For many travelers, the ultimate dream is to visit Antarctica. But how long does it take to get to this remote continent on a cruise ship? The answer depends on the type of cruise and the route taken, but usually it takes between 10-14 days.
Cruise Types
Most cruises that take passengers to Antarctica start in either Ushuaia, Argentina or Punta Arenas, Chile. Ushuaia is located on the southern tip of South America and is the closest port city to Antarctica. Punta Arenas is located further north on the mainland of Chile and offers more options for connecting flights from other parts of the world.
The type of cruise you choose will also affect your journey time. Expedition cruises are usually between 10-14 days and typically follow a very specific route with multiple stops along the way.
These cruises offer more opportunities for activities such as hiking, kayaking, skiing, and snorkeling. On the other hand, luxury cruises are usually shorter (5-7 days) and offer more amenities such as spas, gourmet dining, and private cabins with balconies.
The Route
The route taken by a cruise ship will also affect journey time. Most cruises will make their way through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery in the Drake Passage before reaching Antarctica. This includes a passage through Cape Horn at the tip of South America; this area is known for its unpredictable weather conditions so extra time should be allowed for potential delays caused by storms or high winds.
Once in Antarctica itself, most ships will spend several days exploring various parts of this unique continent; including visits to research stations and wildlife colonies along with sightseeing opportunities such as icebergs and glaciers. The exact itinerary will be determined by the type of cruise chosen but all routes should include enough time for passengers to take in all that Antarctica has to offer before returning home again via either Ushuaia or Punta Arenas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it usually takes 10-14 days to get to Antarctica on a cruise ship depending on factors such as type of cruise chosen and route taken. Expedition cruises tend to be longer but provide more opportunities for activities while luxury cruises provide an easier journey but fewer chances to explore this amazing continent.