The Antarctica ship you choose will have a profound impact on your overall cruise experience. So how to choose the right one? Our experts provide advice and comparisons to help you find the best Antarctic cruise ship for your budget and style. Find the latest news on new Antarctic ships.
Each Antarctica cruise ship in our list features a detailed description, deck plan, cabin configurations and a firsthand review. Contact our Antarctica expedition cruise ship experts for a free consultation to find the best ship and trip for your interests, ability and budget. One call is better than hours of internet research.
New Antarctica Cruise Ships
If you’re seeking to get aboard a new cruise ship to Antarctica, you’ve come to the right place. Each of these modern, purpose-built small cruise ships offers specialized features for providing guests the best possible experience exploring ice fields, penguin rookeries, dramatic landscapes, icebergs and wildlife viewing. With trends in sustainability, exploration, unique activities, single cabins, private balconies and wellness, these new ships are set to take Antarctica travel to a new level of comfort and expedition.
Ocean Explorer – 138 Guests
Inaugural voyage November 2024
The latest expedition ship with a leading ice-class raging and inverted Ulstein X-Bow, the Ocean Explorer will debut in Antarctica for the 2024-2025 season. Travelers choosing Ocean Explorer are treated to a modern and refined atmosphere, excellent sightlines and outdoor access, top-notch guides, and smooth sailing due to the ship’s inverted bow. Most cabins offer a walkout balcony, with various solo traveler options. Amenities like Jacuzzis and a sauna are an added bonus.
Douglas Mawson – 154 Guests
Inaugural voyage December 2025
The Douglas Mawson is a brand new expedition ship, set to launch in Antarctica in December 2025. Joining sibling ships Sylvia Earle and Greg Mortimer, Douglas Mawson promises an active, educational and comfort-focused experience on its global departures. This state-of-the-art ship pays tribute to the legendary Australian geologist and explorer Sir Douglas Mawson, with tools and gear for off-ship adventure, plus design for a smooth and comfortable onboard experience.
The new Douglas Mawson will operate three epic Antarctica cruises will take travelers across the Antarctic Circle and into diverse regions, including East Antarctica, the Ross Sea, and Subantarctic Islands. Book now to get aboard the 34-Day Epic Antarctic Odyssey, the 25-Day Ross Sea Odyssey or 24-Day East Antarctica.
Magellan Discoverer – 76 Guests
November 2026
Sister ship to the Magellan Explorer, the Magellan Discoverer is set to launch for the 2026-2027 season. She will be the second ship purpose built for Antarctica air cruises and features a unique wet and dry science lab for hands-on exploration.
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Antarctic Ship Size Considerations
Ships that cruise to Antarctica, especially those that conduct shore landings, are considerably smaller than a typical cruise ship. Learn the differences between a small ship vs big ship.
In Antarctica a maximum of 100 passengers may be ashore from a vessel at any one time. Travelers aboard ships carrying more than this may have to wait for their turn exploring ashore. Many expedition ships keep guests occupied with zodiac excursions and sea kayaking. But as ship size approaches and surpasses 200 guests, folks will invariably have to wait. Larger ships offer fewer and shorter explorations in Antarctica. As such we limit the ships we represent to those that carry 76-200 guests.
You will find now find many Antarctica cruises aboard larger ships carrying 200+ guests. For ships in the 200-500 guest range expect to wait for shore excursions and the number of excursions will be limited. Ships with a capacity greater than 500 guests are not allowed to make landings in Antarctica. While these larger ships may seem like a more affordable option, they offer a scenic “drive by” experience vs an actual exploration of Antarctica. Take our advice that smaller is better.
Ship Size & Stability
The size of your ship can influence your cruise experience, especially across the Drake Passage. Larger ships that are longer and wider have more stability and may reduce movement in rough seas.
Many modern expedition vessels may also be outfitted with stabilizers. Some of the newest ships are designed with Ulstein X-Bow® technology where the entire hull is designed for a faster, smoother ride. If seasickness is a concern then be sure to consider the ship size, length and stabilization. Learn how to prevent seasickness on small ship cruises. Our experts can help you navigate ship sizes to find the best option for your level of comfort.
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Types of Antarctica Cruise Ships
It takes a specially outfitted ice-class ship to operate expedition cruises in Antarctica. We group Antarctic expedition ships into three broad categories: research ships, expedition ships and luxury ships. Each type is outlined in detail below.
Antarctic Research Ships
Antarctic research ships are vessels that have been converted from scientific research purposes to expedition cruising. They are among the smaller Antarctica ships available, usually carrying under 120 guests. They are also the most affordable. Learn how much does it cost to go to Antarctica?
Antarctica research ships are like floating base camps that focus on less on amenities and more on exploration and adventure. Expect basic but clean and comfortable accommodations with no-frills common areas. Meals are simple but satisfying.
Examples of Antarctica Research Ships:
Antarctica Expedition Ships
Antarctica expedition ships provide a sweet spot between the simpler research ships and the more extravagant luxury ships. There are a wide variety of expedition ships with various sizes, configurations, amenities and styles. Each has a plethora of cabins, from simple and affordable to mid-range and upscale suites.
The variety of cabins and onboard comforts found on expedition Antarctica cruise ships, from basic to extravagant, will satisfy most travelers. Amenities such as comfortable lounges, libraries, lecture rooms and on board gyms create an atmosphere familiar to experienced small ship cruisers. Meals are delicious and off vessel activities are extensive with a variety of options. Expedition crew are excellent and onboard programs are a highlight. Aboard an Antarctica expedition cruise ship you will not have to sacrifice comfort for price.
Some Antarctica expedition ships have been cruising for many years. They are periodically updated but may lack the amenities and features of a more modern vessel. Older ships can provide a good value while newer ships offer the latest technology, efficiency and comfort.
Examples of Antarctica Expedition Cruise Ships:
- Greg Mortimer – 132 guests
- Ocean Explorer – 138 guests
- National Geographic Endurance – 138 guests
- Sea Spirit – 114 guests
Luxury Ships
A fleet of modern luxury ships has emerged in recent years, offering an increase level of comfort and efficiency. Newly launched luxury ships with upscale cabins, the latest amenities and technology, top guides and superb service will cost more. Expect to pay $15,000 or more per person for a luxury cruise. Many travelers find the extra cost absolutely worth it.
Learn more and sort through ships in our dedicated page on the topic: Luxury Antarctica cruises. But note that luxury is always relative to your preferences. For example, does luxury mean butler service and fine dining to you? Or does it mean exclusivity of experience? Our options are in this full range.
Examples of Luxury Antarctica Ships
- Le Commandant Charcot – 200 guests
- Magellan Explorer & Magellan Discoverer – 76 to 96 guests
- Ultramarine – 199 guests
- World Explorer – 172 guests
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Off-Vessel Explorations Aboard Antarctica Ships
Getting off the boat in Antarctica is an important part of the expedition cruise experience. There are numerous things to do in Antarctica which may influence your ship choice. How well the ship is designed to efficiently embark and disembark guests in remote locations can be an overlooked consideration when considering where to stay in Antarctica.
Zodiacs
A Zodiac is a small inflatable power boat used to ferry guests from the ship to the shore. A larger number of Zodiacs can expedite the landing process, resulting in more time in Antarctica and less time waiting. Zodiacs are also used for exploration and guided marine excursions to visit glaciers and icebergs, and view whales and wildlife.
The most modern ships include Zodiac hangars at or near the waterline which makes deploying the small craft extremely efficient. This can be handy for impromptu whale watching excursions or other wildlife encounters where speed is important.
Helicopters
A select few Antarctica expedition cruise ships are outfitted with helipads and helicopters to explore far from the ship. Typically used on specialty itineraries, such as those which visit emperor penguin colonies on Snow Hill Island, helicopters may offer heli-hiking, flightseeing and exploration of air-only accessible destinations.
Mudrooms
A mudroom is a locker room area where guests stage before going ashore. A well-designed, purpose-built mudroom can increase the efficiency of embarking guests and going ashore. This makes for more time in Antarctica and less time waiting. Mudrooms with lockers provide a space for parkas and boots to dry, so you don’t have to bring wet gear back to your cabin.
Expedition Equipment
Antarctica ships will include a plethora of activity options and equipment is usually included. For instance, if a ship offers kayaking, then kayaks will be on board. Or if snowshoeing is offered, snowshoes will be provided. Inflatable landing craft are always aboard to take hikers ashore.
Some Antarctica expedition cruise ships go above and beyond standard activity equipment and include extra tools for exploration and education. Some ships might include remotely operated vehicles, to bring underwater video of places few have ever seen. Hydrophones listen to undersea creatures and the vocalizations of whales. Glass-bottom boats can allow guests to peer under the water’s surface. Underwater bow cameras give a unique view, especially when dolphins and porpoises ride the bow of the ship. Video microscopes make krill and tiny sea creatures easy to see and learn about.
Open Bridge
Virtually every Antarctica ship offers an open bridge policy where guests can visit the bridge at any time of day. Watch the crew navigate the ship and learn the art of navigation and modern equipment. Grab a pair of binoculars to scan the horizon for wildlife. Or simply chat with the crew and hear stories of their expeditions in Antarctica and beyond.
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Antarctica Ship Ice Ratings (Ice Class)
Ice class is used to denote the additional levels of strengthening that enable a ship to navigate through sea ice. There are many different ice classes, assigned by various classification societies and governments, so comparing ice class between Antarctica ships is difficult.
Just know that the stronger the ice class, the farther and longer a ship can push through sea ice and icebergs.
Ice Strengthened vs Ice Breaker
Virtually all expedition cruise ships in Antarctica are ice strengthened. They have design features such as a thicker hull, more watertight bulkheads, and protection for the rudder and propeller. They push through sea ice and icebergs. Ships that have any chance of encountering ice are usually ice strengthened.
Only a couple of Antarctic tourist ships are true ice breakers. Ice breakers are specifically designed to keep shipping routes free of ice for other ships. Their round hull design and powerful engines lift the front of the ship onto sea ice before crashing down and breaking it. This creates a lane where ships can navigate. The rounded keel and lack of stabilizing fins make progress quicker through ice. But these features make them more uncomfortable in the open sea. Ice breakers are only operated a few times each year on specialty cruises.
How to Choose a Cabin Aboard an Antarctica Ship
The primary factors to consider when choosing a Antarctic cruise cabin are size, amenities, view and location. Our experts dive into each of these considerations to help you choose the best cabin.
Cabin Size Considerations
Antarctica cruise ship cabins can range from small dorm-style rooms with triple or quad arrangements, to extravagant and spacious suites. With several days at sea on longer polar expeditions, the size and comfort of your cabin is an important consideration. Triple and quad cabins can save travelers money. Find Antarctica cruise deals.
Amenities
The quality of your cabin will vary, with more luxurious accommodations costing more. There are a few amenities that are important to consider beyond overall quality. Window or portholes is an important difference. Does the cabin have a small sitting area or are you forced to sit on the bed? Is having a TV screen or monitor important to you? A balcony can seem like an extravagant expense but having access outside the ship brings Antarctica closer to you throughout the journey.
View From Your Antarctic Ship Cabin
Having a view from your cabin is an important consideration aboard Antarctica ships. Some ships have quirky designs and even a view window might look out onto a lifeboat or other obstruction. Cabins at or below the waterline may have port lights or port holes that do not really serve for viewing. Rooms without a view are less expensive but a view of Antarctica from your cabin might be worth the extra cost.
Cabin Location
The location of your Antarctica cruise cabin can impact your experience. Cabins on the upper deck have better views and are closer to outside observation decks. They also cost more.
Cabins close to the waterline are the most stable and a good choice for travelers concerned about seasickness. Cabins higher up or toward the front of the ship can move more in rough seas.
Lower-deck cabins toward the rear of a ship may experience noise from the engines and generators. Though this usually becomes a dull background hum after a few hours, you will hear the engines when the ship starts, stops or changes speed.
Be careful about cabins located near public spaces or noisy areas. Cabins near the galley, dining room, bars or lounges may be affected by guest noise. Cabins near stairwells or exterior doors may also be affected by noise from folks outside.
Our experts have firsthand experience aboard all the boats in Antarctica and are here to help you select the best cabin.
Best Antarctica Cruise Ships
Many travelers ask us “What are the best cruise ships that go to Antarctica?” Or “Do you have a list of the best Antarctic cruise ships?” We strongly believe that the best Antarctica cruise ship is the one that suits your travel style. We consult with every client personally to match them with the best ship and itinerary for their interests. Our experts will work with your budget and schedule to find availability on the best ship for you. Ranking ships from best to worst is irrelevant because there is an option for every traveler. You just need to find it. Let us find the best Antarctic ship for you.
MORE ANTARCTICA RESOURCES:
Antarctica Travel Guide
Antarctica Cruises
Luxury Antarctica Cruises
Falkland Islands & South Georgia Cruises
Cruises with Flights to Antarctica
Best Time to Visit Antarctica
Antarctica Cruise Cost
How to Get to Antarctica
Things to Do in Antarctica
Places in Antarctica
Best Antarctica Cruise Lines
Antarctica Cruise Deals
Antarctica Cruise Reviews
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If you have made it this far, then you know everything you need to choose the best cruise ships that go to Antarctica. Compare Antarctica cruise ships below and click on the links for detailed information, reviews, cabin descriptions, photo galleries and deck plans.
Contact our Antarctica ship experts for a free consultation to narrow down your choices. A quick call to compare Antarctica ships will save hours of online research.
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