Too expensive. Too cold. Too cramped. Sometimes the excuses to not go to Antarctica can almost outnumber the many reasons why you should. The truth is that cruising to Antarctica is more attainable and affordable than ever before.

Let’s start with the biggest roadblock for most people: cost. The most luxurious cruises from Chimu Adventures start at AU$10,490 per person for 11 days, and the inclusions are above and beyond the usual cruise offering.

This base price includes transfers from Ushuaia airport to a local hotel, with one night of pre-cruise accommodation and a buffet breakfast, then another transfer from the hotel to the port, and back to the airport at the end of the trip. Two complimentary shore excursions are offered each day, which could be a thrilling zodiac ride around palatial icebergs, spotting minke whales and orcas, or a shore landing to go hiking, hanging out with penguins, and exploring historic huts built by expeditioners more than 120 years ago.

Unlike many other cruises, guests do not pay extra to use the sauna or attend an onboard yoga class. Not to mention your accommodation, lectures by naturalists and the expedition team, citizen science programs, gym, pool and jacuzzi, and daily breakfast, lunch, three-course dinner, plus morning and afternoon tea.

All passengers are provided with an inner and outer shell waterproof jacket and rubber boots to keep warm, and you even get to take home the insulated inner jacket.

Solo travellers save up to 30% on Chimu Adventures’ Ocean Endeavour, which has a large number of single rooms onboard. Best of all, there are no single supplements on these solo-use cabins. Singles can easily mingle with fellow passengers in the lounges, bar and plenty of other common areas. With everyone excited and bonding over the amazing experiences, Antarctica is probably the friendliest place on the planet to take a cruise.

Ocean Endeavour comes complete with creature comforts, such as fine dining, comfortable cabins, spacious relaxation areas, a spa, and fitness centre.

The 199-passenger ship is equipped with 20 zodiac exploration boats, and the 8:1 guest-to-expedition crew ratio is one of the industry’s highest. The crew is always on hand to ensure safety, assisting people into the zodiacs and guiding small-group excursions that are adjusted for all ages and fitness levels.

There’s also no need to worry about the cold. Antarctic voyages are held during the mildest months of summer, when blue skies, sunshine, and temperatures above six degrees are surprisingly common. Very rarely does it drop below zero in summer. Dressed appropriately in layers, the double-shell waterproof jacket, boots, gloves, beanie, and scarf, travellers are often taking off jumpers when they have over-dressed.

No matter what is holding you back, Antarctica is possible and easier than you think.

Book an Antarctic cruise onboard the Ocean Endeavour to have an immersive and unique experience, which will exceed your expectations.

What you get:

  • Three meals, morning and afternoon tea

  • Two excursions per day

  • Onboard lectures and citizen science programs each day

Book your adventure with Chimu now