Booking an Antarctica cruise is a major investment and decision. Therefore, getting the right experience that suits you is hugely important.
For the majority of your cruise you will be aboard your Antarctica ship, this means that choosing the right Antarctica cruise ship will be one of the most important decisions you make when considering your Antarctica cruise.
There are almost 30 Antarctica cruise ships sailing each season. This fact often overwhelms prospective travellers.
To make the choices a little easier we have laid out all the Antarctica cruise ships below and set them out into three categories: Luxury Antarctica Cruise Ships, Expedition Antarctica Ships, Research Vessels.
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Types of Antarctica Ships
The type of Antarctica ship you choose will very much depend on your budget and type of experience you’re looking to book.
Research vessels are obviously less expensive, however, many people believe these ships give you a better experience as they’re generally smaller which means more landings and less queues. This in turn means more wildlife viewing and photo opportunities.
Luxury Antarctica ships are generally bigger, more spacious and have far more facilities such as fitness centers, spa and Jacuzzi, restaurant options and large sun-decks. There will be more people on board though and you will need to take into account that only 100 people can be ashore at one time. Luxury Antarctica ships are also the most expensive for obvious reasons.
Expedition ships often provide a compromise between the two. Often quite small to give travelers the best landing experiences, expedition ships are packed with facilities, deck space and optional activities such as camping and kayaking. Although not as luxurious or well-appointed as the luxury Antarctica ships, expedition ships do pack a punch and often provide full media lecture rooms, wellness centers and fully stocked libraries.
Another important issue to consider is how well you cope with ship movement. Some Antarctica cruise ships are ice-strengthened and fully stabilized whilst some are not. People who suffer from sea sickness should definitely take this into consideration.
Please see our page on choosing the right Antarctica cruise for more information on ships and itineraries.
Luxury Antarctica Cruise Ships
Hebridean Sky
In June 2016, this 116 passenger Antarctica ship underwent a multi-million dollar restoration project to bring the vessel into the modern age – and it worked.
The Hebridean Sky now has state of the art stabilization, fuel efficiency and communications system. The ship is perfect for people looking for a feel of camaraderie, similar perhaps to a yacht experience.
Library (with Internet access), Lounge with Live Entertainment, Dining Room, Gym, Beauty Salon, Medical Facilities, Wraparound Sun Deck, Bar, Elevator
Zodiacs
Le Boreal
One of the more luxurious Antarctica cruise ships, the Le Boreal accommodates just under 200 passengers and comes with several restaurants, several lounges, salon, spa, steam room and gym.
The decor is modern and stylish and the ship even comes with an elevator! Expect large open deck space and well appointed cabins on this luxury Antarctica vessel.
Two Restaurant, Panoramic Lounge and Terrace, Theater, Library, Three Bars, Fitness Center, Salon, Spa, Steam Room, Wireless Internet, Three Elevators, 24-hour Room Services, Pool
Zodiacs
Le Lyrial
The French Connection! The Le Lyrial is very similar to its sister ship – the Le Boreal. Incredibly luxurious for an Antarctica ship, the Le Lyrial is equipped to house 199 passengers and provides excellent deck space and seating areas throughout the ship.
The vessel has a spa, sauna, gym, several restaurants and lounges, lecture theater and extensive library. There is often far more non-English speaking guests on board.
Two Restaurant, Panoramic Lounge and Terrace, Library, Theatre, Three Bars, Fitness Center, Salon, Spa, Steam Room, Wireless Internet, Three Elevators, 24-hour Room Services, Pool
Zodiacs, Dynamic Positioning System
MS Maud
Carrying 500 passengers, the Midnatsol is one of the largest Antarctica ships. Decked out with nice pieces of modern art, the Midnatsol has a bight and colorful feel to it.
Natural light is everywhere and the main lounge is a two-story room with front facing panoramic views! Decked out with a Young Explorers Program, the Midnatsol is incredibly family friendly.
Two-story Panoramic Lounge, Restaurant, Separate a la carte dining, several Bars, Cafe, Library, Playroom, Sauna, Boutique, Jacuzzi, Fitness Room, Lecture Theater, Onboard Science Center, Physican on board
Stabilizers, Kayaks, Polarcirkel Boats, Zodiacs
National Geographic Explorer
This luxury vessel accommodates 168 passengers and is one of the most state of the art Antarctica cruise ships out there!
Fully stabilized and equipped with a Spa Therapist and Wellness Specialist, the National Geographic is a favorite among many.
All 81 cabins have window facing views and there is lots of deck space to wander about in comfort.
Two Restaurant, Bar, Lounge, several Sun Decks, Observation lounge, Gym, Sauna, Library, Business Center with wifi access, Gift Shop, Mud room and lockers, Elevator, Laundry and Open Bridge
Zodiacs, Remotely operated vehicle (R.O.V.) Kayaks, Snorkelling gear, Splash-Camera, Underwater video cameras, Video microscope
National Geographic Orion
Slightly smaller than its larger Explorer brother, the Orion is very well appointed, cozy and elegant.
The ship houses 102 passengers and comes equipped with a outdoor cafe, spa facility, library and dining rooms. Probably one of the most comfortable Antarctica cruise ships, the Orion is always highly recommended.
Gymnasium and Health Spa, Sun Deck with Outdoor Bar and Jacuzzi, Large Lecture Theatre, Hospital and Infirmary, Library with wifi Access, Lounge and Outdoor Cafe, Restaurant, Mud Room, Boutique and Salon, Glass Elevator
Zodiacs, Kayaks, Remotely operated vehicle (R.O.V.), Snorkeling gear, Splash-Camera, Underwater video cameras, Video microscope
Seabourn Venture
Carrying 450 passengers, the Seabourn Quest is unquestionably the largest cruise ship in the Antarctic region and arguably the most luxurious Antarctica ship.
The vessel has been described as “a game-changer for the luxury segment” and the dining experience is said to be as good as top restaurants offer. Glittering chandeliers, spa treatments and cafes await guests on this huge luxury ship!
Atrium, Boutique, Casino, Grand Salon, Gym/Fitness Studio, Observation Bar, Patio, Pool, 4 Restaurants, Sky Bar, Spa, Whirlpools, Basic Nurse Station
Stabilizers, Zodiacs, Kayaks (including 8 doubles)
Silver Cloud
Carrying 240 passengers, the Silver Cloud is one of the the smallest luxury ships in Antarctica. Interior is modern and deck space in large.
There are five dining options, including a Relais & Châteaux restaurant! The ships has a number of shops, internet cafes and panorama lounges. If you need to unwind then the full spa facility will do just that.
Five Dining Options, Bar, Panoramic Lounge, Internet Cafe, Boutique, Salon and Spa, Casino, Two-Story Show Lounge and Lecture Theater, two Jacuzzis, Pool, Fitness Center, Onboard Doctor
Zodiacs, WiFi, Elevator, Stabilizers
Silver Explorer
Probably the most luxurious ship in the Polar Regions. The Silver Explorer takes only 132 passengers, but boasts facilities of a much larger luxury vessel.
Facilities include a spacious library, fitness center, full-service spa, boutique shopping, beauty salon, Internet Cafe, sauna and two top-deck Jacuzzi’s! The ship also boasts 8 zodiacs so no one ever has to wait for landings! If you can afford this cruise, this is a very cool ship.
Dining Room, Two Lounges, Large Lecture Hall, Library with wifi Cafe, Open Bridge, Boutique, Full-Service Spa, Beauty Salon, Gym, Sauna, two Jacuzzis, Medical Center, WiFi
Zodiacs
The Fram
Named after the ship used by Norwegian Explorer Fridtjof Nansen, the Fram was purpose built for Polar cruises in 2009 and is one of the largest Antarctica ships with space for 269 passengers! Items from the original Fram are located around the ship which makes for a lovely bit of history.
As can be expected from a ship this size, the Fram offers several Jacuzzi’s, a gym, several restaurants and lounges and full spa facility.
Dining Room, Elevator, Observation Lounge, Bar, Sun Deck, Two Jacuzzis, Sauna, Gym, Gift Shop, Bistro, Two Lecture Halls, Library, Laundry Service, Onboard Doctor
Polarcirkel Boats for landings, Stabilizers
SH Vega
One of the most comfortable ships operating in the polar regions, the SH Vega is an ice-strengthened vessel that boasts extra large stabilisers for the smoothest sailing experience possible.
The stylish Scandinavian interior provides a relaxed and informal way to experience the polar regions. The focus is on wildlife watching and the unique 'Swan's nest' at the bow of the ship provides great place to do this.
With just 158 passengers, you will have plenty of space and time to engage with the team aboard the SH Vega.
Restaurant, Lounge with floor to ceiling windows, Polar Library, Lecture Theatre, Bar, jacuzzi, Fitness Center, Sauna, Wireless Internet, 24-hour Room Services, Infinity Pool,
Zodiacs, Extra large stabilizers, double kayaks
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Antarctica Guide do not sell tours, we simply provide impartial advice. If you would like an exact quote with our recommended specialist click Get a Quote.
Expedition Antarctica Cruise Ships
Hondius
Another purpose built expedition vessel, the Hondius is the first Polar Class 6 civilian ship in the world. It's also one of the most eco-friendly with a state-of-the-art power management system.
The Hondius is equipped with a multimedia room, beautiful observation lounge, polar library, gym and undercover zodiac embarkation platforms. There are a range of cabins to choose from and plenty of zodiacs so no one misses out.
Multimedia room, observation lounge, Restaurant, Bar, Polar Library, Gym, Clinic with licensed doctor, undercover zodiac embarkation platforms
Zodiacs, kayaks, snowshoes, trekking Poles, camping equipment
Island Sky
One of the smallest expedition ships in Antarctica, the Island Sky is the perfect vessel for wildlife watching. Equipped with 11 zodiacs and excellent deck space, you’ll never miss a thing. The interior is elegant and the facilities are excellent.
All cabins are outward facing and come with private en suite bathrooms.
Bar, Elevator, Internet, Library, Fitness Center, Wifi, On board Doctor
11 Zodiacs
MS Expedition
This small Antarctica expedition ship carries a 132 passengers and was completely refurbished in 2009. Thanks to the refurbishment, the cabins are all large and very well appointed, each one being window facing!
Deck space is large and ideal for wildlife viewing whilst the interior of the ship is comfortable and cozy. Much of the common space has large windows for ideal landscape viewing.
Observation Decks, Lounge, Fine Dining, Pub, Gift Shop, Medical Clinic, Library, Computer Room, Gym, Sauna
Zodiacs, Kayaks, Camping equipment
Magellan Explorer
One of newest expedition ships available, the Magellan Explorer has been purpose built for expedition cruising and carries just 73 passengers.
Every detail has been thought out, including a magnificent glass-enclosed observation lounge, multiple zodiac embarkation points and state of the art multimedia room. Cabins are very spacious and most come with private balconies.
Multimedia room, Glass enclosed lounge, Restaurant, Bar, Polar Library, Gym, Clinic with licensed doctor, Gift Shop
Zodiacs, Kayaks, snowshoes, Trekking Poles, 10 zodiacs
Ocean Diamond
One of the more modern Antarctica ships in the region, the Ocean Diamond is a classy vessel that offers space for 189 passengers.
The ship is equipped with a several bars, polar library, wellness program, theater-style auditorium and gym. Rooms are comfortable and fairly spacious and the deck area is large and perfect for viewing landscapes.
Theater-style Auditorium, Restaurant, Bar, Polar Library, Gym, Spa, Clinic with licensed doctor, Gift Shop, Elevator
Zodiacs, Kayaks, Adventure Equipment, Trekking Poles
Ocean Endeavour
One of the larger expedition ships in Antarctic waters, the Ocean Endeavour can accommodate up to 199 passengers. Ideally equipped for polar sailing and passenger comfort, the Endeavour comes with a full ice-strengthened hull, spacious restaurant, large sundeck and several large lounges!
The sauna, gym, juice bar and many zodiacs make the Endeavour one of our favorites.
Restaurant, Lounges (2), Library, Gym, Sauna, Pool, Jacuzzi, Wellness Cafe, Lecture Theater, Boutique, Spa Services
Zodiacs, Kayaks and Stand-Up Paddleboards (for an additional charge)
Ocean Nova
One of the smaller vessels in the region, the Ocean Nova carries only 48 passengers. This gives the ship are very cozy and nice family feel to it. The Ocean Nova offers outside cabins, a presentation room, nice bar, spacious dining room, gym and a comfortable library.
The forward facing lounge is enclosed in glass for stunning landscape views. The Ocean Nova is generally used for the express itineraries.
Dining Room, Presentation Room, Bar, Lounge, Glass-enclosed Observation Lounge, Library, Gym, Clinic with Doctor
Zodiacs
Ocean Adventurer
The Ocean adventurer houses 132 passengers and was purpose built for Antarctica cruises. This fact can be seen throughout the ship – the cabins are all window facing and the large lounge, library and dining room are all completely lined in glass so you never miss a single moment!
Food is excellent and the staff are very friendly. Deck space is plentiful and there are several zodiacs for frequent shore landings.
Dining Room, Observation Lounge, Bar, Library, Clinic with licensed doctor, Exercise Room
Zodiacs, Kayaks, Internet
Sea Spirit
With only 116 passengers, the Sea Spirit is one of the smaller Expedition style vessels in Antarctica. However, the ship has a cozy and friendly feel because of this and the lounges are very spacious and the library is well stocked.
The outside deck area comes with a hot tub and area to serve bistro meals in fair weather. Perfect and intimate vessel for Antarctica.
Dining Room, Two Lounges, Bistro, Library, Gym, Hot Tub, Elevator, Internet, Access Clinic/Doctor
Zodiacs, Kayaks, Stabilizers
Greg Mortimer
One of newest expedition ships in the market, the Greg Mortimer is a purpose built Polar expedition ship that carries 120 passengers.
The ship exhibits a new patented X-Bow® that cuts through waves and provides one of the smoothest sailings available. This modern ship offers plenty of activities and facilities and is a must for anyone who suffers from extreme seasickness.
Dining Room, Bar, Sauna, Gym, Library, Clinic with doctor, Observation Lounge, mud room
Zodiacs, Kayaks, skis, diving tanks
Janssonius
The Jansonnius is a purpose built expedition vessel and one of the first Polar Class 6 civilian ships in the world. Its twin motors are state of the art an utilise a power management system that reduces their carbon impact dramatically.
The Janssonius is equipped with a dedicated deck for multi-language presentations and comes with a stunning observation lounge for wildlife watching. Onboard you'll also find a Polar library, gym, large dining room and modern mud room that comes with two undercover zodiac embarkation platforms for quick snd easy boarding.
Multimedia room, Bar, Polar Library, observation lounge, Restaurant, Gym, undercover zodiac embarkation platforms, Clinic with licensed doctor
Zodiacs, kayaks, snowshoes, camping equipment, trekking Poles
Sylvia Earle
Carrying just 120 passengers, the Sylvia Earle is one of the smallest and most modern expedition cruise ships currently sailing.
The ship exhibits a new patented X-Bow® which is far more eco-friendly and offers a smoother sailing experience. The Sylvia Earle also boasts an outdoor salt water pool and hydraulic viewing platforms to get the best possible wildlife watching experience.
Dining Room, Bar, Sauna, Library, Gym, Observation Lounge, Mud room, Clinic with doctor
Zodiacs, Kayaks, Snowshoes, Snorekling gear, Camping
Ultramarine
The Ultramarine offers the latest in expedition cruising. 4 zodiac embarkation points for quick boarding and two scenic helicopters are the stand out features of this incredible vessel.
The cabins are the largest in the industry and the majority include private balconies. Onboard you'll also find a wine tasting bar, sauna with floor to ceiling windows and large gym.
Observation lounge, lecture auditorium, sauna, spa, gym, 4 bars including wine bar, library, Polar Boutique, 2 dining rooms, 2 ready rooms with individual lockers
Zodiacs, Helicopters, Kayaks, Skiing, Camping
World Explorer
Launched in 2019, the World Explorer is a dedicated expedition ship built for polar waters.
It offers a spa program, numerous activities, a pool, wrap around deck for wildlife watching, and dedicated modern lecture theatre.
Wrap-around deck, lecture auditorium, sauna, spa, gym, library, 2 dining rooms, large rooms, observation lounge
Zodiacs, wifi, kayaks, camping equipment, stand up paddle boards
MS Seaventure
The MS Seaventure is one of the best expedition vessels on the market.
It is equipped with modern stabilizers, a wrap-around deck, sauna, and a 360 degree helipad viewing area. The bar and restaurant offer a friendly atmosphere and the cabins are a good size.
Dining Room, Bar, Library, Gym, sauna, wrap-around deck, Mud room, Clinic with doctor, Citizen Science lab
Zodiacs, Kayaks, Camping
National Geographic Endurance
Carrying just 138 passengers, the National Geographic Endurance is one of the most advanced and modern expedition cruise ships.
The NG Endurance boasts many advanced features including two glamping pods, state of the art lecture theatre, and hammocks for the balcony cabins. Unlike many other expedition ships, the Endurance provides a videographer onboard, plus the chance to see images and videos from underneath the water.
2 x restaurants, Bar, Sauna, Jacuzzi, Polar Library, Gym, Lecture room, Mud room, Clinic with doctor, Science room, 2 x Glamping tents
Zodiacs, Kayaks, Snowshoes, X-Country skis, Camping, Underwater camera
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Tony Glaser says
3 years ago
I know that South Georgia and the Falklands are not really Antarctica, but if I go on a cruise that visits only these places, will I be missing wildlife or other things that I would only see in Antarctica proper?
Kimberly says
3 years ago
Which one of these ships do not have stabilizers? I believe I already know one-The Ushuaia. Are there others?