Can I cruise to Antarctica from Australia?

Most travellers will first fly to the South American city of Ushuaia, where most Antarctic cruises depart from. However, there are a select number of cruises that depart each year from New Zealand and travel to the region of East Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic Islands.

Is Antarctica a good destination for solo travellers?

Yes! Each season, we have many solo travellers of all ages and genders travel with us to Antarctica. It's easy to make friends over afternoon tea or a casual cocktail in the ship's lounge, so most travellers who arrive alone quickly make friends. Some ships also reserve restaurant seating for solo travellers who would like to dine with others.

Will I get sea sick on the Drake Passage?

At times, the Drake Passage can produce turbulent seas, but our vessels are built for maximum stability and comfort to ensure that even in rough conditions, sea and motion sickness are kept to a minimum at all times. We also have a host of services and facilities available should symptoms befall you. It also might be possible to fly over the Drake Passage, so speak to one of our Destination Specialists for more information.

How can I find the best last-minute Antarctica expeditions?

Chimu has access to a wide range of Polar expedition vessels and itineraries, so if you don’t see a trip that catches your eye, please give us a call, email, or chat with us. We have access to many more Antarctica deals than the ones on our website, so we’re happy to do the work to travel to Antarctica for the best possible price. We can include international flights, insurance, transfers, and everything else you need for your journey.

How many people are on board each Antarctic ship?

The number of people on board varies depending on the ship but the majority of our ships carry between 90-180 passengers. Small ship expeditions are ideal for maximising your time off the ship and on the ice, ideally with two excursions each day.

When is the Antarctic cruise season?

The Antarctic season runs during the Southern Hemisphere summer months, from late October through March. Any time during the season will bring amazing opportunities to see icebergs, wildlife, and incredible landscape and glacier views.

Where do Antarctica cruise ships depart from?

Most ships depart from South America (Ushuaia, Argentina or Punta Arenas, Chile), so you can also combine your cruise with a summertime adventure in Patagonia, Buenos Aires, or Santiago. However, some Antarctic ships depart from New Zealand or Australia.

What amenities can I enjoy on a luxury Antarctic expedition ship?

Luxury cruises are modern, purpose-built vessels designed to offer five-star luxury to guests. Imagine fine dining, champagne, a decadent onboard spa, and turndown service each night. Some ships also offer butler service, scenic helicopter flights, and sleek architectural designs, matched by chic interior styling. Alongside your luxury experience, you’ll still enjoy twice-daily excursions and lots of expedition activities, like citizen science programs and shore landings.

How can I find the best Antarctica expedition ship?

Chimu specialise in small-ship Polar cruising and work with a range of handpicked vessels that take fewer than 200 passengers. Smaller ships offer more opportunities to get off the ship and on the ice, taking part in twice-daily shore landings and optional activities like kayaking and ice camping. We have over 20 years of Antarctic experience, so our Destination Specialists are here to help you find the perfect Antarctic ship for your schedule, budget, and interests.

When is the best time of year to visit Antarctica?

The Antarctic expedition cruise season runs from late October through March, but each month of the season is amazing for wildlife, icebergs, and landscapes—you can’t go wrong, no matter when you travel.

Why should I travel to Antarctica with Chimu Adventures?

Chimu Adventures are the Antarctica specialists, an Associate Member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, and a Certified B Corporation. We offer the largest range of vessels, an experienced, expert team of Polar guides, and comprehensive, flexible itineraries, tailoring each itinerary to make your Antarctic cruise unique and unforgettable.

Is it safe to go to Antarctica?

All of our tours are 100% tried and tested to ensure that when you travel with us, you’re doing so in a controlled and safe environment with trained experts. We consistently monitor weather conditions and will always provide you with the best possible adventure without risk of injury to you or the vessel. While some activities may need to be rescheduled or cancelled due to weather, every effort is made to have a contingency plan should such conditions become a reality during your expeditions. We’ve been the experts in Antarctic travel for over 20 years and use our vast experience and knowledge when picking the vessels we sell to provide you with an adventure that’s unforgettable for all the right reasons.

Will we be able to walk on shore in Antarctica?

Shore landings are included in all of our Antarctic cruises and two shore or zodiac excursions are usually planned per day, weather conditions permitting.

When is the best time to visit South Georgia and the Falkland Islands?

Expedition cruises to South Georgia and the Falklands depart in the Southern Hemisphere summer months, generally between late October through March. This time of year brings mild weather, longer days, and lots of wildlife activity.

What wildlife can I see on a sub-Antarctic islands expedition?

The sub-Antarctic islands are a true paradise for wildlife! The wildlife observed will vary based on the islands visited, the time of year, and the weather conditions, but commonly-seen species include elephant seals, albatross, and many penguin species, including Gentoo, rockhopper, Snares crested, and the yellow-eyed penguin. You may also see fur seals, whales, and shearwaters.

Can Antarctica cruise ships cater to my dietary requirements?

Yes, your Antarctica cruise ship can cater to any dietary requirements, including severe allergies, Halal, Kosher, and gluten-free or vegan requests. You'll provide your dietary requirements at the time of booking but you can also meet with your ship's Executive Chef or Head of Dining to ensure the team is aware of your needs. No matter your dietary requirements, you'll enjoy exceptional cuisine on your Antarctica cruise.

Can I do a polar plunge in Antarctica?

Yes! The Polar Plunge is a popular Antarctic tradition and is offered on most expeditions, included in your cruise cost. If you're willing to brave the icy waters for a few seconds, you'll create some amazing memories - and bragging rights for a lifetime!

How can I compare Antarctic luxury ships to decide which one is best for me?

If you're unsure which luxury Antarctic cruise is best for you, the experts at Chimu are here to help. Please give us a call, send an email, or message with our team on Chat to ask any questions about luxury Antarctica travel planning. Our team are true Antarctic experts who have travelled to the continent many times and can advise on the best luxury ship for your needs, based on their own experience.

How can I find an Antarctica cruise with no single supplement?

We know solo travellers often encounter solo supplements when searching for their own cabin, which can be frustrating. If you're a solo traveller seeking to avoid solo supplements on an Antarctica cruise, please give us a call. While we have a range of Antarctica deals online, our experienced team of Destination Specialists have access to many more cruises than we can feature on our website. We often receive special exclusive offers from our suppliers, including no single supplement cabins on select departures, and can help you find the best possible deal on your cruise as a single traveller.

How can I find the top-rated Antarctica cruise operators?

Chimu Adventures only works with the top-rated Antarctic expedition operators. All of our partners take fewer than 200 passengers, ensuring you can maximise your time off the ship and on the ice, and each operator has been vetted extremely carefully to ensure they offer only the best possible experience for guests in terms of safety, off-ship experiences, comfort, and sustainability. Our team of Destination Specialists are glad to talk you through the best Antarctic options to suit your interests and budget.

How can I save money when booking my Antarctica cruise?

To get the best possible deal on Antarctic travel, book far in advance to take advantage of early-bird booking discounts offered by operators. Or, if you're flexible on when you go, you can try your luck on a last-minute discount. Shoulder season cruises, at the beginning or end of the season, are also offer more competitively priced than cruises in the peak season months of December or January, but still offer an incredible experience. If you're on a tight budget, feel free to give us a call as the team at Chimu has access to a wide range of Antarctica specials, some not posted on our website, so we can help you find the ideal itinerary.

How can solo travellers to Antarctica avoid paying a single supplement?

Solo travel to Antarctica is very popular, but we know single supplements can be frustrating. Traditionally, most cruise operators develop their pricing based on two guests in one cabin, which is why pricing can be different for twin versus solo occupancy. However, Chimu Adventures is here to help. We know which Antarctic vessels offer dedicated solo berths and can help you find an itinerary where you can have your own room, without the extra cost. Or, if you're willing, we can also pair you up with a fellow solo traveller of the same gender to share a cabin, ensuring you have access to the most competitive pricing.

How do I get to Antarctica from the US?

Most Antarctica cruises depart from the southernmost tip of South America, so to get to Antarctica from the US, you'll first need to fly to the port towns of Ushuaia, Argentina or Punta Arenas, Chile. You can connect from many major US cities to Buenos Aires, and from there, pick up your connecting flight to Ushuaia or Punta Arenas. The major airports in South America have English signage and English-speaking airline staff, so it's easy to navigate, even if you don't speak Spanish.

How long does it take to cross the Drake Passage on an Antarctica cruise?

It usually takes around two days, or 48 hours, to cross the Drake Passage in each direction. However, ships can often arrive a little earlier if weather conditions are calm. During your Drake Passage crossing, there will be lots to do onboard, such as attend educational lectures, connect with your fellow travellers, or even just relax and catch up on some sleep.

Is it easy to make new friends as a solo traveller on an Antarctic cruise?

Yes, Antarctica is not only a popular destination for solo travellers, but there are many opportunities to make new friends onboard! The intimate nature of small-ship cruises and the large communal areas create plenty of opportunities to strike up a conversation, such as during the welcome drinks, over the breakfast buffet, or before an onboard lecture - you'll likely make some new pals before you even sail out of Ushuaia! Some ships also reserve dining tables for solo travellers, making it easy to enjoy meals with likeminded explorers.

Should I bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera to Antarctica?

It's said that the best camera is the one you have on you, and this is very true for Antarctica photography! Whether you use a mirrorless, a DSLR, or an iPhone, you'll be able to create magical photos and videos of your trip. However, if you have plenty of time to learn how to use it and want to invest in new gear before your trip, mirrorless cameras are generally lighter in weight and smaller, making them more convenient for travelling.

What activities are included on an Antarctic expedition cruise?

On your Antarctic expedition cruise, twice-daily excursions off the ship are included, weather permitting. Your Antarctic activities may include a zodiac cruise, shore landing, guided hike, or research station visit. Many ships also offer optional activities that you can sign up for, at an additional expense, including kayaking, camping, or a comprehensive photography program.

What are the IAATO guidelines that I need to follow as a tourist?

Tourism in Antarctica is governed by IAATO, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. For the safety of travellers, the environment, and the wildlife, Antarctica ships follow strict IAATO guidelines. These include maintaining safe distances from all wildlife (distances vary for different species), following biosecurity protocols, and abiding by the 'Leave No Trace' policy. Before your first shore landing, your expedition crew will provide a comprehensive briefing on IAATO guidelines, ensuring you're ready to go!

What happens if the weather cancels a landing in Antarctica?

Safety is always the number on priority in Antarctica. Your expedition team has access to world-class weather tracking systems to understand the wind speed, temperature, and forecast for each potential landing site. If your expedition leader deems it unsafe, a landing might be cancelled or ended earlier than planned. Or, the ship may reposition to another nearby landing site where there is less wind, for example, making it safer to land. While most ships aim for two landings per day, this is always subject to weather and sea conditions.

What is the best small-ship Antarctica expedition for Americans?

Antarctica is a popular destination not just for American travelers, but with adventure-seekers from many other countries as well! If you're seeking a friendly, welcoming, and English-speaking trip for your Antarctic cruise, we recommend vessels such as Ocean Albatros, Ocean Nova, Discoverer, and Ocean Victory. Each ship takes fewer than 200 guests, allowing you to maximize your time off the ship and on the ice with twice-daily excursions, weather permitting. However, Chimu Adventures has access to a wide-range of small-ship cruises to Antarctica, including luxury options, so our experienced team is glad to help you find the perfect itinerary.

What is the best small-ship Antarctica expedition for Australians?

Antarctica is a popular destination not just for Australian travellers, but with adventure-seekers from many other countries as well! If you're seeking a friendly, welcoming, and English-speaking trip for your Antarctic cruise, we recommend vessels such as Ocean Albatros, Ocean Nova, Discoverer, and Ocean Victory. Each ship takes fewer than 200 guests, allowing you to maximise your time off the ship and on the ice with twice-daily excursions, weather permitting. However, Chimu Adventures has access to a wide-range of small-ship cruises to Antarctica, including luxury options, so our experienced team is glad to help you find the perfect itinerary.

Where do East Antarctica cruises depart from?

East Antarctica expedition cruises usually depart from Invercargill or Christchurch in New Zealand or Hobart in Tasmania, Australia. East Antarctica cruises are longer in duration, often around 25-30 days, and are popular with travellers seeking a unique itinerary or with a strong history in Antarctic exploration history.

Which Antarctic expeditions offer camping?

Overnight camping on the ice is one of the most popular Antarctic activities. It is offered by many ships, including the Ocean Albatros and the Discoverer. Camping in Antarctica is limited to a set number of participants, so it's recommended to book your place in advance. Camping is also weather dependent and may not be offered on all voyages, particularly those very late or early in the season.

Will there be a doctor on my Antarctica cruise ship?

Yes, your Antarctica ship will have at least one doctor onboard, but usually two - one employed by the ship and one by the expedition team. They are there to assist with minor injuries, accidents, or seasickness, but the medical facilities onboard are very limited. In the rare case of a serious medical emergency, the patient may need to be airlifted off the ship, which is why comprehensive travel insurance is required for all Antarctica cruise passengers.

When is the best time of year for an Arctic expedition cruise?

Arctic cruises sail within Northern Hemisphere summer, so the best months to visit the Arctic are between late May and September.

What are the best places to visit on a cruise to the Arctic?

Arctic expedition cruises follow different itineraries, but some of the most popular routes visit Svalbard, Iceland, Canada's Northwest Passage, and Greenland.

How many passengers are on each Arctic cruise?

Chimu specialise in small-ship cruising to the Arctic, with each ship taking fewer than 200 passengers. This allows for a more immersive experience and also a reduced environmental impact.

Will I see polar bears on my Arctic expedition?

It's always possible to see polar bears in the Arctic, but never a certainty. A Svalbard cruise often provides good chances for polar bear viewing, but there are very strict guidelines in place to ensure ships keep a safe distance from the animals.

How many nights are Arctic expedition cruises?

Arctic cruises range in duration from around 7-21 nights, depending on the destinations visited.

Are Arctic cruises popular with solo travelers from the United States?

Yes, Arctic cruising is very popular with solo travelers from not just the USA and Canada, but from around the world. With most ships taking less than 200 passengers, it's easy to meet people onboard at the welcoming evening, lectures, or during meals.

Will I see the Northern Lights on my Arctic cruise?

Seeing the Northern Lights is always a possibility on Arctic cruises, espeically in September on clear nights.

What will I see on my Arctic cruise?

Your Arctic cruise will vary, based on your destinations, but often Arctic cruises include lots of wildlife, bird, and whale viewing, visits to local Inuit communities and fishing villages, and zodiac excursions to view icebergs, glaciers, and fjords.

Where do Arctic cruises depart from?

Depending on the region being visited, Arctic cruises depart from a range of locations, including Reykjavic, Oslo, Copenhagen, and Longyearbyen.

When is the best time to go on a Greenland cruise?

Greenland expedition cruises operate within the Northern Hemisphere's summer months, generally from June until September.

How much fitness is required to go on an Arctic expediton cruise?

A high level of fitness is not necessary for Arctic cruise passengers, but you need to be in good health as although there is generally a doctor on board the ship, you may be a long way from any other medical assistance. The majority of activities are focused around shore excursions and zodiac cruising and so you need to be able to climb into and out of the inflatable zodiacs from both the ship and the shore. On shore landings you may need to negotiate uneven and slippery ground. Shore excursions generally involve some walking, but we can provide more details about travel to specific Arctic destinations.

Antarctica, Arctic & Latin America Travel FAQs

Welcome to our comprehensive FAQ section where you'll find answers to all your questions about traveling to Antarctica, the Arctic, and Latin America.

General

Most ships offer Wi-Fi connectivity for an additional fee. Due to Antarctica's remote location, mobile phone service is generally unavailable.

Chimu Adventures is a certified B Corporation and members of IAATO, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. We believe in reducing our footprint as we travel and protecting our environment. In Antarctica, always follow biosecurity protocals, avoid bringing single use plastics, ensure you abide by al wildlife distance guidelines, and learn from your expedition guides about the issues impacting Antarctica, including ways you can give back once you return home.

Your Antarctic expedition cruise offers many activities, including twice-daily (weather permitting) zodiac cruises and shore landings, wildlife watching, photography opportunities, onboard lectures, and citizen science programs. Optional activities, available at an additional cost, may include kayaking, ice camping, and paddle boarding

Travel planning

The team at Chimu Adventures are true Antarctic experts, with over 20 years of experience in the Polar regions. We can help you select the perfecrt small-ship expedition ship, taking into account your schedule, budget, interests, and preferred style of travel.

Costs

Your Antarctic expedition cruise fare includes everything you need for an immersive experience, including your cabin, all meals, twice-daily excursions, citizen science programs, and the support of your experienced expedition team. Some ships also include alcoholic beverages with dinner and may also include a jacket that’s yours to keep.

General

While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, the remote and untouched landscapes of Svalbard are usually a reliable place to observe many Arctic species. It’s home to Svalbard reindeer, Arctic foxes, colonies of walruses, whales, seals, thousands of migratory seabirds nesting on coastal cliffs and a polar bear colony.

The Northwest Passage is a historic maritime sea route that connects the Atlantic and Pacific via the Arctic, traversing through parts of northern Canada. A Northwest Passage expedition cruise offers unique glaciers and landscapes, diverse wildlife sightings, and meaningful visits to Inuit communities.

Costs

Planning an Arctic cruise can be complex, with many destinations to choose from. We know budget is an important factor when planning a cruise, so let the experienced team at Chimu help you get started. We have access to a wide range of Arctic deals, many more than listed on our website, so please reach out and we can talk you through the best choices for your budget and schedule.

Luxury Arctic

A luxury expedition cruise is the ideal way to experience the Arctic in comfort and style. We can help you find the perfect luxury Arctic cruise, featuring balconies or upgraded cabin types, fine dining, and onboard spa and wellness facilities.

Travel planning

Chimu Adventures is a certified B Corporation and true Arctic experts. We offer a large range of vessels, an experienced, expert team of travel enthusiasts, and comprehensive, flexible itineraries, helping each traveller find not only the perfect cruise for the budget, schedule, and interests, but we can also arrange flights, insurance, transfers, and any additional hotel stays before or after your cruise.

Travel planning

Yes, it's easy to add on travel before or after your Antarctic cruise. Popular South American destinations with Antarctic cruise travellers include Buenos Aires, Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, and the Galapagos Islands, to name a few.

General

Chimu Adventures is a certified B Corporation and a strong believer in supporting the local communities we visit. We integrate off-the-beaten path experiences, such as guided walks, local artisan visits, rural excursions, and family-style dinners to enrich trips, support local communities and help spread tourism more equitably. We also work with local guides and locally sourced products in Latin America to deliver authentic knowledge, cultural insights, and high-quality experiences to our travellers.

The vast continent of South America has so much to offer travellers! If you love the vibrant energy of big cities, check out Buenos Aires, Rio, or Santiago. Some of the top destination for wildlife include the Amazon River, the Pantanal, and the Galapagos Islands. For history and culture, you might enjoy Machu Picchu, Cusco, Quito, and Cartagena.

Safety

There is a risk of altitude sickness in places like the Andes Mountains, Lake Titicaca, and the Atacama Desert. Altitude sickness affects everyone differently and usually has nothing to do with your general fitness level, but we highly recommend acclimatising at altitude before taking strenuous treks or walks. If you do plan to include a trek whilst you are in Peru, particularly in the Andean highlands, then the fitter you are the easier you will find the trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Travel planning

Costs

General

Costs

Luxury Arctic

Travel planning

Travel planning

General

Safety