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The Antarctic Peninsula is the northernmost part of mainland Antarctica, and the only part of the continent that extends beyond the Antarctic Circle.

Essentially a rugged mountain chain, at approximately 2,000 metres high, the Peninsula experiences a summer melting season, which results in a number of isolated, snow-free areas forming habitats for many primitive plants, microbes and inverterbrates, and offering breeding grounds for a variety of marine mammals and birds.

In particular, southern elephant and southern fur seals are found in the ocean around the Peninsula, and native crabeater, Weddell, and leopard seal are all ice-breeding species. Dusky dolphins play alongside majestic humpback whales, while minke and orca feed among the icy paradise. Several species of bird breed in the ice-free summer months, such as southern fulmar, blue-eyed shag and Antarctic tern. Playful colonies of chinstrap and gentoo penguins frolic amidst rocky shores, while petrels such as Wilson’s storm petrel and snow petrel, burrow into the ground to build their nests.

View suggested itineraries

Key info

  • Ideal for viewing: humpback whale, minke whale, orca, South polar skua, Adélie penguin, chinstrap penguin, gentoo penguin, crabeater seal, leopard seal

Wildlife trips

This wildlife location is featured in the following itineraries:

Antarctic Circle Penguin & Whale Safari

EXCLUSIVE VOYAGE

Join us on an unforgettable journey beyond the Antarctic Circle in search of icy vistas and remarkable wildlife, from penguins and cetaceans to pinnipeds and seabirds, onboard a state-of-the-art vessel. This exclusive group departure promises an intimate exploration of the world's southernmost continent. Find out more about Antarctic Circle Penguin & Whale Safari

  • Price (inc. flights): 17 days from £15,375
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • F

Antarctica Penguin Safari

Set sail on this unique Penguin Safari, exploring the untamed beauty of South Georgia and Antarctica. Witness majestic albatross, playful seals, and up to five species of penguin amidst incredible scenery. With state-of-the-art facilities and superb excursions, prepare for an unforgettable adventure. Find out more about Antarctica Penguin Safari

  • Price (exc. flights): 18 days from £20,495
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M

Antarctica Whale Safari

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the icy wilderness of Antarctica in search of cetaceans, pinnipeds, and seabirds, including numerous species of penguin. This whale watching voyage is perfectly timed during peak season, when the whales are most active and sightings are at their best. Find out more about Antarctica Whale Safari

  • Price (exc. flights): 11 days from £9,350
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • M

Classic Antarctic Fly-Sail

This trip takes the easiest way to Antarctica and flies from Punta Arenas in southern Chile, to save time and enjoy an aerial view of the Drake Passage. This active adventure involves daily landings by Zodiac inflatable, and with ever-changing ice and weather conditions, each voyage is unique. Find out more about Classic Antarctic Fly-Sail

  • Price (exc. flights): 8 days from £11,125
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • N
    • D

Classic Antarctica

This voyage is a perfect introduction to the Antarctic, visiting prime wildlife sites along the Peninsula and in the nearby South Shetland islands. Encounter huge rookeries of gentoo, chinstrap and Adelie penguins, beaches adorned with wallowing elephant seals, and whales and dolphins along the way. Find out more about Classic Antarctica

  • Price (exc. flights): 10-13 days from £5,645
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • N
    • D

Crossing the Polar Circle

An extraordinary opportunity to cross the Antarctic Circle, a polar achievement few have the privilege to experience. Discover a rarely seen, isolated world, littered with gigantic icebergs, snow-clad mountains and swathes of pack-ice, whilst being followed by an array of seabirds and several whale species. Find out more about Crossing the Polar Circle

  • Price (exc. flights): 11-15 days from £7,480
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • N
    • D

Emperor Penguins of the Weddell Sea

This voyage to the Weddell Sea offers a unique highlight - three days are reserved to visit, by helicopter, an emperor penguin colony, situated south of Snow Hill Island. Getting close to these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a unique and memorable once in a lifetime experience. Find out more about Emperor Penguins of the Weddell Sea

  • Price (exc. flights): 11-18 days from £11,455
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • N
    • D

Great Antarctic Voyage

This ultimate Antarctic experience marries the phenomenal wildlife of the sub-Antarctic islands of the Falklands and South Georgia to the pristine beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore dramatic wilderness areas and visit huge penguin colonies, all amongst hauntingly beautiful polar scenery. Find out more about Great Antarctic Voyage

  • Price (exc. flights): 19-22 days from £12,900
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • N
    • D

Polar Circle Fly-Sail

Flying to the South Shetlands over Cape Horn and avoiding the rough waters of the Drake Passage, this itinerary offers the easiest way to travel to Antarctica. Sailing down the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, the voyage passes spectacular icebergs in the company of sea birds, penguins, seals and whales. Find out more about Polar Circle Fly-Sail

  • Price (exc. flights): 9-11 days from £14,570
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • N
    • D

Ultimate Antarctica

Set sail on the ultimate expedition through the pristine wilderness of Antarctica. Spanning 23 days, your adventure will take you from the Falkland Islands to South Georgia and onward to the Antarctic Peninsula, surpassing the Antarctic Circle – an achievement few have the privilege to experience. Find out more about Ultimate Antarctica

  • Price (exc. flights): 23 days from £17,780
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • D

Weddell Sea Explorer

A land of icebergs, volcanic islands and year-round sea ice, the Weddell Sea has played a pivotal role in Polar exploration. A haven for birdlife and a feeding ground for migrating whales, this voyage offers the opportunity to discover the less-visited side of the Antarctic Peninsula and icy perimeter of the Weddell Sea. Find out more about Weddell Sea Explorer

  • Price (exc. flights): 12 days from £11,315
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • M

Whales & Dolphins of Antarctica & the Chilean Fjords

EXCLUSIVE VOYAGE

Journey to the far south on this exclusive whale and dolphin expedition, travelling at the most rewarding time for cetacean activity in Antarctica. Aboard our privately chartered ship, explore the Antarctic Peninsula and the dramatic, glacier-carved channels of the Chilean Fjords. Find out more about Whales & Dolphins of Antarctica & the Chilean Fjords

  • Price (inc. flights): 22 days from £18,995
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • M

Wildlife Wonders of South Georgia & Antarctica

This exclusive expedition to the Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica offers unparalleled biodiversity and stunning landscapes, showcasing thousands of king penguins, wandering albatross, and hulking elephant seals. Explore towering peaks, glaciers, and pristine fjords from a small-ship. Find out more about Z) Wildlife Wonders of South Georgia & Antarctica

  • Price (inc. flights): 20 days from £22,745
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • N
Recommended cruise vessels:

Greg Mortimer

Greg Mortimer LUXURY VESSEL

The Greg Mortimer introduces an exciting new generation of ship for cruising in the Polar regions. Purpose-built for expedition cruising with a uniquely designed ice-strengthened hull to provide a more comfortable voyage, this small ship can venture into remote areas that larger vessels cannot reach. Find Out More about Greg Mortimer

Hondius

Hondius EXPEDITION VESSEL

With decades of experience in polar expedition cruising, this vessel is purpose built for enjoying polar wildlife highlights. Every aspect of this innovative ship has been considered to make your polar voyage an incredible experience, from beautiful, comfortable rooms, to the excursions and everything between. Find Out More about Hondius

Ocean Albatros

Ocean Albatros LUXURY VESSEL

The Ocean Albatros is a state-of-the-art expedition vessel designed for exploring the polar regions in comfort and style. With its innovative X-BOW design, this modern ship offers enhanced stability for smoother sailing. Fully equipped to navigate remote icy waters, she can accommodate up to 175 passengers. Find Out More about Ocean Albatros

Ocean Explorer

Ocean Explorer LUXURY VESSEL

The Ocean Explorer is modern, elegant, and purpose-built for polar exploration. It features spacious and luxurious cabins, ample outdoor viewing areas, and the latest sustainability technology. The ship offers a luxurious and comfortable sailing experience, allowing you to intimately connect with the polar wilderness. Find Out More about Ocean Explorer

Ocean Nova

Ocean Nova EXPEDITION VESSEL

An extremely comfortable and well-equipped Polar expedition vessel, Ocean Nova is one of the leading vessels classified to operate in ice-filled waters. Accommodating around 60 passengers, cabins are outside facing and there is an excellent glass-enclosed forward observation lounge on the top deck. Find Out More about Ocean Nova

Ocean Victory

Ocean Victory EXPEDITION VESSEL

The Ocean Victory is a state-of-the-art expedition vessel, purpose-built for exploring polar regions in comfort. Launched in 2021, this modern ship combines innovative design with a commitment to sustainability, offering an exceptional base for adventure in some of the world's most remote, pristine environments. Find Out More about Ocean Victory

Ortelius

Ortelius EXPEDITION VESSEL

The ice-strengthened Ortelius is an excellent vessel for expeditions in the Arctic and Antarctic. With the highest ice-class notation, it offers possibilities to travel to remote locations such as the Ross Sea and Franz Josef Land. Flexibility assures maximum wildlife opportunities. Find Out More about Ortelius

Plancius

Plancius EXPEDITION VESSEL

The Plancius accommodates a maximum of 108 passengers in cabins ranging from triple to superior, all with outside view and private facilities. She offers a range of itineraries in Antarctica and the Arctic, and the large open deck spaces offer excellent opportunities to watch wildlife. Find Out More about Plancius

Polar Athena

Polar Athena MICRO VESSEL

Polar Athena is a beautifully refurbished micro expedition vessel designed for wildlife encounters and true polar exploration. With just 44 guests, generous deck space, a strengthened ice-class hull, and swift Zodiac operations, she combines comfort, agility, and adventure to reach remote regions. Find Out More about Polar Athena

Ultramarine

Ultramarine LUXURY VESSEL

Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters plus 20 quick-release Zodiac boats, Ultramarine offers passengers the next level in polar exploration. The opportunity to view frozen landscapes from above and to take impromptu wildlife viewing excursions speedily and efficiently, set it apart from other polar vessels. Find Out More about Ultramarine

Janssonius

Janssonius EXPEDITION VESSEL

The M/V Janssonius exceeds all requirements set out in the Polar Code for ice-strengthened cruise ships, making her arguably one of the most advanced vessels on which to explore the polar regions. The latest sustainable technology also ranks her alongside the most environmentally friendly ships in the world. Find Out More about Janssonius