Join expedition cruise pioneers Heritage Expeditions on an 11 or 12-day authentic expedition cruise exploring the wild, pristine beauty of Antarctica and the South Shetland Islands. Delving deep into the frozen wilderness of Antarctica, this extraordinary voyage will transport you to a world like no other, exploring some of the most isolated and breathtaking landscapes on Earth, where wildlife thrives, and history abounds. This is one of the best Antarctica cruises and Antarctic Peninsula cruises available, and widely regarded as one of the best Antarctica expedition cruise itineraries on offer today.

(Note: voyages departing 22 November and 2 December are 12 days, while 12 December and 10 January departures are 11 days. )Travelling with Heritage Expeditions, the world's most experienced Southern Ocean operators, you will benefit from our more than 35 years of experience exploring Antarctica. Travel is aboard the ice-strengthened Heritage Discoverer, crewed by some of the world's most experienced officers and sailors, and supported by an industry-leading, passionate and knowledgeable expedition team.

It is a true small ship Antarctica cruise, backed by one of the most trusted names in Antarctica cruise line history. Your adventure begins in the world's southernmost city, Ushuaia, known as the 'end of the world'. Wave goodbye to the rugged beauty of Patagonia before we sail through the Antarctic Convergence; expect to see an increase in whale activity along with a wealth of birdlife feeding in these nutrient-rich waters.

The perfect starting point for any Antarctica cruise from Ushuaia. Crossing the legendary Drake Passage cements your place among the mariners who have navigated these famous waters, before arriving in Antarctica. A rite of passage for any Drake Passage cruise.

Here we have 4 or 5 days, each with more than 20-hours of daylight to maximise our Antarctica expedition as we explore the surreal, unrestrained beauty of the Frozen Continent. The South Shetland Islands offer an incredible warm-up before stepping on the White Continent. There is much to see and do here, and we will be maximising every opportunity in true Heritage Expeditions' style, exploring iconic sights and sites, making it a highlight of any South Shetland Islands cruise.

Our voyage is timed to coincide with the arrival of the breeding season when wildlife is at its most active. Our adventure includes iconic highlights, penguin rookeries, towering glaciers and secluded beaches, all while being dwarfed by nature, surrounded by diverse wildlife and following in the footsteps of heroic explorers. An unforgettable Antarctic Peninsula wildlife cruise experience, and one of the best Antarctica penguin cruise itineraries available.

There are many ways to explore this otherworldly paradise, and we will make full use of our time here, with daily landings, hikes, Zodiac excursions and ship cruises all part of our adventure. Every Zodiac cruise Antarctica offers is different, and ours are led by some of the most experienced guides in the business. Gaze in awe at glaciers, icebergs and towering peaks in constantly changing light, ideal for photographers wanting to capture the beauty of this expansive region, or for those wishing to soak it all in from the deck, observation lounge and your stateroom or suite during the long hours of daylight.

Join Heritage Expeditions on our incomparable Antarctic Peninsula Cruise, including the South Shetland Islands, and experience the raw beauty, remarkable wildlife and timeless history exploring the wild and remote reaches of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean.  This voyage includes the option to join sea kayaking excursions with an expert guide. Kayaking around the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a wide array of habitats beyond the reach of our Zodiacs.

A rare Antarctica cruise kayaking opportunity not to be missed. Please Note: HD271212 & HD280110 are 11 days and spend one day less in Antarctica