Antarctic Peninsula History

Discovered in 1820, the Antarctic Peninsula has witnessed some of the world’s most momentous polar expeditions

Antarctic Peninsula History

Region: Antarctica

Destinations: Antarctic Peninsula

The still-debated discovery of the Antarctic Peninsula

Although confirmed sightings of the Antarctic Peninsula occurred as early as 1820, only the most northern tip (Trinity Peninsula) would be charted for many years. There would be no undisputed and documented landings on the Antarctic Continent until 1853. Even so, some scholars believe that in 1821 American sealers were the first humans to set foot on the continent.

Antarctic Peninsula: a lasting legend of exploration

Since its discovery, the Antarctic Peninsula has been one of the central locations of polar exploration. Roald Amundsen was forced to overwinter just west of the peninsula in 1897, Otto Nordenskiöld’s Swedish Antarctic Expedition landed on the Antarctic Peninsula in 1902, and Ernest Shackleton’s vessel, Endurance, was crushed by sea ice near the peninsula in 1915.

More recent Antarctic Peninsula history

Research stations began appearing in the Antarctic Peninsula around World War II, and most bases on the continent are concentrated there due to the area’s comparatively milder climate. Tourism came to the peninsula in the 1950s, and in 1961 the Antarctic Treaty established Antarctica as a scientific preserve protected from nuclear testing, waste disposal, and industrial development.

Related cruises

Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica - Photographic Special

22 Oct - 11 Nov, 2025

Tripcode: OTL21-25

A cruise to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Peninsula. Visit some of the most beautiful arrays of wildlife on Earth. This journey will introduce you to at least 6 species of penguin and a whole lot of Antarctic fur seals!

Antarctica - Discovery and learning voyage

17 Nov - 27 Nov, 2025

Tripcode: HDS22-25

This Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands cruise delivers you into a landscape of dark rugged rock, pure white snow, and a fantastic variety of wildlife. Come say hello to whales, seals, and thousands of penguins.

Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Antarctica

27 Nov - 16 Dec, 2025

Tripcode: PLA23-25

  • EN

This Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctic Peninsula cruise is an animal-lover’s dream come true. The expedition explores one of the last untamed areas on Earth – a land of ruggedly beautiful landscapes and amazingly varied wildlife.

Antarctica - Basecamp - free camping, kayaking, snowshoe/hiking, mountaineering, photo workshop

27 Nov - 9 Dec, 2025

Tripcode: HDS23-25

The Antarctic Peninsula Basecamp cruise offers you a myriad of ways to explore and enjoy the Antarctic Region. This expedition allows you to hike, snowshoe, kayak, go mountaineering, and even camp out under the Southern Polar skies.

Go to cruise page

from: 10900 USD

Antarctica - Basecamp - free camping, kayaking, snowshoe/hiking, mountaineering, photo workshop

9 Dec - 21 Dec, 2025

Tripcode: HDS24-25

The Antarctic Peninsula Basecamp cruise offers you a myriad of ways to explore and enjoy the Antarctic Region. This expedition allows you to hike, snowshoe, kayak, go mountaineering, and even camp out under the Southern Polar skies.

Go to cruise page

from: 11950 USD

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