What is the difference between an expedition cruise and a regular cruise?

They are two very different products that share a name. Large cruise liners carrying more than 500 passengers are not permitted to land anyone in Antarctica, so their "Antarctica" itineraries — often sold for a few thousand dollars out of Buenos Aires — cruise past the scenery without ever stopping. An expedition ship carries at most a few hundred passengers, a team of polar guides and a fleet of zodiacs, and its whole purpose is getting you off the ship: shore landings, zodiac safaris and optional activities, usually twice a day.

If standing on the continent matters to you, check the ship size before booking — every departure we list shows its vessel.