Top 10 BEST Cheap Antarctica Cruises

Looking for cheap Antarctica cruises but don’t know where to start?

As a travel expert who’s worked on cruise ships and has been working in Antarctica since 2019, I’ve done all the research for you to save you time.

Figuring out which cruise to Antarctica is best for you and your budget can be confusing if you’re a newbie to the industry.

In this post, I’ve sifted through all of the different options and picked out the best affordable Antarctica cruises along with extra tips and details about the industry.

Ready to take the polar plunge?

Anchors away!

Top 3 Picks: Cheap Antarctica Cruises

Antarctica Scenic Cruises vs Expedition Cruises

There are two main types of cruises to Antarctica: scenic cruises and expedition cruises.

Both come with different price points, offerings, amenities, and experiences.

Whether your goal is to simply see Antarctica versus setting foot on the Ice, there are several factors to consider when deciding which Antarctica cruise is for you.

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Tips for Cheap Cruises to Antarctica

When it comes to cruises to Antarctica, “cheap” is relative.

Antarctica is a very unique destination that’s just as hard to get to.

Due to its location and climate, travel to Antarctica is also limited to just a handful of months out of the year (austral summer).

So with all this in mind, expect a cheap Antarctic cruise to be no less than $8k if you want to physically touch the continent.

But, if you’re looking to find the absolute lowest-priced option possible for sailing to Antarctica, here are some top tips:

Cheapest Scenic Antarctica Cruises (Sail By)

The cheapest Antarctic cruises will be scenic cruises, which are itineraries on small to mid-size cruise ships that do not have landings while in Antarctica.

This restriction is governed by the Antarctic Treaty and international regulations, which state that vessels with more than 500 passengers are only authorized to sail through Antarctic waters, not land.

So while you might not get to set foot on the continent, you can still enjoy the beauty of the Ice with the comfort and amenities of a floating resort.

Although cruise ships are significantly larger than expedition ships, there’s more stability when crossing the Drake Passage.

Cruise ships can also accommodate travelers in wheelchairs better than smaller vessels.

While I do think it’s 1000% worth your time and money to save up for a proper Antarctic expedition cruise if your lifestyle and budget allow for it, a scenic cruise can be a basic alternative for those with other circumstantial constraints (budget, mobility, etc.) with seeing Antarctica on their bucket list.

1. Celebrity Equinox 14-Night Antarctica Cruise

💵 COST: $2,500-$8,000 | ⏳ LENGTH:  14 Nights 📍 FROM: Buenos Aires | ✅ Check prices and book

For an upscale, scenic Antarctic cruise that’s sure to keep you comfortable with modern interior designs and updated technology, look no further than the Celebrity Equinox.

This 14-night Antarctica cruise features the most wheelchair-accessible staterooms as well as the most scenic cruising days through Antarctica on this list– all done in style (Scandi-style to be exact).

Ship details:

Ship	Celebrity Equinox
Gross Tonnage	121,878
Guest Capacity	2,852
Year Built	2009, refurbished in 2019
Pools	4 pools, 6 Jacuzzis (including one adults-only pool and hot tub)
Fitness Facilities	Fitness center and jogging track
Accessibility	10 elevators, 30 wheelchair-accessible rooms
Guest age minimum	1+ years

The Celebrity Equinox 14-Night Antarctica Cruise includes:

Who This Cruise is Good For

• People who want to sail through Antarctica on a modern and upscale cruise line
• Cruisers who just want to see Antarctica, not necessarily land
• Individuals with mobility issues or physical limitations
• Travelers who are worried about crossing the Drake Passage or who suffer from motion sickness
• Vacationers who want more onboard entertainment and dining options onboard
• Scenic cruisers who want more days sailing through Antarctica

Celebrity Equinox Pros

Celebrity Equinox Cons

2. Sapphire Princess 17-Day Antarctica Cruise

💵 COST: $2,000-$6,000 | ⏳ LENGTH: 17 Days | 📍 FROM: Buenos Aires | ✅ Check prices and book

Princess caters well to a mature clientele that knows good food and drink.

With five wheelchair-accessible rooms, 14 elevators, and laid-back onboard activities, the Sapphire Princess 17-Day Antarctica Cruise can’t be beat for those in the older age range whose bucket list item is to see the White Continent.

Foodies will also be excited to learn that Princess Cruise Line was named Best Cruise Line for Food Lovers from Food & Wine Magazine.

Ship details:

Ship	Sapphire Princess
Gross Tonnage	115,875
Guest Capacity	2,670
Year Built	2004, refurbished in 2018
Pools	3 pools, 8 outdoor Jacuzzis
Fitness Facilities	fitness center and jogging track
Accessibility	14 elevators, 5 wheelchair-accessible rooms
Guest age minimum	1+ years

The Sapphire Princess 17-Day Antarctica Cruise includes:

Who This Cruise is Good For

• Cruisers who just want to see Antarctica, not necessarily land
• People with mobility issues or physical limitations
• Travelers who are worried about crossing the Drake Passage or who suffer from motion sickness
• Adventurers on a limited budget under $5k
• Vacationers who want more entertainment and dining options onboard

Sapphire Princess Cruise Pros

Sapphire Princess Cruise Cons

3. Norwegian Star 14-Night Antarctic Cruise

💵 COST: $2,000-$5,000 | ⏳ LENGTH:  14 Nights 📍 FROM: Ushuaia | ✅ Check prices and book

Out of the three scenic cruise options on this list, Norwegian is the most basic, family-friendly cruise line.

With a range of onboard amenities for all ages, from casinos and nightclubs for the adults to the kids’ camp and video arcade for younger cruisers, this cruise on the Norwegian Star is a great option.

Cruisers looking for a port-intensive itinerary that also sails through Antarctica should look no further than this 14-night cruise.

Ship details:

Ship	Norwegian Star
Gross Tonnage	91,740
Guest Capacity	2,298
Year Built	2001, refurbished in 2021
Pools	Indoor lap pool, one main pool, and 6 hot tubs
Fitness Facilities	Fitness center and jogging track
Accessibility	8 elevators, 22 wheelchair-accessible rooms
Guest age minimum	1+ years

The Norwegian Star 14-Night Antarctica Cruise includes:

Who This Cruise is Good For

• Cruisers who just want to see Antarctica, not necessarily land
• People with mobility issues or physical limitations
• Travelers who are worried about crossing the Drake Passage on a small expedition ship or suffer from motion sickness
• Adventurers on a limited budget under $5k
• Vacationers who want more entertainment and dining options onboard
• Travelers looking for a one-way trip from Ushuaia to Rio via a scenic cruise through Antarctica
• Families with young children who want onboard amenities and childcare services
• Cruisers who want a mix of South American ports and cruise days through Antarctica

Norwegian Star Pros

Norwegian Star Cons

Cheapest Antarctica Expedition Cruises

Expedition cruises are the best way to experience Antarctica as a tourist.

While not cheap, you get to put your own two feet on the 7th Continent and get up close to the wildlife.

And if you’re going to be saving for a bucket list trip to Antarctica, you might as well do it right!

You’ll need a light fitness level for this trip:

• There may not be any elevators onboard
• You’ll need to climb in and out of zodiacs
• Some landings may be wet
• The terrain on land will be rocky and uneven

While expedition vessels are much smaller than cruise liners, most expedition companies utilize specialized polar vessels made to deal with the unique challenges that come with Antarctica’s harsh and unpredictable environment.

Expedition cruises are also starkly different from scenic cruises in that they’re educational-focused instead of entertaining through Broadway-style shows.

Onboard Antarctic expedition vessels, you’ll have daily lectures by Antarctic experts along with some of the best guides in the industry during landings.

Only 100 guests are allowed to be on shore at a time, so the smaller the expedition ship, the better.

G Adventures is the best budget option for Antarctica expedition cruises with itineraries available for $8k and even less if you find a good deal.

Industry leaders Quark and Intrepid also offer well-priced cruises between $8k-$10k.

And if you don’t want to skimp on onboard luxuries, Swan Hellenic provides the best of both worlds while still providing expeditions to Antarctica within a budget range.

4. G Adventures 11-Day Antarctica Classic

💵 COST: $7,500-$15,000 | ⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 stars out of 424 reviews | ⏳ LENGTH:  11 Days 📍 FROM: Ushuaia, Argentina | ✅ Check prices and book

Booking the G Adventures 11-Day Antarctica Classic is an unbeatable choice for those seeking the best value in terms of comprehensive offerings, excursions, and price.

With four full days spent exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, this solo traveler-friendly cruise option is one of the best around for less than $8k.

Ship details:

Ship	G Expedition
Gross Tonnage	6,334
Guest Capacity	134
Year Built	1972, refurbished in 2009
Fitness Facilities	Fitness center and sauna
Guest age minimum	10+ years

The G Adventures 11-Day Antarctica Classic includes:

Who This Cruise is Good For

• People on a tight budget who want to set foot in Antarctica
• Solo travelers who can’t find a travel buddy to go to Antarctica with
• Cruisers who want to sail to Antarctica but don’t care for the bells and whistles typically found on cruise ships (broadway entertainment, multiple dining options, casino, etc.)

G Adventures Antarctica Classic Pros

G Adventures Antarctica Classic Cons

“The experience was beyond anything else I’ve ever done– truly outstanding” -S.B. (Read more reviews)

5. G Adventures 14-Day Quest for the Antarctic Circle

💵 COST: $10,000-$18,000 | ⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 stars out of 424 reviews | ⏳ LENGTH:  14 Days 📍 FROM: Ushuaia, Argentina | ✅ Check prices and book

If you’re going to visit Antarctica on an expedition cruise and do it right– there’s no better way to do it than to cross the Antarctic Circle.

G Adventures offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey that few ever get the chance to experience with this extraordinary itinerary.

Embark on this cruise to become part of an exclusive group of adventurers who’ve ventured past 66°33’ S.

Ship details:

Ship	G Expedition
Gross Tonnage	6,334
Guest Capacity	134
Year Built	1972, refurbished in 2009
Fitness Facilities	Fitness center and sauna
Guest age minimum	10+ years

The G Adventures 14-Day Quest for the Antarctic Circle includes:

Who This Cruise is Good For

• Adventurers who want to cross into the Antarctic Circle
• Solo travelers who can’t find a travel buddy to go to Antarctica with
• Cruisers who want to sail to Antarctica but don’t care for the bells and whistles typically found on cruise ships (broadway entertainment, multiple dining options, casino, etc.)

G Adventures Quest for the Antarctic Circle Pros

G Adventures Quest for the Antarctic Circle Cons

“The whole experience was amazing and even photos don’t do full justice to what you see and experience firsthand” -Dilmah82 (Read more reviews)

6. Swan Hellenic 10-Day Antarctic Peninsula Discovery

💵 COST: $9,000-$30,000 | ⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  10 Days 📍 FROM: Ushuaia, Argentina | ✅ Check prices and book

The Swan Hellenic 10-Day Antarctic Peninsula Discovery is perfect for those seeking a high-end voyage without sacrificing the experience of an intimate Antarctic expedition.

With its 5-star amenities and modern interiors, you’ll explore Antarctica in style in this all-inclusive cruise on a premium expedition line.

Ship details:

Ship	SH Vega	SH Diana
Gross Tonnage	10,617	12,225
Guest Capacity	152	192
Year Built	2022	2023
Pools	Open deck Jacuzzi, heated outdoor pool	Open deck Jacuzzi, heated outdoor pool
Fitness Facilities	Fitness center and panoramic sauna	Fitness center and panoramic sauna
Accessibility	2 elevators, one accessible stateroom	2 elevators, 2 accessible staterooms
Guest age minimum	8+ years	8+ years

The Swan Hellenic 10-Day Antarctic Peninsula Discovery includes:

Who This Cruise is Good For

• Travelers interested in experiencing Antarctica while not sacrificing luxury
• Cruisers looking for comfort while visiting Antarctica
• Antarctica enthusiasts who want the amenities of a cruise ship but the experience of an expedition cruise

Swan Hellenic Antarctica Peninsula Discovery Pros

Swan Hellenic Antarctica Peninsula Discovery Cons

“Incredible mix of luxury and adventure” -Ernst C. (Read more reviews)

7. G Adventures 13-Day Antarctic Classic in Depth

💵 COST: $7,000-$17,000 | ⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 stars out of 424 reviews | ⏳ LENGTH:  13 Days 📍 FROM: Ushuaia, Argentina | ✅ Check prices and book

This in-depth 13-day expedition of the Antarctic Peninsula is one of the best you’ll find at such a budget price range.

With just 134 guests sharing 14 zodiacs, you’re guaranteed to spend as much time as possible exploring the 7th continent instead of waiting in queues to get off the ship during the six days in Antarctica.

Ship details:

Ship	G Expedition
Gross Tonnage	6,334
Guest Capacity	134
Year Built	1972, refurbished in 2009
Fitness Facilities	Fitness center and sauna
Guest age minimum	10+ years

The G Adventures 13-Day Quest for the Antarctic Circle includes:

Who This Cruise is Good For

• Adventurers who want a maximum number of landing days in Antarctica
• Solo travelers who can’t find a travel buddy to go to Antarctica with
• Cruisers who want to sail to Antarctica but don’t care for the bells and whistles typically found on cruise ships (broadway entertainment, multiple dining options, casino, etc.)

G Adventures Antarctica Classic in Depth Pros

G Adventures Antarctica Classic in Depth Cons

“From start to finish, the trip was seamless. Incredibly well organized and the adventure of a lifetime” -A.M. (Read more reviews)

8. Quark Expeditions 11-Day Antarctic Explorer

💵 COST: $8,000-$14,000 | ⭐️ RATING: 5/5 stars out of 83 reviews | ⏳ LENGTH:  11 Days 📍 FROM: Ushuaia, Argentina | ✅ Check prices and book

If you want to visit Antarctica on a newer expedition ship made for polar voyages with staterooms designed for ultimate comfort, then Quark is for you.

One of the leading expedition cruise companies in Antarctica, Quark’s 11-day Antarctic Explorer itinerary will give you four full days to experience the Ice’s beauty and wildlife up close, whether it’s on shore, in a zodiac, or on your own private veranda.

Ship details:

Ship	World Explorer	Ocean Explorer
Gross Tonnage	9,923	8,228
Guest Capacity	172	138
Year Built	2019	2021, refurbished in 2024
Pools	Outdoor pool	2 outdoor hot tubs
Fitness Facilities	Gym, running track, sauna	Gym and sauna
Accessibility	2 elevators	One elevator
Guest age minimum	8+ years	8+ years
Additional features	All-suites, all-balcony	Nearly all cabins have verandas, ULSTEIN X-Bow (engineering feature that provides smoother sailing)

The Quark Expedition 11-Day Antarctic Explorer includes:

Who This Cruise is Good For

• Adventurers looking for a basic but quality Antarctic expedition cruise experience
• Antarctic cruisers interested in a variety of excursion add on options
• Travelers who want to visit Antarctic in a comfortable and modern stateroom –
• Cruisers who might not be able to get into zodiacs but will enjoy a private veranda onboard
• People who want to enjoy cruising through the Antarctic Peninsula from the comfort of their cabin’s balcony

Quark Expeditions Antarctic Explorer Pros

Quark Expeditions Antarctic Explorer Cons

“This trip exceeded our expectations, and we feel so lucky to have been able to experience it” -A.N.

9. Intrepid Travel 11-Day Best of Antarctica: Pristine Wilderness

💵 COST: $8,000-$9,000 | ⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 stars out of 17 reviews | ⏳ LENGTH:  11 Days 📍 FROM: Ushuaia, Argentina | ✅ Check prices and book

Basic comfort and an unforgettable adventure for a steal: this is what you’ll get on this cheap Antarctic cruise with Intrepid Travel.

If you’re not the kind to fuss over amenities and are just here for the experience, an expedition aboard solo traveler-friendly Ocean Endeavor is perfect for you.

Ship details:

Ship	Ocean Endeavor
Gross Tonnage	12,907
Guest Capacity	200
Year Built	1981, refurbished in 2017
Pools	Heated pool
Fitness Facilities	Gym and sauna
Accessibility	One elevator accessing middle 3 decks
Guest age minimum	8+ years

The Intrepid Travel 11-Day Best of Antarctica includes:

Who This Cruise is Good For

• Antarctic cruisers interested in a variety of excursion add on options
• Simple cruisers looking to experience Antarctica at a budget cost
• Solo travelers who want to visit Antarctica on their own or who can’t travel together with a friend

Intrepid Travel Best of Antarctica Pros

Intrepid Travel Best of Antarctica Cons

“Honestly one of the best experiences of my life. If you’re questioning yourself whether or not it will be worth the money, stop! I promise you will not regret it. Absolutely mind blowing” -Daniel (Read more reviews)

10. Hurtigruten Expeditions (HX) 12-Day Highlights of Antarctica

💵 COST: $8,500-$15,000 | ⏳ LENGTH:  12 Days 📍 FROM: Buenos Aires, Argentina | ✅ Check prices and book

This 12-day Highlights of Antarctica expedition cruise with Hurtigruten (HX) is for those looking for something in between the full, small vessel expedition experience and the comfortable big ship amenities of a cruise ship.

Offered on two new polar vessels, this upscale and all-inclusive voyage will be unforgettable.

Ship details:

Ships	MS Roald Amundsen, MS Fridtjof Nansen
Gross Tonnage	20,889
Guest Capacity	500
Year Built	MS Roald Amundsen- 2019, MS Fridtjof Nansen- 2020
Pools	Hot tubs and pool
Fitness Facilities	fitness room and sauna
Accessibility	4 elevators, 5 wheelchair accessible staterooms
Guest Age Minimum	5+ years
Additional Features	All exterior cabins, 50% with private balconies; aft suites have private outdoor hot tub with views

The Hurtigruten Expeditions 12-Day Highlights of Antarctica include:

Who This Cruise is Good For

• Cruisers who want the stability of a large ship but still get to have an expedition experience
• Travelers wishing to cruise in style with all inclusive offerings and upscale amenities
• People who want to take an expedition cruise to Antarctica but require a wheelchair accessible room 
• Families with children between the ages of 5-8 who would not be able to take an expedition trip to Antarctica on other lines

Hurtigruten Expeditions Highlights of Antarctica Pros

Hurtigruten Expeditions Highlights of Antarctica Cons

FAQ: Affordable Antarctica Cruises

What is the cheapest way to go to Antarctica?

The cheapest way to go to Antarctica is by getting paid to, aka working in Antarctica.

I have an Antarctica jobs guide that breaks down the three main ways you can find employment on the Ice as us Antarctic veterans call it.

You can work either in the research stations, on cruise/expeditions ships that go to Antarctica, or the field camps.

But if living at the South Pole or working in McMurdo Station isn’t for you, the next cheapest way to visit the 7th continent is by cruise.

A cruise ship will be the least expensive as they only to sail bys in Antarctica.

This means you won’t set foot on the continent, but you will be able to see it.

If you want to fully experience Antarctica, be amongst penguins, and even camp on the Ice, you’ll have to budget for an expedition cruise and they’re the only ships small enough to stop for excursions.

How much does it cost to go to Antarctica on a cruise?

Depending on the type of cruise you choose, one to Antarctica can run anywhere from as low as $1,500 to as high as $30,000+.

The cheapest Antarctica cruises will be scenic cruises, which are done on cruise ships (500-2,000+ passengers).

While these cruises come at a very low cost, cruise ships with more than 500 passengers are not allowed to stop and land in Antarctica, so it’s a scenic cruise only (also sometimes referred to as a sail by cruise).

If you want to physically step onto the continent, you’ll need to save up for an expedition cruise (100-500 passengers) which averages between $8,000-$11,000 for the most basic itinerary.

Those looking for the most complete, all-out, bucket list Antarctica cruise experience such as a cruise that includes a helicopter ride above the continent can expect to pay on the higher end of the spectrum.

There are also premium options on both luxury cruise lines (ex: Silversea) as well as 5-star expedition ships (ex: Swan Hellenic) that can be a toss up in price, interestingly.

Upscale expedition line Swan Hellenic offers basic cruises in the same range as other budget lines, while a scenic cruise on 5-star Silverseas will cost significantly more and not offer landings in Antarctica.

How to visit Antarctica without going on a cruise?

It’s a lot more difficult to visit Antarctica without going on a cruise, but there are two other options for visiting: via a flight/expedition tour or you can get a job in Antarctica like I did.

An expedition trip will fly you into a base camp where you then can hike or ski Antarctica’s interior.

These are much more expensive than cruises, however if you really want to see more than the Antarctic Peninsula, working at an Antarctic research station is your best bet.

These research stations are spread all throughout Antarctica and are the territory of dozens of countries.

By working at one that belongs to your country of citizenship or residency, you not only get to live in Antarctica but see a piece of it that no tourist could ever see.

If you’re interested in working in Antarctica, here are some posts with more information:

• The Ultimate Guide to Jobs in Antarctica
• How I Got Paid to Live in Antarctica: FAQ About Working on the Ice
• Life at the South Pole Station: Everything You Want to Know
• 20 Things You Didn’t Know About Life at McMurdo Station, Antarctica

Final Thoughts: Cheap Antarctic Cruises

There are so many cheap Antarctic cruise options these days; you just have to find the best one that fits for your goals and budget.

I hope this post was helpful in breaking down the different types of cruises to Antarctica as well as how you can keep costs down.

For more information about cruising as well as Antarctica travel and life, check out these posts:

• Antarctica Northern Lights & Southern Lights Guide
• How to Get a Job on a Cruise Ship: Step by Step Tips from a Crew Member
• What Working on Cruise Ships is Really Like: Pros & Cons

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