Discover Travel specialises in organising trips to the Polar Regions of Antarctica and the Arctic. We’ve been fortunate to experience these extraordinary ‘bucket list’ destinations first hand; Ian has explored both regions multiple times.
When planning your expedition cruise, there’s much to think about to ensure it’s perfect for you. Let our experienced team guide you to find the right voyage.
Antarctica is one of the last great wildernesses on Earth. Three of our team members have visited the seventh continent, with Ian making multiple trips. His favourite spot? South Georgia Island.
Why Visit Antarctica?
Antarctica is truly special. The stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and vast, pristine ice-covered plateaus are beyond words. Imagine watching whales and seabirds from the deck of your ship, cruising among spectacular ice sculptures in a zodiac, and walking ashore just metres from penguins and seals.
Choosing Your Antarctic Adventure
With around 40 ice-strengthened ships operating mostly from South America and occasionally from New Zealand, there are plenty of ways to explore the ‘Frozen South’. These ships, often new and designed for polar expeditions, typically carry between 108 and 245 passengers and are run by top operators like Aurora, Oceanwide, Lindblad, and Quark Expeditions. Hurtigruten Expeditions can carry up to 528 passengers.
If luxury is what you’re after, consider the small cruise ships (176-388 passengers) by lines like Scenic, Ponant, Silversea, and Viking. These ships offer a first-class experience with gourmet food, spacious cabins, and even saunas.
What to Expect on Your Cruise
Your days in Antarctica will be packed with activities. Zodiac excursions are a highlight, including landings to visit penguin rookeries or historic sites, and cruises for wildlife watching and photography.
Included in Your Antarctic Voyage
Most Antarctic trips include:
- Accommodation with full board
- Guided landings and excursions
- Lectures by leading experts
- Loan of rubber boots
Depending on your chosen ship, you might also get:
- A complimentary parka jacket
- Pre/post-voyage hotel accommodation
- Additional activities like snowshoeing, camping, and photography workshops
- Beverages with meals
Optional adventure activities, such as kayaking and camping on the ice, and the infamous ‘Polar Plunge’, add to the excitement.
Best Time to Travel
Antarctica is accessible from November to March, with the high season from mid-December to February offering longer days, more stable weather, and active wildlife. November is great for South Georgia with heavy ice and spectacular skies, while February and March are ideal for whale sightings.
Solo Travellers Welcome
Antarctic voyages are popular with solo travellers, often making up at least 20% of passengers. Solo travel doesn’t have to be costly. You can:
- Share a cabin with a fellow traveller
- Book your own cabin (early booking is advised)
- Pay a single supplement for your own twin cabin
Popular Routes and Options
Many travellers take a 10-12 day cruise from South America across the Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula. For those prone to seasickness, ‘Fly-Cruises’ from Punta Arenas, Chile, offer a shorter option, flying over the Drake Passage to join the ship at King George Island.
Longer cruises (18-23 days) include the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, rich in polar history and wildlife. The longest voyages (29+ days) from New Zealand and Australia explore the remote Ross Sea.
Ready to Plan Your Antarctic Trip?
There’s a lot to consider, so let us help you choose the right expedition, ship, and cabin for your exploration. Whether you’re dreaming of a short trip or a longer journey, we’re here to make your Antarctic dreams come true.
“The Arctic” comes from the Greek word “Arktikos,” meaning “Country of the Great Bear,” because it lies under the constellation Ursa Major. This name is fitting, as the Arctic’s most famous resident is the incredible Polar Bear. The Arctic is one of the last great untouched wildernesses on Earth.
Let Discover Travel guide you to the adventure of a lifetime. Whether you dream of seeing Polar Bears in Svalbard, cruising through the icy waters of Greenland, or experiencing the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes, we’re here to make your Arctic dreams come true.
Our Team’s Arctic Experiences
Our team has first-hand experience exploring the Arctic’s wonders. Ian has cruised around the North of Svalbard and also the Canadian and Greenland Arctic, travelling by expedition ship from Churchill to Kangerlussuaq. He has also circumnavigated Iceland. Peter has also cruised around Spitsbergen (Svalbard), traditionally one of the best places for Polar Bear spotting.
Wildlife and Wilderness
In summer, once the pack ice breaks up, the Arctic reveals its secrets. You can spot not only Polar Bears but also Reindeer, Walrus, Musk Oxen, Arctic Wolves, and many whale species, including Bowheads, Belugas, and Narwhals. Greenland alone is home to eight different whale species and two million seals!
For birdwatchers, the Arctic is a paradise. You can see Gyrfalcons, Snowy Owls, Murres, Puffins, Kittiwakes, and many more.
Planning Your Arctic Trip
When planning your Arctic adventure, there are many things to consider. From choosing the right time of year to the best places for wildlife sightings, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our experienced team can guide you in picking the perfect expedition, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience in this magical part of the world.
Commentary from
the team
Antarctica
Antarctica
Antarctica
South Georgia
Falkland Islands
The Arctic
Northern Territories and Canadian Arctic