5 Essential Questions to Ask Before Booking an Antarctica Cruise
Visiting Antarctica is the ultimate achievement for avid travelers seeking to complete their seven-continent journey. It's a prestigious milestone and the pinnacle of many bucket lists, especially as space tourism remains out of reach.
After the challenges of 2020, an Antarctica cruise offers an epic, transformative adventure. However, this isn't a spontaneous booking. With potentially just one chance in a lifetime, asking the right questions ensures a seamless experience.
Insights from cruise experts highlight the importance of targeted inquiries. Here are five key questions to guide your decision as you envision exploring penguin colonies.
The Basics of Antarctica Cruises
In 2021, 48 expedition ships offered Antarctic itineraries, including newcomers like Atlas Ocean Voyages, which debuted in late 2021. The season runs November to March (Antarctic summer), with January highs on the Peninsula around 32°F—similar to Chicago winters.
Most voyages depart from Ushuaia, Argentina. Independent flights can be costly with layovers; experts recommend booking through the cruise line for delays or adding a 1-2 day buffer for weather and luggage issues.
Atlas Ocean Voyages provides private chartered jets to Ushuaia as part of their all-inclusive model. For example, from Indianapolis, fly commercially to a gateway like Chicago, then to Orlando for a nonstop private jet—included in the fare.
Led by seasoned cruise executives, Atlas designed ships they'd personally enjoy.
Big Ship or Small Ship Experience?
Ship sizes range from under 100 to over 1,000 passengers. Smaller ships (often premium-priced) offer intimate expeditions, from rugged basics to luxury, but limited onboard amenities mean more time in cabins during sea days.
Larger ships provide traditional cruising comforts like diverse dining and suites, suiting families or those with mobility needs. However, ships over 500 passengers can't land in Antarctica per treaties—offering scenic cruises only, dubbed "drive-bys."
Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator (196 passengers) balances both: fuel-efficient, Ice Class IB for remote access, with ocean-view staterooms (most with balconies), L'Occitane amenities, fitness classes, gourmet dining, room service, and unlimited premium beverages.
Traveler or Tourist Experience?
Tourists enjoy distant views of wildlife. Travelers seek immersion, like Atlas' Zodiac landings in penguin colonies (with complimentary parkas, boots, and binoculars). Spot six penguin species amid the guano—memories worth sharing.
Captain's Choice itineraries adapt to weather and wildlife: Deception Island's volcano, Paulet Island penguins, Neko Harbour glaciers, or Port Lockroy's post office. Debrief at Apres Sea.
Once-in-a-Lifetime or Rare Eclipse Voyage?
For umbraphiles, Antarctica hosts rare total solar eclipses every ~400 years (east-to-west path). Atlas' Dec. 4, 2021, 12-night sailing optimized viewing in the Scotia Sea.
2021/2022 options included Antarctic Discovery (9 nights, Drake Passage, South Shetlands, 8 landings); Antarctic Circle (Feb. 2022, crossing 66°S for Valentine's). Multiple sailings available.
Will It Break the Bank?
Antarctica cruises range from thousands to $50,000+ per person. Factor in flights ($1,600+ RT to Ushuaia), onboard extras (dining, drinks, Wi-Fi—higher on sea-heavy itineraries), and deposits.
Atlas includes flights, amenities, reduced deposits, and flexible changes (up to 15 days prior), enhancing value.
- Flights: Often $1,600+; Atlas' charters save thousands.
- Amenities: Included to avoid surprises.
- Deposits/Flexibility: Seek low deposits and late changes.
Ready to Explore?
Learn more about Atlas Ocean Voyages' innovative approach, review itineraries, and watch their 1960s-inspired video. Book now for Prestige Cruises' limited Top 20 offer: up to 24% off Antarctica voyages.
