The South Pole by superyacht: the top yachts available for charter in Antarctica

The increasing desire for superyacht owners and charterers to get off the grid is growing, with guests wanting to explore some truly adventurous destinations. Even one of the world’s final frontiers – the wintery reaches of ice-covered Antarctica – has become an attraction for anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime superyacht charter experience. 

Whether you’re a lover of skiing and snow sports or a wildlife-watching enthusiast who’s hoping to spot the region's famous residents like penguins and whales, the Antarctica Peninsula should be on your travel bucket list – and there’s no better way to discover this destination than on a luxury superyacht expedition. 

BOAT takes a closer look at the explorer superyachts currently available for charter in Antarctica to help you plan your voyage to the end of the earth…

Pink Shadow

Stats: 58.3m, Damen Yachting, 2023, 12 guests, 17 crew

What to expect in Antarctica: With a gleaming green hull, an imaginative interior and superior expedition credentials, 58.3-metre Pink Shadow has every feature one could dream of for an expedition yacht. Her interiors are inspired by an epic adventure film set in the Amazon basin and she even has a Habana room on board where guests can wind down with a cigar after a day on the ice. 

Pink Shadow is managed by Y.CO with a weekly charter rate starting from €510,000.

Octopus

Stats: 126.2 metres, Lürssen, 2003, 12 guests, 45 crew

What to expect in Antarctica: Widely considered the first true explorer, 126-metre Octopus famously belonged to Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen before being sold in 2021. Equipped with an ice-classed 1A steel hull, a flotilla of tenders and cool expedition features such as an ROV, Octopus is perhaps the most extravagant way to see Antarctica. 

Octopus is managed by Camper & Nicholsons with a weekly charter rate starting from $2,200,000.

Hanse Explorer

Stats: 47.8m, Fassmer, 2006, 12 guests, 15 crew

What to expect in Antarctica: Returning to the frozen south virtually every season, 48-metre Hanse Explorer is perhaps the most popular choice for Antarctic expeditions. Built in 2006 (and extensively refitted in 2021), she has a high commercial ice classification, refined interiors, and an onboard expedition team to enhance your experience. Accommodation on board is for 12 across
seven comfortable cabins.
Hanse Explorer is managed by EYOS Expeditions with a weekly charter rate starting from $245,000 per week.

Legend

Stats: 77.4m, IHC Verschure, 1974, 22 guests, 28 crew

What to expect in Antarctica: Having started life as a Dutch-built tug in 1974 with Class 1 ice-breaking credentials, 77.4-metre Legend is a seasoned pro of the Antarctic Peninsula. Capable of sleeping 22 guests, she features a commercial helideck, a submarine and a spa pool that can take 16 people. While she may be tough, her interior is more akin to that of a stately home. 

Legend is managed for charter by Y.CO with a weekly rate starting from €625,000.