Interest in Antarctic cruises has never been higher than in the 2020s, with more travellers than ever adding the remote destination to their wish lists. It’s not hard to see why, given the chance to encounter incredible wildlife and see unspoiled glacial landscapes.
That said, the major barrier preventing many people from going is the cost. Fares for many Antarctic cruises by expedition operators begin at around £10,000 and can rise to upwards of £20,000 for ultra-luxury lines.
Norwegian Cruise Line is a smart alternative if you want a premium experience at a more accessible price point. At the time of writing, it has 15-day sailings of South America and Antarctica starting at £2,150 per person for an inside cabin, meaning if you find the right flights, you can tick this once-in-a-lifetime experience off for roughly £3,000 per person.
Even if you opt for upgrades such as a club balcony suite (which comes with up to £250 in airfare credit), a Free at Sea™ package, or a shore excursion, you’re still likely to spend less than with the majority of operators.
What is it like to cruise Antarctica with NCL?
In 2027 and 2028, NCL has a range of cruises that combine South America, sub-Antarctic Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. That means experiencing modern metropolises, balmy beaches and expansive glacial landscapes in a single voyage.
These itineraries are set to sail on one of NCL’s mid-sized ships: Norwegian Star. At 294 metres long, in many ways, it’s ideally sized for such a sailing – it provides access to more destinations than megaships but still has plenty onboard to keep you entertained. Considering NCL Antarctic cruises typically include five to six sea days, the latter point is a significant advantage.
For example, there are enough food and drink venues on Norwegian Star that you could try a new one each day of your cruise and still have more to sample, with options ranging from complimentary buffets and casual eateries to speciality dining such as Teppanyaki and Le Bistro. Gatsby’s Champagne Bar and Proof Whiskey Bar, meanwhile, are just two examples of places guests can unwind after a day of exploring.
Beyond the culinary offering, there are wide-ranging amenities designed for a variety of travel styles, from Mandara Spa & Salon for those looking for total relaxation at sea to an arcade and casino for those seeking something livelier.
Who are NCL’s Antarctic itineraries well-suited to?
Families
Some expedition lines do not permit children on voyages to Antarctica at all, and the ones that do often have age restrictions (e.g., 12 and up). Even if little ones are allowed, expedition ships rarely have programming, entertainment or amenities specifically for junior travellers.
NCL, on the other hand, actively welcomes children on board. On Norwegian Star, you can find staterooms designed with families in mind across a range of categories, from family cabins to luxurious suites.
That’s on top of complimentary kids’ clubs for different age groups, plus dining options, Broadway-style shows and engaging games for children.
Couples
As well as lots of family-friendly zones, Norwegian Star has plenty to appeal to adults. On an Antarctic cruise, date night might mean watching whales breach in golden hour before heading to Cagney’s Steakhouse for dinner.
It’s even possible to arrange a private vow renewal – and what better place to celebrate a relationship that’s gone the distance than at the ends of the earth?
First-time cruisers
If you’re not a seasoned sailor, don’t be put off. Many travellers who wouldn’t typically consider themselves cruisers opt for an Antarctic sailing, as it’s widely regarded as the best way to see the White Continent.
Fly-in expeditions tend to be much more expensive and mean missing out on the full journey. The voyage from South America, with islands and wildlife spotting en route, is part of the experience.
NCL is a good choice for first-timers, most notably because of its flexible, laid-back approach. It’s far less formal than some lines, free from fixed dining times, strict dress codes and rigid daily structures. There’s always something to keep you entertained, but no sense of obligation, so you can do precisely as much or as little as you like. On a trip like this, where the destination is the true focus, the lack of pressure is a real benefit.
Where do NCL’s Antarctica itineraries sail?
Antarctica
Cape Lookout, Elephant Island: This island sits off the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula and offers views of jagged peaks and shimmering glaciers. Its name derives from the elephant seals that lounge on its shores, which are just one of many migratory species to visit, including leopard and Antarctic fur seals and chinstrap, gentoo and macaroni penguins.
Another famous guest? Ernest Shackleton, the Irish explorer, who took temporary refuge here on his ill-fated polar expedition.
Paradise Bay, the Antarctic Peninsula: Located on the west side of the Antarctic Peninsula, Paradise Bay delivers precisely what its name promises. Luminous blue-white glaciers, penguins leaping from ice floes and pristine polar wilderness create a striking scene.
Wildlife lovers and keen photographers will find excellent whale watching here, with humpbacks known for their acrobatic displays. Minkes, orcas and fins are seasonal visitors, too, and very occasionally, blues are even spotted.
Falkland Islands
Port Stanley, East Falkland: Port Stanley is one of the most remote cities in the entire world. As the capital of the Falklands, it’s located approximately 8,000 miles from Portsmouth and Whitby, with which it is twinned.
Travelling to this far-flung British Overseas Territory has its rewards, with the chance to see birdlife ranging from vast penguin colonies to solitary albatross, and to learn about the archipelago’s complex history, including its role in the Falklands War.
South America
Buenos Aires, Argentina: This bustling capital is known as the Paris of South America. Expect wide, café-lined boulevards, plazas full of locals drinking mate and impressive rows of neoclassical buildings alongside colourful street murals.
Beyond wandering its lively streets, there’s plenty to suit different tastes. Foodies can indulge in expertly grilled steaks paired with full-bodied Malbec, music lovers can take in tango shows, and sports fans can explore the city’s tributes to the beautiful game.
Montevideo, Uruguay: This capital may be pocket-sized compared to Buenos Aires, but its more relaxed pace of life and the fact that it receives far fewer international tourists give it an appeal all its own.
Walk its streets and you’ll encounter an enticing tapestry of architectural styles, ranging from Belle Époque and Art Deco to Modernist and Beaux-Arts. In Ciudad Vieja (the old city), which was once a fortified citadel, the sense of heritage is palpable. Combine this historic hub with time at one of the city’s sandy beaches for the perfect day in port.
Santiago (San Antonio), Chile: This culturally rich city is set against the backdrop of the Andes, which provide contrast to the cosmopolitan cityscape. There’s an abundance of vantage points to take it all in, with funiculars zooming up hillsides and South America’s tallest building, Gran Torre Santiago, offering enviable views.
Add wineries producing world-class cabernet sauvignon, museums of indigenous artefacts and bohemian neighbourhoods, and this port is sure to leave an indelible mark.
When is the best time to cruise Antarctica with NCL?
Summer in the Southern Hemisphere, or December through February, is considered the best time to sail, and NCL’s itinerary planners have scheduled cruises accordingly.
One of the major advantages is that the Drake Passage, the notoriously rough body of water between South America and Antarctica, tends to be calmer. While there’s no way to know for certain if you’ll get the ‘Drake Shake’ or the ‘Drake Lake’, sailing in December or January is a great way to maximise your chances of a relatively smooth passage.
Unsurprisingly, December is especially popular because it allows guests to celebrate a Christmas quite unlike any other, amongst penguin colonies and snow-capped mountains.
Families in particular vie for spots on departures that fall outside of term time. For many Brits, this itinerary from NCL, sailing from 17 December 2027 to 2 January 2028, fits the bill.
That said, for those travelling without children, January and February are just as compelling. The beginning of the year is prime time to see freshly hatched penguin chicks in all their fuzzy glory, and by Valentine’s Day, these intriguing creatures can be seen venturing from their nests and learning to swim.
Last but certainly not least, a March itinerary has much to recommend it, too. Notably, it’s peak whale watching season, with humpbacks and minkes arriving to feast in the krill-rich waters.
Best of all, the austral autumn brings spectacular sunsets, with lingering twilights hued in pink and orange. Longer nights also mean a greater chance of witnessing the aurora australis or Southern Lights, though admittedly, these are rare.
Top tip: The Antarctic cruise season lasts from late October to mid-March, and you won’t find any options outside this window of time. The conditions, including impenetrable ice and stormy seas, make it unsuitable.
If you want an alternative option, consider the top of the globe instead. For instance, this NCL cruise from Southampton to Northern Norway includes destinations like Tromsø, located above the Arctic Circle.
Top tips for making the most of your voyage:
Book as far in advance as possible: Given the demand for Antarctic cruises, this is not something to leave to the last minute. Plus, you’re likely to find the most attractive prices on cruise fares if you reserve your place at least 12 to 18 months in advance.
Explore Free at Sea™ packages: These upgrade packages, which cover perks like excursion credits, Wi-Fi, speciality dining and premium beverages, can be a smart way to budget effectively.
Consider a balcony cabin: If you can stretch your budget, splashing out on a stateroom with a balcony is worth it, particularly if you’re an avid photographer. You’ll be able to enjoy icebergs, wildlife and sunsets without competing for space on deck.
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