An Antarctica cruise is one of the most extraordinary and expensive travel experiences in the world. For many, it’s the ultimate bucket list adventure, but how much does it actually cost? From voyage fares and gear to flights and hidden expenses, planning a trip to the last great wilderness requires careful budgeting.
In this guide, we’ll break down the costs of visiting Antarctica, offer budgeting tips, and help you understand what to expect when planning your trip.
How Much Does an Antarctica Cruise Cost?
The price of an Antarctica cruise varies widely depending on several factors, including the length of the trip, type of ship, level of comfort, and time of year. Here’s a general breakdown of pricing for different types of voyages:
Antarctica Cruise Price Breakdown
Budget Expedition Cruises (Small Ships, Basic Comfort)
• Cost: £5,500 – £9,000 per person
• Duration: 10-12 days
• What’s Included: Basic cabins, guided landings, and meals
• Best For: Adventure travellers who prioritise experiences over luxury
Mid-Range Expedition Cruises (Comfortable, Well-Equipped Ships)
• Cost: £9,000 – £15,000 per person
• Duration: 12-14 days
• What’s Included: Spacious cabins, expert lectures, better dining options, and small-group excursions
• Best For: Those looking for a balance between comfort and adventure
Luxury Antarctica Cruises (High-End Ships, Premium Experience)
• Cost: £15,000 – £30,000 per person
• Duration: 10-20 days
• What’s Included: High-end suites, gourmet dining, exclusive excursions, and private guides
• Best For: Travellers who want a five-star experience in the world’s most remote location
Longer Expeditions (Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica)
• Cost: £12,000 – £30,000+ per person
• Duration: 18-24 days
• What’s Included: Visits to the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, in addition to Antarctica
• Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts and those wanting a deeper exploration
Additional Costs to Consider
Aside from the cruise fare, there are several additional expenses that travellers should budget for:
• Flights to Ushuaia (or Punta Arenas for Fly-Cruises) – £1,000 – £2,500, depending on departure location
• Travel Insurance (including evacuation coverage) – £100 – £500
• Gear and Clothing (if not provided by the cruise) – £500 – £1,500 for warm layers, gloves, waterproofs, and boots
• Visa Costs (if applicable) – Varies depending on nationality and stopovers
• Optional Activities (Camping, Kayaking, Paddleboarding) – £200 – £1,000 per activity
• Gratuities for Crew and Guides – £10 – £20 per day, per person
• Extra Accommodation in Ushuaia or Buenos Aires – £100 – £300 per night
Budgeting Tips: How to Make an Antarctica Cruise More Affordable
Antarctica is expensive, but with smart planning, you can save thousands on your trip. Here are some budgeting tips:
• Book Early or Last-Minute – Early bookings (1-2 years in advance) secure lower prices, but last-minute deals (60-90 days before departure) can offer huge discounts
• Travel in Shoulder Season – November (early season) and March (late season) are cheaper than peak months (December – February)
• Choose a Shared Cabin – Opting for a shared cabin can cut costs significantly
• Fly to Argentina on a Deal – Look for flight sales or use travel points to reduce airfare costs
• Rent Cold-Weather Gear – Some companies allow you to rent jackets, boots, and gloves instead of buying them
• Compare Operators – Not all cruises offer the same inclusions; some budget options may still provide an incredible experience
• Skip Extras – If you’re on a budget, avoid expensive add-ons like kayaking or helicopter flights
Travel Logistics: How to Get to Antarctica
Most travellers reach Antarctica via Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. Here’s how to get there and what to expect:
Flights to Ushuaia
• From the UK and Europe – Most flights connect via Buenos Aires (Argentina), with a second flight to Ushuaia
• From North America – Common routes go through Buenos Aires or Santiago, Chile
• From Australia and New Zealand – Fly via Santiago, then Buenos Aires, then Ushuaia
• Flight Time to Ushuaia – Around 3.5 hours from Buenos Aires
Arrival in Ushuaia: What to Expect
Ushuaia is more than just a starting point—it’s a scenic city at the edge of the world. Most travellers spend one to two nights here before embarking.
Things to Do in Ushuaia Before Your Cruise:
• Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park
• Take a boat tour of the Beagle Channel
• Visit the End of the World Museum
• Try local seafood, especially king crab (centolla)
Boarding Your Antarctica Cruise
On embarkation day, you’ll board the ship in Ushuaia’s port and prepare for your Drake Passage crossing. Most ships depart in the late afternoon or evening.
Crew members will conduct safety briefings, issue gear and instructions, and set sail for the journey south.
Final Thoughts: Is an Antarctica Cruise Worth the Cost?
While an Antarctica cruise is expensive, it’s also one of the most extraordinary travel experiences on Earth. With stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife, and unmatched adventure, the cost is often outweighed by the once-in-a-lifetime memories.
With careful budgeting and the right planning, it’s possible to make your Antarctic dream a reality.
If you’re planning an Antarctica trip, be sure to choose an expedition that offers these incredible opportunities. For more expert travel tips and Antarctica guides, check out our other How-To Articles.
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