Holidays to Antarctica — Planning Your Dream Trip to the White Continent

Imagine a world of shimmering glaciers, surreal silence, and dancing penguins on untouched ice. Welcome to the White Continent — the last great frontier for modern explorers.

Holidays to Antarctica are unlike any other journey on Earth. They’re part expedition, part luxury cruise, and entirely life-changing. Whether you dream of stepping onto pristine ice shelves, watching whales breach in icy waters, or following in the footsteps of Shackleton, this is a journey that redefines adventure and awe.

Planning a trip to Antarctica might seem daunting — but with the right knowledge, timing, and travel partner, it’s more achievable (and rewarding) than you might think.

Why Choose Holidays to Antarctica?

Antarctica is not just another destination — it’s a pilgrimage for the curious, the bold, and those who crave something truly extraordinary.

The world’s last true wilderness

Every landing feels like discovering a new planet. Towering icebergs glow electric blue under the austral sun, seals lounge on floating floes, and thousands of penguins chatter across snow-clad beaches. With no cities, no billboards, and no permanent residents, Antarctica offers a humbling reminder of nature’s raw power and serenity.

Wildlife encounters beyond imagination

Each summer (November to March), Antarctica bursts with life. You might spot humpback whales feeding beside your ship, or catch sight of leopard seals hunting along the ice edge. Colonies of Adélie, gentoo, and chinstrap penguins dot the coastlines — their clumsy charm impossible not to love.

A sense of achievement

Reaching Antarctica is a badge of honour. It’s the seventh continent — one few will ever visit. Whether crossing the infamous Drake Passage or flying directly to the Peninsula, there’s a tangible thrill in setting foot on a land so remote and protected.

When Is the Best Time for Holidays to Antarctica?

Because Antarctica is only accessible for a few months each year, timing matters. Your experience can vary dramatically depending on when you travel.

Jamie Says:

“Antarctica doesn’t do crowds or ‘off-seasons’. Each month offers something special — it’s about matching your priorities to the right sailing window.”

How to Get There — Routes for UK Travellers

Most travellers from the UK reach Antarctica via South America.

The classic route — via Ushuaia, Argentina

Fly from London to Buenos Aires (roughly 14 hours), then onward to Ushuaia — the world’s southernmost city. From here, expedition ships cross the Drake Passage, taking around two days to reach the Antarctic Peninsula. It’s an adventure in itself — and a rite of passage for polar travellers.

Fly–Cruise combinations

If you’d rather skip the rougher seas, air-cruise itineraries fly from Punta Arenas (Chile) to King George Island, where you board your vessel already within the Antarctic Circle. This saves time and avoids the Drake altogether — ideal if you’re short on days or prone to seasickness.

Extended routes — Falklands & South Georgia

Many Holidays to Antarctica include stops at the Falkland Islands and South Georgia — legendary for their wildlife and history. Think hundreds of thousands of king penguins on Salisbury Plain, or Ernest Shackleton’s resting place at Grytviken. These voyages often last 18–23 days but reward you with unmatched biodiversity and storytelling.

What to Expect on Holidays to Antarctica

Life aboard

Today’s expedition ships range from boutique ice-strengthened yachts to ultra-luxury liners with spas and fine dining. Expect daily zodiac excursions, expert lectures, and flexible itineraries — because in Antarctica, weather dictates the plan.

Luxury examples include Silversea’s Silver Endeavour and Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot; adventure options include Hurtigruten’s MS Fram and Oceanwide’s Hondius — all equipped to navigate ice safely while offering varying degrees of comfort.

Shore landings and excursions

Each day brings new discoveries: gliding past glaciers in a zodiac, hiking icy ridges, or visiting penguin colonies. Every step is guided by strict environmental rules under the IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) to preserve this fragile ecosystem.

Conditions and flexibility

Antarctic weather is unpredictable. It’s normal for itineraries to shift due to wind, ice, or wildlife conditions. The best operators — like those recommended by Jamie Wake Travel — handle changes smoothly, turning detours into fresh opportunities.

Packing and Preparation for Holidays to Antarctica

Antarctica isn’t as cold as many expect — average summer temperatures hover around –2°C to +5°C — but wind chill can bite. Preparation is key.

Essential clothing

• Waterproof outer shell (parka often supplied by cruise line)
• Insulated layers (fleece or down mid-layers)
• Thermal base layers
• Waterproof gloves, hats, and boots (most operators lend boots)
• UV-protective sunglasses — the glare is intense!

Gear & extras

• Dry bags for camera gear
• Reusable water bottle (plastic-free expeditions are standard)
• Seasickness medication (especially for Drake crossings)
• Power bank — some ships limit charging in public areas
• Binoculars — perfect for spotting distant wildlife

Jamie’s tip:

“Pack like you’re visiting two climates — Patagonia warm, Antarctic cool. Layers win over bulk every time.”

Responsible & Safe Travel in Antarctica

Antarctica is governed by the Antarctic Treaty System, which protects its environment. Only IAATO-approved operators can land passengers, and group sizes are limited to 100 ashore at any time.

Travellers are expected to:

• Disinfect boots and gear before/after landings
• Keep 5 metres from wildlife
• Never leave waste or food behind
• Follow guide instructions precisely

Jamie Says:

“Every footprint in Antarctica matters. Choosing an ethical operator is the single best way to protect this incredible wilderness for the future.”

Unmissable Highlights & Destinations on Holidays to Antarctica

Every expedition is unique, but these five destinations define the Antarctic experience — each offering something extraordinary for UK travellers planning their dream escape.

🧊 1. The Antarctic Peninsula — Gateway to the White Continent

This is the heart of most Holidays to Antarctica. Jagged mountains pierce the clouds, glaciers crackle, and wildlife thrives. You’ll likely explore iconic landing sites like Neko Harbour, Cuverville Island, or the Lemaire Channel — known as “Kodak Gap” for its picture-perfect scenery.

On some sailings, you may even cross the Antarctic Circle — a milestone few achieve. Here, expect bluer ice, fewer visitors, and the haunting beauty of true polar silence.

Where to stay:

Rather than hotels, guests stay aboard expedition ships. For comfort and elegance, Silversea’s Silver Endeavour offers butler service and Michelin-level dining in the most remote place on Earth. For more adventurous spirits, Hurtigruten’s MS Fram blends Nordic charm with scientific curiosity, complete with an onboard science centre.

Explore more offers with Jamie Wake Travel and find the expedition that fits your sense of adventure.

🐧 2. South Georgia — The Serengeti of the Southern Ocean

Often paired with the Peninsula, South Georgia bursts with life. Imagine beaches so dense with king penguins they seem to ripple in the wind. Elephant seals bellow across the sand, and albatrosses soar overhead.

This island is also a place of legend — home to the whaling history of Grytviken and the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, Britain’s greatest polar explorer.

Where to stay:

Guests reach South Georgia via expedition cruises like Quark Expeditions’ Ultramarine, designed for adventure with twin-engine helicopters and 20 quick-launch zodiacs.

For travellers seeking wildlife spectacles to rival Africa’s greatest safaris, Jamie Wake Travel can match you with the right South Georgia itinerary — with full UK booking protection.

🏔️ 3. The Falkland Islands — British Spirit Meets Wild Beauty

The Falklands offer a charming blend of British heritage and raw wilderness. Expect cream teas in Port Stanley one day and thousands of rockhopper penguins the next.

Most Antarctica itineraries include a day or two here, offering a gentle introduction to the sub-Antarctic before you venture further south.

Where to stay:

Cruise guests overnight onboard, but if you extend your stay, boutique lodges such as Malvina House Hotel in Stanley provide warm hospitality and hearty local cuisine.

Jamie Wake Travel can tailor extensions before or after your expedition — perfect for birdwatchers or photographers wanting a gentler start to their polar adventure.

❄️ 4. The Weddell Sea — Ice Kingdom of Giants

For those drawn to raw wilderness, the Weddell Sea is pure magic. Massive tabular icebergs drift endlessly, and you might trace the route of Shackleton’s ill-fated Endurance.

This region offers some of the most breathtaking ice formations on Earth — and occasional rare sightings of emperor penguins.

Where to stay:

The Le Commandant Charcot (Ponant) is one of the few vessels capable of navigating these frozen seas. As the world’s only luxury icebreaker, it combines fine dining and heated indoor pools with sustainability and adventure.

Explore these advanced itineraries with Jamie Wake Travel — designed for the boldest travellers who want to push beyond the ordinary Peninsula routes.

🧭 5. Ross Sea & East Antarctica — For True Pioneers

This is the ultimate voyage — and one few travellers will ever take. The Ross Sea region, reached from New Zealand or Australia, offers staggering scale: towering ice cliffs, giant icebergs, and historic huts from the Heroic Age of Exploration.

You’ll visit sites linked to Scott and Shackleton, where supplies and diaries remain frozen in time. These trips last around 30 days and require true commitment — but the rewards are unmatched.

Where to stay:

Expedition ships such as Heritage Adventurer or Scenic Eclipse II specialise in these rare voyages, combining luxury comfort with exploration-grade endurance.

If this level of adventure speaks to you, Jamie Wake Travel can source the right operator, secure your cabin, and handle every logistical detail from the UK.

The Science and Wonder of Antarctica

Beyond its landscapes, Antarctica inspires scientists and travellers alike. Many ships feature onboard research programmes, allowing guests to participate in citizen science projects — tracking whales, photographing glaciers, or collecting phytoplankton data.

It’s travel with purpose — connecting you directly to the frontlines of climate and conservation research.

Jamie Says:

“Every guest who joins a citizen science project leaves Antarctica changed. You stop being a visitor — you become part of its story.”

Booking Protections and Peace of Mind

At Jamie Wake Travel, your Holidays to Antarctica come with complete reassurance. Every booking is ATOL-protected, and Supplier Failure Insurance covers you if a supplier unexpectedly ceases trading.

We work only with reputable, IAATO-registered operators, ensuring environmental compliance and passenger safety. You’re also backed by UK consumer protection laws — meaning your investment, flights, and cruise arrangements are secure from start to finish.

Before booking, we’ll:

• Check your medical forms and travel insurance meet expedition requirements.
• Confirm cruise inclusions (gear loans, parkas, charter flights).
• Handle all flight routing and layover planning from the UK.
• Provide packing and preparation checklists.



Final Thoughts — Why Book Holidays to Antarctica with Jamie Wake Travel

Antarctica isn’t just a holiday; it’s a story you’ll tell forever. But planning it takes more than enthusiasm — it takes experience, insight, and protection.

Jamie Wake Travel specialises in crafting tailor-made polar adventures that match your curiosity, comfort, and confidence level. We handle the logistics so you can focus on the wonder — from your first penguin sighting to your last glimpse of the ice.

Whether you dream of luxury suites aboard Silversea’s Endeavour or an adventure voyage on Hondius, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.

Call us today on 01495 400005 or use our online enquiry form to start planning your bespoke itinerary. You can also explore the Jamie Wake Travel website to build a trip “as unique as you are.”

Frequently Asked Questions