The Travel Shark cruise-line guide

Antarctica Cruise Lines

Start with one essential question: do you want to see Antarctica from the ship, or explore ashore? Then compare the atmosphere onboard, the expedition program and the experiences that matter most to you.

Cruise-by vs. landings

Cruise-by itineraries offer Antarctic scenery without Antarctic shore landings. Expedition itineraries plan Zodiac outings and landings where permitted. All landings depend on weather, ice, local rules and operator decisions. Travel-style descriptions below are our planning assessments, not formal ratings.

Princess Cruises

Cruise-by · no Antarctic landingsMainstream comfort & scenic discovery

What sets it apart

Antarctic Peninsula scenery viewed from the ship.
South America ports combined with scenic Antarctic cruising.
Mainstream dining and entertainment onboard.

Cruise-line destination information ↗

Holland America Line

Cruise-by · no Antarctic landingsPremium comfort & scenic discovery

What sets it apart

Scenic Antarctic cruising as part of South America voyages.
Comfortable shipboard viewing and traditional cruise amenities.

Cruise-line destination information ↗

Quark Expeditions

Expedition · landings plannedExploration & adventure

What sets it apart

Polar-focused expedition operator.
Zodiac exploration and shore landings.
Kayaking and other adventure options on selected voyages; availability and charges vary.

Cruise-line destination information ↗

HX Expeditions

Expedition · landings plannedExploration, natural history & science

What sets it apart

Guided shore landings and small-boat exploration.
Onboard Science Center and citizen-science opportunities on relevant ships and voyages.

Cruise-line destination information ↗

Seabourn

Expedition · landings plannedBoth luxury & exploration

What sets it apart

Luxury expedition ships Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit.
Included Zodiac cruises and guided onshore walks.
Optional kayaking and Image Masters photography experiences on selected sailings.

Cruise-line destination information ↗

Silversea

Expedition · landings plannedBoth luxury & exploration

What sets it apart

Luxury expedition experience with Zodiac exploration.
Drake Passage sailings and selected Antarctica fly-cruise itineraries.

Cruise-line destination information ↗

National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions

Expedition · landings plannedExploration, wildlife & photography

What sets it apart

Naturalist-led expedition experience.
National Geographic Photography Experts on Antarctica voyages.
Photography instruction suited to a range of skill levels.

Cruise-line destination information ↗

A curated starting list, not an exhaustive directory. Offerings vary by ship, departure and season. Operator information reviewed October 2026; use the official links above for details. Logos remain the property of their owners.