An integral part of most Antarctic cruises, the South Shetland Islands let you explore the northernmost islands of the Antarctic Peninsula including Elephant, Livingston, Deception Island & King George Island where you'll cruise past massive icebergs, jagged mountains, and incredible wildlife like penguin rookeries, elephant seals and whales. King George Island is the most highly populated area of Antarctica as many research stations are based here, and Antarctica's principal airport that receives flights from Punta Arenas, Chile is here making it the embarkation and disembarkation point for Antarctica Fly-Cruise trips. Deception Island is perhaps the most famous attraction, being an active volcano resulting in natural beachfront hot springs waiting for those who dare to take the polar plunge!
10 Best South Shetland Islands Cruises for 2024-2025
Even its name is shrowded in mystery. Upon first approaching Deception Island, it's hard to see what's so deceptive about it. It looks similar to the other mountain islands in the region that jut out of the sea.
But turn around the bend and suddenly a slot in the mountain opens up and as our zodiac enters into a narrow opening. We enter into the caldera of an active volcano! The volcano last erupted 1969 and still heats parts of the island resulting in a natural hot springs waiting for those who dare to take the polar plunge!
If you dig the sand away from the shore, you release hot water. Then you have to dig channels to allow the freezing cold ocean water and mix the perfect water temperature.
Adventure Life couldn’t have provided a better travel experience, from the start of planning through the entire tip itself. The agents were very helpful and quickly responsive to our questions and needs. We were well taken care of and the trip was smooth sailing, both literally and figuratively. The cruise line, the hotel, and the extra excursions that Adventure Life provided were superb and without flawsThe price was reasonable when we compared the planned trip to what was offered by others. We would highly recommend both Adventure Life and Emerald Cruise Line to anyone interested in an enjoyable, relaxing, and informative travel experience.
Julie Mabel
1 day ago
I have travelled with Adventure Life previously and certainly eager to do it again. Kassandra made excellent and honest suggestions while taking the time to understand what was important to us.
Susan
2 days ago
They answered every question and concern that I had and put me at ease. Very excited for this once in a life-time trip.
Customer Tim
3 days ago
I am a returning client to Adventure Life and am very pleased with their commitment to put together a great trip. Clara replied and clarified to any and all questions we had.
Claire Palmer
5 days ago
Jessica was very responsive to my questions and never balked when I asked her to go back and find more options. She really worked hard to find the right cruise for us.
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