Surrounded by mountains, 3 black and white penguins with orange beaks stand on a rocky cliff overlooking a bay with a ship cruising.
in Antarctica a purple and pink sunset over a snowy mountain range reflected on the dark ocean water of floating sheets of white ice.
In Antarctica, a black and white penguin with orange beach touches the beaks of it's two chicks as if to kiss or feed them.
An Antarctica cruise guest leans on the ship railing wearing an orange parka with fur hood looking out over an icy landscape.
A kayak activity aboard Emblematic Antarctica cruise. A groups paddling red double kayaks in front of a large snowy mountain.
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$11150USD
Starting At
11-12
Days
Jan
Feb
Mar
Nov
Dec
Polar Regions Antarctica Cruise

Emblematic Antarctica Cruise

Embark on an unforgettable 12-day luxury voyage to the heart of the icy realm that is the Antarctic Peninsula. Cross the mythical Drake Passage, escorted by albatrosses and cape petrels, the sentinels of these often-choppy waters. Explore the White Continent, realm of the unexpected, for 5 days. Weather and ice conditions permitting, this extreme environment where nature reigns supreme will reveal its most beautiful secrets through numerous discoveries.

On this uninhabited land, which wasn’t explored until the 19th century, encounters with the wildlife will no doubt be a highlight. The gentoo, adelie and chinstrap penguins, humpback whales, seals and seabirds will provide cherished lifelong memories. Each day, whether on land, aboard the ship or during a Zodiac outing, be surrounded by a grandiose decor ranging from icebergs to ice floe and ancient glaciers. On this breathtaking voyage, succumb to enchanting landscapes inhabited by astonishing wildlife.

The 12-day Antarctica: The White Continent itinerary follows the same route as the main itinerary, but is tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. These PONANT voyages in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys voyages uniquely include transfers to and from the ship on embarkation and disembarkation days, talks and discussions aboard ship by world-class experts from Smithsonian Journeys, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the local environment and culture. Look for the themed icon in the Rates and Dates table below.

Three sister ships cruise the icy waters of Antarctica on this once-in-a-lifetime expedition: L’Austral, Le Boreal and Le Lyrial. Travel the Antarctic waters in style aboard these luxury French expedition ships that offer refined and attentive service, a plethora of onboard activities and unrivaled elegance. Appreciate understated sophistication, an international feel and top-notch guides aboard these ships with up to 200 guests aboard their luxury Antarctica cruises.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises and trips to Antarctica.



Itinerary

Emblematic Antarctica Itinerary

The Emblematic Antarctica Cruise sails round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, bookended by round-trip charter flights to and from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Spend 5 days along the Antarctic Peninsula with Zodiac and shore excursions. When not exploring, appreciate the refined elegance and comforts of a luxury expedition ship, complete with a large selection of daily onboard activities and engaging public spaces.

Route map of Emblematic Antarctica Cruise, operating round-trip from Ushuaia with stops along the Antarctic Sound, the Weddell Sea, the South Shetland Islands & the Antarctic Peninsula.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina

Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and spend the night prior to an included group charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina, for embarkation and the start of this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Accommodations

Included Hotel TBA

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Fly to Ushuaia & Embark

Capital of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego province, Ushuaia is considered the gateway to the White Continent and the South Pole. Nicknamed “El fin del mundo” by the Argentinian people, this city at the end of the world nestles in the shelter of mountains surrounded by fertile plains that the wildlife seem to have chosen as the ultimate sanctuary. With its exceptional site, where the Andes plunge straight into the sea, Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating places on earth, its very name evocative of journeys to the unlikely and the inaccessible. Embark the ship here and set off on a grand adventure.

Accommodations

L'Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 4
Drake Passage

Use these days spent in the Drake Passage to become familiar with the ship and deepen your knowledge of the Antarctic. The expedition leader will first present the IAATO rules of conduct that must be observed during landings in the region and will explain everything about the Zodiac outings. Lectures about the history and wildlife of the Antarctic will be an opportunity to learn more about this magical region, where every cruise is a unique experience. From the ship’s bridge, experience exceptional sailing moments before joining the naturalist guides on the ship’s exterior decks to look out for albatrosses, cape petrels and other seabirds flying over the Drake Passage.

Accommodations

L'Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 5 - 9
Antarctic Peninsula

Succumb to the magic of a place unlike any other. To this day, the mythical Antarctic Peninsula still holds real fascination and promises its visitors unforgettable moments. Adventure in this icy realm, in the heart of a spectacular environment with subtle shades of blue and white, surrounded by exceptional wildlife. Penguins, humpback whales, seals and giant petrels are at home here, as are elephant seals, fur seals, Antarctic minke whales and orcas. Depending on which sites are visited, there may be the chance to observe various creatures and share with them the beauty of these extreme parts.

Each day, based on ice conditions, the captain and the expedition leader will suggest Zodiac outings or landings to discover the infinite riches of the Antarctic Peninsula. Glaciers, ice floe, tabular icebergs, mountain peaks that plunge straight into the sea, volcanic beaches, research stations, enchanting bays and vestiges of the whaling industry: these are the faces of the Antarctic that will likely reveal themselves, in a hushed and surreal atmosphere. You will sail in the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Adrien de Gerlache and Sir Ernest Shackleton, great Antarctic explorers who, from the 19th century, set out to conquer these remote and uninhabited lands.

Accommodations

L'Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 10 - 11
Drake Passage

Spend these days crossing the Drake Passage. Weather permitting, enjoy onboard activities such as live shows; spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; special gastronomic tastings; organized games; and lectures by guides. Situated between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands, it is the shortest route to connect Antarctica to South America. As the Antarctic convergence zone where cold currents rising up from the South Pole meet warmer equatorial water masses, the Drake Passage harbors a very diverse marine fauna. Don’t forget to look to the sky to catch a glimpse of elegant albatross and Cape petrels, playfully floating about in the wind around the ship.

Accommodations

L'Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 12
Disembark Ushuaia, Argentina, Fly to Buenos Aires & Depart

Say farewell to the ship’s crew, captain and guides, as well as new friends made during this epic voyage. Disembark here, catch the return charter flight to Buenos Aires and travel onward.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Transfers program (includes 1-night stay in a Buenos Aires hotel plus dinner and beverage package on night 1, breakfast on Day 2, round-trip flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, transfer to lunch in Ushuaia and to the ship for embarkation on Day 2, and disembarkation day transfer from the ship to the airport); all meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); evening entertainment and events; room service; highly qualified bilingual French/English expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; boot rental and polar parka to keep (no children sizes available in either); port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise, aside from Transfers program; visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Emblematic Antarctica Cruise begins and ends in Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Economy class group charter flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, Argentina, are included with this trip’s itinerary; see the Transfers program information listed above under Inclusions. Charter flights are unique per departure and details will be confirmed in advance. The flight to Ushuaia is expected to depart after breakfast on Day 2 of the itinerary. There is a luggage limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 18 lbs (8 kg) cabin baggage on the flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia for Economy class. Premium Economy seating is available upon request for an additional charge. The luggage limit for premium economy is two 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 22 lbs (10 kg) cabin baggage. Additional baggage allotment can be requested and purchased for $120 round trip ($60/flight) and is based on availability. On the final day of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier and breakfast is held on board. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a transfer to the airport for the return charter flight to Buenos Aires.

Activities

Various optional activities may be available on your Emblematic Antarctica Cruise at the following per person costs: kayaking for 350 euros (one outing with no experience required). Additional activities include practicing photography, Zodiac cruising and shore-based excursions, including a possible hike. In addition to these off-ship excursions, a multitude of onboard activities keep guests engaged, including live music, dance and theater; spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; specialty food, wine and cocktail tastings; organized games; and lectures by guides and possible special guests.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining availability per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 6 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this expedition. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Antarctica: The White Continent Itinerary

The Antarctica: The White Continent cruise sails round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, bookended by round-trip charter flights to and from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Spend 5 days along the Antarctic Peninsula with Zodiac and shore excursions. When not exploring, appreciate the refined elegance and comforts of a luxury expedition ship, complete with a large selection of daily onboard activities and engaging public spaces.

Route map of Emblematic Antarctica Cruise, operating round-trip from Ushuaia with stops along the Antarctic Sound, the Weddell Sea, the South Shetland Islands & the Antarctic Peninsula.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina

Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and spend the night prior to an included group charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina, for embarkation and the start of this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Accommodations

Included Hotel TBA

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Fly to Ushuaia & Embark

Capital of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego province, Ushuaia is considered the gateway to the White Continent and the South Pole. Nicknamed “El fin del mundo” by the Argentinian people, this city at the end of the world nestles in the shelter of mountains surrounded by fertile plains that the wildlife seem to have chosen as the ultimate sanctuary. With its exceptional site, where the Andes plunge straight into the sea, Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating places on earth, its very name evocative of journeys to the unlikely and the inaccessible. Embark the ship here and set off on a grand adventure.

Accommodations

L'Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 4
Drake Passage

Use these days spent in the Drake Passage to become familiar with the ship and deepen your knowledge of the Antarctic. The expedition leader will first present the IAATO rules of conduct that must be observed during landings in the region and will explain everything about the Zodiac outings. Lectures about the history and wildlife of the Antarctic will be an opportunity to learn more about this magical region, where every cruise is a unique experience. From the ship’s bridge, experience exceptional sailing moments before joining the naturalist guides on the ship’s exterior decks to look out for albatrosses, cape petrels and other seabirds flying over the Drake Passage.

Accommodations

L'Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 5 - 9
Antarctic Peninsula

Succumb to the magic of a place unlike any other. To this day, the mythical Antarctic Peninsula still holds real fascination and promises its visitors unforgettable moments. Adventure in this icy realm, in the heart of a spectacular environment with subtle shades of blue and white, surrounded by exceptional wildlife. Penguins, humpback whales, seals and giant petrels are at home here, as are elephant seals, fur seals, Antarctic minke whales and orcas. Depending on which sites are visited, there may be the chance to observe various creatures and share with them the beauty of these extreme parts.

Each day, based on ice conditions, the captain and the expedition leader will suggest Zodiac outings or landings to discover the infinite riches of the Antarctic Peninsula. Glaciers, ice floe, tabular icebergs, mountain peaks that plunge straight into the sea, volcanic beaches, research stations, enchanting bays and vestiges of the whaling industry: these are the faces of the Antarctic that will likely reveal themselves, in a hushed and surreal atmosphere. You will sail in the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Adrien de Gerlache and Sir Ernest Shackleton, great Antarctic explorers who, from the 19th century, set out to conquer these remote and uninhabited lands.

Accommodations

L'Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 10 - 11
Drake Passage

Spend these days crossing the Drake Passage. Weather permitting, enjoy onboard activities such as live shows; spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; special gastronomic tastings; organized games; and lectures by guides. Situated between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands, it is the shortest route to connect Antarctica to South America. As the Antarctic convergence zone where cold currents rising up from the South Pole meet warmer equatorial water masses, the Drake Passage harbors a very diverse marine fauna. Don’t forget to look to the sky to catch a glimpse of elegant albatross and Cape petrels, playfully floating about in the wind around the ship.

Accommodations

L'Austral, Le Boreal, Le Lyrial

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 12
Disembark Ushuaia, Argentina, Fly to Buenos Aires & Depart

Say farewell to the ship’s crew, captain and guides, as well as new friends made during this epic voyage. Disembark here, catch the return charter flight to Buenos Aires and travel onward.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Daily excursions; transfers to and from the ship on embarkation and disembarkation days; transfers program (includes 1-night stay in a Buenos Aires hotel plus dinner and beverage package on night 1, breakfast on Day 2, round-trip flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, transfer to lunch in Ushuaia and to the ship for embarkation on Day 2, and disembarkation day transfer from the ship to the airport); all meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); evening entertainment and events; room service; highly qualified bilingual French/English expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; boot rental and polar parka to keep (no children sizes available in either); port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Emblematic Antarctica Cruise begins and ends in Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Economy class group charter flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, Argentina, are included with this trip’s itinerary; see the Transfers program information listed above under Inclusions. Charter flights are unique per departure and details will be confirmed in advance. The flight to Ushuaia is expected to depart after breakfast on Day 2 of the itinerary. There is a luggage limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 18 lbs (8 kg) cabin baggage on the flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia for Economy class. Premium Economy seating is available upon request for an additional charge. The luggage limit for premium economy is two 50 lbs (23 kg) checked luggage and 22 lbs (10 kg) cabin baggage. Additional baggage allotment can be requested and purchased for $120 round trip ($60/flight) and is based on availability. On the final day of the itinerary, the ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier and breakfast is held on board. Disembarkation follows breakfast, with a transfer to the airport for the return charter flight to Buenos Aires.

Activities

Included activities on your Antarctica: The White Continent voyage are onboard lectures and discussions with subject matter experts from Smithsonian Journeys, the travel component of the Smithsonian Institution. Also included is an excursion in every port of call such as Zodiac cruising; hiking; and guided explorations of cities, museums, monuments, and archeological sites. You will have the opportunity to choose your included excursions prior to departure. Onboard your ship a multitude of onboard activities keep guests engaged, including live music, dance and theater; optional spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; specialty food, wine and cocktail tastings; organized games; and more.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining availability per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 6 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this expedition. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Jan 22 - Feb 02, 2025
Le Lyrial • 12 days
From $15000USD
Per Person
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Jan 23 - Feb 03, 2025
Le Boreal • 12 days
From $15680USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jan 30 - Feb 09, 2025
L'Austral • 11 days
From $12970USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Feb 02 - Feb 13, 2025
Le Boreal • 12 days
From $14330USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Feb 08 - Feb 19, 2025
L'Austral • 12 days
From $14330USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Feb 18 - Mar 01, 2025
L'Austral • 12 days
themed trip icon of a blue bird flying
From $14360USD
Per Person
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Feb 21 - Mar 04, 2025
Le Lyrial • 12 days
From $14330USD
Per Person
Read More
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Mar 01 - Mar 12, 2025
Le Boreal • 12 days
From $13650USD
Per Person
Read More
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Nov 21 - Dec 01, 2025
Le Boreal • 11 days
From $11150USD
Per Person
Read More
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Nov 22 - Dec 03, 2025
L'Austral • 12 days
From $13820USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Dec 11 - Dec 21, 2025
Le Boreal • 11 days
From $11150USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jan 07 - Jan 17, 2026
Le Boreal • 11 days
From $11840USD
Per Person
Read More
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Jan 08 - Jan 19, 2026
L'Austral • 12 days
themed trip icon of a blue bird flying
From $13780USD
Per Person
Read More
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Jan 17 - Jan 27, 2026
Le Boreal • 11 days
From $11840USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jan 18 - Jan 29, 2026
L'Austral • 12 days
From $13820USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jan 27 - Feb 06, 2026
Le Boreal • 11 days
From $11840USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jan 29 - Feb 08, 2026
L'Austral • 11 days
From $11150USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Feb 06 - Feb 16, 2026
Le Boreal • 11 days
From $11150USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Feb 08 - Feb 18, 2026
L'Austral • 11 days
From $11150USD
Per Person
Read More
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themed trip icon of a blue bird flying Themed
Accommodations

Learn About the Luxury Expedition Ships on Your Itinerary

The Emblematic Antarctica Cruise is operated by three sister ships that each carry a maximum of 200 guests on their Antarctic departures. Each vessel in this sister ship fleet of refined, luxury expedition ships ensures an elegant, upscale cruise that offers regular off-ship excursions complemented by a multitude of daily onboard activities. With the exception of Deck 6 cabin configurations, these expedition ships are identical, with public spaces including a fitness room, spa, two restaurants, a library, state-of-the-art theater and open bridge.

Expedition Ship
L'Austral

The 200-to-264-guest L'Austral is a sophisticated, luxury expedition ship cruising Antarctica. Enjoy her chic-yet-casual private yacht atmosphere created by a blend of precious materials, discreet elegance and gastronomic delights, paired with an engaging program of lectures and adventure activities.

Expedition Ship
Le Boreal

The 200-to-264-guest Le Boreal combines high comfort with adventure. Cruising primarily in the polar regions, Europe and the Pacific, she allows her guests to experience luxury, gastronomy, wellness, entertainment and active programming in remote destinations.

Expedition Ship
Le Lyrial

The 200-to-244-guest Le Lyrial is a refined, luxury expedition ship cruising Antarctica, the Arctic & the East Coast. Enjoy her private yacht atmosphere, understated elegance and culinary delights, paired with an engaging program of lectures, onboard entertainment and off-ship adventures.

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Andrew Browning • September 9th, 2020
Expert Aboard: L’Austral, Le Soleal, Le Lyrial & Le Boreal Review

Learn from an AdventureSmith luxury cruise expert what it’s like to travel aboard L’Austral and her identical fleet of sister ships Le Boreal, Le Lyrial and Le Soleal.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

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Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Antarctica Cruise

Add to Wishlist
5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Explora Torres del Paine

This 5-, 6- or 7-day lodge-based trip in the center of Torres del Paine National Park offers over 40 unique explorations to choose from, including Base Torres and Grey Glacier. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Paine Massif and Salto Chico waterfall from home base.

From $2850USD
Year Round
Add to Wishlist
5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Patagonia Wildlife Safari

Discover the magic at the end of the world on a 4- to 7-day Patagonia Wildlife Safari! No matter the length of your stay, you will be blown away by the unlimited beauty of the world heritage site Torres del Paine National Park.

From $1235USD
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Sep Oct Nov Dec
Add to Wishlist
7 Day Land Tour
Torres Del Paine Trek

The trails amongst the famous Torres del Paine craggy mountains are among the world's classic trekking routes. By day, explore nature in its raw form while winding through these exceptional mountains. By night, enjoy the cozy luxury of EcoCamp's unique dome accommodations, or camping.

From $1940USD
Jan Feb Mar Apr Sep Oct Nov Dec
Travel Guides

Planning Your Trip to Antarctica

View All Antarctica Travel Guides
Polar Regions • October 20th, 2023
Antarctica Travel Guide

There are more small ships than ever cruising Antarctica with vessels and itinerary options for every style and budget. This up-to-date guide culls the best tips for a comprehensive look at Antarctica travel today.

Travel Essential • June 26th, 2023
Best Time to Visit Antarctica

When is the best time to go to Antarctica? On the White Continent, the answer isn’t so black-and-white. Consult this month-by-month list covering everything from penguins to pack ice to help guide your travel timing.

Travel Essential • May 23rd, 2024
Things to Do in Antarctica

Learn about things to do in Antarctica, and how our experts can help you achieve your bucket list activities. Antarctica has so much to offer and our small ship cruise lines focus on experiencing the White Continent in an active, up-close way; here we explain how.

More to Explore

Trips You Might Also Like

View All Antarctica Cruises
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18-20 Day Cruise
The Great Austral Loop

On this comprehensive expedition to the Falklands, South Georgia and the White Continent, cruise in the comfort of a 5-star hotel aboard one of three luxury expedition sister ships. Enjoy Zodiac and shore excursions, top-notch guides and breathtaking landscapes in a wild and remote landscape. Then return on board to refined service and a plethora of engaging activities.

From $16650USD
Jan Feb Mar Nov Dec
Add to Wishlist
12-14 Day Cruise
Spirit of Antarctica Expedition

Explore the Antarctic Peninsula on this 12- to 14-day expedition aboard two state-of-the-art ships, featuring unique activity programs including polar snorkeling.

Special Offer
From $13395USD
Jan Feb Mar Apr Nov Dec
Add to Wishlist
28 Day Cruise
Remote Weddell Sea Explorer Cruise

On this special 28-day voyage aboard 108-guest Ortelius, cruise round-trip from Ushuaia on the trail of famed polar explorer Ernest Shackleton and his ship Endurance. Experience South Georgia and the Weddell Sea’s amazing wildlife and tabular icebergs before returning via Elephant Island.

From $24700USD
Feb Mar
View All Antarctica Cruises
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Emblematic Antarctica Cruise

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