Antarctica is a land of wonder and mystery that has always fascinated travelers. The vast expanse of ice and snow, the unique wildlife, and the stunning natural beauty make it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.
While there are many ways to explore Antarctica, cruising is undoubtedly the most popular option. However, it’s not a cheap destination to visit, and finding an affordable cruise can be a daunting task. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the cheapest cruise options for Antarctica.
What to Expect from an Antarctic Cruise?
Before we dive into the cheapest options for an Antarctic cruise, let’s first take a look at what to expect from such a trip. Most cruises depart from Ushuaia in Argentina or Punta Arenas in Chile and last between ten and twenty days.
During this time, you’ll sail through the Drake Passage, which is notorious for its rough seas. Once you reach Antarctica, you’ll stop at various locations along the peninsula and surrounding islands.
Some of the highlights of an Antarctic cruise include spotting penguins, seals, whales, and other unique wildlife. You’ll also get to witness breathtaking landscapes such as towering glaciers and snow-covered mountains. Depending on your itinerary, you may also have the opportunity to participate in activities like kayaking or camping onshore.
The Cheapest Cruise Options
Now that you have an idea of what to expect from an Antarctic cruise let’s take a look at some of the cheapest options available:
1. Ocean Nova
Ocean Nova is one of the most affordable cruises available for Antarctica. The ship can accommodate up to 68 passengers in comfortable cabins with private bathrooms. While it doesn’t offer as many amenities as some of its more expensive counterparts, it does provide all necessary services such as meals and entertainment.
A typical ten-day trip on Ocean Nova costs around $6,000 per person. While this may still be out of reach for some travelers, it’s a great option for those who want to experience Antarctica without breaking the bank.
2. MV Ushuaia
MV Ushuaia is another affordable cruise option for Antarctica. The ship can accommodate up to 90 passengers and offers comfortable cabins with private bathrooms and heating. It also has a restaurant, bar, and lounge area for passengers to relax and socialize.
A typical ten-day trip on MV Ushuaia costs around $7,500 per person. While this is slightly more expensive than Ocean Nova, it still offers excellent value for money compared to other cruises in the region.
3. Akademik Sergey Vavilov
Akademik Sergey Vavilov is a mid-range cruise that offers a balance between affordability and comfort. The ship can accommodate up to 92 passengers in spacious cabins with private bathrooms and heating. It also has a dining room, bar, library, and observation deck.
A typical ten-day trip on Akademik Sergey Vavilov costs around $8,500 per person. While this may be more expensive than the previous two options, it’s still significantly cheaper than many other cruises available in the region.
Conclusion
Visiting Antarctica may seem like an impossible dream due to its high cost of travel. However, by choosing one of the cheapest cruise options available such as Ocean Nova or MV Ushuaia or even going with something like Akademik Sergey Vavilov you can make this dream a reality without breaking the bank. Just remember that while these cruises may be more affordable than others in the region, they still offer an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.