Embarking on an expedition to Antarctica represents a remarkable adventure, yet it’s important for travelers to understand the costs involved in this once-in-a-lifetime journey. The price of an Antarctic cruise is shaped by several key factors, including the time of year, the departure point, the type of cruise selected, and the duration of the voyage. The uniqueness of this destination, coupled with the logistical complexities of traveling to such a remote and environmentally sensitive region, contributes to the higher cost. For those dreaming of witnessing the untouched beauty of the White Continent, detailed budgeting for this polar expedition is a critical step. This includes considering the costs of specialized gear, travel insurance, and possible additional stays or activities.
Analyzing the Factors Influencing Antarctica Travel Costs
Several variables impact the cost of traveling to Antarctica, making it a significant investment. The choice of your departure location, such as Ushuaia in Argentina or ports in New Zealand and Australia, plays a substantial role in determining the overall expense. The timing of your trip is another crucial factor, with peak season travel (December to February) typically costing more due to favorable weather and wildlife conditions, compared to the shoulder seasons. The type of vessel and accommodations, ranging from basic cabins to luxurious suites, also greatly influences the price, as do the included amenities and activities, such as kayaking or guided tours. Understanding these cost elements is essential for anyone planning this extraordinary polar adventure.
The Invaluable Experience of Traveling to Antarctica
Despite the high costs, a trip to Antarctica is often described as an invaluable experience. This unique journey offers unparalleled opportunities to witness spectacular landscapes, diverse wildlife, and pristine environments that are found nowhere else on Earth. For nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers, the chance to explore this remote and majestic continent is worth the investment. The memories and experiences gained from an Antarctic expedition are irreplaceable, making it a destination that transcends its monetary value. For those who venture to this icy wilderness, the return on investment is measured not in dollars, but in the extraordinary and life-changing experiences that await.
In summary, while a trip to Antarctica requires careful financial planning due to its significant costs, the unparalleled experience it offers is what makes it a worthwhile and unforgettable destination for intrepid travelers and nature lovers worldwide.
Traveling to Antarctica is indeed a unique and often considered a “once in a lifetime” experience. The cost of such a trip can vary greatly depending on several factors:
1. **Type of Cruise**:
The biggest factor is the type of cruise you choose. Luxury cruises will cost significantly more than basic ones.
2. **Duration of the Trip**:
Longer trips will naturally cost more. Typical trips can range from 10 days to over 3 weeks.
3. **Time of Year**:
Prices can vary depending on the season. The Antarctic travel season runs from November to March, with peak prices usually around December and January.
4. **Point of Departure**:
Most cruises depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, but some may leave from New Zealand or South Africa, which can affect the price.
5. **Included Amenities and Activities**:
Some cruises include activities like kayaking, camping, or scuba diving, which can add to the cost.
6. **Cabin Type and Size**:
The choice of cabin also affects the price, with suites on luxury vessels being the most expensive.
7. **Additional Costs**:
Flights to the point of departure, gear for the trip, travel insurance, and any extra hotel stays should also be considered.
As of my last update in April 2023, prices could range from about $5,000 to $50,000 or more per person, depending on these factors. It’s always a good idea to check with travel agencies specializing in Antarctic expeditions for the most current pricing and options.
Is it possible to quantify the cost of an expedition to Antarctica, often regarded as one of the most extraordinary and genuine adventures of a lifetime?
Surprisingly, the answer is ‘Yes’. Though frequently deemed an invaluable experience, a journey to Antarctica does indeed require considerable financial investment. This expense isn’t just limited to the Antarctic cruise, which is a major component, but encompasses a range of other significant costs as well.
Discover the Key Factors Influencing the Cost of Your Dream Antarctica Expedition:
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the various elements that contribute to the overall expense of Antarctica expeditions. Our aim is to assist you in understanding and estimating the potential costs of your Antarctic journey. We cover everything from the type of cruise to the duration and season of your trip, ensuring you have all the necessary information to budget effectively for this incredible polar adventure. It’s important to remember that, while the costs might seem steep at first glance, the unanimous feedback we receive is that the experience is absolutely worth the investment. For your convenience, all cost estimates provided here are in USD. Embark on your Antarctic adventure with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect financially.
Understanding the High Cost of Antarctica Cruises
Exploring the reasons behind the high costs of Antarctica cruises is crucial for those planning this unique travel experience. Unlike conventional cruises, journeys to Antarctica present a myriad of challenges and expenses due to the continent’s extreme remoteness and environmental sensitivity. This article delves into the various factors that contribute to the costliness of Antarctic expeditions, providing insights into what makes these trips uniquely expensive.
The Challenges of Remote Antarctic Travel
Antarctica’s isolation is a primary factor driving up travel costs. The logistical complexities of reaching and exploring this distant, ice-covered continent significantly impact the overall expenses. From arranging specialized transport to navigating through ice-laden waters, every aspect of planning an Antarctic cruise involves intricate and costly arrangements.
Environmental Regulations and Fuel Costs
Environmental conservation efforts in Antarctica also add to the cost. The introduction of new fuel oil standards in 2011, which prohibit the use of heavy fuel oil in favor of cleaner alternatives like Marine Gas Oil, has led to increased operational costs for cruise operators. These eco-friendly fuels are not only more expensive but also more challenging to procure in such remote locations, further elevating the cost of expeditions.
The Impact of Conservation and Regulatory Measures
Adhering to environmental regulations is another significant expense. Cruise operators must conduct detailed environmental impact assessments to ensure their activities have minimal impact on Antarctica’s fragile ecosystems. These assessments, often mandated by agencies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, add another layer of expense to the planning and execution of Antarctic expeditions.
Staffing Costs and Expertise on Antarctic Cruises
Staffing is a considerable portion of the operating costs for Antarctic cruises. Crews on these expeditions are larger and more specialized than those on standard cruises, including experts like naturalists and expedition leaders. The higher wages and necessary training for these professionals, coupled with stringent experience requirements set by organizations like IAATO, contribute significantly to the overall expense.
Insurance and Safety Measures for Polar Expeditions
The unique risks associated with polar expeditions also contribute to higher costs. The insurance premiums for these cruises are substantially greater than those for more conventional routes due to the unpredictable and potentially hazardous nature of the Antarctic environment. Ensuring the safety of passengers and crew in such extreme conditions is a top priority, but it comes with a hefty price tag.
Logistical and Provisioning Challenges in Antarctica
Finally, the logistical challenges of provisioning for extended periods in polar regions add to the expense. Antarctic cruise ships must be equipped to travel for weeks without resupplying, requiring more storage space for essentials like food and equipment. This limits passenger capacity and increases the cost per traveler, making these cruises more expensive compared to traditional ocean or river cruises.
While the cost of an Antarctic cruise may seem steep at first glance, understanding the array of factors from logistical challenges to environmental conservation efforts and specialist staffing requirements, sheds light on the true value of these extraordinary polar adventures.
Key Variables Affecting the Cost of Your Antarctica Trip
When planning your journey to Antarctica, understanding the various costs involved is crucial. There are several fixed and variable costs that can influence the overall price of your polar expedition. In this guide, we’ll explore these variable costs and how they can be adjusted to suit your budget and preferences for an unforgettable Antarctic adventure.
Timing Your Booking for Optimal Pricing
The timing of your booking plays a significant role in the cost of your Antarctic cruise. With cruises available for booking up to two years in advance, there’s a broad window for securing your voyage. Unlike larger cruise ships, the smaller, specialized expedition ships to Antarctica don’t typically offer last-minute discounts. In fact, the most sought-after, budget-friendly berths usually sell out quickly. Many operators now use dynamic pricing models, meaning prices tend to increase closer to the departure date.
Advantages of Early Booking and Discounts
Early bookings often yield the best deals for Antarctic cruises. Operators frequently offer early booking incentives, potentially saving you around 25% to 35% (approximately USD$1,000 to USD$1,500) per person. These discounts are generally available for bookings made ten or more months in advance. Smaller discounts of 10% to 15% may still be possible for bookings closer to the departure season. However, it’s important to note that not all cruises provide early booking incentives and those that do usually have strict deadlines.
Benefits of Early Booking Beyond Cost Savings
Booking your Antarctic expedition early doesn’t just save you money; it also ensures more options for your preferred ship, cabin, and itinerary. This is particularly important for travelers looking for specific types of accommodation, such as single, triple, or quadruple cabins, which are rarer and sell out quickly. Early booking means avoiding the disappointment of limited choices available at the last minute.
Understanding Deposit Requirements and Payment Plans
Regarding the payment schedule for your Antarctic journey, the timeline varies based on how far in advance you book. If your cruise is departing in the near future, typically within 120 days, full payment may be required immediately. For trips booked further in advance, a deposit of about 25% is usually required to secure your reservation, with the remaining balance due 120 days before departure. This staggered payment approach is yet another reason to consider booking early, as it allows for more manageable financial planning.
Understanding and strategically planning around these key factors can significantly influence the cost of your Antarctic expedition, making it more attainable and tailored to your personal preferences and budget.
The Influence of Departure Location on Antarctica Cruise Prices
When planning your journey to Antarctica, the departure point is a significant factor influencing the overall cost. This aspect affects not only the distance and duration of your voyage but also the dynamics of cruise competition and fuel expenses. Understanding how your choice of departure port impacts the cost is crucial for budgeting your Antarctic expedition.
Ushuaia: The Premier Gateway to Antarctica
Ushuaia, located in South America, is the predominant gateway for Antarctic cruises. Approximately 98% of Antarctic expeditions embark from this Argentinian port. Its popularity stems from its relatively close proximity to Antarctica, requiring only about a 2-day crossing of the Drake Passage. This accessibility, combined with the high volume of cruise options and regular departures, creates a competitive market that often results in more affordable cruise prices.
Advantages of Departing from Ushuaia
Travelers choosing to embark on their Antarctic journey from Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, benefit from this competitive environment. The shorter distance to the White Continent translates into lower fuel costs, which, along with the frequent cruise departures and numerous vessel options, typically leads to reduced rates for cruises departing from this port.
Punta Arenas: Unique starting point for Antarctica cruises. There are typically a variety of options when choosing their Antarctica expedition. These range from shorter trips focusing on the highlights of Antarctica Peninsula to longer, more in-depth voyages that explore remote areas. Some cruises offer fly-cruise options where passengers fly to or from Antarctica to maximize their time on the continent.
Advantages of Departing from Punta Arenas
While Usuaia in Argentina is often considered the primary gateway to Antarctica, Punta Arenas has been gaining popularity due to its accessibility and the increasing number of cruise operators choosing to depart from here. The growth has been facilitated by the city’s well-developed infrastructure, including its international airport which offers good connectivity with major cities in Chile and other countries.
Comparing Costs for Departures from Oceania
In contrast, travelers setting sail from Oceania, including Australia and New Zealand, face a different scenario. With fewer operators and vessels available, and longer travel times to reach Antarctica (often a week or more depending on weather conditions), these departures are less frequent. The limited competition and availability, coupled with the extended duration of the voyages, result in significantly higher costs for Antarctic cruises originating from these regions.
Evaluating Cost Differences Between Departure Points
The choice of departure point can dramatically affect the price of an Antarctic cruise. While cruises from Argentina offer more competitive pricing due to shorter distances and greater competition, expeditions departing from Australia and New Zealand can cost considerably more, often double or triple the price, due to the factors mentioned above.
Selecting the right departure port is a critical step in planning your Antarctic voyage. By understanding how different departure points affect the trip’s cost, travelers can make informed decisions to suit their budget and preferences, ensuring a memorable and well-planned journey to the Antarctic.
How Far South You Go
Given the previous point, as you’d expect, the farther south you sail the more expensive your cruise will be, given the vessel will have to come back on itself, effectively doubling the distance sailed. But what if you want to go even farther South, to the fabled South Pole itself? That’s when things get really expensive, as cruising isn’t an option to this most landlocked of landmarks. Your only option is to do a fly-in, a flight that takes around 10 hours from Punta Arenas (with stop-over).
As no scheduled commercial flights operate to Antarctica itself, you would have to book with a private charter operator and the cost of a flight expedition to the South Pole can reach in excess of USD$50,000, thanks in no small part to the considerable logistical challenges and additional aircraft specializations required. Expect to pay even more for the privilege of a window seat.
Whether You Fly the Drake Passage or Not
As mentioned above, any flights to Antarctica bring with them additional cost due to their private charter nature. Fly-cruise itineraries are no exception, despite the shorter flight time (2 hours) and distance between Punta Arenas and King George Island. As such, expect to pay a premium for not cruising the Drake Passage.
Fly & Cruise trips that involve flying to the Antarctic Peninsula in both directions start at about USD$11,000 per person, making them around 20% more expensive on a per day basis than a standard Antarctic cruise, however flying just one way does reduce that markup somewhat. Just remember that many argue the time savings (2 hours versus 2 days) and avoidance of getting seasick afforded by flying more than justify the added investment.
What Vessel You Travel On
Your choice of vessel—specifically its size, level of comfort, and its operator—is certainly one of the most important considerations in terms of your desired cruise experience, and also one of key determinants in the overall price you’ll pay.
For example, a cruise aboard a luxury Antarctic ship operated by an eminent expedition company will undoubtedly provide a first-class experience of the White Continent, but will also come with a premium price tag, often in excess of USD$15,000 per person. Many luxury vessels will hire the foremost experts in their fields and feature gourmet menus, bottomless beverages, gratis gear, and all-balcony ensuite cabins—some even with their own saunas! Conversely, more affordable Antarctic operators may cut back on the caliber of their crew, creature comforts, caviar, and complimentary parkas to make their cruises considerably more cost efficient.
The size of the vessel, capacity-wise, can also play a large role in potential cost savings. With more paying passengers (assuming the same number of crew) larger ships can split their operating costs between more people, and lower prices can be offered. Smaller ships, however, can also have very cost-effective four-berth cabins, not dissimilar in price (per person) to a double cabin aboard a large ship, but many do not offer these ‘quad’ accommodations, besides which they do tend to only have public bathroom facilities, sometimes down the corridor.
While traveling on a larger ship may bring some cost benefit, be aware that their possible lower crew-to-passenger ratios can be detrimental to service levels, and that larger ships are subject to considerable restrictions by IAATO and the Antarctic Treaty Parties, namely those vessels carrying more than 500 passengers are not allowed to land any passengers while in Antarctic waters, making them strictly cruise-only.
This means you wouldn’t be permitted to participate in any shore landings on the continent at all, and arguably the entire adventure element of your visit would be missing.
Please note that typical cruise ships that cruise to Antarctica are not the same as expedition cruises that allow you to step foot on Antarctic soil. Please note only 100 passengers allowed ashore at any one time.
Which Cabin Category You Choose
The standard of your ship accommodations can have a significant impact on the cost of your Antarctica cruise, with the highest category cabins sometimes costing three times that of the lowest category cabins on the same ship.
In general, cabins found on lower decks of a ship, such as those closer to the waterline with small porthole windows, or indeed those on the interior of a ship with no windows at all, are the least expensive. Ships that offer triple or quad bed configurations can further reduce your Antarctica trip cost. Shared bathrooms will reduce your Antarctica price even further. Another benefit of being lower on the ship is less rocking when rough seas are encountered—perhaps an important consideration for those susceptible to sea sickness.
As you get higher on a ship, staterooms become more expensive and often more spacious—perhaps with a sitting area in addition to the bedroom—and typically have larger panoramic windows, and sometimes balconies, for improved (and private) viewing of the polar scenery and wildlife. As well as having a privileged front-row seat to Antarctica, these suites usually benefit from a more convenient proximity to on board social areas.
Luxury ships may have even more exclusive and costly cabin categories available, offering upscale amenities such as heated bathroom floors, in-room WiFi, entertainment systems or even butler and room service.
Who You Travel With
Sharing the wonder and elation of an Antarctic expedition with loved ones is probably one of the most emotive experiences imaginable. If you are traveling in tandem with a partner, spouse or friend you’ll benefit from the abundant double cabins (in twin or matrimonial configuration) prevalent on all expedition vessels, which means availability, whilst still potentially problematic in high season, is typically less of an issue than for odd numbered groups of passengers.
The larger your group, the greater the total cost, although the per person price may drop slightly when you consider the potential 5% discount sometimes afforded to groups of 8 or more people, or to children if you’re traveling with family. Increasingly more intrepid families are heading to Antarctica, and some ships are becoming more family-friendly both in terms of the activities provided and the cost to go. Child and teenage discounts can vary considerably, with the most generous offering 25% off young travelers under 18 and 15% for those between 18 – 21 years old. In conjunction with an early booking discount, the savings can be really quite significant.
But what if you aren’t traveling with anyone? You’ll be in good company! Antarctic voyages are surprisingly popular with solo travelers, and it’s not uncommon to find 20% or more of passengers on board traveling alone. Even better news is that there is an option to travel solo without increasing Antarctica cruise costs at all, as almost all operators give the option to share a cabin with a fellow solo traveler of the same sex. You simply choose which type of cabin you want and the ship operator then pairs you up.
If you aren’t comfortable sharing, costs will increase somewhat. If there are only twin cabins available, and you want your own cabin you will need to pay a substantial single supplement, typically 50-70% of the cost of the second berth. Single berth cabins do exist, but they are rare and in high demand, so be sure to book early. This option is still more expensive than sharing but significantly less expensive than paying a supplement for a twin cabin.
Whether You Want to Add on Any “Adventure Options”
With the exception of Basecamp itineraries which include a whole host of activities in with the price of your cruise, the ever-popular polar ‘adventure options’ are more often than not not included in the quoted fares. The cost of adventure options typically depend on your chosen vessel and duration of the voyage, as longer cruises often lend to more opportunities to participate in your pursuits of choice. Note that some activities may only be available on select departures at certain times of the season (for example you won’t be able to camp after January).
Kayaking is the most popular add-on activity and generally costs around USD$700 – USD$1,600 on top of your base cruise cost. Another water-based activity, snorkeling, is priced at around USD$600 per person, but if you wish to head deeper into Antarctica’s icy waters, scuba diving will cost between USD$500 – USD$,1000 per person.
Camping is one of the least expensive adventure options available, setting you back a mere USD$150 – USD$300. Cheaper still, snowshoeing can cost up to USD$200 per person, although it is typically included. At a similar price point, paddle-boarding costs around USD$200 – USD$300, however, not every operator offers this option.
Mountaineering carries an extra charge of around USD$600 – USD$1,250, but skiing is by far and away the most expensive adventure option, setting you back somewhere in the region of USD$1,500 – USD$2,200 per person.
Participation in such adventure options may also have higher premium implications for your travel insurance policy as rarely are all such activities included as standard.
Who You Book With?
There is no cost benefit to booking direct as you’ll pay exactly the same whether you book directly or through an agent because the prices of Antarctic voyages are set. Besides, many ship operators don’t actually accept direct bookings. Antarctic Cruises, Vacations to Go, Quark Expeditions, Lindblad Expeditions, National Geographic, Swoop Antarctica provides most options to Antarctica and prices with specific options.
Clothing & Other Costs to Bear in Mind
The extreme weather clothing and equipment required for polar vacations can be costly. Despite most operators providing one of the most expensive necessities—a parka jacket—we still recommend you budget a further USD$600 – USD$1000 for other items, whether you buy or rent. However this outlay can vary considerably depending on what gear you already own and the quality of clothing you buy. You can make savings by purchasing lesser brands, but invariably cheaper kit can have dubious durability. Error on the side of caution and plump for reputable brands, especially if you’re planning to reuse it in the Arctic! Shops in situ in remote locations tend to have higher prices, so buying at home—especially during end of winter season sales—is more cost effective.
A few purchases that may help you with travel and cold weather travel! A list of what you might need.
Given the high cost and remote nature of an Antarctica trip, not to mention the wildly unpredictable weather conditions—which can often lead to travel delays and sometimes cancellations—good (cruise) travel insurance is a must. World Nomads, Tripmate, and Allianz are companies to take a look!
You’ll need to budget around USD$250 – USD$1200 for a policy suitable for polar cruising, which should cover you for unforeseen travel delays, any baggage issues, cancellation, and emergency evacuation (although some operators may include this in the cost of your voyage, all will request proof of emergency evacuation cover of at least USD$100,000 which is the minimum cost of an evacuation from Antarctica). Be sure to check your policy also includes sufficient cover for all the adventure activities you will be participating in, as well as the country where your cruise will depart from.
Speaking of which, whilst no visa is required to go to Antarctica itself, you should also check whether you need a visa for the country (or countries) where you will embark (and disembark) your cruise. For citizens of the European Union, UK, United States and Canada (among others) traveling via South America, this usually isn’t an issue as no visa is required for either Chile or Argentina if you stay for less than 90 days, however Australian citizens (and others) do currently require a visa for Chile which may have an additional cost. Always check with your local embassy for the latest requirements.
It’s also worth bearing in mind some of the expenses you may incur on board your vessel, the largest of which is likely to be staff gratuities in the (recommended) region of USD$15-USD$20 per person per night, as well as any items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar tab, wifi, or onboard shop.
Total Antarctica Travel Cost
When you combine the cost of an Antarctica cruise with any flights and gear you may need, plus the other requisite ‘sundries’ (visas, insurance, etc.) for visiting this most southerly of continents, your overall Antarctica travel cost may total somewhere between USD$8,000 – USD$29,000, with the average cost of a trip to Antarctica around USD$11,500 per person.
Below, we have provided a breakdown of what you might expect to pay for your Antarctica trip. Please bear in mind that these are just guidelines and may be lower or higher depending on the factors previously discussed.
Antarctic Trip Cost Estimate
Cruise: USD$6,000 – USD$25,000
Flights: USD$1,000 – USD$2,000
Clothes, Equipment and Kit: USD$600 – USD$1,000
Visas: USD$0 – USD$150
Insurance: USD$250 – USD$1200
Hotel/Transfer/Meals: USD$150 – USD$300
Tips: USD$150 – USD$600
Total = USD $8,150 – USD$29,350
It’s important to note that this means you may need to budget for an additional USD$2,000 – USD$4,000 on top of the cost of your cruise.
Antarctica Trip Cost From USA: An Example
If we assume a classic Antarctic Peninsula cruise (during peak season at full price, excluding any optional adventure activities), in double occupancy of a standard cabin aboard a mid-range expedition ship, with international and domestic flights, average gear and typical sundry travel expenses, your Antarctica trip cost from the US would be in the region of USD$16,000 per person.
10/11-day Classic Antarctica Cruise: USD $12,000 or Fly the Drake: USD $12,000
Return Flights CMH-Punta Arenas: USD $2,000
Clothes, Equipment and Kit: USD$800
Visas: USD$0
Insurance: USD$500
Hotel/Transfer/Meals: USD $250 per night/ $100/ $20 per meal (you will want to arrive at least 2 days early)
Tips: USD$150
Excursions: Kayak: $950
Total = USD $16,000+ per person
Is Price Really a Good Criteria for Choosing the Right Antarctic Trip?
Whilst price is always an important consideration for travelers, it’s just one of many variables involved in any desired Antarctic experience, and cost alone can’t be considered an accurate barometer for your enjoyment of an Antarctic trip. Price is one thing, but value is very different. For example, does a cruise that costs twice as much as another mean you will see twice the wildlife, or double your enjoyment? Hardly. In any case, enjoyment is very much subjective in the eye of the beholder (the person holding the binoculars—you!).
When it comes to Antarctica expedition selection, it’s important to understand all the options available to you, establish what your desires and wildest dreams might be, and make an informed, considered decision based on impartial advice. This is where a specialist like Antarctica Cruises is invaluable, taking the time to listen to, and understand, your ‘brief’, no matter how vague or detailed, ascertain what is important to you, and curate a shortlist of carefully chosen options, all recommended specifically to match your aspirations, so that you’ll get as much as you possibly can from your once-in-a-lifetime trip. No matter how you spend your money, I promise – you will not regret it.
An update … I have gotten several questions about my own trip.
Quark Expeditions: Fly the Drake
8 Day Fly the Drake $12,900 (Premium Suite) with balcony deal on Black Friday (normal $29,000 per person)
Flights: CMH to ATL to Santiago to PUQ: $1700 per person
Clothes: $800 per person
Insurance: $600 per person
Hotel: $250 Hotel Cabo De Hornos, Hotel Jose Nogueira, Dreams –
* Dreams is fabulous, Hotel Cabo de Hornos is very nice, and Hotel Jose Nogueira is decent. Due to the cruises and check in and check out, you may have to stay at a combination for the nights needed.
Taxi: $40 each way
Tips: $20 per day for excursion crew and $20 per day for housekeeping/ service per person
Excursion: Kayaking $950 per person (worth it! )
Souvenirs: $200
Total: roughly $18,000 per person
There are a few things that could have made the trip cheaper; taking a standard cruise, not having a balcony room, and not going as the last flight out of Antarctica for the season. I can honestly say, this was the best trip I have ever been on and would definitely do it again!
Iceland and Norway have icebergs, ice, snow, and glaciers! To learn more on these less expensive options – click here for Iceland and here for Norway and associated costs!
