South America Polar expeditions cruise Trips
Polar expeditions cruise trips in South America. Looking to explore South America on a polar expeditions cruise tour? We offer 30 polar expeditions cruise tours through-out South America, backed by 40 reviews and offering discounts up to 30%. All our trips are offered by expert trip designers and South America destination experts, with trip durations ranging from 8 to 24 days.
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10 Best South America Polar expeditions cruise February Deals
February exclusive deals on Polar expeditions cruise tours in South America — massive savings for a limited time only!
If it's your first time venturing south, the "Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent" cruise delivers an 11-day introduction to Antarctica's wonders, from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. Cross the storied Drake Passage aboard a stable, polar-class vessel, explore the majestic Antarctic Peninsula by Zodiac and on foot, and come face-to-face with penguins, whales, and seals in their pristine habitat. Enrich your journey with expert lectures on glaciology and polar history, and tailor the experience with adventure options to suit your interests. The highlight of this tour is its flexibility, allowing you to customize your Antarctic discovery and experience this icy frontier your way.
11 days
Craving the ultimate polar adventure? The "Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake" tour offers an exhilarating shortcut to the White Continent, flying you over the notorious Drake Passage by charter plane before beginning an eight-day exploration of Antarctica. With Punta Arenas as your gateway, land on King George Island and embark on a cruise through the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Choose from a variety of adventure activities and onboard programs tailored to your interests, from Zodiac cruises to wildlife encounters with penguins and seals. The unique selling point of this trip is its time-saving approach—perfect for intrepid travelers keen to maximize their Antarctic experience without enduring days at sea.
8 days
Set sail for untamed beauty with the "South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari" cruise, a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day tour that starts and ends in Ushuaia. Cruise through the wildlife haven of South Georgia, where king penguins and elephant seals greet you in epic numbers, and pay homage to explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Continue to the soaring peaks and icy expanses of the Antarctic Peninsula, where Zodiac excursions, glacier hikes, and encounters with curious penguins await. The tour’s standout feature is the use of the state-of-the-art Ultramarine vessel, offering pioneering flightseeing and a wider range of adventure options than any other ship in its class—an unmatched opportunity to experience the Antarctic’s raw splendor.
18 days
Tick off a true bucket-list achievement with the "Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle" tour, an 11-day voyage that starts and ends in Punta Arenas. Skip the long sea journey by flying over the Drake Passage, then cruise from the South Shetland Islands all the way to the iconic Antarctic Circle. Experience the magic of kayaking among icebergs and exploring the pristine wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula. This trip’s USP is its fast-track approach, letting you reach the Circle—and participate in unforgettable polar activities—in less time, making it ideal for those who crave adventure without the lengthy transit.
11 days
Set sail for an adventure like no other. Spend 14 days following in the wake of Captain Cook as you cross the Antarctic Circle, home to the midnight sun and towering icebergs. On board the well-appointed Ocean Nova, leave Ushuaia and civilisation behind and journey towards the hauntingly beautiful icy wilderness of the Antarctic Continent. Experience the thrill of witnessing seals lie on ice floes, whales breaching the frigid waters and penguins patrolling the rocky shoreline in vast numbers. Enjoy jaw-dropping views witnessed by seldom few as you explore ice-filled bays by Zodiac, landing on Antarctica itself for onshore excursions.
14 days
Set sail for the adventure of a lifetime on the "Best of Antarctica: Whale Journey"—an 11-day wildlife expedition ideal for those seeking close encounters with the planet’s most magnificent marine mammals. Departing from Ushuaia, this guided group tour crosses the Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula, where whales gather in remarkable numbers.
Daily Zodiac excursions reveal a frozen realm of icebergs, calving glaciers, and snow-capped peaks, while you search for whales, penguins, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitats. Life aboard the ice-strengthened Ocean Nova ensures comfort and camaraderie as you explore the White Continent’s awe-inspiring vistas.
What truly distinguishes this tour package is its dedicated focus on whale watching, offering a rare and unforgettable opportunity to witness Antarctica’s giants up close amidst one of Earth’s most pristine environments.
11 days
For those who dream big, the "Epic Antarctica: The Falklands, South Georgia and Crossing the Circle" cruise lives up to its name. This extraordinary 23-day expedition from Buenos Aires weaves through the penguin-filled Falkland Islands, the wildlife paradise of South Georgia, and the breathtaking Antarctic Peninsula, all the way to the fabled Antarctic Circle. Experience penguin colonies numbering in the hundreds of thousands, spot seals and seabirds, and enjoy the thrill of crossing into the Circle itself—a milestone for any explorer. The tour’s unique highlight is the pioneering Ultramarine ship, offering exclusive flightseeing and the broadest range of polar activities available, making this the ultimate Antarctic adventure.
23 days
Patagonia’s wild beauty awaits on this 15-day cruise tour, charting a course from Buenos Aires to Santiago via the remote fjords and national parks of southern Chile and Argentina. Retrace Darwin’s legendary exploration as you glide past majestic glaciers, observe Magellanic penguins and sea lions, and venture into the heart of Torres del Paine National Park. The journey blends the comfort of the pioneering Ultramarine vessel—with its unmatched adventure amenities and scenic flightseeing tours—with up-close Zodiac excursions and rich wildlife encounters. This is the ideal trip for intrepid travelers seeking a blend of luxury and adventure, with the USP being exclusive access to helicopter flightseeing above Patagonia’s untamed landscapes.
15 days
See all South America Polar expeditions cruise February Deals
Most popular Polar expeditions cruise Tours in South America
Discover our best Polar expeditions cruise tours in South America, based on reviews and times booked.
Gaze upon otherworldly blue icebergs and a kaleidoscope of Antarctic wildlife on the "Antarctic Explorer" trip, an 11-day polar cruise designed for travelers with a passion for nature and discovery. Starting and ending in Ushuaia, this guided tour carries you through the legendary Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula, where pristine wilderness awaits.
Whether you’re a photographer, wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to witness the grandeur of Deception Island and Iceberg Alley, each day brings new marvels. Watch penguins, seals, and whales from the deck, a Zodiac, or even ashore, all while soaking in the ethereal colors of the polar landscape. The ship’s small size ensures intimate wildlife encounters and access to remote bays and islands.
This tour package’s standout feature is its appeal to a broad spectrum of interests, offering easy-paced exploration in one of the world’s most untouched environments. With accommodation, transport, and meals included, your journey to Antarctica is as seamless as it is inspiring.
11 days
Set sail from Buenos Aires for an epic Antarctic adventure with the "Crossing the Circle via Buenos Aires" tour. This 14-day journey blends the excitement of polar expeditions with the cosmopolitan charm of Argentina’s capital, offering an easy-paced yet immersive exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula and Beagle Channel.
Your small vessel is nimble enough to maneuver through the spectacular Lemaire Channel, surrounded by glacial walls and dotted with islands teeming with penguins, elephant seals, and seabirds. Each day brings awe-inspiring wildlife encounters—imagine humpback whales breaching near your Zodiac, or gazing at the multicolored icebergs of Iceberg Alley. Shore excursions reveal even more of Antarctica’s raw beauty and natural wonders.
The unique selling point of this trip is its seamless blend of city and wilderness, allowing you to start and end in vibrant Buenos Aires while experiencing the full spectrum of Antarctica’s marvels. Accommodation, transport, and meals are thoughtfully included, ensuring a smooth, unforgettable polar tour package.
14 days
Dreaming of Antarctica but short on time? The "Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake" trip delivers an unforgettable polar adventure without the lengthy sea crossing. This eight-day guided expedition begins and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile, and is ideal for experienced travelers eager for a taste of the world’s last great wilderness. By flying over the Drake Passage to King George Island, you skip days at sea and arrive refreshed, ready to explore the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
Over the next four days, your cruise weaves among glacier-capped mountains, ice floes, and sparkling blue seas. Wildlife encounters are frequent—penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds become your constant companions as you journey to iconic sites such as Petermann Island, Neko Harbour, and the Gerlache Strait. Adventurous souls can scramble to viewpoints for breathtaking vistas, while visits to research stations and historic sites add fascinating context.
The unique selling point of this tour package is its swift, comfortable access to Antarctica, allowing you to experience the continent’s wonders in a compact timeframe. With all logistics, accommodation, and meals expertly handled, this is the perfect expedition for those seeking an easy yet immersive introduction to the polar world.
8 days
Craving the ultimate polar adventure? The "Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake" tour offers an exhilarating shortcut to the White Continent, flying you over the notorious Drake Passage by charter plane before beginning an eight-day exploration of Antarctica. With Punta Arenas as your gateway, land on King George Island and embark on a cruise through the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Choose from a variety of adventure activities and onboard programs tailored to your interests, from Zodiac cruises to wildlife encounters with penguins and seals. The unique selling point of this trip is its time-saving approach—perfect for intrepid travelers keen to maximize their Antarctic experience without enduring days at sea.
8 days
Set sail for untamed beauty with the "South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari" cruise, a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day tour that starts and ends in Ushuaia. Cruise through the wildlife haven of South Georgia, where king penguins and elephant seals greet you in epic numbers, and pay homage to explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Continue to the soaring peaks and icy expanses of the Antarctic Peninsula, where Zodiac excursions, glacier hikes, and encounters with curious penguins await. The tour’s standout feature is the use of the state-of-the-art Ultramarine vessel, offering pioneering flightseeing and a wider range of adventure options than any other ship in its class—an unmatched opportunity to experience the Antarctic’s raw splendor.
18 days
This voyage combines the best of the Antarctic Peninsula with the enchanting wildlife haven of South Georgia. Explore the historic Falklands-Malvinas and stand in awe before the world's largest king penguin colonies in South Georgia. In Antarctica, experience the serenity and grandeur of the most remote place on Earth-where penguins nest, whales feed, and captivating seals frolic in ice-speckled seas.
Photograph curious seals - Zodiac-cruise through glassy, iceberg-dotted waters and capture close-up moments with these inquisitive animals.
Marvel at king penguin colonies - Visit South Georgia, where tens of thousands of birds gather amid dramatic coastal scenery.
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula - Witness the arrival of whales as they come to feed on the summer abundance of krill.
Long summer days - The peak of summer brings nearly 24 hours of daylight, perfect for extended landings and wildlife encounters.
Multiple itineraries - Choose between two itineraries, with the option to fly to Punta Arenas, or spend more time exploring the Falklands.
Extend your tour - Spend more time exploring Buenos Aires, Iguassu or Tierra Del Fuego National Park - contact our team of experts for more information.
20 days
If it's your first time venturing south, the "Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent" cruise delivers an 11-day introduction to Antarctica's wonders, from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. Cross the storied Drake Passage aboard a stable, polar-class vessel, explore the majestic Antarctic Peninsula by Zodiac and on foot, and come face-to-face with penguins, whales, and seals in their pristine habitat. Enrich your journey with expert lectures on glaciology and polar history, and tailor the experience with adventure options to suit your interests. The highlight of this tour is its flexibility, allowing you to customize your Antarctic discovery and experience this icy frontier your way.
11 days
Discover all that Antarctica has to offer on this epic 24-day expedition that explores the Falkland Islands, South Georgia islands and the Antarctic peninsula, including crossing the rarely seen Antarctic Circle! This is our longest Antarctica trip available – a voyage of discovery aboard the Ocean Nova, where you’ll marvel at spectacularly rugged landscapes, thousands of king penguins and the abundant wildlife of the south. Glide through ice floes in a Zodiac with your Expedition Team and take part in fascinating educational presentations. Keep your eye out for predatory seals, wandering albatross and migrating whales as you pass by towering ice-blue glaciers and icebergs. Round this unforgettable adventure off by reaching latitude 66°33’S, as you cross the fabled Antarctic Circle. With optional adventures like camping on the ice (there’s no better spot to experience the sound of silence) and day paddling across icy waters, this journey of discovery and mateship is sure to be the trip of a lifetime.
24 days
Set sail for the adventure of a lifetime on the "Best of Antarctica: Whale Journey"—an 11-day wildlife expedition ideal for those seeking close encounters with the planet’s most magnificent marine mammals. Departing from Ushuaia, this guided group tour crosses the Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula, where whales gather in remarkable numbers.
Daily Zodiac excursions reveal a frozen realm of icebergs, calving glaciers, and snow-capped peaks, while you search for whales, penguins, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitats. Life aboard the ice-strengthened Ocean Nova ensures comfort and camaraderie as you explore the White Continent’s awe-inspiring vistas.
What truly distinguishes this tour package is its dedicated focus on whale watching, offering a rare and unforgettable opportunity to witness Antarctica’s giants up close amidst one of Earth’s most pristine environments.
11 days
All aboard – the journey of a lifetime awaits. Set sail towards the Antarctic Peninsula, where whales gather in their largest numbers, on this 12-day expedition designed especially for wildlife-lovers and epic adventurers. Follow the migration paths of whales and spot seals, penguins and seabirds along the way. Explore the frozen wilderness from the deck of the Ocean Nova and from a fleet of up-close-and-personal Zodiacs, scanning for underwater silhouettes. Take an optional expedition by day paddle or choose to take a reinvigorating polar plunge. Among electric blue glaciers, this by-sea adventure provides the best opportunity for whale-spotting and once-in-a-lifetime exploration.
12 days
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South America Polar expeditions cruise Tour Reviews
Genuine reviews from travelers on Polar expeditions cruise South America tours
Jill | Traveled in December
Antarctica was somewhere I had long wanted to visit and I have finally been. This is the best trip I have ever done with Explore and there have been very many wonderful ones. To anyone considering going to Antarctica, I'd say, 'do go', you will not regret it.
Angela | Traveled in April
Accomodation on the ship and the two hotels one in Ushuaia and one in Buenos Aires were excellent. The Antarctica experience was magical from the landscape to the wildlife. The whole experience will live with us forever
Anonymous | Traveled in March
I feel immeasurably humbled to have been able to visit the 7th Continent on this trip. I will now live with the problem of the inability to fully relay to others what it is like to be in Antarctica, to see a landscape unchanged in thousands of years, to smell those penguins, to feel the cold Antarctic breeze, to hear the deafening silence of a sea full of ice. This itinerary gives you so much more time with the continent and crossing the Antarctic Circle was a notable highlight moment of the trip alongside doing the Polar plunge south of the Circle which just added to what was already an out-of-this-world experience. Amazing!
Anonymous | Traveled in May
Wow... where to begin. The most amazing trip i have ever been on. Being one of the few to say i have visited Antarctica is something i will never get used to. The trip was breathtaking from start to end. I couldn't reccomend it enough.
Anonymous | Traveled in March
A thoroughly enjoyable trip. It was a priviledge to be able to go to Antarctica, where so few actually go. Very difficult to put into words what the trip meant other than amazing. I would do the trip again.
Anonymous | Traveled in February
So many pinch me moments every single day... Penguins are just incredible to see waddling along their penguin highways, spectacular whale watching, stunning icebergs. I'd go again tomorrow! Loved the camping, paddling and polar plunge. Do it all! You won't regret it. Fabulous trip, great bunch of people, delicious food.
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