Antarctica cruise review: Outstanding trip

Destinations: Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, Weddell Sea, Falkland Islands, South Georgia

Highlights: Emperor Penguin, Antarctic Fur Seal, Adelie Penguin, Chinstrap Penguin, Fin Whale, Gentoo Penguin, Humpback Whale, Killer Whale, King Penguin, Macaroni Penguin, Magellanic Penguin, Rockhopper Penguin, Sei Whale, Wandering Albatross, Weddell Seal, Black-browed Albatross, Blue Petrel, Antarctic Petrel, South Georgia Pintail, Falkland Steamer Duck

Fascinated with Antarctic exploration from childhood especially Shackleton and with a long term friend who came from the Falklands we chose this trip because it was advertised as an expedition ship with just over 100 passengers meaning we could all go on every excursion. It seems we were very lucky with the weather and so our excursions and sightings were much better than average. Got to know the birders who spent most of their time on deck glued to binoculars and were remarkably generous with sharing their knowledge of the birds that flew around the ship and those we saw on land. The whale sightings were frequent, most notable were the two prolonged sightings of killer whales, the first when a pod of 20-30 literally played around the boat for an hour and the second a “David Attenborough” type experience when a similar size pod surrounded a fin whale with the intention of hunting it for its 2000kg tongue. The landings just seemed to get better as we progressed. The Falklands was a great start, Georgia had great scenery and huge penguin colonies, anchoring off the site where most of Shackleton’s men were left behind on Elephant Island was a good stop even if it was too rough to get ashore but entering the Weddell Sea and the pack ice was for me the highlight. Other reviews of this trip lament that we were unable to make a landing on the subarctic continent although this was the aim but was prevented by the ice conditions and restrictions on a couple of landing sites due to avian flu, so we had to land on the islands instead. Adding another day on the trip so longer could be spent in this region would perhaps be optimal. It was a pleasure being on a boat with such a happy and helpful crew. Ali’s leadership skills should be complimented but all the guides were knowledgeable and helpful, the hotel crew were fabulous hosts, the food was amazing, what a chef, and our cabin staff were particularly lovely. I should add that the bar and wine prices were more than reasonable and the laundry was much cheaper than most hotels. We are unlikely ever to afford a repeat trip as it is expensive to get to the Antarctic but are so pleased that this was the company, boat and itinerary we chose.

Been on one of our voyages?

Leave your own review

Related cruises

Up to $4150 OFF

Antarctica - Elephant Island - Weddell Sea - Polar Circle - Aurora Australis / Southern Lights

9 Mar - 23 Mar, 2026

•

Tripcode: PLA30-26

Antarctic Circle Antarctic Peninsula Weddell Sea Elephant Island

This expansive expedition takes you into the Antarctic Circle, combining the rich animal life of the Weddell Sea with the surreal shores and islands of the Antarctic Peninsula. Such key landing sites as the legendary Elephant Island and Crystal Sound...

m/v Plancius

Go to cruise page

From 10250 USD

Up to $3400 OFF

Antarctica - Whale watching discovery and learning voyage - Aurora Australis / Southern Lights

10 Mar - 20 Mar, 2026

•

Tripcode: HDS30-26

Antarctic Peninsula

This Antarctic Peninsula cruise delivers you into a landscape of rugged rock, pure white snow, and a fantastic variety of wildlife. Come say hello to whales, seals, and penguins.

m/v Hondius

Go to cruise page

From 7250 USD

Up to $3600 OFF

Antarctica - Weddell Sea Explorer Basecamp - free polar activities (kayaking, hiking, photo workshop, snorkeling)

17 Mar - 29 Mar, 2026

•

Tripcode: OTL31a26

Antarctic Peninsula Weddell Sea

The Weddell Sea Explorer Basecamp voyage offers you a myriad of ways to explore and enjoy the wildlife-rich Weddell Sea. During this expedition in one of the most remote regions of the world, we will do all kinds of activities such as kayaking and a...

m/v Ortelius

Go to cruise page

From 7250 USD

Antarctica - Beyond the Polar Circle - whale watching - Aurora Australis / Southern Lights

20 Mar - 31 Mar, 2026

•

Tripcode: HDS31-26

Antarctic Circle Antarctic Peninsula

This Polar Circle and Antarctic Peninsula cruise passes through waters travelled by Humpback, Minke and Fin whales. Anchoring in various spots around the region, the expedition offers the chance to dive in the iceberg-heavy waters.

m/v Hondius

Go to cruise page

From 11500 USD

Up to $2740 OFF

Atlantic Odyssey incl. Antarctic Peninsula to St. Helena

20 Mar - 24 Apr, 2026

•

Tripcode: HDS31A26

Combination Antarctic Circle Antarctic Peninsula South Georgia St. Helena Tristan da Cunha

Our Atlantic Odyssey visits some of the most remote islands in the world, following the migratory paths of birds, including Arctic terns and long-tailed skuas, while whales, dolphins, and flying fish leap, crest, and glide above the waves of the high...

m/v Hondius

Go to cruise page

From 21915 USD

We have a total of
82 cruises

All cruises