Luxury Redefined: Small Ships, Exclusive Antarctic Expeditions
Antarctica offers the ultimate escape — a pristine, untouched world where you can fully immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur.
With a maximum of just 130 guests onboard, our purpose-built luxury expedition ships offer an exclusive, intimate atmosphere, far away from crowded cruise routes. Led by expert guides, you’ll explore remote landing sites unreachable by larger vessels, offering an exclusive exploration of Antarctica's breathtaking landscapes.
Our luxury small-ship expeditions for 2025, 2026 and 2027 combine refined comfort with extraordinary adventure, delivering a truly once-in-a-lifetime journey.
This was our once-in-a-lifetime expedition to explore Antarctica, our seventh continent. Aurora Expeditions delivered in spades. Our amazing ship, the Greg Mortimer, built in 2019, features state-of-the-art technology for safety and comfort.
Our voyage had only 95 guests with over 90 staff taking care of us — we were so pampered! From the food, safety, entertainment, to the adventures, everything was perfect.
If you enjoy adventure in luxury, this is the company for you.
Small Ships | Big Adventures
Antarctic Destinations: Where Luxury Meets Wilderness
From the dramatic peaks of the Antarctic Peninsula to the untamed beauty of South Georgia, our exclusive small-ship expeditions offer privileged access to the most remote and breathtaking corners of Antarctica.
Antarctic Peninsula
Experience the Antarctic Peninsula in exclusive comfort — a timeless destination where luxury meets awe-inspiring glaciers, towering icebergs, and extraordinary wildlife encounters. This is the classic introduction to Antarctica, elevated by personalised service and intimate expeditions.
South Georgia
Discover South Georgia’s unparalleled wildlife spectacles in style, as you witness thousands of king penguins, playful seals, and soaring seabirds. Zodiac-cruise alongside towering glaciers and explore remote beaches, with every detail of your luxury expedition carefully curated.
Antarctic Circle
Venture south of the Antarctic Circle into a world few will ever see. This raw, remote frontier offers an exclusive glimpse into an untouched wilderness, where luxury exploration meets the purest form of adventure.
Falkland~Malvinas
Step into the rich history and vibrant wildlife of the Falkland~Malvinas, where dramatic military stories meet thriving penguin colonies and windswept coastlines. Enjoy exclusive access and expert-led excursions, all from the comfort of our boutique expedition ships.
Weddell Sea
Embark on a true polar expedition into the ice-choked Weddell Sea, a rarely visited region rich in adventure and discovery. Navigate through pristine pack ice aboard our luxury purpose-built ships, with expert guides leading the way.
Ross Sea & East Antarctica
Trace the path of legendary explorers across the Ross Sea and East Antarctica. Our luxury small-ship expeditions deliver unprecedented access to this rarely explored frontier, offering immersive experiences in remote bays, ice shelves, and historic sites.
Australia & New Zealand Subantarctic Islands
Discover the wild beauty of the Subantarctic Islands of Australia and New Zealand — a haven of rare wildlife, dramatic cliffs, and rich biodiversity. Explore this remote region in intimate luxury, with expertly guided landings and immersive experiences.
Best time to go
High-End Voyages to Antarctica 2025/2026
FAQs about Luxury Cruising to Antarctica
What distinguishes a 'luxury' Antarctica cruise from a standard one?
A luxury Antarctica cruise offers a more intimate, immersive, and personalised experience. With fewer guests onboard, you’ll enjoy more spacious suites, refined amenities, world-class cuisine, and exceptional service.
Our purpose-built small ships are designed for comfort, stability, and access to remote landing sites that larger ships simply can’t reach. Plus, expert-led enrichment programs and exclusive experiences ensure every moment is tailored to inspire and connect you deeply with this extraordinary destination.
What’s typically included in the cruise fare?
Your expedition cruise fare includes everything you need for an unforgettable journey: spacious onboard accommodation, daily guided shore landings and Zodiac excursions, expertly prepared meals and quality beverages, enrichment programs led by expert guides, and essential expedition gear, including a complimentary expedition jacket to keep and the use of muck boots.
You’ll also enjoy access to wellness facilities such as the sauna, gym, and spa throughout your voyage. Some itineraries include charter flights and additional exclusive benefits—your specific voyage details will outline all inclusions.
What kind of activities can I expect on a luxury Antarctica cruise?
Every day brings new opportunities for exploration and discovery. Enjoy guided Zodiac cruises, shore landings to visit bustling penguin colonies and historic sites, up-close wildlife encounters, and breathtaking glacier walks.
For those seeking even more adventure, optional activities such as sea kayaking, snorkelling, or snowshoeing can be added for an additional cost. Throughout your journey, expert-led lectures, workshops, and special guest presentations deepen your understanding of Antarctica’s landscapes, wildlife, and rich history.
Why is an Antarctica cruise so expensive?
Antarctica is one of the most remote and pristine places on Earth, and reaching it requires specialised ships, expert crews, and strict environmental protocols.
Luxury expeditions also offer small group sizes, personalised service, high-end accommodations, and exclusive experiences that ensure your safety, comfort, and enrichment. This combination of remoteness, expertise, and exceptional quality makes an Antarctica cruise a truly once-in-a-lifetime investment.