How to get the best value for your Antarctica trip?

Embarking on a journey to the white continent, Antarctica, is a dream for many. However, the cost can often be a deterrent. But worry not, with a bit of flexibility and some savvy research, you can find great deals that will make this dream trip a reality. Here are some key factors to consider when looking for the best Antarctica cruise deals.

1. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

The first rule of thumb when hunting for a great deal is to be flexible with your travel dates. The Antarctica cruise season typically runs from November to March. Prices vary significantly within this period, with the highest being around December and January during the Christmas and New Year sailings but also when the weather is most favorable. If you're willing to brave colder conditions, consider booking in the early or late season when prices tend to be lower.

2. Be Flexible about When You Book

In our experience, booking between 4 months to 2 weeks pre-departure will get you the highest discount percentages. Booking within this timeframe should also allow you to save on Airfare as we often find that the more affordabily priced international airfares seem to be around the 3 to 4 month prior to departure timeframe.

3. Choose Your Operator Wisely

There's a wide range of operators offering Antarctica cruises, each with different pricing structures and inclusions. Researching and comparing these operators can help you find a great deal. Look for operators that offer discounts for early bookings or last-minute deals. Be aware, though, that these deals may require quick decision-making and flexibility with travel dates. By working with us we and our deals database, we can offer you unbiased advice about the quality of the deals offered or if we should wait before booking you.

4. Consider Your Departure Port

Most Antarctica cruises depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile. The choice of departure port can significantly influence the cost of your trip. Ushuaia is generally cheaper, but Punta Arenas has more fly-cruise options and can offer more convenient connections for those traveling from North America. Both have to be assessed between costs and convenience especially as not all cruise operators depart from both.

5. Pay Attention to Inclusions

When comparing prices, it's important to consider what's included in the package. Some cruise companies include a charter flight from Buenos Aires or Santiago to the departure port, which can save you a significant amount on travel costs. Others may include gratuities, drinks, and extra activities in their packages. These inclusions can greatly enhance the value of your cruise, making a seemingly more expensive package actually more cost-effective in the long run.

Finding a great deal for an Antarctica cruise requires some research and flexibility. But with us on your team, we can help you cut through the noise and find your dream cruise at a dreamy price point. Get in touch today so you can discover Antarctica this season!