A 23-Day Journey to the Ends of the Earth: Antarctic Cruise Cost Breakdown
Join us as we embark on a 23-day Antarctic Cruise with Holland America Line, providing an Antarctic cruise cost breakdown and exploring some of the most breathtaking destinations in South America and beyond. From stunning Chilean Fjords to the icy wonders of Antarctica, this once-in-a-lifetime journey took us to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Glacier Alley, and more!
We’ll share all of the costs, the highlights of our shore excursions, and what it’s like to visit places like the Palmer US Antarctic Research Base, Tierra del Fuego, Puerto Montt, and Valparaíso. Whether you’re planning your Antarctic adventure or simply curious about what this incredible trip entails, we’ve got you covered with costs, tips, and insider details.
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What We Spent: The Antarctic Cruise Cost Breakdown
Cruise Fare: $10,898.89
The cruise fare was our most significant expense, covering our cabin’s Antarctic Cruise Cost Breakdown, unlimited laundry package, and onboard charges. We opted for an inside cabin on the lowest floor available to passengers to minimize motion in the Drake Passage. Booking through a third-party vendor saved us $125 in onboard credit, but we missed an upgrade opportunity that we would not have if we had booked directly with the cruise line. Lesson learned! If you want to be treated less like a number, consider the benefits of booking directly to ensure that you are the primary contact versus a tour or travel agency.
Booking Excursions: Direct vs. Cruise Line
Advantages of Booking Excursions Directly
- Lower Costs – Independent tours are often more affordable than cruise-line excursions, as they eliminate the middleman markup.
- Smaller Groups – Many independent tours cater to smaller groups, providing a more personalized and immersive experience.
- Customizable Itineraries – Private operators frequently offer tailored tours, allowing travelers to focus on their interests.
- Local Expertise – Booking directly supports local businesses and provides a chance to interact with local guides who may offer unique insights.
- More Time in Port – Since cruise-line excursions often involve large groups and slow-moving logistics, independent tours can help maximize time at the destination.
Advantages of Booking Excursions Through the Cruise Line
- Guaranteed Return to Ship – If a cruise-line excursion is delayed, the ship will wait. Independently booked tours do not have this safety net.
- Convenience and Easy Booking: The cruise line arranges everything, eliminating the need for additional research or negotiations.
- Seamless Experience – Cruise excursions often include direct pickup and drop-off at the port, making logistics easier.
- Refunds for Canceled Ports – If a port stop is canceled due to weather, the cruise line will typically issue a refund for the excursion. Independent operators may not, but we have never experienced this.
Priority Disembarkation – Some cruise lines give priority departure to guests booked on their excursions, which can be advantageous in ports with limited tender access.
Our Approach
For our Antarctic cruise, we mixed both options, booking independent tours for flexibility and cost savings while leveraging cruise excursions for hard-to-reach locations or peace of mind when the tour times and the ship’s departure were very tight. This hybrid approach allowed us to maximize our experiences while keeping expenses in check.
Pro Tip: If your cruise excursion isn’t scheduled for the first few hours after docking, consider disembarking independently. You can still collect your excursion stickers early but leave the ship sooner than those waiting for their groups to be called.
Phone & WiFi: $137.49
We upgraded to the Premium WiFi onboard for $70, which allowed us to stream and upload content. In addition, we used a GigSky eSIM plan for $67.49, which worked in all ports except the Falkland Islands and Antarctica and provided connectivity while at sea.
Pro Tip: GigSky frequently offers discounts that could save you 10-20%, so keep your eye out as you approach your cruise dates.
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Food & Drink: $138.67
Our meals were included onboard, but we indulged in snacks, treats, and beverages in various ports. To truly experience each port for all it offers, consider indulging in the foods and drinks that make it unique.
Shopping: $98.05
Our purchases included meaningful keepsakes that connected us to the local culture, handmade souvenirs, vibrant stickers reflecting the region’s artistic flair, and a pair of Vans for our daughter in Uruguay, a practical yet memorable way to bring home a piece of our travels.
Health & Wellness: $43.84
Hopefully, this doesn’t happen to you but be prepared for minor yet unexpected costs, like our visit to a Montevideo pharmacy for a prescription due to an allergic reaction.
Grand Total: $13,282.43
This was one of the most expensive trips we’ve taken, but every dollar was an investment in breathtaking landscapes, once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters, and memories that will stay with us forever.
Trip Highlights: Exploring the Most Stunning Destinations
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Before setting sail, we explored Buenos Aires, Argentina’s dynamic capital. This city blends European architecture with Latin American vibrancy, making it a must-visit for travelers. We wandered through the cobbled streets of San Telmo, admired the grandeur of Plaza de Mayo, and indulged in Argentina’s famous empanadas. The city’s lively atmosphere and rich history set the perfect tone for our adventure ahead.
Pro Tip: Arriving in Buenos Aires a few days before your cruise lets you fully experience the city’s incredible food, culture, and history. While we had the luxury of spending 45 days here, even a few days to a week will give you an authentic taste of Argentina’s vibrant capital. Take time to explore its diverse neighborhoods, from the artistic streets of La Boca to the elegant cafés of Recoleta.
Montevideo & Punta del Este, Uruguay
Montevideo offers a charming blend of colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and an easygoing coastal vibe. The famous Mercado del Puerto is a paradise for food lovers, offering some of the best grilled meats in the world. We strolled along the Rambla, a waterfront promenade stretching for miles, and enjoyed ocean views and local culture.
Punta del Este, Uruguay
Punta del Este, a resort town known as the “St. Tropez of South America,” offers pristine beaches, an artsy atmosphere, and unique landmarks like La Mano sculpture. A highlight of this stop was seeing sea lions up close at the harbor, where they lounge and wait for scraps from local fishermen.
Puerto Madryn, Argentina
Puerto Madryn is a paradise for wildlife lovers. It is the gateway to the Valdés Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its marine biodiversity. Unfortunately, strong winds canceled our planned penguin excursion, but we made the most of our day by visiting the Punta Loma Sea Lion Reserve. Watching these playful animals in their natural habitat was an unforgettable experience. The charming town, with its seaside promenade and small artisan markets, is worth a stroll.
Falkland Islands: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
The Falkland Islands are a dream destination for wildlife lovers. Our rugged 4×4 journey to Volunteer Point led us to a surreal sight: thousands of Magellanic, Gentoo, and King Penguins thriving in their natural environment. With stunning coastal landscapes and dramatic weather shifts, this remote destination felt like stepping into another world. Despite the high cost, this was one of the most incredible experiences of the cruise.
Antarctica: The Ultimate Bucket List Destination
Nothing can prepare you for the sheer beauty and isolation of Antarctica. We spent four days cruising past massive icebergs, witnessing penguins diving off floating ice, and spotting whales breaching in the frigid waters. Researchers at Palmer Station visited, providing a rare glimpse into the scientific efforts in this remote region. The golden glow of endless sunsets reflecting off towering glaciers made this the most breathtaking part of our journey.
Ushuaia, Argentina & Tierra del Fuego
Known as the “End of the World,” Ushuaia is the southernmost city on Earth. We explored the stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park, visiting Bahía Lapataia and the famous “Train to the End of the World.” Ushuaia’s rugged charm, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and deep blue waters, makes it an essential stop for adventurers.
Chilean Fjords & Glacier Alley
Sailing through Glacier Alley in the Beagle Channel was nothing short of mesmerizing. This stretch of fjords features towering glaciers named after European nations, each uniquely beautiful with shades of blue ice. As we drifted through these serene waters, waterfalls cascaded down cliffs, and the silence was broken only by the occasional thunderous crack of calving glaciers. This region is a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Punta Arenas & Puerto Chacabuco, Chile
Punta Arenas, the gateway to Patagonia, is steeped in history and adventure. We explored its colorful murals, historic Plaza Muñoz Gamero, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the Strait of Magellan. The city’s mix of European influences and indigenous culture makes it a fascinating place to explore.
Puerto Chacabuco, nestled in the heart of the Chilean fjords, is a quiet and unspoiled gem. We embarked on a scenic hike leading to a salmon farm, visited a haunting shipwreck, and took in breathtaking views of the snow-capped Andes. The natural beauty of this stop made it a perfect contrast to the bustling cities we visited earlier.
Puerto Montt & Puerto Varas, Chile
Puerto Montt is a gateway to Chile’s most stunning natural attractions. Our excursion took us to the breathtaking Petrohué Falls, where turquoise waters rush over volcanic rock framed by the towering Osorno Volcano. We also visited the charming lakeside town of Puerto Varas, known for its German influence, scenic beauty, and delicious seafood. This region is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from hiking and kayaking to volcano exploration.
San Antonio to Santiago, Chile
Ending our journey in Santiago allowed us to explore Chile’s vibrant capital and its nearby coastal gems. We made stops in Viña del Mar, famous for its stunning Flower Clock and beaches, and Valparaíso, a UNESCO-listed city known for its colorful street art and historic funiculars. A wine tasting at the Casa del Bosque Vineyard in the Casablanca Valley was the perfect way to wrap up our adventure.
Was It Worth It?
Absolutely. While this trip required a significant investment, this Antarctic Cruise Cost Breakdown made it worth every penny. It allowed us to explore remote landscapes, witness incredible wildlife, and experience South America uniquely.
If you’re considering an Antarctic cruise, Holland America’s itinerary offers the perfect mix of luxury, adventure, and exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or adding Antarctica to your bucket list, this journey will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
For more travel tips, like those shared in this detailed Antarctic Cruise Cost Breakdown, and cruise insights, follow Two Traveling After One and stay tuned for more slow travel adventures!
