Antarctic Circle Cruises: Itineraries & Prices
Crossing the Antarctic Circle takes you past most other ships to a quieter Antarctica, with more sea ice, Adélie penguins and historic huts. It adds a few days to a classic trip, and for many travelers it's worth it.
- No booking fee
- Same fares as booking direct
- Ship options in 2 business days
Most Antarctic Peninsula cruises turn around near the Lemaire Channel or Petermann Island, short of the Antarctic Circle. Sailing on past 66°33′ S takes a few extra days, and fewer ships make the trip. You also get bragging rights, a crossing ceremony and usually a certificate.
This page explains what the Antarctic Circle is, which itineraries cross it, what you'll see south of the line and what it costs compared with a standard trip.
At a Glance
Antarctic Circle cruises are usually 13–16 day round trips from Ushuaia that sail south of 66°33′ S along the Peninsula. They cost roughly $11,000–$25,000 per person, about $3,000–$6,000 more than a classic trip.
| Latitude | About 66°33′ S (it shifts slightly over time) |
| Departs | Ushuaia, Argentina · some fly-cruise options from Punta Arenas |
| Trip length | 13–16 days |
| Season | Best late December to March, when the sea ice opens up |
| Typical price | $11,000–$25,000 per person |
What Is the Antarctic Circle?
The Antarctic Circle is the line of latitude, about 66°33′ S, south of which the sun stays above the horizon for at least one full day around the December solstice and stays below it for at least one day in June. It marks the edge of the midnight sun.
On the Antarctic Peninsula, ships usually cross the Circle in Crystal Sound or near Adelaide Island, a day or two south of the classic cruising area. Crew often mark the moment with a ceremony on deck, and many ships issue certificates.
Antarctic Circle Cruise Itineraries
| Itinerary | Length | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Antarctic Circle | 13–16 days | Ushuaia round trip, Peninsula then south past 66°33′ S | Most common option |
| Polar Circle fly-cruise | About 10–12 days | Fly Punta Arenas → King George Island, then sail south | Skips the Drake but fewer departures |
| Circle + South Georgia | 20+ days | Longer voyages combining several regions | Rare, check availability early |
Compared with a 10–12 day Antarctic Peninsula cruise, you'll spend more time sailing and a little less time at the busiest landing sites. In return you get quieter, icier scenery. See how many days you need in Antarctica.
Landing Sites South of the Antarctic Circle
- Detaille Island. An abandoned British research hut (Base W) from the 1950s, left almost as it was when the scientists evacuated.
- Stonington Island. Home to the US East Base, used in 1940–41, and the British Base E, two of the oldest bases in the region.
- Horseshoe Island. A beautifully preserved 1950s British hut (Base Y) with its old supplies still on the shelves.
- Crystal Sound & Marguerite Bay. Wide waters often full of sea ice and icebergs, with seals hauled out on the floes.
- Adelaide Island. A mountainous island near the crossing point, also home to the UK's Rothera Research Station. Visits there are rare.
Sea ice controls everything down here. Some voyages are stopped short of the Circle by ice, so ask how often a particular itinerary has actually crossed.
Is Crossing the Antarctic Circle Worth It?
| Reasons to go | Trade-offs |
|---|---|
| Fewer ships and quieter landing sites | Adds 3–5 days and about $3,000–$6,000 per person |
| More Adélie penguins, sea ice and big icebergs | More time at sea and fewer of the classic Peninsula landings |
| Historic huts few travelers see | The crossing isn't guaranteed if ice blocks the route |
| The crossing ceremony and certificate | Fewer departures to choose from |
For first-time visitors on a budget, a classic Peninsula trip covers the highlights. If you have the time, love sea ice or have been before, the Circle is one of the best upgrades you can make.
Best Time for an Antarctic Circle Cruise
Most crossing voyages run from late December to March, when the sea ice has broken up enough to let ships through. Early-season crossings in November are more likely to be blocked. January and February also bring long daylight, penguin chicks and active whales. Our best time to visit Antarctica guide compares every month.
Wildlife Below the Antarctic Circle
- Adélie penguins outnumber gentoos the farther south you go. See all seven penguin species.
- Crabeater, Weddell and leopard seals resting on ice floes.
- Orcas and minke whales working the leads in the sea ice.
- Snow petrels, all-white birds that rarely stray far from the ice.
Antarctic Circle Cruise Ships & Prices
| Tier | Per person | Example companies |
|---|---|---|
| Expedition | $11,000–$16,000 | Oceanwide, Poseidon, HX, Albatros |
| Premium expedition | $15,000–$22,000 | Quark, Lindblad–National Geographic, Aurora, Antarctica21 |
| Luxury | $20,000–$25,000+ | Ponant, Seabourn, Silversea |
You need a strong ice-class ship to push through Crystal Sound, so not every company offers a Circle trip. Compare companies in our cruise line comparison, and budget for flights, tips and required travel insurance.
Prices are typical 2026–27 lead-in fares, double occupancy. Ask us for current offers.
How to Book an Antarctic Circle Cruise
Circle departures are a small share of each season's sailings, and itineraries differ in how far south they push. An Antarctica specialist compares them all, including track records for actually crossing, at no extra cost.
- Request a quote with your dates.
- Get side-by-side Circle departures within 2 business days.
- Hold your cabin with a deposit. We handle the rest.
Antarctic Circle Cruise FAQs
What latitude is the Antarctic Circle?
About 66°33′ S. It shifts very slightly over time as Earth's axial tilt changes.
How long is an Antarctic Circle cruise?
Most are 13–16 days round trip from Ushuaia, about 3–5 days longer than a classic Peninsula cruise.
Is crossing the Antarctic Circle guaranteed?
No. Sea ice can block the route, especially early in the season. Itineraries in January to March have the best chance.
How much more does an Antarctic Circle cruise cost?
Typically $3,000–$6,000 more per person than a classic Peninsula trip, with most fares between $11,000 and $25,000.
Do you get a certificate for crossing the Antarctic Circle?
Many ships hold a crossing ceremony and give out certificates, though it varies by company.
Explore Other Antarctic Regions
Not sure this is the right trip? Compare the other regions we book, or ask an advisor to match one to your dates and budget.