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| Meta Title | Antarctic Cruise Ships: Luxury, Expedition & Fly-Cruise | |||||||||
| Meta Description | We have selected the world's best Antarctic Cruise Ships. Experts in Antarctica, Falklands, South Georgia. Antarctica cruises from Australia. | |||||||||
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| Boilerpipe Text | EXPEDITION, EXPEDITION-LUXURY, LUXURY-EXPEDITION,
LUXURY & FLY-CRUISE
Antarctica, the
Falkland Islands
,
South Georgia
, the
Ross Sea
and
New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Island
cruises provide exceptional experiences for all who explore these magical places. Weâve selected the best small Antarctic Cruise ships to deliver you to these wondrous wilderness areas, organised into five categories: Expedition, Expedition-Luxury, Luxury-Expedition,
Luxury
and Fly Cruise. Here we explain the differences in experience in each category, which is part driven by age and size of ship and part by style of operation.
Itâs our opinion that newer, purpose built Polar expedition ships with less that 130 guests, offer you a great experience; maximising your time ashore whilst providing very good cuisine and comfortable accommodation.
WHY SHIP SIZE MATTERS AND IAATO
WHY 100 MATTERS
The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO
)
regulates the frequency and number of guests visiting all sites. No more than 100 guests can land at the same site at the same time. If you choose a ship with less than, or close to, 100 guests all guests will be able to go ashore the same time.
Ships with up to 130 guests will often have up to 24 kayakers not going ashore, which means the remaining clients can all land. Effectively you maximise your time ashore on a smaller ship.
WHY 200 ALSO MATTERS
If your chosen Antarctic cruise ship has up to 200 guests wishing to go ashore at the same site, some guests will have to wait whilst the first 100 go ashore. This also means you spend less time on shore as each site has a set time allowed for the ship to land guests. Some operators will offer Zodiac cruises to those guests waiting for their turn to go ashore.
On the Antarctic Peninsula it is sometimes possible (but not always) to position the ship close to two sites, allowing half the passengers to visit one site and half at the other. This will not always be possible and there is a greater likelihood that these vessels will visit fewer sites (than those with closer to 100 guests) â as a result of taking longer to allow all clients to go ashore.
Whilst only 100 guests can go ashore at the one time ships with under 200 guests can still visit most sites on the Antarctic Peninsula.
WHY SHIPS WITH 200-500 GUESTS VISIT LIMITED SITES
 Ships with over 200 guests and less than 500 can visit a very limited number of sites. Given the number of clients it will also take more time to get everyone off the ship.
Ships with over 500 guests are not allowed to have excursions ashore from the ship â they are âCruise Onlyâ.
We are proud to be Associate Members of IAATO.
WHATÂ IS IAATO ?
IAATO is a member organization founded in 1991 to advocate and promote the practice of safe and environmentally responsible private-sector travel to the Antarctic.
Currently, more than 100 Antarctica-bound outfitters are voluntary members of our organization, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO). Together we have established extensive procedures and guidelines that ensure appropriate, safe and environmentally sound private-sector travel to the Antarctic: regulations and restrictions on numbers of people ashore; staff-to-passenger ratios; site-specific and activity guidelines; wildlife watching; pre- and post-visit activity reporting; passenger, crew and staff briefings; previous Antarctic experience for tour staff; contingency and emergency medical evacuation plans; and more.
IAATO
is an industry group that has resolved to set the highest possible tourism operating standards in its effort to protect Antarctica. This effort is unique, and the challenge to maintain environmentally responsible tourism exists to this extent in no other region of the world. Our membership comprises ship operators, land-based operators, ship agents, travel agents, one government office and travel companies that charter ships and airplanes from existing operators.
EXPEDITION ANTARCTIC CRUISE SHIPS
Generally Antarctica cruise ships that are expedition style have a greater emphasis on maximising time off the vessel or out on deck than on a larger more âluxuryâ ship. This is helped by having fewer than 100 guests, hence all guests can go ashore at the same time. On most days an Expedition ship will offer two off ship excursions. The expedition team works closely with the shipâs captain and crew to deliver a high level of service and a flexible approach which means they can react to local circumstances; like a group of feeding whales, if possible they will stop and launch the zodiacs. The cabins are comfortable, the food of a very high standard.
An expedition client is someone who wants to maximise their opportunities to get off the ship and learn. Guests onboard are of all ages however you will be physically able to climb some relatively steep stairs and get in and out of a Zodiac.
EXPEDITION â LUXURY ANTARCTIC CRUISE SHIPS
As the names suggest these Antarctic cruise ships are a hybrid of an Expedition Ship and a Luxury Ship. Weâve split this category into two, Expedition â Luxury and Luxury -Expedition.
EXPEDITION- LUXURY
These ships are generally smaller (less than 140 guests), or if larger they are more recent build ships operated by companies with a long expedition history. Many have been launched in the last 5 years and are purpose built for Polar expedition cruising with close to 100 guests and can easily offer two landings a day and focus on maximising opportunities for exploring with the added comfort of having larger, more comfortable (some with balconies) cabins and common areas.
LUXURY-EXPEDITION ANTARCTIC CRUISE SHIPS
LUXURY â EXPEDITION
Generally ships with up to 200 guests which offer one (occasionally two) off ship excursion a day (largely due to time factors associated with the 100 passenger ashore limit) and still have an adventurous soul. Some are purpose built for Polar expedition cruising and offer a higher degree of on-board facilities and comfort, the cuisine is of a high standard.
These luxurious Antarctic cruise ships combine more traditional-style cruising with an Antarctic adventure. They offer large, very comfortable cabins with en-suite facilities; many suites have private balconies.
Excellent cuisine options are available on board. Zodiac dinghies and an expedition team enable you to explore the Antarctic Peninsula and come home to an exquisite ship.
A luxury ship puts greater emphasis on the on-board experience. Onboard the bigger luxury vessels there are limitations on the number of landing made as at most sites the limit of people ashore is 100.
FLY CRUISE
Fly-Cruise voyages afford two major objectives; they avoid lengthy sea crossings and dependent upon operator can also realise more time in Antarctica, the Falkland Island or South Georgia than a ship that cruises all the way. Â A flight takes you from Punta Arenas in Chile to King George Island (the largest of the South Shetland Islands, close to the Antarctic Peninsula) or to Mount Pleasant on the Falkland Islands where you board your ship. Â For Antarctic Peninsula only voyages the flight also affords a visit to Antarctica in a shorter period of time.
Here we have the ships that offer flights in both directions, to and from King George Island. Some ships choose to fly one way and cruise across the Drake Passage the other.
BAE-146 AIRCRAFT
FLIGHTS TO KING GEORGE ISLAND
The BAE-146-200, AVRO RJ 85, and the AVRO RJ 100 aircraft are manufactured in the United Kingdom by British Aerospace (which later became part of BAE Systems). It is a high-wing aircraft with very short runway requirements, which makes it particularly suited for landing and take-off in Antarctica. The aircraft are expertly operated by AerovĂas DAP, which has more than 25 years of experience flying in Patagonia and Antarctica.
Experience the incredible beauty of Antarctic as you participate in unforgettable shore excursions. Take a zodiac to shore and participate in mainly a wet landing to make your way onto the ice, where few have gone before.
Zodiac excursions can be used either for a cruise or a shore landing; throughout the course of your Antarctic expedition, youâll have the chance to visit historic huts used by the explorers of old, scientific research bases and whaling sites â all of which is made possible thanks to our sturdy Zodiacs. Zodiac cruises will enable you to explore icebergs, get up-close with whales or seals hauled out on the ice. On ships with over 100 guests Zodiac cruises are often offered whilst other clients are ashore.
Immerse yourself in the incredible scenery of Antarctica on-board a kayak. Cruise past ice formations and see wildlife swim past as you glide along. You will be in groups of up to 12 with an experienced kayak guide who will take you to interesting locations, many that can only able to be reached by kayaks. | |||||||||
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- [EXPEDITION â LUXURY](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/expedition-cruise-ships-antarctica/)
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- [**Swan Hellenic Diana** (192 Guests)](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sh-diana/)
- [**Ultramarine** (199 Guests)](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ultramarine/)
- [LUXURY](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/luxury-antarctic-cruise-ships/)
- [**Scenic Eclipse I** (200 Guests)](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/scenic-eclipse-i/)
- [**Scenic Eclipse II** (200 Guests)](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/scenic-eclipse-ii/)
- [**Silver Endeavour** (200 Guests)](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/silver-endeavour/)
- [**Le Boréal** (200 Guests)](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/le-boreal/)
- [**LâAustral** (200 Guests)](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/laustral/)
- [**Le Lyrial** (200 Guests)](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/le-lyrial/)
- [**Le Soléal** (200 Guests)](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/le-soleal/)
- [**Silver Cloud** (240 Guests)](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/silver-cloud/)
- [**Silver Wind** (240 Guests)](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/silver-wind/)
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- [Camping](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/camping-in-antarctica/)
- [Walking and Hiking](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/antarctic-cruise-activities/#walking-hiking)
- [Paddling](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/antarctic-cruise-activities/#paddling)
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- [Antarctic Cruise Early Booking Offers](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/booking-offers/)
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- [Request a Quote](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/request-a-quote/)

# Antarctic Cruise Ships
# EXPEDITION, EXPEDITION-LUXURY, LUXURY-EXPEDITION,
# LUXURY & FLY-CRUISE
Antarctica, the [Falkland Islands](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/falkland-islands/), [South Georgia](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/south-georgia-cruises/), the [Ross Sea](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ross-sea/) and [New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Island](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/new-zealand-and-australian-sub-antarctic-islands/) cruises provide exceptional experiences for all who explore these magical places. Weâve selected the best small Antarctic Cruise ships to deliver you to these wondrous wilderness areas, organised into five categories: Expedition, Expedition-Luxury, Luxury-Expedition, [Luxury](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/luxury-antarctic-cruise-ships/) and Fly Cruise. Here we explain the differences in experience in each category, which is part driven by age and size of ship and part by style of operation.
Itâs our opinion that newer, purpose built Polar expedition ships with less that 130 guests, offer you a great experience; maximising your time ashore whilst providing very good cuisine and comfortable accommodation.

[EXPEDITION](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/antarctic-cruise-ships/#expedition-antarctic-ships)

[EXPEDITION-LUXURY](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/expedition-cruise-ships-antarctica/%20)

[LUXURY-EXPEDITION](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/antarctic-cruise-ships/#luxury-expedition-antarctic-ships)

[LUXURY](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/antarctic-cruise-ships/#luxury-antarctic-ships)

[FLY CRUISE](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/antarctic-cruise-ships/#fly-cruise-antarctic-ships)
## WHY SHIP SIZE MATTERS AND IAATO
##### **WHY 100 MATTERS**
[The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO)](https://iaato.org/faqs) regulates the frequency and number of guests visiting all sites. No more than 100 guests can land at the same site at the same time. If you choose a ship with less than, or close to, 100 guests all guests will be able to go ashore the same time.
Ships with up to 130 guests will often have up to 24 kayakers not going ashore, which means the remaining clients can all land. Effectively you maximise your time ashore on a smaller ship.
##### **WHY 200 ALSO MATTERS**
If your chosen Antarctic cruise ship has up to 200 guests wishing to go ashore at the same site, some guests will have to wait whilst the first 100 go ashore. This also means you spend less time on shore as each site has a set time allowed for the ship to land guests. Some operators will offer Zodiac cruises to those guests waiting for their turn to go ashore.
On the Antarctic Peninsula it is sometimes possible (but not always) to position the ship close to two sites, allowing half the passengers to visit one site and half at the other. This will not always be possible and there is a greater likelihood that these vessels will visit fewer sites (than those with closer to 100 guests) â as a result of taking longer to allow all clients to go ashore.
Whilst only 100 guests can go ashore at the one time ships with under 200 guests can still visit most sites on the Antarctic Peninsula.
##### **WHY SHIPS WITH 200-500 GUESTS VISIT LIMITED SITES**
Ships with over 200 guests and less than 500 can visit a very limited number of sites. Given the number of clients it will also take more time to get everyone off the ship.
**Ships with over 500 guests are not allowed to have excursions ashore from the ship â they are âCruise Onlyâ.**
##### [INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ANTARCTIC TOUR OPERATORS (IAATO)](https://iaato.org/what-is-iaato)
We are proud to be Associate Members of IAATO.
##### WHAT IS IAATO ?
IAATO is a member organization founded in 1991 to advocate and promote the practice of safe and environmentally responsible private-sector travel to the Antarctic.
Currently, more than 100 Antarctica-bound outfitters are voluntary members of our organization, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO). Together we have established extensive procedures and guidelines that ensure appropriate, safe and environmentally sound private-sector travel to the Antarctic: regulations and restrictions on numbers of people ashore; staff-to-passenger ratios; site-specific and activity guidelines; wildlife watching; pre- and post-visit activity reporting; passenger, crew and staff briefings; previous Antarctic experience for tour staff; contingency and emergency medical evacuation plans; and more.
[IAATO](https://iaato.org/faqs) is an industry group that has resolved to set the highest possible tourism operating standards in its effort to protect Antarctica. This effort is unique, and the challenge to maintain environmentally responsible tourism exists to this extent in no other region of the world. Our membership comprises ship operators, land-based operators, ship agents, travel agents, one government office and travel companies that charter ships and airplanes from existing operators.
[](https://iaato.org/faqs)
## EXPEDITION ANTARCTIC CRUISE SHIPS
Generally Antarctica cruise ships that are expedition style have a greater emphasis on maximising time off the vessel or out on deck than on a larger more âluxuryâ ship. This is helped by having fewer than 100 guests, hence all guests can go ashore at the same time. On most days an Expedition ship will offer two off ship excursions. The expedition team works closely with the shipâs captain and crew to deliver a high level of service and a flexible approach which means they can react to local circumstances; like a group of feeding whales, if possible they will stop and launch the zodiacs. The cabins are comfortable, the food of a very high standard.
An expedition client is someone who wants to maximise their opportunities to get off the ship and learn. Guests onboard are of all ages however you will be physically able to climb some relatively steep stairs and get in and out of a Zodiac.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/plancius/)
[**PLANCIUS**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/plancius/)
GUESTS 108
Built 1976
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ortelius/)
[**ORTELIUS**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ortelius/)
GUESTS 108
Built 1989
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/st-helena/)
**[St HELENA](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/st-helena/)**
GUESTS 72
Built 1989
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/polar-athena/)
[**POLAR ATHENA**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/polar-athena/)
GUESTS 42
Built 1974
## EXPEDITION â LUXURY ANTARCTIC CRUISE SHIPS
As the names suggest these Antarctic cruise ships are a hybrid of an Expedition Ship and a Luxury Ship. Weâve split this category into two, Expedition â Luxury and Luxury -Expedition.
EXPEDITION- LUXURY
These ships are generally smaller (less than 140 guests), or if larger they are more recent build ships operated by companies with a long expedition history. Many have been launched in the last 5 years and are purpose built for Polar expedition cruising with close to 100 guests and can easily offer two landings a day and focus on maximising opportunities for exploring with the added comfort of having larger, more comfortable (some with balconies) cabins and common areas.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/greg-mortimer/)
**[GREG MORTIMER](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/greg-mortimer/)**
GUESTS 130
Built 2019
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sylvia-earle/)
**[SYLVIA EARLE](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sylvia-earle)**
GUESTS 130
Built 2022
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/douglas-mawson/)
[**DOUGLAS MAWSON**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/douglas-mawson/)
GUESTS 130
Built 2025
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sea-spirit/)
**[SEA SPIRIT](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sea-spirit/)**
GUESTS 114
Built 1991
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ocean-explorer/)
**[OCEAN EXPLORER](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ocean-explorer/)**
GUESTS 138
Built 2021
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/heritage-adventurer/)
**[HERITAGE ADVENTURER](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/heritage-adventurer/)**
GUESTS 176
Built 1993
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-explorer/)
**[NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-explorer/)**
GUESTS 148
Built 1982
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-resolution/)
**[NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC RESOLUTION](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-resolution/)**
GUESTS 128
Built 2021
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-endurance/)
**[NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ENDURANCE](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-endurance/)**
GUESTS 126
Built 2020
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ocean-albatros/)
[**OCEAN ALBATROS**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ocean-albatros/)
GUESTS 189
Built 2020
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/hondius/)
**[HONDIUS](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/hondius/)**
GUESTS 176
Built 2019
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/seaventure/)
**[SEAVENTURE](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/seaventure/)**
GUESTS 149
Built 1991
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-explorer/)
**[MAGELLAN EXPLORER](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-explorer/)**
GUESTS 76
Built 2019
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-discoverer/)
[**MAGELLAN DISCOVERER**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-discoverer/)
GUESTS 76
Built 2026
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-orion/)
**[NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-orion/)**
GUESTS 102
Built 2003
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ocean-victory/)
**[OCEAN VICTORY](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ocean-victory/)**
GUESTS 189
Built 2021
## LUXURY-EXPEDITION ANTARCTIC CRUISE SHIPS
**LUXURY â EXPEDITION**
Generally ships with up to 200 guests which offer one (occasionally two) off ship excursion a day (largely due to time factors associated with the 100 passenger ashore limit) and still have an adventurous soul. Some are purpose built for Polar expedition cruising and offer a higher degree of on-board facilities and comfort, the cuisine is of a high standard.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/swan-hellenic-vega/)
[**SWAN HELLENIC VEGA**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sh-vega/)
GUESTS 156
Built 2022
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sh-diana/)
[**SWAN HELLENIC DIANA**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sh-diana/)
GUESTS 192
Built 2023
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/world-voyager/)
**[WORLD VOYAGER](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/world-voyager/)**
GUESTS 176
Built 2021
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/swan-hellenic-minerva/)
[**SWAN HELLENIC MINERVA**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/swan-hellenic-minerva/)
GUESTS 152
Built 2023
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ultramarine/)
[**ULTRAMARINE**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ultramarine/)
GUESTS 199
Built 2020
## [LUXURY ANTARCTIC CRUISE SHIPS](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/luxury-antarctic-cruise-ships/)
These luxurious Antarctic cruise ships combine more traditional-style cruising with an Antarctic adventure. They offer large, very comfortable cabins with en-suite facilities; many suites have private balconies.
Excellent cuisine options are available on board. Zodiac dinghies and an expedition team enable you to explore the Antarctic Peninsula and come home to an exquisite ship.
A luxury ship puts greater emphasis on the on-board experience. Onboard the bigger luxury vessels there are limitations on the number of landing made as at most sites the limit of people ashore is 100.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/silver-endeavour/)
**[SILVER ENDEAVOUR](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/silver-endeavour/)**
GUESTS 200
Built 2021
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/le-commandant-charcot/)
[**LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/le-commandant-charcot/)
GUESTS 270
Built 2021
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/seabourn-pursuit/)
[**SEABOURN PURSUIT**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/seabourn-pursuit/)
GUESTS 264
Built 2023
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/seabourn-venture/)
[**SEABOURN VENTURE**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/seabourn-venture/)
GUESTS 264
Built 2021
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/scenic-eclipse-i/)
[**SCENIC ECLIPSE I**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/scenic-eclipse-i/)
GUESTS 200
Built 2019
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/scenic-eclipse-ii/)
[**SCENIC ECLIPSE II**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/scenic-eclipse-ii/)
GUESTS 200
Built 2023
## FLY CRUISE
Fly-Cruise voyages afford two major objectives; they avoid lengthy sea crossings and dependent upon operator can also realise more time in Antarctica, the Falkland Island or South Georgia than a ship that cruises all the way. A flight takes you from Punta Arenas in Chile to King George Island (the largest of the South Shetland Islands, close to the Antarctic Peninsula) or to Mount Pleasant on the Falkland Islands where you board your ship. For Antarctic Peninsula only voyages the flight also affords a visit to Antarctica in a shorter period of time.
Here we have the ships that offer flights in both directions, to and from King George Island. Some ships choose to fly one way and cruise across the Drake Passage the other.

[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-explorer/)
**[MAGELLAN EXPLORER](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-explorer/)**
GUESTS 73
Built 2019
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-discoverer/)
[**MAGELLAN DISCOVERER**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-discoverer/)
GUESTS 76
Built 2026
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-orion/)
[**NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-orion/)
GUESTS 102
Built 2003
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-explorer/)
[**NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPLORER**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-explorer/)
GUESTS 148
Built 1982
##### BAE-146 AIRCRAFT

##### FLIGHTS TO KING GEORGE ISLAND
The BAE-146-200, AVRO RJ 85, and the AVRO RJ 100 aircraft are manufactured in the United Kingdom by British Aerospace (which later became part of BAE Systems). It is a high-wing aircraft with very short runway requirements, which makes it particularly suited for landing and take-off in Antarctica. The aircraft are expertly operated by AerovĂas DAP, which has more than 25 years of experience flying in Patagonia and Antarctica.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/antarctica-shore-excursions/)
[**SHORE EXCURSIONS**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/antarctica-shore-excursions/)
GUESTS 100
Experience the incredible beauty of Antarctic as you participate in unforgettable shore excursions. Take a zodiac to shore and participate in mainly a wet landing to make your way onto the ice, where few have gone before.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/zodiac-cruising-antarctica/)
[**ZODIAC EXCURSIONS**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/zodiac-cruising-antarctica/)
Zodiac excursions can be used either for a cruise or a shore landing; throughout the course of your Antarctic expedition, youâll have the chance to visit historic huts used by the explorers of old, scientific research bases and whaling sites â all of which is made possible thanks to our sturdy Zodiacs. Zodiac cruises will enable you to explore icebergs, get up-close with whales or seals hauled out on the ice. On ships with over 100 guests Zodiac cruises are often offered whilst other clients are ashore.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sea-kayaking-antarctica/)
[**KAYAK EXCURSIONS**](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sea-kayaking-antarctica/)
GUESTS 16-24
Immerse yourself in the incredible scenery of Antarctica on-board a kayak. Cruise past ice formations and see wildlife swim past as you glide along. You will be in groups of up to 12 with an experienced kayak guide who will take you to interesting locations, many that can only able to be reached by kayaks.
##### Contact Us
#####
[1300 784 794](tel:1300784794)
#####
[Email us](mailto:contact@antarcticatravelcentre.com.au)
#####
Suite 203 / 7 Jeffcott Street, West Melbourne, VIC 3003, Australia (By Appointment)
##### Booking With Us
[Booking Conditions](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/booking-conditions/)
[Booking Form](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/booking-form)
[Client Feedback Form](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/client-feedback-form/)
[Privacy Policy](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/privacy)
##### KEEP IN TOUCH
Email Newsletter
Sign up for the latest Antarctica Cruise info.
##### Beyond Antarctica with Tailor-Made Journeys
[](https://www.arctictravelcentre.com.au/)
[](https://luxuryandexpeditioncruises.com.au/)
[](https://southamericatravelcentre.com.au/)
[](https://galapagoscruisetravelcentre.com.au/)
[](https://tailormadejourneys.com.au/)
##### DESTINATIONS
[Antarctic Peninsula](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/antarctic-peninsula/) \| [South Georgia](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/south-georgia/) \| [Falkland Islands](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/falkland-islands/) \| [South America](https://southamericatravelcentre.com.au/) \| [High Arctic](https://arctictravelcentre.com.au/)
Antarctica Travel Centre offers expert and independent advice on several luxury & expedition Antarctic cruises.
We are proud to be affiliate members of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO).
##### BOOK & TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE
Antarctica Travel Centre is a trading name of Tailor-Made Journeys Pty Ltd. We are an accredited member of the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA). The company has been in operation since 1995 and is 100% Australian owned.
[](https://www.sght.org/)[](https://atia.travel/)[](https://iaato.org/)
All contents of this website are © 2024 Tailor-Made Journeys ABN 96 069 240 606 | |||||||||
| Readable Markdown | ## EXPEDITION, EXPEDITION-LUXURY, LUXURY-EXPEDITION,
## LUXURY & FLY-CRUISE
Antarctica, the [Falkland Islands](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/falkland-islands/), [South Georgia](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/south-georgia-cruises/), the [Ross Sea](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ross-sea/) and [New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Island](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/new-zealand-and-australian-sub-antarctic-islands/) cruises provide exceptional experiences for all who explore these magical places. Weâve selected the best small Antarctic Cruise ships to deliver you to these wondrous wilderness areas, organised into five categories: Expedition, Expedition-Luxury, Luxury-Expedition, [Luxury](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/luxury-antarctic-cruise-ships/) and Fly Cruise. Here we explain the differences in experience in each category, which is part driven by age and size of ship and part by style of operation.
Itâs our opinion that newer, purpose built Polar expedition ships with less that 130 guests, offer you a great experience; maximising your time ashore whilst providing very good cuisine and comfortable accommodation.
WHY SHIP SIZE MATTERS AND IAATO
##### **WHY 100 MATTERS**
[The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO)](https://iaato.org/faqs) regulates the frequency and number of guests visiting all sites. No more than 100 guests can land at the same site at the same time. If you choose a ship with less than, or close to, 100 guests all guests will be able to go ashore the same time.
Ships with up to 130 guests will often have up to 24 kayakers not going ashore, which means the remaining clients can all land. Effectively you maximise your time ashore on a smaller ship.
##### **WHY 200 ALSO MATTERS**
If your chosen Antarctic cruise ship has up to 200 guests wishing to go ashore at the same site, some guests will have to wait whilst the first 100 go ashore. This also means you spend less time on shore as each site has a set time allowed for the ship to land guests. Some operators will offer Zodiac cruises to those guests waiting for their turn to go ashore.
On the Antarctic Peninsula it is sometimes possible (but not always) to position the ship close to two sites, allowing half the passengers to visit one site and half at the other. This will not always be possible and there is a greater likelihood that these vessels will visit fewer sites (than those with closer to 100 guests) â as a result of taking longer to allow all clients to go ashore.
Whilst only 100 guests can go ashore at the one time ships with under 200 guests can still visit most sites on the Antarctic Peninsula.
##### **WHY SHIPS WITH 200-500 GUESTS VISIT LIMITED SITES**
Ships with over 200 guests and less than 500 can visit a very limited number of sites. Given the number of clients it will also take more time to get everyone off the ship.
**Ships with over 500 guests are not allowed to have excursions ashore from the ship â they are âCruise Onlyâ.**
We are proud to be Associate Members of IAATO.
##### WHAT IS IAATO ?
IAATO is a member organization founded in 1991 to advocate and promote the practice of safe and environmentally responsible private-sector travel to the Antarctic.
Currently, more than 100 Antarctica-bound outfitters are voluntary members of our organization, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO). Together we have established extensive procedures and guidelines that ensure appropriate, safe and environmentally sound private-sector travel to the Antarctic: regulations and restrictions on numbers of people ashore; staff-to-passenger ratios; site-specific and activity guidelines; wildlife watching; pre- and post-visit activity reporting; passenger, crew and staff briefings; previous Antarctic experience for tour staff; contingency and emergency medical evacuation plans; and more.
[IAATO](https://iaato.org/faqs) is an industry group that has resolved to set the highest possible tourism operating standards in its effort to protect Antarctica. This effort is unique, and the challenge to maintain environmentally responsible tourism exists to this extent in no other region of the world. Our membership comprises ship operators, land-based operators, ship agents, travel agents, one government office and travel companies that charter ships and airplanes from existing operators.
[](https://iaato.org/faqs)
EXPEDITION ANTARCTIC CRUISE SHIPS
Generally Antarctica cruise ships that are expedition style have a greater emphasis on maximising time off the vessel or out on deck than on a larger more âluxuryâ ship. This is helped by having fewer than 100 guests, hence all guests can go ashore at the same time. On most days an Expedition ship will offer two off ship excursions. The expedition team works closely with the shipâs captain and crew to deliver a high level of service and a flexible approach which means they can react to local circumstances; like a group of feeding whales, if possible they will stop and launch the zodiacs. The cabins are comfortable, the food of a very high standard.
An expedition client is someone who wants to maximise their opportunities to get off the ship and learn. Guests onboard are of all ages however you will be physically able to climb some relatively steep stairs and get in and out of a Zodiac.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/plancius/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ortelius/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/st-helena/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/polar-athena/)
EXPEDITION â LUXURY ANTARCTIC CRUISE SHIPS
As the names suggest these Antarctic cruise ships are a hybrid of an Expedition Ship and a Luxury Ship. Weâve split this category into two, Expedition â Luxury and Luxury -Expedition.
EXPEDITION- LUXURY
These ships are generally smaller (less than 140 guests), or if larger they are more recent build ships operated by companies with a long expedition history. Many have been launched in the last 5 years and are purpose built for Polar expedition cruising with close to 100 guests and can easily offer two landings a day and focus on maximising opportunities for exploring with the added comfort of having larger, more comfortable (some with balconies) cabins and common areas.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/greg-mortimer/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sylvia-earle/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/douglas-mawson/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sea-spirit/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ocean-explorer/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/heritage-adventurer/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-explorer/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-resolution/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-endurance/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ocean-albatros/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/hondius/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/seaventure/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-explorer/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-discoverer/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-orion/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ocean-victory/)
LUXURY-EXPEDITION ANTARCTIC CRUISE SHIPS
**LUXURY â EXPEDITION**
Generally ships with up to 200 guests which offer one (occasionally two) off ship excursion a day (largely due to time factors associated with the 100 passenger ashore limit) and still have an adventurous soul. Some are purpose built for Polar expedition cruising and offer a higher degree of on-board facilities and comfort, the cuisine is of a high standard.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/swan-hellenic-vega/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sh-diana/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/world-voyager/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/swan-hellenic-minerva/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/ultramarine/)
These luxurious Antarctic cruise ships combine more traditional-style cruising with an Antarctic adventure. They offer large, very comfortable cabins with en-suite facilities; many suites have private balconies.
Excellent cuisine options are available on board. Zodiac dinghies and an expedition team enable you to explore the Antarctic Peninsula and come home to an exquisite ship.
A luxury ship puts greater emphasis on the on-board experience. Onboard the bigger luxury vessels there are limitations on the number of landing made as at most sites the limit of people ashore is 100.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/silver-endeavour/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/le-commandant-charcot/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/seabourn-pursuit/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/seabourn-venture/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/scenic-eclipse-i/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/scenic-eclipse-ii/)
FLY CRUISE
Fly-Cruise voyages afford two major objectives; they avoid lengthy sea crossings and dependent upon operator can also realise more time in Antarctica, the Falkland Island or South Georgia than a ship that cruises all the way. A flight takes you from Punta Arenas in Chile to King George Island (the largest of the South Shetland Islands, close to the Antarctic Peninsula) or to Mount Pleasant on the Falkland Islands where you board your ship. For Antarctic Peninsula only voyages the flight also affords a visit to Antarctica in a shorter period of time.
Here we have the ships that offer flights in both directions, to and from King George Island. Some ships choose to fly one way and cruise across the Drake Passage the other.

[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-explorer/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/magellan-discoverer/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-orion/)
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/national-geographic-explorer/)
BAE-146 AIRCRAFT

##### FLIGHTS TO KING GEORGE ISLAND
The BAE-146-200, AVRO RJ 85, and the AVRO RJ 100 aircraft are manufactured in the United Kingdom by British Aerospace (which later became part of BAE Systems). It is a high-wing aircraft with very short runway requirements, which makes it particularly suited for landing and take-off in Antarctica. The aircraft are expertly operated by AerovĂas DAP, which has more than 25 years of experience flying in Patagonia and Antarctica.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/antarctica-shore-excursions/)
Experience the incredible beauty of Antarctic as you participate in unforgettable shore excursions. Take a zodiac to shore and participate in mainly a wet landing to make your way onto the ice, where few have gone before.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/zodiac-cruising-antarctica/)
Zodiac excursions can be used either for a cruise or a shore landing; throughout the course of your Antarctic expedition, youâll have the chance to visit historic huts used by the explorers of old, scientific research bases and whaling sites â all of which is made possible thanks to our sturdy Zodiacs. Zodiac cruises will enable you to explore icebergs, get up-close with whales or seals hauled out on the ice. On ships with over 100 guests Zodiac cruises are often offered whilst other clients are ashore.
[](https://www.antarcticatravelcentre.com.au/sea-kayaking-antarctica/)
Immerse yourself in the incredible scenery of Antarctica on-board a kayak. Cruise past ice formations and see wildlife swim past as you glide along. You will be in groups of up to 12 with an experienced kayak guide who will take you to interesting locations, many that can only able to be reached by kayaks. | |||||||||
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