Seabourn Venture Sets New Southern Record in Antarctica

Seabourn Venture sailed as far as 70 degrees south during a 12-day Antarctic expedition running from Jan. 28 to Feb. 9, 2026, marking the furthest southern point ever reached by a Seabourn vessel and any ship operated by Carnival Corporation, according to Seabourn.

While crossing the Antarctic Circle, the expedition ship also became the southernmost vessel operating around the Antarctic Peninsula at that time.

The voyage marked Seabourn’s first exploration of George VI Sound, taking the ship well beyond the peninsula’s more frequently traveled routes. Stretching roughly 300 miles, George VI Sound is a significant Antarctic waterway largely covered by a permanent ice shelf. It separates Alexander Island from Palmer Land and is rarely visited due to challenging ice conditions.

Passengers were able to step directly onto Antarctic sea ice at about 69.5 degrees south, where they took part in a champagne toast at the southernmost location ever reached by Seabourn guests.

The expedition also included a landing at historic Base E on Stonington Island, a seldom-visited former British research station that offers insight into Antarctic exploration during the mid-20th century. Base E was originally established in 1946 and later reconstructed in 1960 as a two-story facility. Located at 68 degrees 11 minutes south, the station is considered one of the most southerly historic sites on the Antarctic Peninsula.

Stonington Island played an important role in scientific research, supporting studies in geology, meteorology, and biology.

“Congratulations to Captain Simon Bishop and his team and Expedition Leader Luqui Bernacchi,” Seabourn said on social media. “This is a journey defined by exploration, milestones and once-in-a-lifetime moments.”

The voyage also featured Zodiac landings along the edge of the ice, complemented by in-depth commentary and guidance from the expedition team.