Antarctica Cruises 2026
Small-Ship Dates, Prices & Best Time
Make 2026 the year you set foot on the 7th continent. We curate the best small-ship expedition cruises, help you choose the right route and vessel, and make sure you book at the ideal time for wildlife, ice, and budget.
With daily updates on prices and availabilities, our platform allows you to compare every ship, route, and price, ensuring you find the perfect match for your ideal expedition. Book early to secure your spot as spaces fill up quickly, and contact us for expert guidance and personalized assistance!
When to travel in 2026
November to March is Antarctica’s cruising window, with December–January bringing long daylight and peak wildlife activity (think penguin chicks and excellent whale sightings). If you want quieter landings and great ice, late February–March can be a smart pick. Read our month-by-month advice and then filter live departures for 2026. See: Best time to visit Antarctica and all trips with dates & prices.
Find your ship and route
Most travelers choose the Antarctic Peninsula for maximum landings and scenery; you can sail both ways across the Drake Passage or fly one way/both ways on an air-cruise to save time and skip open-ocean days. Explore our Antarctica overview to compare routes and ships, or jump straight to a 2026 air-cruise with confirmed dates. See: Antarctica expedition overview and Air-Cruise dates for 2026.
Tip: 2026 cabins on popular ships fill many months in advance; early-bird offers are common, so planning ahead pays off. [Learn when to book[(/faq/book-early).
We’ll gladly help you shortlist the best 2026 departures for your travel window, desired activities, and budget.
