Princess Cruises Returns to Antarctica With Extended Majestic Princess Voyages

Princess Cruises has announced it will return to Antarctica for the 2026–27 season, offering extended voyages aboard the Majestic Princess. The schedule spans November 19, 2026, to January 23, 2027, with itineraries ranging from 15 to 33 days. Passengers can expect a blend of polar exploration and vibrant South American culture, as each journey traverses iconic waters, from the Beagle Channel Fjords to Glacier Alley, alongside immersive shore excursions in various coastal ports.

Overview of the 2026–27 Return

The Majestic Princess will embark on five departures designed to offer in-depth Antarctic experiences. Travelers can explore dramatic polar landscapes, penguin rookeries, and towering glaciers, complemented by stops in lively South American cities. Embarkation ports include Buenos Aires, Fort Lauderdale, and select Brazilian locations, reflecting Princess Cruises’ commitment to bringing global travelers closer to Antarctica’s remote wonders.

“We’re excited to bring Majestic Princess back to Antarctica with enhanced itineraries that balance comfort, safety, and immersive exploration,” said John Padgett, President of Princess Cruises. “This season underscores our commitment to sustainable, high-quality expedition cruising.”

Key Itineraries and Highlights

Princess Cruises’ itineraries cater to a range of preferences by offering shorter adventures and extended expeditions. Highlights include:

• 15-Day Cape Horn & Glaciers of Patagonia: Departing from Buenos Aires, this voyage focuses on Cape Horn, the Beagle Channel Fjords, and Patagonia’s scenic coastlines.
• 17-Day Antarctica & South America: Includes four full days of Antarctic scenic cruising, showcasing icebergs, penguin rookeries, and key South American ports.
• 18-Day Brazilian Adventure: Sailing from Fort Lauderdale to Buenos Aires, this itinerary blends Caribbean crossings with cultural stops in Brazil and Argentina.
• Up to 33-Day Grand Expedition: Combines multiple routes through South America, allowing for deeper exploration of Antarctic waters and diverse coastal communities.

On each voyage, passengers have opportunities to spot Adélie and emperor penguins, humpback whales, seals, and a variety of seabirds. Scenic cruising through narrow fjords provides close-up glacier views, while onshore experiences introduce local cultural traditions in Argentina, Brazil, and beyond.

Onboard and Scenic Experiences

Designed for panoramic viewing, the Majestic Princess features advanced amenities aimed at maximizing guests’ immersive encounters with Antarctica’s natural wonders. Scenic highlights include the Beagle Channel Fjords and Glacier Alley, where dramatic coastal cliffs and massive glaciers create a striking visual backdrop. Onboard, travelers can enjoy regionally inspired cuisine, enrichment programs, and interactive entertainment celebrating South American art and music.

Environmental and Sustainability Measures

As cruise tourism expands into fragile polar regions, Princess Cruises emphasizes responsible practices. The company adheres to International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) guidelines, employs stricter waste-management protocols, and uses cleaner fuels to mitigate environmental impact. Passengers are also educated on Antarctica’s ecological importance, fostering greater appreciation for this remote territory.

“The 2026–27 Antarctica season on Majestic Princess delivers a blend of wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and once-in-a-lifetime scenery for guests seeking an unforgettable polar adventure,” added Padgett.

Economic and Cultural Impacts

Princess Cruises’ return to Antarctica and South America is projected to bolster local economies in ports of call. Cities in Argentina, Brazil, and other South American nations anticipate an uptick in tourism, hospitality, and retail. Shore excursions encourage travelers to engage with regional customs, sample local cuisine, and attend cultural performances. Many industry observers note that as more cruise lines offer Antarctic itineraries, there is a growing push to balance economic benefits with responsible environmental stewardship, ensuring sustainable tourism growth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is Princess Cruises returning to Antarctica in 2026–27?

Princess Cruises aims to meet growing demand for polar expeditions and leverage the Majestic Princess’s capabilities in ice-influenced waters. The cruise line has a long tradition of Antarctic exploration and is enhancing its itineraries to offer a more immersive experience.

When will the 2026–27 Antarctica season begin?

The season starts on November 19, 2026, and runs through January 23, 2027. Passengers have multiple departure dates to choose from during this period.

What itinerary lengths are available?

Voyages range from 15 to 33 days. Shorter itineraries focus on core highlights such as Cape Horn and Patagonian glaciers, while longer options feature extended exploration in Antarctica and multiple South American ports.

Which wildlife species can guests expect to see?

Travelers often encounter penguins (including Adélie and emperor varieties), humpback whales, seals, and abundant birdlife. Scenic cruising also provides opportunities to observe massive glaciers and icebergs in their natural habitat.

How does Princess Cruises address environmental concerns?

The cruise line follows IAATO guidelines, employs cleaner fuels, and implements advanced waste-management systems to reduce ecological impact. Educational programs onboard also encourage passenger awareness and responsible behavior in Antarctica.

With these extended itineraries and sustainability measures in place, Princess Cruises is poised to deliver an engaging and conscientious return to Antarctic waters for the 2026–27 season.