrounded by fellow travellers who are all there for the same reasons.’

– Adrian, Premium Travel and Cruise consultant, Birmingham Travel centre

Choosing the right Polar expedition deserves careful consideration and Trailfinders always offer impartial advice on choosing the right itinerary and the right ship for you.

Want to know the best place to view king penguins, or how to organise 'camping-on-ice? Are on board creature comforts important for you, or perhaps are you looking for a voyage which crosses the Antarctic Circle? Whatever is on your wish list, we are the experts in helping you create a memorable experience best suited to you.

All that’s left for you to do is call one of our polar experts and let us start planning this life-changing adventure for you!

Take a look at our Expedition page to discover some of our favourite itineraries to this unforgettable destination… 

Alternatively, take a look at our Antarctica Cruises pages for more inspiration.