Deception Island

Deception Island is one of several islands making up the South Shetland Islands and may be one of the first places that you visit upon arrival in Antarctica, and en-route to the Peninsula itself. Deception Island is one of the more sheltered harbours in Antarctica and thus a great place for zodiac boat excursions that bring you on to land.

Deception island used to be home to a whaling station, the remains of which can still be seen today, but is now principally visited for its colonies of Chinstrap penguins, as well as its magnificent volcanic landscape. If you're brave enough you can also don your swimsuit and dig into the hot sands of the beach, which heat the ice-cold water around the edge of the island, before setting sail to visit some of the other South Shetland Islands including Livingston Island (where Macaroni penguins have made their home).

Find out more about visiting the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula

Map of Deception Island

Nearby landmarks

Trips that visit Deception Island

Flexibility is the key to success in Antarctica. All voyage routes take advantage of the ever-changing opportunities provided by nature, crafting a unique and extraordinary experience each time.

Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.

Quintessential Luxury Antarctic Sail & Fly

Experience the thrill of sailing across the legendary Drake Passage to Antarctica in one direction, then save time by returning to civilisation via a speedy 2 hour flight. Immerse yourself in the White Continent over 6 expedition days on a…

  • 12 Days
  • $18,000
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Adventure

With a good choice of departure dates through the season across three medium-sized ships, this 19-22 day trip stands out for its value for money and the broad range of cabin categories available, including Quads, which are…

  • 19-22 Days
  • $14,500
South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Voyage

A classic 10-day voyage to the White Continent. Perfect for those wanting great value and comfortable accommodation. Sail aboard a purpose-built X-bow expedition ship with an average of 193…

  • 9-12 Days
  • $6,990
Antarctic Peninsula Helicopter Safari

Helicopters give a jaw-dropping bird's eye view of the White Continent aboard this unique voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula's little-explored northeastern tip. Your outstanding purpose-built vessel has a highly experienced expedition team and two top-of-the range helicopters. Included charter flights…

  • 12 Days
  • $17,290
Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands In Style

Voyage south in Shackleton’s footsteps, exploring the Southern Ocean's highlights as part of this expansive 20-day adventure. A well-balanced itinerary gives plenty of time in each jaw-dropping location. Explore from the comfort of your sleek purpose-built expedition ship, accompanied by…

  • 20 Days
  • $17,895
Crossing the Antarctic Circle

Spend 6 full days exploring Antarctica with the Polar Circle at 66 degrees south as your most southerly objective, on board one of the most exciting new vessels. A maximum of just 130 passengers, with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology and…

  • 13-14 Days
  • $16,195
Quest for the Emperor Penguins of Snow Hill Island

The iconic emperor penguin is the goal of this expedition for wildlife enthusiasts, as your ice-strengthened ship sails into Antarctica’s challenging and little-visited Weddell Sea. Delve deep into historically significant and ice-laden waters, heading for the remote emperor rookery…

  • 11 Days
  • $11,750
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula

Travelling aboard a state-of-the-art small ship and accompanied by unparalleled onboard expertise, expeditionary cruising doesn’t get much better. Regular departures throughout the season and a choice of three outstanding ships renowned for their comfort, enhanced safety features and spirit of…

  • 12 Days
  • $15,380
Antarctic Peninsula Revealed

Sailing on one of the smallest Antarctic expedition ships, this trip offers an intimate experience of the White Continent and maximises your time exploring on land. Trips run in November and March, with four full days​ exploring the Antarctic Peninsula​.…

  • 10 Days
  • $12,995
Spring Quest to Antarctica, Falklands and South Georgia

Setting sail ​early in the season, be aboard ​one of the ​first ship​s to head​ south ​as the Southern Ocean reopens for business​. It's a special time in South Georgia as the beaches are packed with breeding elephant seals, while…

  • 21 Days
  • $13,350