Antarctica is a majestic and largely unknown continent, almost entirely covered by a vast ice sheet that offers a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. Its snow-capped mountains, imposing glaciers, immense ice fields, and silent fjords create a world where time seems to stand still. Visiting this continent is a transformative experience. The isolation, the immensity, and the purity of nature awaken a profound connection with the planet and its conservation.
Article from CruisesNews magazine no. 73 – June 2025
Silversea is one of the most experienced cruise lines in the region. Its luxury expeditions attract intrepid travelers who enjoy exploration, knowing the exclusivity of the experience and the attention to detail. The company has carefully designed its programs for 2026, 2027, and 2027 with its “Antarctica Fly Cruises,” offering a distinguished and unique way to explore the unspoiled beauty of the “white continent.”
Antarctica Fly Cruise
offers an innovative experience designed for those who want to experience the magic of Antarctica without crossing the unpredictable Drake Passage on board. It offers two ways to reach Antarctica: fly directly to the heart of the continent in just two hours, or sail through the iconic Drake Passage for an authentic, albeit sometimes extremely uncomfortable, experience. With the air option, passengers fly comfortably from Santiago, Chile, to King George Island, in the heart of Antarctica, beginning their expedition with an aerial perspective of the Drake Passage and spectacular views of the icy landscapes.
Trips to Antarctica are available between October and March, on itineraries of 6 to 15 days
Before embarking on this journey, you'll enjoy a night at The Cormorant at 55 SouthSM, the company's newest hotel and the southernmost in the world, located in Puerto Williams. This stay is an integral part of the experience, offering a warm welcome amidst stunning natural beauty. This exclusive Silversea hotel features 150 rooms that combine refined comfort with views of the forest or the sea. An ideal starting point before your grand voyage.
Expert-Designed Expeditions:
Expedition cruises feature highly qualified experts, including naturalists, biologists, geologists, and historians, who form the expedition teams that accompany travelers throughout their Antarctic journey. Thanks to their in-depth knowledge and years of experience in polar regions, these specialists offer lectures, real-time interpretations, and personalized guidance on every departure. Whether exploring wildlife, identifying glacial formations, or leading hikes on land, a skilled expedition team transforms every moment into a learning opportunity, allowing passengers to connect authentically with the white continent. Each departure is meticulously planned to offer an in-depth, safe, and educational exploration of the Antarctic environment.
Activities include Zodiac sailing among colossal icebergs, close encounters with whales, penguin and seal colonies, as well as kayaking excursions in fjords and crystal-clear waters. For trekking enthusiasts, travelers can also enjoy guided walks on land, with strategic stops to observe local wildlife and unique geological formations. These excursions offer the chance to see unique fauna, specially adapted to the extreme cold and isolation of the southernmost continent on the planet.
Although terrestrial life is limited due to the ice and low temperatures, the coastal region and surrounding waters are home to surprising biodiversity. Among the most emblematic animals are several species of penguins, seals, impressive cetaceans that migrate to the area to feed during the warmer months, and numerous seabirds, completing the ecosystem. This fascinating and resilient fauna is a symbol of the importance of conserving this delicate ecosystem, which remains one of the few pristine places on the planet. Each day ends with onboard information sessions, where experts analyze the day's experiences and prepare guests for new surprises, offering in-depth knowledge of the polar ecosystem.
ships
specially designed for polar voyages, with a reduced capacity of between 100 and 274 passengers. These ships are equipped with Zodiacs and kayaks for more intimate and flexible excursions. The Silver Cloud, refurbished in 2017, accommodates 240 passengers and has 20 Zodiacs; the Silver Wind, modernized in 2021, accommodates 274 passengers and has 24 Zodiacs; and the Silver Endeavour, the newest (2021), accommodates 220 passengers and features the latest polar navigation technology (Ice Class PC6).
Each ship offers its passengers spacious suites with ocean views, many with private balconies and 24-hour butler service. Dining is also a key element of the Silversea experience, with gourmet restaurants onboard offering menus inspired by international cuisines. The common areas are designed for relaxation and contemplation of the landscape, with panoramic lounges, spas, gyms, libraries and observation terraces.
Flexible itineraries for all types of explorers.
Antarctic voyages are available from October to March, with itineraries ranging from 6 to 15 days, allowing you to tailor the experience to different types of travelers, from those seeking a brief but intense introduction to the white continent to those looking for a deeper immersion in its geography and wildlife. Furthermore, Silversea offers a complete, end-to-end experience, including charter flights, transfers, pre-departure accommodations, and the Antarctic cruise itself, featuring daily excursions and a variety of onboard activities, making these voyages a truly luxurious all-inclusive option.
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