Crossing the Antarctic Circle cruises are similar to Antarctic Peninsula voyages but have a couple additional days in Antarctica with the main goal of sailing further south to cross 66° 33’ south. Traveling this far south you will have the chance to visit more off the beaten track locations, experience heavily iced landscapes and see an incredible amount of icebergs. Very few have ventured so far south, and by crossing the Antarctic Circle, you become part of an exclusive group of travelers.
Antarctic Circle FAQ's
Antarctic Circle cruises have more time in Antarctica. Given the great distances required to travel to the 7th Continent and that the weather can be very unpredictable, it is very beneficial to give yourself more days in destination. Seeing more icebergs, sea ice and whales, as well as having less ships around are also key advantages of crossing the Antarctic Circle!
Antarctic Circle cruises are offered from late December through March each season. February and March the most popular months as there is less sea ice down by the Circle later in the season making it easier to navigate further south.
Most voyages depart from Ushuaia, Argentina and sail across the Drake Passage.
Yes! Each season there are typically a few Fly the Drake trips that will plan to cross the Antarctic Circle. These trips fill up far in advance due popularity and limited departures. Click this link to view all the Fly the Drake Antarctic Circle trips. Fly the Drake trips depart from Punta Arenas, Chile.
There is the chance to see the same species of wildlife as you would on a shorter Antarctic Peninsula cruise. This includes gentoo, chinstrap & adélie penguins, multiple species of seals and whales. However, with more days in Antarctica you will increase your chances of seeing more wildlife. Whales are more abundant in the Southern Ocean later in the season when most Circle trips operate.
