Travel Tips

Honeymoon in Antarctica: Packages, Costs, and What to Expect

Is Antarctica the Ultimate Honeymoon Destination? A Planning Guide

When it comes to planning a honeymoon, most couples envision tropical beaches or luxurious city getaways. But for adventurous souls seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Antarctica offers an extraordinary alternative. With its pristine landscapes, towering glaciers, and unique wildlife, a honeymoon on the world’s most remote continent is as romantic as it is unforgettable.

While visiting Antarctica might seem logistically challenging, this guide will break down everything you need to know about planning your Antarctic honeymoon, including packages, costs, and what to expect from this incredible adventure.

Why Choose Antarctica for Your Honeymoon?

1. Unparalleled Scenery

DEAL 1

Lonely Planet Antarctica (Travel Guide)

Lonely Planet: The world's leading travel guide publisherLonely Planet Antarcticais your passport to...
Get up close and personal with the local penguin populations, cruise the picture-perfect Lemaire...
Get to the heart of Antarctica and begin your journey now! Inside Lonely Planet AntarcticaTravel...

Antarctica is a destination like no other. From shimmering icebergs and snow-capped peaks to vast expanses of untouched wilderness, every view is a postcard-perfect moment.

2. Unique Wildlife

Unlike traditional honeymoon spots, Antarctica allows you to share your special moments with penguins, seals, and whales. Imagine watching a humpback whale breach or walking alongside a colony of gentoo penguins with your partner.

3. Adventure Meets Romance

An Antarctic honeymoon is more than a vacation—it’s an adventure. From zodiac cruises to glacier hikes, every day is packed with thrilling activities that bring you closer together.

4. Exclusive and Memorable

Few people can say they’ve honeymooned in Antarctica. Its exclusivity and the effort it takes to get there make it all the more meaningful, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Honeymoon Packages to Antarctica

Several travel companies offer packages designed for couples looking to experience Antarctica’s beauty while enjoying a romantic and stress-free trip. Here’s what most packages include:

1. Luxury Expedition Cruises

The majority of trips to Antarctica are on luxury expedition ships that combine comfort with adventure. These ships offer:

•Spacious cabins (some with private balconies).

•Fine dining with stunning ocean views.

•Onboard amenities like spas, hot tubs, and saunas.

Example Packages:

•Honeymoon Special Packages: Some cruise operators offer honeymoon perks like private dining experiences, champagne on arrival, or upgraded accommodations.

•Private Charters: For ultimate exclusivity, couples can book private yacht charters to explore the Antarctic Peninsula at their own pace.

2. Fly-Cruise Options

For couples short on time or hesitant about crossing the notoriously rough Drake Passage, fly-cruise packages offer a more efficient way to visit Antarctica. These packages typically include:

•A flight from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island.

•Several days exploring Antarctica aboard an expedition ship.

•Reduced travel time (7–10 days instead of the traditional 12–20 days).

3. Custom Honeymoon Packages

Some operators allow you to tailor your trip to include special experiences like:

•A private zodiac cruise around icebergs.

•A guided glacier hike for just the two of you.

•An onboard celebration dinner with a dedicated chef.

What Does an Antarctic Honeymoon Cost?

Antarctica is one of the most exclusive destinations in the world, and its price reflects that. However, there are options to suit a range of budgets.

1. Budget-Friendly Cruises

•Cost: $5,000–$8,000 per person for a 10–12 day trip.

•What’s Included: Standard cabins, meals, guided excursions, and onboard lectures.

•Who It’s For: Couples seeking adventure without luxury frills.

2. Mid-Range Cruises

•Cost: $10,000–$15,000 per person for 10–14 days.

•What’s Included: Upgraded cabins, personalized dining options, and access to wellness facilities.

•Who It’s For: Couples looking for a mix of comfort and adventure.

3. Luxury Cruises

•Cost: $15,000–$25,000+ per person for 7–14 days.

•What’s Included: Suites with private balconies, fine dining, private guides, and exclusive excursions.

•Who It’s For: Couples wanting a five-star honeymoon experience.

Activities to Expect on an Antarctic Honeymoon

1. Wildlife Encounters

Antarctica is teeming with unique wildlife that adds a magical touch to your honeymoon:

•Penguins: Walk among colonies of emperor, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins.

•Whales: Spot humpbacks, orcas, and minke whales during zodiac cruises.

•Seals: Watch Weddell and leopard seals lounging on ice floes.

2. Zodiac Excursions

Small, inflatable boats (zodiacs) allow couples to get up close to towering icebergs, wildlife, and glacial formations. These excursions are led by expert guides and provide some of the most intimate moments on your trip.

3. Glacier Hikes

For active couples, walking on ancient glaciers offers an incredible sense of scale and adventure. Guided hikes often include educational insights into the continent’s geology and climate.

4. Polar Plunge

Take a dip in the icy waters of the Southern Ocean together for a thrilling and unforgettable bonding experience.

5. Quiet Time Together

While Antarctica is full of adventure, there’s plenty of time for quiet moments. Watch the sunset from the deck, snuggle up in your cabin with a view, or enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the icy expanse.

What to Pack for an Antarctic Honeymoon

Packing for Antarctica requires careful planning to ensure you’re warm, comfortable, and prepared for the elements.

Essentials:

•Waterproof Parka: Many cruise operators provide these, but check ahead.

•Layered Clothing: Base layers, fleece, and insulated jackets are a must.

•Waterproof Boots: Essential for zodiac landings and walks on snow or ice.

•Accessories: Warm hats, gloves, scarves, and sunglasses (to combat glare).

•Camera Gear: Capture every magical moment, from wildlife encounters to scenic vistas.

Tips for Planning Your Antarctic Honeymoon

1. Book Early

With limited departures each year, Antarctic cruises fill up quickly. Book your trip at least 12–18 months in advance to secure your preferred dates and accommodations.

2. Consider Seasonality

The time of year impacts your experience:

•November to December: Pristine icebergs and penguin nesting season.

•January to February: Peak wildlife activity, including penguin chicks and whales.

•March: Fewer crowds and stunning sunsets.

3. Choose a Sustainable Operator

Protecting Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem is essential. Select operators affiliated with the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) to ensure eco-friendly practices.

4. Prepare for Limited Connectivity

Most ships have minimal or no Wi-Fi, so use this time to unplug and focus on each other. Download movies, books, and music ahead of time if you’d like entertainment during downtime.

Combining Antarctica with Other Destinations

Many Antarctic honeymoon packages include stops in South America, offering the chance to extend your adventure. Popular add-ons include:

•Buenos Aires, Argentina: Explore tango shows, delicious cuisine, and vibrant neighborhoods.

•Patagonia, Chile/Argentina: Hike in Torres del Paine or visit Perito Moreno Glacier for more natural wonders.

•Ushuaia, Argentina: Known as the “End of the World,” this charming town is a gateway to Antarctica and a destination in its own right.

Why Honeymooning in Antarctica is Worth It

A honeymoon in Antarctica is more than just a trip—it’s a testament to your shared sense of adventure and your willingness to embrace the extraordinary. Whether it’s gazing at glaciers, sharing a quiet moment under the midnight sun, or braving the polar plunge together, every experience is uniquely yours.

Conclusion

For couples seeking a honeymoon that stands apart from the usual romantic getaways, Antarctica offers an adventure like no other. With tailored packages, luxury cruises, and unforgettable experiences, it’s a destination that combines raw natural beauty with intimate moments. While the costs and logistics might seem daunting, the reward of starting your married life in one of the world’s most remote and magical places makes it all worthwhile.

So, is Antarctica calling your name? If you’re ready to embrace the ultimate honeymoon adventure, start planning today for a journey you’ll treasure forever.

Donation Box

National Traveller: Free for All, Thanks to You

In a world where information often comes with a price tag, we’ve chosen a different path: to stay free, forever. Because we believe in accessible, independent, and trustworthy content for everyone—no barriers, no subscriptions, just great stories, guides, and insights.

But we can’t do it alone. Advertising doesn’t cover our costs anymore, and yet we remain committed to delivering the quality you deserve. Every guide we create, every destination we explore, every piece of advice we share—it’s all made possible by readers like you.

If you value what we do, consider making a voluntary donation. Together, we can keep National Traveller free and thriving for everyone, everywhere. Let’s build a better-informed, better-connected world—starting right here, today. Donate Now

Up Next

Ranking of The Least Polluted Countries in The World in 2024

Don't Miss

10 Things to Eat in Nice And Where