Cruises to Antarctica : All ships

Booking a cruise in Antarctica is an investment and an important decision. Therefore, choosing the one that will give you the experience that suits you is very important.

For most of the cruise, you will be on board the ship, which means that choosing the right Antarctica cruise will be one of the most important decisions you make.

Types of ships in Antarctica – All cruises to Antarctica

The type of Antarctica ship you choose will depend largely on your budget and the type of experience you want to book.

Research ships like the MV Ushuaia are obviously less expensive, and many people (including me) believe that these ships give you a better experience, as they are generally smaller, which means more landings and fewer waiting lines.

Antarctica’s luxury ships are generally larger, more spacious and have many more facilities, such as gyms, spa and Jacuzzi facilities, dining options and large terraces.

However, there will be more people on board and you should keep in mind that only 100 people can be ashore at a time (due to Antarctic regulations). Luxury ships in Antarctica are also the most expensive for obvious reasons, you have more and better services.

However, expedition boats with some luxury such as the Greg Mortimer or the Ocean Victory often provide a compromise between the above two versions .

They are designed to provide travelers with the best experiences in landings, facilities, deck space and activities such as camping and kayaking.

While not as luxurious or well-equipped as the ships in the first category mentioned above, expedition ships make a big impact and often offer full media conference rooms, wellness centers and fully stocked libraries.

Another important issue to consider is the movement of the ship. Some Antarctic cruises are ice-strengthened and fully stabilized, while others are not. People who suffer a lot from dizziness should definitely keep this in mind.

MV Ushuaia

The Ushuaia is one of the most respected ships in the polar region!

Ice-strengthened and originally built for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the ship has now been renovated to accommodate 88 passengers and nearly 50 suites.

The large deck space, open bridge policy, open plan salon and full media conference room make this one of the most popular ships.

It is also the only ship in which the crew speaks Spanish and all activities are bilingual (English/Spanish).

Specifications

Type of vessel	Research vessel
Crew	38
Passengers	88
Cabins	46
Length	278 ft.
Speed	12 knots
Sleeve	51 feet
Fretwork	18 feet
Voltage	110 V / 60 Hz
Facilities	Dining room, observation lounge/conference room, panoramic deck, bar, library, gift store.
Team	Zodiacs

MS Expedition

This small Antarctic expedition ship carries 132 passengers and was completely renovated in 2009. Thanks to the remodeling, the cabins are all large and very well equipped, each with a window!

The deck space is large and ideal for wildlife viewing, while the interior of the boat is comfortable and cozy. Much of the common space has large windows for ideal viewing of the landscape.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Expedition vessel
Crew	53
Passengers	132
Length	345
Speed	14,5
Fretwork	15
Facilities	Observation, lounge, fine dining, pub, gift store, medical clinic, library, computer room, gymnasium
Team	Zodiacs, kayaks, camping equipment

Sylvia Earle

With only 120 passengers, the Sylvia Earle is one of the smallest and most modern expedition cruise ships sailing today.

The boat showcases a new patented X-Bow® system that is much more environmentally friendly and offers a smoother sailing experience. The Sylvia Earle also features an outdoor saltwater pool and hydraulic observation platforms for the best possible wildlife viewing experience.

Specifications

Expedition Team	14-24
Hotel equipment	47-56
Engine and Deck Crew	24
Passengers	120
Length	104,4
Fretwork	5,3
Cruising Speed	12 knots
Cabins	79
Facilities	Dining room, bar, sauna, library, gym, observation room, mud room, clinic with doctor.
Team	Zodiacs, kayaks, snowshoes, snorkeling equipment, camping

Greg Mortimer

One of the newest expedition ships on the market, the Greg Mortimer is a specially designed polar expedition ship carrying 120 passengers.

With its striking X-BOW design and state-of-the-art technology on board, the Greg Mortimer is undoubtedly redefining the future look of expedition vessels in the polar regions.

This modern ship offers many activities and facilities and is a must for anyone suffering from extreme seasickness.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Expedition vessel
Crew	90
Passengers	120
Length	340
Speed	15,5
Fretwork	5,3 m
Sleeve	18,4 m
Facilities	Dining room, bar, sauna, gym, library, clinic with doctor, observation room, mud room.
Team	Zodiacs, Kayaks, skis, scuba diving tanks

The Fram

Named after the ship used by Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen, the Fram was built especially for polar cruises in 2009 and is one of the largest ships in Antarctica with space for 269 passengers. Many elements of the original Fram are found around the ship, making it a beautiful piece of history.

As you would expect from a ship of this size, the Fram offers several hot tubs, a fitness center, several restaurants and lounges and a full spa.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Luxury expedition vessel
Crew	89
Passengers	254
Cabins	127
Speed	13
Length	374
Sleeve	66
Voltage	220 V/50 hz
Facilities	Dining room, elevator, observation lounge, bar, solarium, two Jacuzzis, sauna, gym, gift store, bistro, two conference rooms, library, laundry service.
Team	Polarcirkel boats for landings, stabilizers, stabilizers, etc.

Ocean Victory

The Ocean Victory joined our fleet in November 2021 and established itself as one of the most modern small vessels on the market.

This elegant cruise ship is ideal for our small ship expedition business model and is deployed and dedicated to varied voyages in the Antarctic region.

With a total of 93 comfortable cabins for our guests, all with ocean views (and 90% with their own balcony), several restaurants, a wellness area, an Albatross Nordic Bar, an open deck dining room, a modern conference room and other amenities, the ship is also environmentally friendly on board, with the implementation of the Green Initiative Program, ensuring both absolute comfort and sustainability for our guests.

Magellan Explorer (Aero Cruiser)

One of the newest expedition ships available, the Magellan Explorer has been built specifically for expedition cruising and carries only 73 passengers.

Every detail has been thought of, including a magnificent glassed-in observation lounge, several zodiac boarding points and a state-of-the-art multimedia room. The cabins are very spacious and most have private balconies.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Expedition vessel
Crew	60
Passengers	73
Length	298 ft
Speed	14
Fretwork	14 feet
Sleeve	53
Facilities	Multimedia room, glassed-in lounge, restaurant, bar, polar library, gym, clinic with licensed physician, Gift Shop.
Team	Zodiacs, Kayaks, snowshoes, trekking poles, 10 zodiacs

Ocean Endeavour

One of the largest expedition ships in Antarctic waters, the Ocean Endeavour can accommodate up to 199 passengers. Ideally equipped for polar navigation and passenger comfort, the Endeavour comes with a fully ice-strengthened hull, a spacious restaurant, a large terrace and several large lounges!

The sauna, fitness center, juice bar and many zodiacs make the Endeavour a ship to be reckoned with.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Expedition vessel
Crew	124
Passengers	199
Length	449
Speed	15
Fretwork	18
Voltage	220 V, 50 Hz
Facilities	Restaurant, lounges (2), library, gym, sauna, swimming pool, jacuzzi, wellness cafeteria, conference room, boutique, spa services.
Team	Zodiacs, Kayaks and Stand-Up Paddleboards (additional charge)

Sea Spirit

With only 116 passengers, the Sea Spirit is one of the smallest expedition-style ships in Antarctica. However, the ship has a cozy and friendly atmosphere because of this and the lounges are very spacious and the library is well stocked.

The outdoor deck area features a hot tub and an area for serving bistro-style meals in good weather. Perfect and intimate vessel for Antarctica.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Expedition vessel
Crew	72
Passengers	116
Cabins	54
Length	295
Speed	14
Sleeve	50
Fretwork	13,25
Voltage	110V / 220V
Facilities	Dining Room, Two Lounges, Bistro, Library, Gym, Jacuzzi, Elevator, Internet, Access/medical clinic.
Team	Zodiacs, Kayaks, Stabilizers

Le Boreal

Le Boreal, one of Antarctica’s most luxurious cruise ships, accommodates just under 200 passengers and has several restaurants, several lounges, a salon, spa, steam bath and gymnasium.

The decor is modern and elegant, and the ship even has an elevator!

You’ll find plenty of open deck space and well-appointed cabins on this luxurious Antarctic ship.

Boat specifications

Type of vessel	Luxury expedition vessel
Crew	136
Passengers	199
Cabins	132
Length	466
Speed	16 knots
Sleeve	59
Fretwork	15,3
Voltage	110/220 volts
Facilities	Two restaurants, panoramic lounge and terrace, theater, library, three bars, fitness center, salon, spa, steam room, wireless Internet, three elevators, 24-hour room services.
Team	Zodiacs

Hondius

Another specially designed expedition ship, the Hondius is the world’s first civilian Polar Class 6 ship. It is also one of the most environmentally friendly with a state-of-the-art energy management system.

The Hondius is equipped with a multimedia room, a beautiful observation lounge, a polar library, a gymnasium and covered zodiac boarding platforms. There are a variety of cabins to choose from and plenty of zodiacs for anyone to miss out on.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Expedition vessel
Crew	72
Passengers	176
Length	353
Speed	15
Fretwork	17,4 m
Sleeve	25 m
Facilities	Multimedia room, observation lounge, restaurant, bar, polar library, gymnasium, clinic with certified doctor, covered zodiac boarding platforms.
Team	Zodiacs, kayaks, snowshoes, trekking poles, camping equipment.

Ortelius

The Ortelius is an ice-strengthened vessel ideally designed for adventure cruises to the polar regions. The Ortelius accommodates 116 passengers and has basic, but comfortable and cozy accommodations.

The ship’s facilities include two dining rooms, a conference room, a bar and a good amount of deck space.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Research vessel
Crew	47
Passengers	116
Cabins	53
Length	299
Speed	14,3
Sleeve	57
Fretwork	19
Facilities	Dining room, bar and lounge, presentation room
Team	Zodiacs, kayaks (helicopter itineraries in the Weddell Sea only)

Plancius

One of the largest research vessels in Antarctica, the Plancius can accommodate up to 116 passengers and is fully ice-strengthened for those extreme polar regions! The boat has a very comfortable feel and there is plenty of deck space for walking around.

The bar has wide panoramic views of the sea and the observation lounge also serves as a presentation room. A basic, but sturdy and cozy boat with excellent views all around.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Research vessel
Crew	45
Passengers	116
Cabins	53
Length	293
Speed	10-12
Sleeve	47
Fretwork	16
Facilities	Dining room, Observation room, Presentation room
Team	Zodiacs, Kayaks, Snowshoes, Camping equipment

Other boats:

Hebridean Sky

In June 2016, this 116-passenger Antarctic ship underwent a multi-million dollar restoration project to bring it into the modern era, and it worked.

The Hebridean Sky now has state-of-the-art stabilization, fuel management efficiency and a modern communications system. The boat is perfect for people looking for a sense of camaraderie, perhaps similar to the yacht experience.

Boat specifications

Type of vessel	Luxury expedition vessel
Passengers	114
Cabins	58
Length	297 ft
Speed	15 knots
Sleeve	50
Fretwork	12
Voltage	110 V
Facilities	Library (with Internet access), lounge with live entertainment, dining room, gym, beauty salon, medical facilities, wrap-around sundeck, bar,
Team	Zodiacs

Le Lyrial

Le Lyrial is very similar to its sister ship, Le Boreal. Incredibly luxurious for an Antarctic ship, Le Lyrial is equipped to accommodate 199 passengers and offers excellent deck space and seating areas throughout the ship.

The ship has a spa, sauna, gym, several restaurants and lounges, conference room and a large library. There are often many more non-English speaking guests on board.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Luxury expedition vessel
Crew	139
Passengers	199
Cabins	132
Length	466
Speed	16 knots
Sleeve	59
Fretwork	15,3
Voltage	110/220 volts
Facilities	Two restaurants, panoramic lounge and terrace, library, theater, three bars, fitness center, salon, spa, steam bath, wireless Internet, three elevators, 24-hour room services.
Team	Zodiacs, Dynamic Positioning Systems

Midnatsol

With a capacity for 500 passengers, the Midnatsol is one of the largest ships in Antarctica. Decorated with modern art pieces, the Midnatsol has a cheerful and colorful atmosphere.

Natural light is everywhere and the main living room is a two-story room with panoramic views to the front.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Scenic exploration
Crew	109
Passengers	500
Cabins	278
Length	445
Speed	15 knots
Voltage	220v via continental 2-pin
Facilities	Two-story panoramic lounge, restaurant, separate a la carte dining room, several bars, cafeteria, library, game room, sauna, boutique, Jacuzzi, exercise room, conference room, on-board science center, on-board physician
Team	Kayaks, Polarcirkel boats, Zodiacs

National Geographic Explorer

This luxury ship accommodates 168 passengers and is one of the most advanced Antarctica cruise ships available!

Fully stabilized and equipped with a spa therapist and wellness specialist, the National Geographic is a favorite among many.

All 81 cabins have views from the window and there is plenty of deck space for comfortable strolling.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Luxury expedition vessel
Passengers	148
Cabins	81
Length	367
Sleeve	54
Facilities	Two restaurants, bar, lounge, several terraces, observation lounge, gym, sauna, library, business center with wifi access, gift store, laundry and open bridge.
Team	Zodiacs, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) Kayaks, snorkeling equipment, splash chamber, underwater video cameras, video microscope

National Geographic Orion

Slightly smaller than its big brother the Explorer, the Orion is very well equipped, cozy and elegant.

The ship accommodates 102 passengers and is equipped with an open-air cafeteria, spa facilities, library and dining rooms. Probably one of the most comfortable cruises in Antarctica, the Orion is always highly recommended.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Luxury expedition vessel
Crew	75
Passengers	102
Cabins	53
Length	338
Sleeve	47
Speed	12,5
Fretwork	13
Voltage	220 V
Facilities	Gym and spa, terrace with outdoor bar and Jacuzzi, large conference room, hospital and infirmary, library with wifi access, lounge and outdoor cafe, restaurant, mud room, boutique and lounge.
Team	Zodiacs, Kayaks, Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV), Snorkeling Equipment, Splash-Camera, Underwater Video Cameras.

Seabourn Quest

With capacity for 450 passengers, the Seabourn Quest is undoubtedly the largest cruise ship in the Antarctic region and possibly the most luxurious Antarctic ship.

The ship has been described as “a -game changer- for the luxury segment” and the dining experience is said to be as good as that offered by the best restaurants. Glittering chandeliers, spa treatments and cafes await guests on this enormous luxury ship.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Luxury expedition vessel
Crew	330
Passengers	450
Cabins	247
Length	650
Sleeve	84
Speed	19
Voltage	100 V/220 V
Facilities	Atrium, boutique, casino, great room, gym/fitness studio, observation bar, Patio, Pool, 4 Restaurants, Sky Bar, Spa, Whirlpools, Basic Nursing Station
Team	Stabilizers, Zodiacs, Kayaks (including 8 doubles)

Silver Cloud

With a capacity of 240 passengers, the Silver Cloud is one of the smallest luxury ships in Antarctica. The interior is modern and the deck space is large.

There are five dining options, including a Relais & Châteaux restaurant. The ship has several stores, Internet cafes and panoramic lounges. If you need to relax, the full spa facilities will do just that.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Luxury expedition vessel
Crew	222
Passengers	240
Length	514
Fretwork	18
Sleeve	70
Voltage	100 V/220 V
Facilities	Five dining options, bar, panoramic lounge, internet cafe, boutique, salon and spa, casino, two-story showroom and conference room, two Jacuzzis, swimming pool, gym.
Team	Zodiacs, WiFi, Elevator, Stabilizers

Silver Explorer

Probably the most luxurious ship in the polar regions. The Silver Explorer carries only 132 passengers, but has the facilities of a much larger luxury ship.

Facilities include an extensive library, fitness center, full-service spa, boutiques, beauty salon, Internet café, sauna and two Jacuzzis on the upper deck. The ship also has 8 zodiacs to speed up landings to land!

If you can afford this cruise, this is a great ship.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Luxury expedition vessel
Passengers	144
Cabins	66
Length	354
Voltage	220 V/50 hz; Suites are equipped with 110V
Facilities	Dining Room, Two Lounges, Large Assembly Hall, Library with wifi Café, Open Bridge, Boutique, Full Service Spa, Beauty Salon, Gym, Sauna, two Jacuzzis, Medical Center.
Team	Zodiacs

Island Sky

Island Sky, one of the smallest expedition ships in Antarctica, is the perfect ship for wildlife viewing. Equipped with 11 zodiacs and excellent deck space, you will never miss a thing. The interior is elegant and the facilities are excellent.

All cabins are outside staterooms and have private bathrooms.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Expedition vessel
Crew	70
Passengers	110
Cabins	54
Length	297
Speed	12,5
Fretwork	14
Sleeve	50
Facilities	Bar, Elevator, Internet, Library, Gym, Wifi.
Team	11 Zodiacs

Janssonius

The Jansonnius is a specially designed expedition ship and one of the world’s first civilian Polar Class 6 ships. Its twin engines are state-of-the-art and use an energy management system that drastically reduces its carbon footprint.

The Janssonius is equipped with a dedicated platform for presentations in several languages and comes with an impressive observation room for wildlife viewing. On board you will also find a Polar library, a gym, a large dining room and a modern mud room that comes with two undercover zodiac boarding platforms for quick and easy boarding.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Expedition vessel
Crew	72
Passengers	176
Length	353
Speed	15 knots
Fretwork	17.4 ft
Sleeve	25
Facilities	Multimedia room, bar, Polar library, observation lounge, restaurant, gym, covered zodiac boarding platforms, clinic with licensed physician.
Team	Zodiacs, kayaks, snowshoes, camping gear, trekking poles

Ocean Adventurer

The “adventurer” Ocean has capacity for 132 passengers and was specially built for Antarctic cruises. This fact can be seen throughout the ship: all cabins face the window and the large salon, library and dining room are completely glass lined so that you never miss a single moment.

The food is excellent and the staff is very friendly. Deck space is plentiful and there are several zodiacs for frequent landings ashore.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Expedition vessel
Crew	87
Passengers	132
Cabins	57
Length	332 ft.
Voltage	220 volts
Facilities	Dining room, Observation lounge, Bar, Library, Clinic with licensed physician, Exercise room
Team	Zodiacs, Kayaks, Internet

Ocean Diamond

One of the most modern Antarctic ships in the region, the Ocean Diamond is an elegant vessel offering space for 189 passengers.

The ship is equipped with several bars, polar library, wellness program, theater-type auditorium and gymnasium. The rooms are comfortable and quite spacious and the deck area is large and perfect for viewing the scenery.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Research vessel
Crew	63
Passengers	96
Length	384
Sleeve	60
Fretwork	20
Facilities	Theater style auditorium, restaurant, bar, polar library, gym, spa, licensed medical clinic, gift store, elevator.
Team	Zodiacs, Kayaks, Adventure Equipment, Trekking Poles

Ocean Nova

One of the smallest ships in the region, the Ocean Nova carries only 48 passengers. This gives the boat a very cozy and friendly family atmosphere.

The Ocean Nova offers outdoor cabanas, a presentation room, a pleasant bar, a large dining room, a gym and a comfortable library.

The front-facing living room is enclosed in glass to enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape. The Ocean Nova is generally used for air cruises.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Expedition vessel
Crew	38
Passengers	68
Cabins	37
Length	239,5
Speed	12
Sleeve	36
Fretwork	12
Voltage	220 V
Facilities	Dining room, presentation room, bar, lounge, glass observation lounge, library, gymnasium, clinic.
Team	Zodiacs

Akademik Shokalskiy

The ship Akademik Shokalskiy is a fully ice-strengthened vessel designed for polar oceanographic work. The ship carries 48 passengers and since becoming an Antarctic cruise ship has been completely refurbished.

Because of this, the Akademik Shokalskiy is very well equipped for a research vessel and has a lounge/bar, library, conference room and sauna. The boat has a lovely research feel that suits many people.

Specifications

Type of Vessel	Research Vessel
Passengers	48
Speed	10 knots
Length	236
Fretwork	16.5
Sleeve	56
Facilities	Bar, Library, Lounge, Classroom
Team	Zodiacs

Polar Pioneer

One of the smallest Antarctic ships in the region, the research vessel Polar Pioneer can accommodate up to 56 passengers. However, this does not prevent the small ship from having good facilities on board including a bar, library, sauna, lounge, dining room and conference room.

Its small size allows it to make landings where other boats cannot, often this is more important than luxury!

Specifications

Type of vessel	Research vessel
Passengers	54
Cabins	29
Length	235
Speed	10
Sleeve	50
Fretwork	15
Voltage	220 v
Facilities	Dining room, library, conference room, lounge, bar, clinic, sauna, sauna, etc.
Team	Zodiacs, kayaks (selected itineraries )

Spirit of Enderby

The Spirit of Enderby carries 50 passengers and is well designed for adventure cruising in remote regions. With an ice-strengthened hull, the vessel is cozy and comfortable and offers an excellent catering service.

During the off-season, the Spirit of Enderby is generally used for oceanographic research work.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Research vessel
Passengers	50
Length	236
Speed	12
Voltage	220 v
Facilities	Bar/lounge, two dining rooms, infirmary, sauna
Team	Zodiacs

Ultramarine

The Ultramarine offers the ultimate in expedition cruising. 4 zodiac boarding points for fast boarding and two panoramic helicopters are the highlights of this incredible vessel.

Cabins are the largest in the industry and most include private balconies. On board you will also find a wine tasting bar, sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows and a large fitness center.

Specifications

Type of vessel	Luxury expedition
Personnel and Crew	140
Guests	199
Fretwork	16.4 feet (5.1 m)
Length	420 feet (128 m)
Cruising speed	16 knots
Facilities	Observation lounge, conference auditorium, sauna, spa, gym, 4 bars including wine bar, library, Polar Boutique, 2 dining rooms, 2 rooms with individual lockers.
Team	Zodiacs, Helicopters, Kayaks, Skiing, Camping