It’s not like anywhere else.
The best way to visit Antarctica depends on how you want to experience it. Some travellers choose expedition ships for efficient access, while others prefer smaller vessels or sailing ships for a more involved journey. Each option offers a different balance of cost, time, and connection to the environment.
The key difference is whether you want to observe or take part in the journey. Faster options prioritise access and comfort. Slower voyages tend to involve you more directly and bring you closer to the environment. It is a travel style consideration.
Expedition Cruise Ships
Many join expedition cruise ships. These are purpose built vessels typically carrying between 100 and 200 passengers, small by cruise ship standards.
There is a practical upper limit of 500 passengers. Ships above this cannot land passengers under IAATO guidelines, so most serious expedition vessels stay well below this number.
They typically cross the Drake Passage from Ushuaia, then spend several days making landings by small boats along the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands and a little bit into the Weddell Sea, namely the Erebus and Terror Gulf.
Well known operators include Quark Expeditions, HX Hurtigruten Expeditions, and G Adventures.
Typical price range is £6,000 to £15,000 for a 10 to 14 day voyage.
This is the most common route. It is also the most accessible in terms of availability and scheduling.
Cruise Only Voyages
Some larger vessels sail to Antarctica without offering landings.
These voyages remain offshore and focus on scenic cruising. You will still cross the Southern Ocean and see ice, wildlife, and the Antarctic coastline, but you do not go ashore.
Typical price range is £3,000 to £8,000 depending on vessel and duration.
Fly Cruise Options
Some operators offer fly cruise itineraries. You fly from South America to the Antarctic Peninsula, avoiding the Drake Passage, then join a ship.
Operators such as Antarctica21 specialise in this approach.
Prices are typically £10,000 to £20,000.
Private Yacht or Small Vessel
A smaller number of voyages take place on yachts or small expedition vessels.
These offer closer contact with the environment and greater flexibility. You are part of the operation rather than simply observing it.
Skip Novak and Pelagic Expeditions represent this approach. Their vessels are purpose built for high latitude sailing and often support scientific or specialist expeditions.
Private Expeditions and Superyachts
At the top end are fully private expeditions.
Companies such as EYOS Expeditions arrange bespoke voyages using ice strengthened yachts or small ships.
Costs typically start above £100,000.
Sailing by Tall Ship
This is the least common and most hands on way to visit Antarctica.
A traditional sailing vessel operates under wind power for much of the voyage.
You stand a watch while sailing to and from Antarctica, no watches once there to maximise everyone’s time ashore. You are expected to stand watch, steer and handle sails. You work your passage across the Southern Ocean, you are not crossing it as a passenger.
For sailors, the Drake Passage under sail is an achievement you can be proud of.
Operators such as Bark Europa, Oosterschelde and Tecla have run Antarctic voyages under sail for many years but not all of them go there every year.
Tecla is also part of this group and, since 2024, a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators.
Technically no prior sailing experience is required, but it is not something we would recommend. Classic Sailing advice is that you know you are capable of sailing in rough seas before joining an expedition like this.
Safety and Practical Considerations
All voyages operate under International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators guidelines. IAATO Information
Ships carry experienced crews and medical staff for the cruise ships. Antarctica remains remote. Evacuation can take days and weather can delay assistance.
Vessels are expected to be largely self sufficient.
Cost and Commitment
Most voyages last between 10 and 20 days. Sailing vessels are often longer due to weather and routing.
Costs vary widely depending on vessel and style of travel.
Which Option Suits You
Expedition ships suit those who want efficient access.
Fly cruise suits those short on time.
Small vessels suit those who want involvement.
Tall ships suit those who want to take part in the sailing and get a closer natural experience.
Final Thought
Antarctica is not somewhere you simply visit. It is somewhere you are allowed to go, under strict conditions.
At Classic Sailing, our aim is to show you, in our opinion and based on actual experience, that the best way to visit Antarctica is by tall ship.
Read our Guide to Wildlife in Antarctica by expedition tour guide Will Wagstaff
Antarctica Sailing – What it involves and how to decide.
FAQ
Do I need sailing experience to go to Antarctica on a tall ship?
Yes and no. Technically you don’t, but it is not something to take lightly. Crossing the Drake Passage can be demanding. You need to be willing to take part in sailing tasks and stand watches overnight when not in Antarctica.
How long does an Antarctic voyage take?
Most voyages last between 10 and 20 days. Sailing vessels are often longer due to weather and route flexibility.
Is it safe to travel to Antarctica?
Yes, within the limits of a remote environment. Voyages operate under strict IAATO guidelines, but medical support and rescue can take time due to distance and weather. All participants complete a medical form before sailing, and there may be age restrictions.
What is the cheapest way to visit Antarctica?
Cruise only voyages are usually the lowest cost option. They do not include landings but still allow you to see the continent.
What is the most hands-on way to visit Antarctica?
Sailing vessels and tall ships offer the most involvement. You are part of the operation rather than observing it.
