Fuel Surcharge Announced for Antarctic Cruises Departing in 2027 | Travel News

A new fuel surcharge has been announced for Antarctic voyages departing from 6 January 2027, following rising fuel costs linked to volatility in global energy markets. The additional charge will apply to both existing reservations and new bookings, with specific limits established for several departures.

The surcharge is set at EUR 33 or USD 37 per passenger, per night. Most of the increased fuel expenses will continue to be absorbed, with only part of the additional cost passed on to travelers under the applicable travel terms and conditions.

 

The measure takes effect immediately for eligible departures, including reservations made before the announcement. Revised invoices will be issued for existing bookings, while the surcharge will be included when new reservations are processed.

Fuel Surcharge Rates and Exceptions for 2027 Voyages

Although the standard charge is calculated according to the number of nights aboard, maximum amounts have been established for certain itineraries. These caps limit the total surcharge payable per passenger on the specified departures.

• Standard surcharge: EUR 33 or USD 37 per passenger, per night, for departures from 6 January 2027.

• OTL27-27 and OTL28-27: Maximum surcharge of EUR 750 or USD 750 per person.

• HDS29-27: Maximum surcharge of USD 750 per person for bookings charged in US dollars.

• PLA33-27: Maximum surcharge of EUR 445 or USD 445 per person.

• PLA33C27: Maximum surcharge of EUR 550 or USD 550 per person when PLA33-27 and PLA34-27 are booked together.

 

 

The additional fee is non-commissionable, meaning travel agents will not receive commission on the surcharge. Travel partners are expected to notify affected clients about the revised pricing.

Why Antarctic Expedition Fuel Costs Are Increasing

Higher fuel prices in Ushuaia, Argentina, a major departure and refueling port for Antarctic expeditions, are contributing to increased operating expenses. Geopolitical developments and instability in global energy markets have placed additional pressure on marine fuel costs.

Antarctic expedition vessels may use Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO), a marine fuel that helps meet environmental requirements in polar regions. This type of fuel generally carries higher costs than conventional marine fuels and can be particularly sensitive to regional supply limitations.

Fuel procurement in Ushuaia also involves transportation and logistical expenses, adding to the cost of supplying vessels operating in remote Antarctic waters. These factors contribute to the financial pressures associated with expedition cruise operations.

The surcharge is intended to recover only a limited portion of the additional fuel expenditure. No specific date has been announced for reducing or withdrawing the charge, although fuel-price developments will continue to be monitored.

For passengers with existing reservations, updated invoices will reflect the applicable surcharge. New bookings for departures from 6 January 2027 will include the additional amount at the time of reservation.