Cruise Quest app screenshots
New
The Cruise Quest app is here.
Bar Bingo & Cruise Cameo · works offline!
// MENU
HomeCruise SearchShipsPortsBlog
Share
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)

Antarctica Cruise Port

Antarctica
Antarctica is the southernmost continent on Earth, located almost entirely within the Antarctic Circle.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#50
of 490 ports in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Today · high / low
-16° / -101°
September normals
Antarctica cruise port
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Antarctica
// Antarctica cruise port overview

The cruise port in Antarctica,
explained

Lat: 82.9°SLong: 135.0°ETimezone: Antarctica/McMurdoINTN code: 44b4

Antarctica is the southernmost continent on Earth, located almost entirely within the Antarctic Circle. It is the fifth largest continent, with an area of 14 million square kilometers.

Antarctica is covered by an ice sheet that is up to 4. 8 kilometers thick in some places.

The continent is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds. The climate is extremely cold and dry, with temperatures rarely rising above freezing.

The continent is also home to a number of scientific research stations, where scientists study the environment and its effects on the rest of the world. Antarctica is a unique and fascinating place, and its extreme environment makes it a great place to explore and learn about the world around us.

// Antarctica Cruise Port location

Where is Antarctica Cruise Port?

Antarctica cruise ports are located in the southernmost region of the world, near the Antarctic Circle. The most popular ports of call are located in the Antarctic Peninsula, which is the northernmost part of the continent. Other ports of call include the South Shetland Islands, the South Orkney Islands, the South Sandwich Islands, and the Falkland Islands.

General location
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Coordinates
82.86°S, 135.00°E
Time zone
Antarctica/McMurdo
Cruise port · 82.86°S, 135.00°E
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Antarctica cruise port guide

What to do in Antarctica

A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.

Ways to spend the day

3 themes
Theme 1

Hiking

Hiking is a great way to explore the Antarctic landscape. It allows visitors to get up close to the glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. Hiking is a great way to experience the beauty of the Antarctic landscape, as well as the unique wildlife that inhabits the area. It is also a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the fresh air.

Theme 2

Kayaking

Kayaking is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Antarctica. It allows visitors to explore the icy waters and get up close to the wildlife. Kayaking is a great way to experience the beauty of the Antarctic landscape, as well as the unique wildlife that inhabits the area. It is also a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the fresh air.

Theme 3

Zodiac Cruising

Zodiac cruising is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Antarctica. It allows visitors to explore the icy waters and get up close to the wildlife. Zodiac cruising is a great way to experience the beauty of the Antarctic landscape, as well as the unique wildlife that inhabits the area. It is also a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the fresh air.

Antarctica cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
C
Cuverville Island (illustrative photo)

Cuverville Island

Cuverville Island is a small island located in the Errera Channel, and is a popular destination for Antarctica cruises. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including gentoo penguins, elephant seals, and skuas. The beach is known for its white sand, which is a result of the island's volcanic origin. The beach is also a popular spot for kayaking and snorkeling, and is a great place to observe the local wildlife.

D
Deception Island (illustrative photo)

Deception Island

Deception Island is one of the most popular beaches near Antarctica cruise ports. It is a volcanic caldera located in the South Shetland Islands, and is the only active volcano in the region. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales, and is a popular destination for kayaking and snorkeling. The beach is also known for its black sand, which is a result of the volcanic activity.

H
Half Moon Island (illustrative photo)

Half Moon Island

Half Moon Island is a small island located in the South Shetland Islands, and is a popular destination for Antarctica cruises. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including chinstrap penguins, elephant seals, and skuas. The beach is known for its white sand, which is a result of the island's volcanic origin. The beach is also a popular spot for kayaking and snorkeling, and is a great place to observe the local wildlife.

// Antarctica fun facts

The Coldest Place on Earth

Antarctica is the coldest place on Earth. The lowest temperature ever recorded on the continent was -89.2°C (-128.6°F). The coldest temperature ever recorded on Earth was -93.2°C (-135.8°F) at the Russian Vostok Station in Antarctica.

The Highest Continent

Antarctica is the highest continent on Earth. The average elevation of the continent is 2,300 meters (7,500 feet) above sea level. The highest point on the continent is Vinson Massif, which stands at 4,892 meters (16,050 feet) above sea level.

The Largest Desert

Antarctica is the largest desert in the world. It is classified as a polar desert, meaning it receives very little precipitation. The average annual precipitation is only 200 mm (8 inches). The continent is also the driest, windiest, and coldest continent on Earth.

Antarctica cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
A
Antarctica Gift Shop (illustrative photo)

Antarctica Gift Shop

The Antarctica Gift Shop is the perfect place to find souvenirs from your Antarctica cruise. Located in the port of Ushuaia, the shop offers a wide selection of items, from clothing and jewelry to books and postcards. The shop also has a great selection of local artisan crafts, including handmade jewelry, pottery, and wood carvings. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful.

U
Ushuaia Artisan Market (illustrative photo)

Ushuaia Artisan Market

The Ushuaia Artisan Market is a great place to find unique souvenirs from your Antarctica cruise. Located in the port of Ushuaia, the market offers a wide selection of items, from clothing and jewelry to books and postcards. The market also has a great selection of local artisan crafts, including handmade jewelry, pottery, and wood carvings. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful.

U
Ushuaia Souvenir Shop (illustrative photo)

Ushuaia Souvenir Shop

Ushuaia Souvenir Shop is a great place to find unique souvenirs from your Antarctica cruise. Located in the heart of Ushuaia, the shop offers a wide selection of items, from clothing and jewelry to books and postcards. The shop also has a great selection of local artisan crafts, including handmade jewelry, pottery, and wood carvings. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful.

// Antarctica Cruise Port Terminals

Which Antarctica cruise terminal will your ship use?

Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.

3 piers in Antarctica
Pier 1 of 3

Deception Island

Deception Island, Antarctica

Deception Island is a volcanic caldera located in the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, as it offers a unique experience of exploring a volcanic island. Visitors can explore the island's beaches, hot springs, and abandoned whaling stations, as well as take part in various activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Deception Island)
Pier 2 of 3

Port Lockroy

Goudier Island, Antarctica

Port Lockroy is a former British research station located on Goudier Island in the Antarctic Peninsula. It is now a museum and post office operated by the United Kingdom Antarctic Heritage Trust. It is a popular destination for cruise ships and tourists, who can explore the museum and post office, as well as the surrounding area.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Port Lockroy)
Pier 3 of 3

Port Williams

Port Williams, Antarctica

Port Williams is a small port located in the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, as it offers a unique experience of exploring a remote and isolated area. Visitors can explore the area's rugged coastline, as well as take part in various activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Port Williams)
Wi-Fi

Unfortunately, there is no wifi access available in Antarctica cruise ports. However, some cruise ships may offer wifi access onboard.

Safety

Antarctica cruise ports are generally considered to be safe. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) has strict guidelines in place to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. All vessels must be inspected and certified by the IAATO before they can operate in Antarctica. Additionally, all vessels must adhere to strict environmental regulations and safety protocols.

Port address

no single port for Antarctica cruises. Cruise ships typically depart from ports in Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand

Antarctica cruise port car rental

The closest car rental option near Antarctica cruise ports is located in Ushuaia, Argentina. Ushuaia is the gateway to Antarctica and is the closest major city to the continent. Car rental companies in Ushuaia include Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Localiza. These companies offer a variety of vehicles, from small cars to SUVs, and can provide additional services such as GPS navigation and car seats. Prices vary depending on the type of vehicle and the length of the rental.

Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.

// Weather

Antarctica Cruise Port Weather

Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Antarctica
-73°
Avg · °F
Cold, mostly dry
High
-16°F
Low
-101°F
Rain
0.1 in
Excursions that suit this weather
// Year-round in Antarctica

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

Avg temp °FRainfall in
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECMONTHLY NORMALS · °F AND IN
// Antarctica cruise ship schedule

Antarctica Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in Antarctica today, Friday, September 18, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

Schedule updated

// Keep exploring

Popular ports in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)

Other ports cruisers visit most in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East).

// Questions

Antarctica cruise port, answered

The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Antarctica.

Where is Antarctica cruise port located?

Antarctica cruise port is located in Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East). Antarctica cruise ports are located in the southernmost region of the world, near the Antarctic Circle. The most popular ports of call are located in the Antarctic Peninsula, which is the northernmost part of the continent. Other ports of call include the South Shetland Islands, the South Orkney Islands, the South Sandwich Islands, and the Falkland Islands.

Is Antarctica a good cruise port to visit?

No, Antarctica is not a good cruise port. Cruise ships are not allowed to land in Antarctica, and the only way to visit the continent is by taking a small boat from a nearby port. Additionally, the weather in Antarctica is unpredictable and can be dangerous for cruise ships.

How safe is Antarctica cruise port for passengers?

Antarctica cruise port has a safety score of 9.3 out of 10, ranking #50 of 490 ports in Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East). Antarctica cruise ports are generally considered to be safe. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) has strict guidelines in place to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. All vessels must be inspected and certified by the IAATO before they can operate in Antarctica. Additionally, all vessels must adhere to strict environmental regulations and safety protocols.

What is the weather like at Antarctica cruise port in September?

In September, Antarctica cruise port has average high temperatures of -16°F (-27°C) and average lows of -101°F (-74°C).

How many excursions are available at Antarctica cruise port?

There are currently 11 excursions and tours available at Antarctica cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.

What are the top things to do at Antarctica cruise port?

Antarctica cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Hiking, Kayaking, Zodiac Cruising. Antarctica is known for its unique and breathtaking landscapes. From towering mountains to vast glaciers, the continent offers a variety of stunning views. Visitors can also explore the diverse wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales. There are also opportunities to take part in activities such as kayaking, camping, and mountaineering. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery and observe the wildlife from the comfort of a boat or shore.

Can I rent a car at Antarctica cruise port?

The closest car rental option near Antarctica cruise ports is located in Ushuaia, Argentina. Ushuaia is the gateway to Antarctica and is the closest major city to the continent. Car rental companies in Ushuaia include Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Localiza. These companies offer a variety of vehicles, from small cars to SUVs, and can provide additional services such as GPS navigation and car seats. Prices vary depending on the type of vehicle and the length of the rental.

What is the WiFi situation at Antarctica cruise port?

Unfortunately, there is no wifi access available in Antarctica cruise ports. However, some cruise ships may offer wifi access onboard.

Where is the cruise terminal at Antarctica cruise port?

There is no single port for Antarctica cruises. Cruise ships typically depart from ports in Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.

What is the Antarctica Cruise Port cruise schedule?

There are no cruise ships scheduled at Antarctica today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Antarctica on any past or future date.

Sign up or
Sign in

Save your cruise, track reviews for your cabin, set cruise price drop alerts, & more with an account.

No password needed · Sign-in code sent