Getting Married in Antarctica

Poseidon Expeditions Wedding Package

Poseidon Expeditions offers a wedding package that, for $899, includes an informal wedding ceremony aboard the expedition ship Sea Spirit. The package features a romantically decorated venue, a bottle of champagne for the newlyweds, and a personalized photo session with 20 edited photos on a flash drive. Newlyweds can also enjoy a candlelit dinner for two with champagne and a small cake, followed by breakfast in their cabin the next morning. The cabin will be decorated with artificial rose petals and LED candles. Additionally, couples receive a commemorative marriage certificate and a framed wedding photo signed by the captain.

Happily Ever Atlas by Atlas Ocean Voyages

Atlas Ocean Voyages organized a program called Happily Ever Atlas, included in their February 14, 2022, Valentine's Day Antarctic sailing. The weddings were officiated by British Antarctic officials, making them the first legal weddings ever performed on the 7th continent. This groundbreaking event highlights the possibilities for those seeking a truly unique and legally recognized wedding ceremony in Antarctica.

Legality of Antarctic Weddings

While a lot of couples will choose to go for an informal option which is more of a symbolic exchange of vows during their time in Antarctica, there is now a legally recognized option through the British Antarctic Territory. Some tour operators can now have guides and staff members be commissioned as Mariage Officers, which confers them the right to officiate a wedding ceremony that is recognized in the UK and beyond.

The Appeal of an Antarctic Wedding

Picture this: exchanging vows surrounded by pristine white snow, under the shimmering Antarctic sun, with a lively audience of penguins. An Antarctic wedding is perfect for those seeking an intimate, unforgettable celebration that stands apart from the rest. The awe-inspiring landscape, massive icebergs, and diverse wildlife provide an unmatched backdrop for your special day. The journey to the southernmost point of the Earth adds an exhilarating touch to your celebration, ensuring unparalleled privacy and intimacy.

Planning an Antarctic Wedding

Planning a wedding in Antarctica requires careful preparation and partnering with the right tour operators that can accommodate an Antarctic wedding. At Unsold Antarctica, we work with all operators to market their empty cabins and we can certainly find you the right operator for your special day whether it’s just for the two of you or bringing a few guests to witness your polar elopement. Timing is crucial as you can only visit Antarctica during the southern hemisphere summer season, from November to March. Couples should be prepared for unpredictable weather and have a backup plan in place. Despite these challenges, the reward is a wedding day that is as unique as it is unforgettable.

The Wedding Day in Antarctica

Your wedding day in Antarctica will be a blend of traditional elements and the extraordinary Antarctic setting. The ceremony generally takes place on the ship or sometimes with preparation perhaps on the Antarctic mainland! Picture having a colony of penguins or a floating iceberg as your witness to your vow of eternal love, what a dream! After the vows, celebrate with a champagne toast and a gourmet meal prepared by the ship's chef. Each moment filled with magic and memories that will last a lifetime.

Stories from Couples Who Got Married in Antarctica

Couples who have chosen to marry in Antarctica often describe it as the best decision they've ever made. They rave about the sense of adventure, the stunning natural beauty, and the joy of sharing such a unique experience with loved ones. I have been in attendance for a vow renewal officiated by no one else than DJ Diplo during the December 2023 cruise he hosted. While not every Antarctica wedding can be officiated by a celebrity, I’m convinced that any wedding ceremony surrounded by floating icebergs, penguins, and fellow adventurers will be memorable.

If you are looking for more inspiring romantic stories of people tying the knot in Antarctica, we really enjoyed this one that was hosted on a Viking Cruises ship, published on Travel + Leisure. Or of this couple, who became the first same-sex couple getting married in Antarctica. Excuse me, as I must have something in my eye 🥹

An Antarctic wedding isn't for everyone. It requires a spirit of adventure, a love for the extraordinary, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. But for those who choose this path, getting married in Antarctica offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with unforgettable memories, stunning photos, and the chance to start your married life in one of the most beautiful and unique places on Earth. Let us be part of your special day, we will work tirelessly to organize your dream nuptials.