Antarctica is easier to plan than it sounds, but the details matter more than on any other cruise. Here is how to get to the ship, what to sort out before you go, and exactly what to pack.
Nearly every voyage begins in southern South America. Plan to arrive at least a day early; many lines include a hotel night before the voyage.
The classic route. Fly overnight to Buenos Aires, spend a night (often included), then take a three-and-a-half-hour flight, frequently a charter arranged by the cruise line, to Ushuaia, the “End of the World,” where the ship waits in the Beagle Channel.
For fly-the-Drake voyages, fly to Santiago, then south to Punta Arenas on the Strait of Magellan. The charter flight to King George Island leaves from here, weather permitting.
Across the Beagle Channel from Ushuaia, tiny Puerto Williams is a newer embarkation point for some Silversea voyages, reached by flight from Punta Arenas.
Expedition ships carry 100 to 200 guests, so the best cabins, the solo cabins and the holiday departures go first. New seasons open for sale around two years out, often with early-booking offers. Last-minute space exists, but rarely in the cabin you want.
Most lines require emergency medical evacuation coverage, and some specify a minimum amount. Buy it when you pay your deposit, so cancellation cover protects you from the start.
Many expedition lines ask for a medical questionnaire signed by your doctor. It is a good moment to discuss seasickness remedies for the Drake Passage too.
You don’t need to be an athlete. You need to be able to swing your legs over the side of a Zodiac with a crew member steadying you, and to walk on uneven, snowy or rocky ground. Every landing is optional, and many have a short route as well as a longer hike.
Fares differ more in what they include than in what they cost. Check for: drinks and gratuities, the pre-cruise hotel and charter flight, the parka and boots, and extras like kayaking, camping, helicopter flights and submarine dives, which are included on some lines and extra on others. We will lay it out side by side.
Think ski trip, not polar expedition. Your cruise line usually provides the parka and lends waterproof boots; confirm for your sailing, and pack the rest.
Flying the Drake? The charter flights have strict luggage weight limits; ask us for your line’s allowance before you pack.
Also from Pavlus: All expedition cruises · White Desert fly-in camps (the South Pole & emperor penguins) · Ushuaia port guide · Punta Arenas port guide · South Georgia port guide · Live cruise ship tracker
Tell us the season, the line, or just how much ice you want to see. We’ll send your Pavlus price and the cabins still open, usually the same day. Antarctica sells early: the best cabins on the small ships go a year or more ahead.
Your Pavlus Antarctica price will be emailed to you quickly. No obligation.