Departing from King George Island, vessels can visit Penguin Island and Deception Island.

The yachts then cruise south of the South Shetland Islands along the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, sailing along ice-filled fjords and among spectacular icebergs, while enjoying the company of sea birds, penguins, seals, and whales.

On the Antarctic Peninsula, the main sights are the Gerlache Strait, Portal Point, Cuverville Island, Danco Island, Neko Harbour, Paradise Bay, Port Lockroy, Palmer Station, Lemaire Channel, Pleneau Island, Petermann Island, Vernadsky Base, Fish Island, and Detaille Island.

For the truly adventurous, it is possible to push further south into Marguerite Bay. Each day, visitors can disembark by Zodiac and explore the landscape.

Superyachts visiting Antarctica are also required to have an Antarctic Permit, which takes about six months to process, so advance planning is important.

It is also highly recommended that yachts use the services of an expert polar guide and of an Antarctic pilot, who will help advise on vessel choice and modification, apply for and manage your Antarctic permit, and guarantee a safe voyage under the ever-changing weather and ice conditions.

The best cruising months in Antarctica are December through the first half of February.

FACT FILE: ANTARCTICA