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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition Ship

Passengers: 114

Cabins : 58

Length : 297 feet

Speed : 15

Beam : 50

Draft : 12

Voltage : 110V

Facilities

Library (with Internet access), Lounge with Live Entertainment, Dining Room, Gym, Beauty Salon, Medical Facilities, Wraparound Sun Deck, Bar, Elevator

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition Ship

Crew : 136

Passengers: 199

Cabins : 132

Length : 466

Speed : 16

Beam : 59

Draft : 15.3

Voltage : 110/220 volts

Facilities

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

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition Ship

Crew : 139

Passengers: 199

Cabins : 132

Length : 466 ft

Speed : 16

Beam : 59

Draft : 15.3

Voltage : 110/220 volts

Facilities

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

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Scenic Exploration

Crew : 109

Passengers: 500

Cabins : 278

Speed : 15

Length : 445

Length : 445

Voltage : 220v via 2-pin continental

Facilities

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

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition Ship

Passengers: 148

Cabins : 81

Beam : 54

Length : 367

Facilities

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

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition Ship

Crew : 75

Passengers: 102

Cabins : 53

Length : 338

Speed : 12.5

Beam : 47

Draft : 13

Voltage : 220V

Facilities

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

Equipment

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!

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition Ship

Crew : 330

Passengers: 450

Cabins : 247

Speed : 19 knots

Length : 650 feet

Beam : 84 feet

Voltage : 100V / 220V

Facilities

Atrium, Boutique, Casino, Grand Salon, Gym/Fitness Studio, Observation Bar, Patio, Pool, 4 Restaurants, Sky Bar, Spa, Whirlpools, Basic Nurse Station

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Passengers: 240

Crew : 222

Length : 514

Draft : 18

Beam : 70

Voltage : 110/220V

Facilities

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

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition

Passengers: 144

Cabins : 66

Length : 354

Voltage :220V/50hz; Suites have 110V

Facilities

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

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition

Crew : 89

Passengers: 254

Cabins : 127

Speed : 13

Length : 374

Beam : 66

Voltage :220V/50hz; Suites have 110V

Facilities

Dining Room, Elevator, Observation Lounge, Bar, Sun Deck, Two Jacuzzis, Sauna, Gym, Gift Shop, Bistro, Two Lecture Halls, Library, Laundry Service, Onboard Doctor

Equipment

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.  

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition Ship

Crew : 122

Passengers: 158

Cabins : 76

Length : 372 ft

Draft : 17.8 ft

Breadth: 79.7 ft

Service speed : 12

Facilities

Restaurant, Lounge with floor to ceiling windows, Polar Library, Lecture Theatre, Bar, jacuzzi, Fitness Center, Sauna, Wireless Internet, 24-hour Room Services, Infinity Pool,

Equipment

Zodiacs, Extra large stabilizers, double kayaks

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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. 

Specifications

Ship Type: Expedition Ship

Crew : 72

Passengers: 176

Length : 353

Speed : 15

Beam : 25

Draft : 17.4

Facilities

Multimedia room, observation lounge, Restaurant, Bar, Polar Library, Gym, Clinic with licensed doctor, undercover zodiac embarkation platforms

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Expedition Ship

Crew : 70

Passengers: 110

Cabins : 54

Length : 297

Speed : 12.5

Beam : 50

Draft : 14

Facilities

Bar, Elevator, Internet, Library, Fitness Center, Wifi, On board Doctor

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Expedition Ship

Crew : 53

Passengers: 132

Length : 345

Speed : 14.5

Draft : 15

Facilities

Observation Decks, Lounge, Fine Dining, Pub, Gift Shop, Medical Clinic, Library, Computer Room, Gym, Sauna

Equipment

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.  

Specifications

Ship Type: Expedition Ship

Crew : 60

Passengers: 73

Length : 298 ft.

Speed : 14

Beam : 53

Draft : 14 ft.

Facilities

Multimedia room, Glass enclosed lounge, Restaurant, Bar, Polar Library, Gym, Clinic with licensed doctor, Gift Shop

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Research Ship

Crew : 63

Passengers: 96

Length : 384

Speed : 14.5

Beam : 60

Draft : 20

Facilities

Theater-style Auditorium, Restaurant, Bar, Polar Library, Gym, Spa, Clinic with licensed doctor, Gift Shop, Elevator

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Expedition Ship

Crew : 124

Passengers: 199

Speed : 15

Length : 449

Draft : 18

Voltage : 220V, 50 Hz

Facilities

Restaurant, Lounges (2), Library, Gym, Sauna, Pool, Jacuzzi, Wellness Cafe, Lecture Theater, Boutique, Spa Services

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Expedition Ship

Crew : 38

Passengers: 67

Cabins : 37

Length : 239.5

Speed : 12

Beam : 36

Draft : 12

Voltage : 220V

Facilities

Dining Room, Presentation Room, Bar, Lounge, Glass-enclosed Observation Lounge, Library, Gym, Clinic with Doctor

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Expedition Ship

Passengers: 132

Crew: 87

Cabins: 57

Length: 332 feet

Voltage: 220 volts

Facilities

Dining Room, Observation Lounge, Bar, Library, Clinic with licensed doctor, Exercise Room

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Crew : 72

Passengers: 116

Cabins : 54

Length : 295

Speed : 14

Beam : 50

Draft : 13.25

Voltage : 110V / 220V

Facilities

Dining Room, Two Lounges, Bistro, Library, Gym, Hot Tub, Elevator, Internet, Access Clinic/Doctor

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Expedition Ship

Crew : 90

Passengers: 132

Length : 340

Speed : 15.5

Beam : 18.4m

Draft : 5.3m

Facilities

Dining Room, Bar, Sauna, Gym, Library, Clinic with doctor, Observation Lounge, mud room

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Expedition Ship

Crew : 72

Passengers: 176

Length : 353 ft.

Speed : 15 knots

Breadth : 25

Draft : 17.4 ft.

Facilities

Multimedia room, Bar, Polar Library, observation lounge, Restaurant, Gym, undercover zodiac embarkation platforms,  Clinic with licensed doctor

Equipment

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. 

Specifications

Expedition Team: 14-24

Hotel Team: 47-56

Engine & Deck Crew: 24

Passengers: 120

Length: 104.4m

Breadth: 18.2 m

Draught: 5.3m

Cruising Speed: 12 Knots

Cabins: 79

Facilities

Dining Room, Bar, Sauna, Library, Gym, Observation Lounge, Mud room, Clinic with doctor

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition

Staff and Crew: 140

Guests: 199

Draft: 16.4ft (5.1m)

Length: 420 ft (128m)

Cruising Speed: 16 knots

Facilities

Observation lounge, lecture auditorium, sauna, spa, gym, 4 bars including wine bar, library, Polar Boutique, 2 dining rooms, 2 ready rooms with individual lockers 

Equipment

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.  

Specifications

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition Ship

Passengers: 172

Draft: 4.7

Length : 126

Facilities

Wrap-around deck, lecture auditorium, sauna, spa, gym, library, 2 dining rooms, large rooms, observation lounge

Equipment

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.

Specifications

Passengers: 149

Length: 111.5 m

Breadth: 17.0 m

Cabins: 82

Crew: 90

Facilities

Dining Room, Bar, Library, Gym, sauna, wrap-around deck, Mud room, Clinic with doctor, Citizen Science lab

Equipment

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. 

Specifications

Ship length: 124m

Beam: 21m

Passengers: 138

Cabins: 71

Crew: 100

Facilities

2 x restaurants, Bar, Sauna, Jacuzzi, Polar Library, Gym, Lecture room, Mud room, Clinic with doctor, Science room, 2 x Glamping tents

Equipment

Zodiacs, Kayaks, Snowshoes, X-Country skis, Camping, Underwater camera

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​Research-Style Cruise Ships

MV Ushuaia

The Ushuaia is one the most respected vessels in the Polar region and well up to the task of the Weddell Sea! Ice-strengthened and originally built for the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, the boat has now been refurbished to accommodate 88 passengers and nearly 50 suites!

Large deck space, open bridge policy, open plan lounge and full media lecture room make this one the most popular vessels.

Specifications

Ship Type: Research Ship

Crew : 38

Passengers: 88

Cabins : 46

Length : 278 ft

Speed : 12 knots

Beam : 51 ft

Draft : 18 ft

Voltage : 110 V / 60 Hz

Facilities

Dining Room, Observation Lounge/Lecture Room, Panorama Deck, Bar, Library, Gift Shop, Infirmary

Equipment

Zodiacs

Ortelius

The Ortelius is an ice-strengthened vessel ideally designed for adventure cruises to the Polar regions. The Ortelius accommodates 116 passengers and has basic, but comfortable and cozy accommodation.

The ship facilities include two dining rooms, a lecture theater room, a bar and a good amount of deck space.

Specifications

Ship Type: Research Ship

Passengers: 108

Crew : 47

Cabins : 50

Length : 299

Beam : 57

Draft : 19

Speed : 14.3

Facilities

Dining Room, Bar and Lounge, Presentation Room

Equipment

Zodiacs, Kayaks, (Helicopter Weddell Sea itineraries only)

Plancius

One of the larger research vessels in Antarctica, the Plancius can hold up to 116 passengers and is fully ice-strengthened for those extreme Polar regions! The ship has a very comfortable feel to it and there is tons of deck space to wander around.

The bar has large panoramic views across the sea and the observation lounge also doubles as a presentation room.  A basic, but tough and cozy ship with great views all around.

Specifications

Ship Type: Research Ship

Crew : 45

Passengers: 108

Cabins : 50

Length : 293

Speed : 10-12

Beam : 47

Draft : 16

Facilities

Dining Room, Observation Lounge, Presentation Room, Bar

Equipment

Zodiacs, Kayaks, Snowshoes, Camping Gear

Spirit of Enderby

The Spirit of Enderby carries 50 passengers and is well designed for adventure cruising to remote regions. With an ice-strengthened hull, the vessel is both cozy and comfortable and offers excellent catering.

During the off-season, the Spirit of Enderby is generally used for Oceanographic Research work.

Specifications

Ship Type: Research Ship

Passengers: 50

Speed : 12

Length : 236

Voltage : 220V

Facilities

Bar/Lounge, Two Dining Halls, Infirmary, Sauna

Equipment

Zodiacs

Akademik Shokalskiy

The Akademik Shokalskiy ship is a fully ice-strengthened vessel designed for Polar oceanographic work. The ship carries 48 passengers and since becoming an Antarctic cruise vessel has undergone complete refurbishment.

Because of this the Akademik Shokalskiy is very well equipped for a research vessel and comes with a lounge/bar, library, lecture room and sauna. The ship has a lovely research feel about it that suits many people.

Specifications

Ship Type: Research Ship

Passengers: 48

Speed : 10 knots

Length : 236

Draft : 16.5

Beam : 56

Facilities

Bar, Library, Lounge, Lecture Room

Equipment

Zodiacs

Polar Pioneer

One of the smallest Antarctica ships in the region, the Polar Pioneer research vessel can hold up to 56 passengers. This doesn’t stop the small ship from packing quite a punch though and on board facilities include a bar, library, sauna, lounge, dining room and lecture room.

Its small size allows it to make landings where other ships can’t – this is often more important than luxury!

Specifications

Ship Type: Research Ship

Passengers: 54

Cabins : 29

Length : 235

Speed : 10

Beam : 50

Draft : 15

Voltage : 220V

Facilities

Dining Room, Library, Lecture Room, Lounge, Bar, Clinic, Sauna

Equipment

Zodiacs, Kayaks (select itineraries)

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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.

References

Tags: Antarctica travel, Antarctica trip, Antarctica guide, Antarctica travel guide, Antarctica cruise, Antarctic cruise, cruise Antarctica References: This site is maintained by a group of passionate Antarctica travellers, all of whom have visited Antarctica many times. Much of the site is based upon personal experiences which we then cross-reference with secondary sources like travel guides, i.e. Lonely Planet, Rough Guides. If you find any inaccuracies on the site please contact us.

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FAQ

If you would like to know more about Antarctica ships please leave a comment below and we will endeavor to get back to you within 24 hours! Alternatively, please see our FAQ page here. If you would like to get a cruise quote, please use this form.

Thank you - AntarcticaGuide Team

Tags: Antarctica cruise ships, Antarctica ships, choosing the right Antarctica cruise ship, deciding on an Antarctica ship, best Antarctica cruise ship

14 comments

  • ROSEMARY PICTON says

    5 years ago

    Do you have any idea which ship spends the greatest amount of time on South Georgia?

    • Burnham Arlidge says

      5 years ago

      HI Rosemary, thanks for getting in touch. I noticed you enquired so our partner will be in touch soon. All ships that visit South Georgia as part of their itinerary will spend a very similar amount of time there.

  • Colin says

    4 years ago

    Great page; look forward to seeing it updated with the newer, larger expedition ships from Hapag-Lloyd and Hurtigruten. I was thinking about these because we are a bit seasickness-prone, but was wondering how the larger ships handle the shore trips 100 at a time; do they restrict your shore time, or allow different groups ashore in different places?

    • Burnham Arlidge says

      4 years ago

      Hi Colin, The larger ships have to restrict shore time. Whilst one group is ashore, other groups will either be on the ship waiting, or out on zodiacs. There is less motion on large ships, but longer waiting times... it's something you'll have to juggle and consider when deciding which ship to sail on. Thanks, Burnham - Antarctica Guide Team

  • Judith Porter says

    5 years ago

    We are on a Celebrity cruise that sails to Antarctica but does not land...on Feb 3 ..there are three points in Antarctica we sail to..can u offer any advice thank you

    • Burnham Arlidge says

      5 years ago

      Hi Judith, Great to hear you're visiting Antarctica. Celebrity are a great line, although it's a shame you can't land! The light around February is usually very nice, so try to be on deck for dawn and dusk. I would also advise bringing a telephoto lens for your camera as the wildlife will be a little distance away. Warm gear is essential when watching from deck. Other than that, just have fun experiencing a truly alien landscape :) Cheers, Burnham - AntarcticaGuide Team

  • Famela says

    4 years ago

    Nice page n interesting. Is it possible to go to Antarctica with kids by age 5y.o to 14y.o and do camping there n explore Antarctica?How much the cost for the kids? Do you have any idea/suggestions about children with those age going to Antarctica? Thank you so much.

    • Burnham Arlidge says

      4 years ago

      Hi, Thanks for the message. Your best bet to get the information you require is to fill in the quote form here and our partner agency will give you all the info and pricing you need. Kids can certainly go, but you will have to follow guidelines in regards to zodiac trips and camping. Thanks, Burnham - Antarctica Guide Team

  • T Quick says

    4 years ago

    Great information. Can you tell me which of these ships and itineraries offer scuba diving? Thanks!

    • Burnham Arlidge says

      4 years ago

      Hi, Thanks for replying. It actually changes each year, so off the top of my head I couldn't say. If you fill in the form here then the agency I work with will be abe to tell you. Just mention in the comments that you want to scuba dive and they will give you all the info you require. Cheers, Burnham - Antarctica Guide Team

  • Frances Cresswell says

    5 years ago

    Which ship tends to have the most time on the ice? Thanks

    • Burnham Arlidge says

      5 years ago

      Hi Frances, The itinerary is more important than the ship in terms of amount of time spent on land. Most ships tend to offer the same amount of time on the ice on standard itineraries. The longer itineraries (such as the ones that include South Georgia) will give you more time on the ice. The only thing I will say is the smaller the ship, the more time you will get on land because you won't be waiting or queuing if the ship holds very few passengers. However, the difference is not huge. You may also want to look out for ships/operators that offer camping. This allows you to spend the night on the ice, giving you some extra time to explore and take photos. Hope that helps. Burnham - Antarctica Guide Team

  • 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?