Ross Sea & East Antarctica Cruises
Highlights
- Penetrate one of the most scenic, remote, and history-rich reaches of the Antarctic coast in the Ross Sea
- Marvel at the world’s largest ice shelf and its southernmost active volcano, which hosts a lava lake in its summit crater
- Travel back in time with looks inside the amazingly preserved Scott and Shackleton huts
- Scout for the coveted emperor penguin in the wilderness of the Amundsen Sea on Antarctic semi-circumambulation expeditions, as close as you can get to a cruise around Antarctica
- Soak up the beauty of New Zealand’s sub-Antarctic islands, including Campbell Island’s lush “megaherb” gardens and the impressive sea cliffs and peaks of the Auckland Islands
Relatively few travelers to Antarctica venture beyond the Antarctic Peninsula; those that do see spectacular land-, ice-, and seascapes as exhilaratingly remote as any place on Earth. The grand Ross Sea region scalloping the border of West and East Antarctica is a treasured destination. Here you’ll find the Bay of Whales, the skyscraping ice cliffs of the Ross Ice Shelf—the planet’s greatest ice shelf, and the legendary “Barrier” of Antarctica’s Heroic Age of Exploration—and the volcanic ramparts of Ross Island, including mighty Mount Erebus, southernmost active volcano on Earth. Cape Adare in East Antarctica, one of the “gates” of the Ross Sea, harbors the White Continent’s largest colonies of Adelie penguins. And Ross Sea cruises can also include visits to the unbelievably well-preserved huts of the Scott and Shackleton expeditions on Ross Island.
Among the ultimate experiences at the bottom of the world is to semi-circumnavigate Antarctica via specialized voyages between Argentina and New Zealand. These extended Antarctic circumnavigation expeditions take you halfway around the White Continent, exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and then sailing through the Bellingshausen and Amundsen seas to reach the Ross Sea. Such a cruise around Antarctica also allows you to visit such unpeopled, back-of-beyond sub-Antarctic islands as Campbell Island—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the alluring Aucklands.
About Ross Sea & East Antarctica Cruises
Relatively few travelers to Antarctica venture beyond the Antarctic Peninsula; those that do see spectacular land-, ice-, and seascapes as exhilaratingly remote as any place on Earth. The grand Ross Sea region scalloping the border of West and East Antarctica is a treasured destination. Here you’ll find the Bay of Whales, the skyscraping ice cliffs of the Ross Ice Shelf—the planet’s greatest ice shelf, and the legendary “Barrier” of Antarctica’s Heroic Age of Exploration—and the volcanic ramparts of Ross Island, including mighty Mount Erebus, southernmost active volcano on Earth. Cape Adare in East Antarctica, one of the “gates” of the Ross Sea, harbors the White Continent’s largest colonies of Adelie penguins. And Ross Sea cruises can also include visits to the unbelievably well-preserved huts of the Scott and Shackleton expeditions on Ross Island.
Among the ultimate experiences at the bottom of the world is to semi-circumnavigate Antarctica via specialized voyages between Argentina and New Zealand. These extended Antarctic circumnavigation expeditions take you halfway around the White Continent, exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and then sailing through the Bellingshausen and Amundsen seas to reach the Ross Sea. Such a cruise around Antarctica also allows you to visit such unpeopled, back-of-beyond sub-Antarctic islands as Campbell Island—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the alluring Aucklands.
Unexplored Antarctica Between Two Continents
Scott & Shackleton's Antarctic - Ross Sea Expedition
In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton: Ross Sea Antarctica
Epic Antarctica: Crossing the 7th Continent
Ross Sea & East Antarctica Map
FAQ About Ross Sea & East Antarctica Cruises
What are Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruises?
Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruises are unique expeditions that take you to the remote and pristine regions of the Ross Sea and East Antarctica. These cruises offer unparalleled opportunities to explore vast ice shelves, historic huts, and encounter diverse wildlife.
What can I expect during a Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruise?
During a cruise to the Ross Sea & East Antarctica, you can expect to witness stunning ice formations, visit historic huts of early explorers like Scott and Shackleton, encounter various species of penguins, seals, and seabirds, and explore the mesmerizing landscapes of this remote area.
When is the best time to go on a Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruise?
Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruises primarily take place during the Antarctic summer months from November to March. This period offers the best conditions for navigation, wildlife sightings, and exploration of the unique geological and historical features of the region.
How long do Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruises typically last?
Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruises typically last around 25-30 days. These extended expeditions provide ample time to explore the remote areas, including the Ross Ice Shelf, the historic Ross Sea islands, and the stunning landscapes of East Antarctica.
Are Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruises suitable for all travelers?
Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruises are best suited for adventurous travelers who are seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience. These more lengthy cruises require a good amount of time and money, which not everyone can afford.
Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruises are unique expeditions that take you to the remote and pristine regions of the Ross Sea and East Antarctica. These cruises offer unparalleled opportunities to explore vast ice shelves, historic huts, and encounter diverse wildlife.
During a cruise to the Ross Sea & East Antarctica, you can expect to witness stunning ice formations, visit historic huts of early explorers like Scott and Shackleton, encounter various species of penguins, seals, and seabirds, and explore the mesmerizing landscapes of this remote area.
Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruises primarily take place during the Antarctic summer months from November to March. This period offers the best conditions for navigation, wildlife sightings, and exploration of the unique geological and historical features of the region.
Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruises typically last around 25-30 days. These extended expeditions provide ample time to explore the remote areas, including the Ross Ice Shelf, the historic Ross Sea islands, and the stunning landscapes of East Antarctica.
Ross Sea & East Antarctica cruises are best suited for adventurous travelers who are seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience. These more lengthy cruises require a good amount of time and money, which not everyone can afford.
Ross Sea Expedition Vessels
Experience the thrill of discovery, witness mesmerizing landscapes, and create unforgettable memories aboard our top-rated Ross Sea expedition vessels, your gateway to the ultimate exploration of this remote Antarctic region.
Recommended Reading
8 Best Places To Visit In Antarctica
Antarctica Cruise Routes: Which Itinerary Is Best For You?
History of Antarctica Exploration & Expedition Timeline
Best Time To Visit Antarctica: Wildlife & Weather By Month