Antarctic Circle Cruise
Highlights
- Travel in the footsteps of famous explorers and navigators such as Captain James Cook in a quest for the Antarctic Circle
- Visit the less-visited central and southern portions of the Antarctic Peninsula such as Lallemand Fjord and Marguerite Bay
- Journey to amazing locations off the main tourist circuit in Antarctica
- Join the jubilant celebrations of the “crossing the Antarctic Circle ceremony”
- Enjoy 24 hours of daylight for maximum sightseeing and photography
Enticing history and geography buffs alike, Antarctic Circle tours traverse the southernmost of the globe’s great lines of latitude, the thrilling invisible threshold of the Antarctic Circle marking the northern limit of the Antarctic zone. Set at roughly 66 degrees, it encompasses the near entirety of the continent of Antarctica, and delineates the realm to the south where, at least once a day each year, the Sun remains above the horizon—and, on the opposite end of the calendar, below the horizon—for 24 hours.
Inaccessibly shrouded in ice until late December each season when Antarctic Circle cruises can begin, it’s a select share of the White Continent’s annual visitors who get to embark upon Antarctic cruises below the Antarctic Circle and join the likes of Captain James Cook of the British Royal Navy who first accomplished the incredible feat in January 1773, and Russian admiral Thaddeus von Bellingshausen whose Antarctic Circle expedition reached it nearly half a century later.
About Antarctic Circle Cruise
Enticing history and geography buffs alike, Antarctic Circle tours traverse the southernmost of the globe’s great lines of latitude, the thrilling invisible threshold of the Antarctic Circle marking the northern limit of the Antarctic zone. Set at roughly 66 degrees, it encompasses the near entirety of the continent of Antarctica, and delineates the realm to the south where, at least once a day each year, the Sun remains above the horizon—and, on the opposite end of the calendar, below the horizon—for 24 hours.
Inaccessibly shrouded in ice until late December each season when Antarctic Circle cruises can begin, it’s a select share of the White Continent’s annual visitors who get to embark upon Antarctic cruises below the Antarctic Circle and join the likes of Captain James Cook of the British Royal Navy who first accomplished the incredible feat in January 1773, and Russian admiral Thaddeus von Bellingshausen whose Antarctic Circle expedition reached it nearly half a century later.
Antarctic Circle Expedition (18D)
Beyond the Antarctic Circle – In the Wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot
Scott & Shackleton's Antarctic - Ross Sea Expedition
Antarctic Express: Crossing The Circle
Antarctica by Helicopter: Crossing the Circle & the Peninsula
Unexplored Antarctica Between Two Continents
Extended Antarctic Circle Crossing
Antarctica - Elephant Island - Weddell Sea - Polar Circle
Bellingshausen Sea / Peter I Island + Ellsworth Land - incl. helicopters
Antarctic Circle Expedition (16D)
Antarctic Circle Map
FAQ About Crossing the Antarctic Circle
What are Antarctic Circle cruises?
Antarctic Circle cruises are expeditions that take you south of the Antarctic Circle, which is located at approximately 66.5 degrees south latitude. These cruises offer a unique opportunity to venture into the realm of the Antarctic wilderness and witness pristine landscapes and wildlife.
What can I expect during an Antarctic Circle cruise?
During an Antarctic Circle cruise, you can expect breathtaking scenery, encounters with penguins, seals, and whales, and the chance to witness mesmerizing ice formations. You’ll sail through icy channels, visit remote islands, and experience the sense of awe and achievement that comes with reaching the Antarct...
When is the best time to go on an Antarctic Circle cruise?
The best time for Antarctic Circle cruises is during the Antarctic summer months from November to March. This period offers longer daylight hours, optimal weather conditions, and a higher chance of crossing the Antarctic Circle, as ice conditions permit.
How long do Antarctic Circle cruises typically last?
Antarctic Circle cruises typically last around 10-14 days, although the duration can vary. These longer expeditions allow for more extensive exploration and greater chances of reaching the Antarctic Circle while also offering opportunities for wildlife encounters and immersive experiences.
Is reaching the Antarctic Circle guaranteed on these cruises?
Reaching the Antarctic Circle on cruises is subject to ice and weather conditions. While cruise itineraries are designed to maximize the chances of crossing the circle, reaching it cannot be guaranteed. However, even if the circle is not reached, the overall Antarctic experience remains incredible.
Antarctic Circle cruises are expeditions that take you south of the Antarctic Circle, which is located at approximately 66.5 degrees south latitude. These cruises offer a unique opportunity to venture into the realm of the Antarctic wilderness and witness pristine landscapes and wildlife.
During an Antarctic Circle cruise, you can expect breathtaking scenery, encounters with penguins, seals, and whales, and the chance to witness mesmerizing ice formations. You’ll sail through icy channels, visit remote islands, and experience the sense of awe and achievement that comes with reaching the Antarctic Circle.
The best time for Antarctic Circle cruises is during the Antarctic summer months from November to March. This period offers longer daylight hours, optimal weather conditions, and a higher chance of crossing the Antarctic Circle, as ice conditions permit.
Antarctic Circle cruises typically last around 10-14 days, although the duration can vary. These longer expeditions allow for more extensive exploration and greater chances of reaching the Antarctic Circle while also offering opportunities for wildlife encounters and immersive experiences.
Reaching the Antarctic Circle on cruises is subject to ice and weather conditions. While cruise itineraries are designed to maximize the chances of crossing the circle, reaching it cannot be guaranteed. However, even if the circle is not reached, the overall Antarctic experience remains incredible.
Ships Crossing The Antarctic Circle
Join our intrepid ships crossing the mythical Antarctic Circle, and experience the thrill of exploration beyond this elusive boundary, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Le Commandant Charcot
MS Fridtjof Nansen
MS Roald Amundsen
Douglas Mawson
Magellan Explorer
Ocean Albatros
Recommended Reading
Antarctica Cruise Routes: Which Itinerary Is Best For You?
Antarctica Activities: Top 15 Things To Do In Antarctica
History of Antarctica Exploration & Expedition Timeline
Best Time To Visit Antarctica: Wildlife & Weather By Month