Antarctic Peninsula and Weddell Sea Expedition Cruises

The scale and beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula often takes visitors by surprise. Anticipation builds as you cross the infamous Drake Passage, with iceberg sightings signalling your approach to the White Continent. Upon arrival, a remarkable variety of landing sites awaits, with time ashore planned for every day of your exploration. Walk among chinstrap, Adélie, and gentoo penguins; watch seals basking on the ice; or perhaps spot leopard seals hunting in the shallows. Visit research stations, hike to panoramic viewpoints, and more.

Some itineraries venture into the Weddell Sea, where Shackleton famously became icebound aboard the Endurance. Here, the ultimate highlight is reaching Snow Hill Island, home to a vast emperor penguin colony - though landings are notoriously challenging.

Antarctic Peninsula and Weddell Sea Itineraries

A trip to the Antarctic Peninsula is the easiest way to visit Antarctica. Access is via South America, departing from the tip of Argentina or Chile, and the crossing to the Antarctic Peninsula takes around two days. Although there are options to fly, many travellers say they wouldn't have missed the crossing for the world. (Read our guide to crossing the Drake Passage for more information).

Most itineraries offer around six days exploring the Peninsula, with multiple landings combined with Zodiac cruising to ensure active exploration. Some operators also provide opportunities for scenic helicopter flights, kayaking, snowshoeing, or even camping ashore making your time in Antarctica truly unforgettable.

Weddell Sea itineraries are offered by fewer operators, and those that do sail here typically focus on giving guests the chance to see Emperor penguins nesting with their young at Snow Hill Island. Ponant's advanced icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot and Quark's Ultramarine are two vessels that provide this rare opportunity - Ultramarine uses its two onboard helicopters to reach the colony, while Le Commandant Charcot relies on its icebreaking capabilities to navigate the sea ice surrounding the island.

On all itineraries to the Antarctic Peninsula and Weddell Sea, you'll be accompanied by an expert expedition team who will bring the destination to life through fascinating lectures on wildlife, the history of exploration, the impact of climate change, and more.