journey to antarctica

TRAVEL to ANTARCTICA – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Update)

Here is our complete guide to tell you everything you need to know to travel to Antarctica, based on our experiences of visiting and working on the White Continent six times. 

It may just be the number one bucket list adventure for millions of people around the world – travelling to Antarctica!

The remoteness and expense of this incredible destination makes it an unrealised dream for many, but we’re here to help you on your journey to experience it for yourself!

The White Continent is a truly unique place. From its phenomenal landscapes to diverse wildlife, nowhere else on the planet comes close to its beauty.

And that’s not the only things that make it unique. From a political point of view, did you know that there it is the only continent on earth with no official government and no permanent residents?

That’s because in 1959 a couple of countries signed a treaty that over 40 nations follow to this day.

Visiting Antarctica is an experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime.

Whether you would love to hang around with emperor penguins or go  kayaking in the company of humpback whales , or perhaps even climb one of the world’s seven highest summits, there are plenty of reasons to want to pack your bags and  t ravel to Antarctica !

So read carefully and find out why you should stock up on chocolate, what you should bring on your expedition and how to make the most of your trip!

Antarctica Travel Guide

We’ve been lucky enough to travel to Antarctica 6 times, with more trips booked in the near future, and we can safely say it was by the far the most incredible place we have ever visited.

That being said, it’s not an easy trip to make, and it’s especially not a cheap one, so if you’re lucky enough to have the opportunity to embark on a voyage, you’ll be one of only 100,000 people a year that actually visit!

In order to get the most out of your trip you need to be well prepared, so make sure to read through our detailed and informative  Antarctica Travel Guide .

After our very successful tour to Antarctica this season, we are going to be running another exclusive adventure down to the Peninsula in 2025, this time crossing the Antarctic Circle! Check out the  tour page  if you’d like to learn more.

Planning on exploring other parts of the polar regions? Don’t miss our brand new complete guide to help you  travel to South Georgia !

Best Antarctica Cruise – Ultimate Guide to Who & How [2024]

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Here are the basics about travel to Antarctica.

Main Destinations

South Shetland Islands, Port Lockroy, Errera Channel, Lemaire Channel, King George Island

Primarily USD on ships.

ENTRY / VISA:

Visitors to Antarctica do not require a visa, however permits are necessary. These will be acquired on your behalf by the tour operator you are travelling with.

English, Spanish, Russian and others depending on the bases.

Travelling to Antarctica comes with inherent risks such as cold weather exposure and possible wildlife encounters. The remoteness of the destination means medical assistance is not instant. All tour operators have trained medical professionals onboard and will mitigate risks to the best of their ability.

ELECTRICITY:

Depends on the ship you are travelling on.

TRANSPORTATION:

The only commercial airport is on King George Island, with charter flights available from Punta Arenas, Chile. Transport around the continent for tourists is primarily done onboard expedition ships and zodiacs.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Most Important Thing: Travel Insurance !

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN ANTARCTICA

With so much to see and do in Antarctica, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Antarctica you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Step Foot on the Continent

The quintessential experience for anybody visiting Antarctica is to officially step foot on the seventh continent. Make sure you book a tour on a ship that carries less than 500 people (less than 200 ideally) to ensure you can do this.

See our recommended Antarctica cruise operators here .

Go Kayaking or SUPing

Zodiac cruises and shore landings are incredible, but nothing quite beat the silence and connection to nature that you get from kayaking!

Read about how to go kayaking in Antarctica .

Camp Under the Stars

If you love adventure and want real bragging rights, you need to experience the fun of camping the night amongst penguins and icebergs.

Learn about camping in Antarctica .

Do the Polar Plunge

Who would jump off of a perfectly good ship into the frigid Southern Ocean? You, you absolute badass! And you’ll get pictures to prove it.

Zodiac Cruise with Whales

In our opinion, the zodiac cruises you take in Antarctica are often better than the shore landings, particularly if you have epic wildlife encounters. Travel late season for humpback whales!

How to Get to Antarctica

EXCLUSIVE – We have partnered with the world’s top polar tour operator, Quark Expeditions, to offer readers of NOMADasaurus a very special deal on any trip to Antarctica or the Arctic! Contact us ([email protected]) if you’d like to learn more.

READ MORE: Check out our latest guide on how to choose the  best Antarctica cruise !

Departures from South America

• Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands
• Puta Arenas in Chile
• Buenos Aires in Argentina
• Santiago in Chile

Departures from New Zealand & Australia

Can you fly to antarctica.

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE  OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN ANTARCTICA

READ MORE...

What to Wear in Antarctica – Ultimate Travel Packing List

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There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Antarctica, and while you are limited to where the ship can go based on weather conditions and permits, every location is sure to blow your mind.

At just 1600m wide, the Lemaire Channel is one of the most spectacular vistas on the entire Antarctic Peninsula. Navigating through is never guaranteed, but if conditions allow, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Cuverville Island

Cuverville Island lies between the Errera Channel and the Gerlache Strait, and is home to over 7,000 breeding pairs of gentoo penguins.

Deception Island

Deception Island is the caldera of an active volcano, and skilled captains can sail their expedition ships right into the heart of it. It is home to an old, abandoned whaling station.

Hanusse Bay, Antarctic Circle

Hanusse Bay lies south of the Antarctic Circle, and is a wintry, iceberg-riddled and wildlife-dense location on the Peninsula.

Visa Requirements for Antarctica

Antarctica doesn’t belong to any one government or jurisdiction, and for that reason, no visas are required.

That being said though citizens of nations that have signed the Antarctica Treaty’s Protocol on Environment Protection (USA, Canada, EU and Australia) are required to get prior permission before visiting.

Don’t worry though, as this is organised through your licensed tour operator.

5 Interesting Facts About Antarctica

• It’s the coldest continent in the world, with the temperatures in wintertime dropping below -73°C (-100°F). The lowest temperature ever recorded on Earth was in Antarctica, and it was a very balmy -89.2°C (-128.6°F).
• There are no permanent residents of Antarctica, only transit residents (around 1,000), that are usually scientists or workers living in different research stations spread all over Antarctica
• Since Antarctica is situated in the southern hemisphere, winter is from May to October, and summer is from November to April.
• Antarctica is actually a desert! That might be surprising to a lot of people, because when we think of deserts we think of hot, dry, large sand surfaces. Since it doesn’t rain or snow in Antarctica it’s considered a polar desert.
• Antarctica holds 90% of the world’s fresh water!

Keen to learn more? Check out our full list of our favourite  facts about Antarctica !

The Best Time to Travel to Antarctica

Unless you are working for a government organisation, the only time to travel to Antarctica is in the summer.

But what month should you visit in? Well that depends on what you want to see, and what your expectations are.

Read our complete guide on the  best time to visit Antarctica , or read on for more information.

Some may argue that early season is actually the best time to visit Antarctica, because you can see it in its most undisturbed form.

After the long, cold winter, the landscape is covered in a fresh blanket of snow and ice, leaving everything looking clean and pristine (and quite other-worldy).

In terms of wildlife it’s possible to see whales, but not as much as later in the season as the water temperatures are still too cold.

If you visit at this time of year though expect to see lots of penguins, seals and birds.

The main downside to coming in November is that the temperatures are lower and polar ice is still breaking up, which means some areas of the continent are not accessible.

Peak Season – December to February

The peak season coincides with the brief summer, and is by far the most popular time to visit the continent.

Temperatures are at their highest and you get up to 20 hours of sunlight a day!

Whales are starting to visit the waters, baby penguins are plentiful, the birdlife is incredible and you’ll have a much better chance at seeing Antarctica with blue skies.

When we say it is the most popular time to visit though, we mean it. While the tour operators are strictly controlled to where and when they can visit certain areas, you may see other ships around and the foot traffic at the popular spots like Deception Island is much higher.

March to Early April

Late summer in Antarctica is the best time for whale spotting, and while a lot of the other animals have started their migration, you’ll see huge amounts of humpbacks, whales and minkes frolicking in the waters.

This time of year you will have access to almost all areas as the polar ice would have melted.

But with the temperatures slowly starting to drop as the season transitions to winter, it can be unpredictable, and snow storms are more frequent.

We personally believe travelling in the shoulder season is best!

Travel Itineraries Suggestions

When you book your trip to Antarctica your itinerary is more or less determined by whichever journey you sign up for. You can’t deviate from this, so it’s important to pick an itinerary that encompasses everything you’d like to see and do.

Most standard Antarctica itineraries start and finish in Ushuaia, and go for 10 days. This includes 2 days each way to cross the Drake Passage, and a few days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.

If you have more time, and would like to see extra places, we recommend looking for a voyage that visits the Falkland Islands and South Georgia as well. These kind of trips usually last for around 17-20 days.

These archipelagos have tremendous wildlife viewing opportunities, and are filled with fascinating history, such as the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton.

If you want a very in-depth Antarctic Peninsula adventure, you can look at crossing the Antarctic Circle, but only a few select companies do this mission.

We crossed the Circle in 2024 with Quark Expeditions and it was an incredible experience.

Budget for Travelling to Antarctica

We’re going to level with you – A tour to Antarctica is not cheap.

But when you compare everything you get to see and do, as well the remote location of the destination and just what is involved on an expedition, it is actually quite fair.

You can expect to spend anywhere from USD$500 per day right up to $3,000 per day, and this depends completely on the itinerary, the company and the type of berth you want to sleep in on the ship.

If you’re looking to save money on an Antarctica tour, the only way you can do this is to book a ticket last-minute.

Different Styles of Antarctica Tour Packages

When you’re doing your research on trips to Antarctica you might be amazed to see a huge difference in price from one company to the next. So why the fluctuation?

This often comes down to two things – the quality of the ship you will be travelling on, and the reputation of the company.

Cheap Antarctica Tours

Not all companies are created equal, and you need to take this into consideration when booking your trip. If a tour company is super cheap, there’s probably a reason for that.

The service of leaders and staff might not be as good, the ship might be much older, and you might only get a limited number of days on the actual continent.

We’ve seen trips for as cheap as USD$5000. Remember though, you get what you pay for.

Our Secret Tip –  Want to go with a reputable and responsible company to Antarctica, but aren’t ready to pay huge amounts? Book the cheapest cabin on the ship.

You still get the exact same service, same guides, same destinations, same activities, except you’re not paying a huge amount for a fancy room. And the truth is you won’t be spending much time in your cabin anyway, so save your money and just book a cheap berth with a good company.

There are plenty of luxury cruise ships that visit Antarctica, and if this is what you’re into, then perfect.

These ships will have all the creature comforts you’d expect to find on a high-end cruise ship, with hot tubs, swimming pools, masseuses, elevators, etc.

Luxury Antarctic cruises might include charter flight tickets to the Ushuaia too, so you can avoid any complicated flight itineraries and add maximum comfort during your trip.

Sometimes they are part of longer South America trips that start in places like Montevideo in Uruguay or Buenos Aires, and finishing up in Valparaiso in Chile.

But these tailor-made experiences comes at a hefty price, which can go up to $25’000 (or more)!

Is this the best way to visit Antarctica? In our opinion, sometimes – it depends.

You do get what you pay for. You’ll have a newer, better ship with nicer cabins, higher quality food and potentially more experienced expedition staff.

We’ve travelled at both ends of the spectrum – on super budget trips with companies like Intrepid, and high-end luxury ships with Quark Expeditions.

Both had their pros and cons. It comes down to your budget.

Last Minute Antarctica Cruises

So what about these last minute Antarctica cruises that people talk about? Is it really possible to cruise to Antarctica for less than USD$5000?

Short answer, yes. However last minute means last minute, and you’ll often have to travel to Ushuaia and register your interest with a number of tour operators in the town.

If an opening comes up (such as someone cancelling their trip) you’ll be on a waiting list to join the tour. But you may only be given a day or two’s notice, and you may end up spending a week or more down in Ushuaia waiting to hear.

A family we met managed to score some last-minute Antarctica tickets after waiting more than 3 weeks in Patagonia, and when they got the word that it was happening they had 36 hours to drop everything and get to Ushuaia in time to jump onboard.

If you have the time and funds to stay down in southern Patagonia for a few weeks this can be a viable way to visit Antarctica cheaply.

Can I Work on a Cruise Ship to Antarctica?

Yes, you absolutely can. But the idea that you can literally just show up at the dock and get a job cleaning rooms or working in a kitchen is unfortunately not true.

The employees of these companies have months of training and maritime-grade certifications before they are sent on a trip to Antarctica and often have to sign long contracts.

Sorry, to be bearer of bad news, but no, y ou can’t show up in Ushuaia and get a one-off job on a cruise to Antarctica.

Insider’s Tip – Book A Small Group Expedition

Very few people know this when booking their travels to Antarctica, but if you end up on a ship that has more than 200 passengers onboard, your time on the continent is severely limited!

That’s because IAATO rules states that no more than 200 people from any one voyage can get off the ship at any one time, and no more than 100 people can step foot on the continent at once, so if your tour has more than this, you’ll end up spending a lot of time waiting on the ship while the other group is off exploring.

If you have between 100-200 people onboard, you do what’s known in the industry as a ‘split landing’ – basically half the group go ashore while the other half zodiac cruise, then you swap midway through the excursion.

In our expert opinion this isn’t a bad thing. We personally prefer zodiac cruising anyway.

Even worse though, if you end up booking a large cruise ship with more than 500 people onboard, IAATO regulations mean nobody gets off the ship.

That means you won’t even get the chance to do anything more other than simply look at the landscapes from afar.

And while this is still pretty amazing, in our opinion you’re paying all this money to go there – you may as well actually step foot on Antarctica!

Here’s an article to give you some more  tips on how to choose a tour.

Top 5 Places to Visit in Antarctica

Antarctica is one of the most isolated places in the world and as such it has managed to maintain its pristine nature with minimum human impact (although climate change is reeking havoc down there).

For anyone wishing to enjoy the dramatic landscapes covered in polar ice and beautiful wildlife, make sure your cruise includes our top places to visit in Antarctica!

The Lemaire Channel

The Lemaire Channel is a narrow passage on the Antarctic Peninsula that is stunningly beautiful to navigate. On all sides you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, tumbling glaciers and glistening icebergs.

It’s also a dream come true for marine life lovers, as you can spot all kinds of seals and even whales, including humpbacks and orcas!

No matter how cold it gets, we guarantee you won’t go below the deck in fear you might miss something!

Deception Island always proves to be a highlight of people’s travels to Antarctica as it is incredibly beautiful, and has a human element to it with the old whaling station.

But why the name Deception Island? That’s because even though it looks like just an island, it’s actually a caldera of an active volcano!

The waters here are a tad warmer than the rest of the seas around, making it a popular spot for people to do the polar plunge.

Vernadsky Research Station

No trip to Antarctica would be complete without spending some time at a functioning science base, and luckily you can do just that at Vernadsky Research Station!

This Ukrainian-run base has a lot of history, and today the scientists working there open their doors to visitors.

It’s even home to the southern-most bar in the world! Read all about it in our article about  Vernadsky Research Station.

South Shetland Islands

The South Shetland Islands are a small group of islands about 120km north of the Antarctic Peninsula.

Their location makes them one of the most visited places on the peninsula, and they are a great place to visit in Antarctica because of the huge population of elephant seals and penguins.

South Georgia and the Sandwich Islands

While  South Georgia  and the Sandwich Islands don’t actually belong to Antarctica (they are part of the United Kingdom), we couldn’t write a list about the top places to visit without mentioning this place.

It has been called the Serengeti of the Southern Ocean due to the abundance of wildlife that congregates there.

You can see hundreds of thousands of king penguins hanging out on beaches, 4-tonne elephant seals battling each other for mates and the largest bird in the world, the Wandering Albatross.

South Georgia can be included on a few Antarctic cruise itineraries, so if you have the time we highly recommend visiting.

Top 5 Travel Experiences in Antarctica

So what exactly is there to do in Antarctica? Plenty!

We wrote this comprehensive guide on the  best things to do in Antarctica , but let us break down some of the highlights here.

Camping Under the Stars

Yes it is entirely possible to go  camping in Antarctica , but only if you join the right tour operator that provides the right gear.

It might sound risky because of the extreme weather conditions, but that’s why you should only do it with a company that takes all safety measures seriously.

You will sleep in winter-grade bivvy sacks with high-quality sleeping bags, and the expedition leaders will monitor the weather systems closely to make sure that it’ll be the optimum evening to do so.

The adventure won’t seem as challenging once night sets and you get thrown into a daze by views of the open sky and stars, with zero light pollution around to hide the universe.

Laying under the stars and waking up to the sun rising over the vast snowy landscape will be etched into your mind forever.

Take the Polar Plunge

How does swimming in the world’s coldest place sound to you? Well you can do just that in Antarctica, and it’s an experience that’ll give you the ultimate bragging rights.

Whether you’re jumping from a boat or do a sprint into the icy waters at the beach on Deception Island, it’s going to be frigidly cold. But the pain only lasts a minute, and you’ll have expert guides around you to warm you up with blankets and hot chocolate.

Climb Mount Vinson

For those that want a serious adventure, and have the skills to go with it, why not consider climbing the tallest mountain in Antarctica, Mount Vinson!

The mountain is 4897m high, but of course this isn’t for the average traveller to Antarctica, and you won’t find a standard cruise ship that goes there.

It’s one of the world’s seven highest summits, making it a must-do for any mountaineer looking to achieve the Holy Grail.

Kayaking With Whales

Sea kayaking in Antarctica is one of the best adventure activities on the continent, and it’s easy to see why.

Surrounded by icebergs, calm waters and huge glaciers, you can spend hours paddling around, being constantly amazed at the scenery.

This is the best way to get closer to Antarctica’s rich marine life, and if you’re really lucky, you might even have a close encounter with a humpback whale!

Hanging Out With Penguins

Hanging out with penguins is everyone’s number one item on their Antarctica bucket list.

There are six types of penguins living in Antarctica and they are one of the few animals on the continent that is pretty much a guarantee to see no matter when you go!

The guideline on interacting with wildlife on Antarctica is that you have to keep your distance, at least 5 meters away from all wildlife, but if they approach you that’s no problem!

These friendly birds are very unfamiliar with humans, so chances are they will come right up to you if you just hang out and wait.

Transport in Antarctica

Unless you’re working on a research station, the only form of transport you’ll get to experience in Antarctica is the floating kind.

Cruise or Expedition Ships

The main mode of transport in Antarctica is by ship, and you have a couple of different options – A luxury cruise ship, or a research expedition ship.

Cruise ships are comfortable and luxurious, but they might also lack the character and sense of adventure that you’d expect from a place like Antarctica.

We most recently travelled on a  polar expedition vessel called the Ultramarine , and it was amazing in that they were conducting real-life science research as we went.

Zodiacs (Inflatable Rubber Boats)

This is the most common, and fun way, to get your way around Antarctica.

They are used for getting from your ship to shore, or for just exploring around the gorgeous seas. They are open-air, which means you’re exposed to the elements, so make sure you wear plenty of protective gear.

We’ve already spoken about kayaks before, but if you have the chance to paddle around the continent you should definitely take it!

Safety in Antarctica

While Antarctica truly delivers on the promise of untouched nature and rich wildlife, one should seriously prepare to be exposed to the harsh climate and one of the most dangerous environments in the world.

But don’t stress too much about it – Chances are you’ll only be travelling to Antarctica in the summer, where the temperatures are warmer anyway.

Plus all Antarctic tours have qualified and experienced medical staff onboard, so you’ll be in safe hands.

Rough Sea Weather

When crossing the Drake Passage, which is a gruelling 48-hour journey, there’s a chance that you will encounter some rough sea weather.

Don’t worry though, because expedition ships are designed to charge through even the most turbulent of seas, so even though you might feel scared, the boats are absolutely fine.

If you’re prone to sea sickness you can take strong medication to help, or if you’re absolutely petrified we suggest booking a trip that has a flight to King George Island instead of boarding the cruise ship in Ushuaia or Punta Arenas.

Walking On Ice

The key to crossing the icy sections of the continent are to have good quality boots.

Sometimes the tour operator will supply you with these boots, but make sure you do your research before you show up.

The guide will offer you some practical advice how to walk across icy sections. Usually those instructions consist of keeping a slow pace and short, confident steps where you plant your feet.

Harsh Climate

The main issue travellers to Antarctica will come across is the harsh climate, so make sure you come prepared.

You need to pack all the necessities before you come, because the right clothing is the most important factor in whether you will have a good time or not.

Learn to layer up, because the temperature can change rapidly, and the last thing you want is to have one giant, warm coat on when the sun comes out, meaning all you have underneath is a t-shirt.

The expedition leaders will keep an eye on the weather to help keep you safe in Antarctica.

Cruise Ship Safety

Most incidents that happen to cruise ships in Antarctica involves the pack ice, but this is an extremely rare occurrence in this day and age.

It’s important to know that your tour operator evaluates all risks and manages the trip around perceived hazards. Safety is their number one priority.

Today we’re able to predict icebergs, pack ice and unexposed hazards with forward-scanning sonar and ice radars, and all cruise ships have them in use.

Medical System in Antarctica

All tour operators have a medical team on-board for any possible health issues you may encounter.

The only thing up to the traveller to take care of is to make sure you get the proper vaccinations before the expedition.

The vaccines that you should be up-to-date on are:

• Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine
• Diphteria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine
• Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine
• Polio vaccine

The risk of acquiring of any of those diseases comes from the fact that they’re easily spread from person to person, and the close living quarters.

You will be sharing same space with people from many different parts of the world which carries an increased risk of contracting a disease.

Packing List for Antarctica

Making sure to pack everything you need for your Antarctica travels is the most vital part of your travel preparations.

Some of the tour operators will supply you with adequate waterproof jacket, pants and boots, but make sure to check with them.

Check out our detailed guide on  what to wear in Antarctica  to get you prepared.

Men And Women

• Waterproof jacket
• Waterproof pants
• Boots (with the most grip)
• Thermal underwear
• Thermal socks x2
• Merino wool socks x3
• T-shirts x4
• Long sleeve shirt x1
• Hooded jumper x1
• Down jacket x1
• Wind/rain jacket x1
• Glove liners x1 pair
• Ski gloves x1 pair
• Buff bandana x2
• Sunglasses x1

Miscellaneous Items

• Camera (here’s  our list of the absolute best travel cameras on the market )
• Wide angle & zoom lens
• Spare batteries x4
• SD memory cards x4
• Waterproof cases for electronics

Travel Tips To Antarctica

• Wear layers! In some moments when you physically exert yourself you will start feeling a bit hot so then you should take off a layer. Later on when you feel cold again just put it back on – it’s important to regulate the body temperature.
• Invest in your camera equipment! This is a trip that most people only take once in their lifetime – you want to be sure to  make memorable photos of it.
• When booking your cruise make sure that somewhere it says ‘step foot on the continent’ because some cruise ships don’t allow passengers to leave the vessel!
• Think of flying to Buenos Aries before connecting to Ushuaia. It might end up a cheaper and you can arrive a day or two earlier to explore Buenos Aries.
• Buy a  good travel insurance policy ! Antarctica is so isolated and unpredictable that your travel policy should always include an emergency evacuation charge!

Table of Contents

Read our antarctica blog posts, the best time to visit antarctica – month by month breakdown.

Ultimate ANTARCTICA Travel Guide

Antarctica is officially the 7th continent  and southernmost located destination on earth. Travel to Antarctica is a true adventure and not for the weary. Sailing to the continent is done through rough waters and takes days.

The two most visited areas are the Antarctic Peninsula that can be accessed Ushuaia, Argentina in South America by ship or flight, and the Ross Sea ice cap that can be accessed from  New Zealand  by ship.

The most popular place to visit in Antarctica is the  Antarctic Peninsula  though, as sailing from South America is easier.

Itineraries to the Antarctic Peninsula start at 11 days and up to 25 days depending on whether you choose an itinerary that visits some of the surrounding islands, such as the Falkland or South Georgia islands.

Hands down, Antarctica travel is one of the most unique experiences you will ever have in your life. You’ll visit massive penguin rookeries, experience ice in a way you didn’t know was possible, and enjoy whales from every angle.

Destinations

Antarctica travel: quick tips, don’t visit antarctica without:.

MOUISTURIZING CREAM

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

ANTARCTICA BUCKET LIST

Cross the drake passage.

Sailing the notorious seas between South America and Antarctica is one the greatest adventures you can ever embark on. Enjoy wildlife watching, iceberg spotting, and the open ocean.

OBSERVE PENGUINS

Antarctica is the best place in the world to observe penguins. Expeditions will get you up close and personal with Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins. It is also possible to see Adelie, Emperor, and King penguins depending on your itinerary. 

MARVEL AT BIG ICE

The ice in Antarctica is no joke and you’ll find yourself standing in awe as you get up close to massive icebergs. You’ll learn about ice formation, types of bergs and have the chance to identify them on your excursions away from the ship.

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN ANTARCTICA

While a trip to this part of the world may seem redundant at first glance, there is a surprising amount of things to do in Antarctica when you get there.

The trick will be getting to actually do them because weather and wild animal patterns mean nothing is ever guaranteed.

POLAR PLUNGE:   A trip to Antarctica would not be complete without participating in a chilly polar plunge. This can be done wither from the shore of the ship but regardless of how you get in the water, we guarantee it will be a cold dip!

VISIT PORT LOCKROY:  The remains of an old British research station is now operating as a small gift shop, post office and museum for visitors to Antarctica. The penguins have also moved in, meaning it’s a good place to watch nesting behavior.

WHALERS BAY:  The remains of an old whaling station haunt the shores of the volcanic Deception Island. Visiting here is a surreal experience that is paired with tall snow-capped mountains and steaming black sand beaches.

WHALE WATCHING:  Antarctica is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Hundreds of whales across many species migrate into polar waters to feed on krill during the southern summer. This means your chances of seeing whales up close, especially humpbacks, is high.

SNOW HIKING:  One of our favorite things was to hike on the continent. After landing by zodiac we were allowed to explore the landing area, sometimes leading up onto high lookouts. We encountered penguins, birds and could often see whales feeding in the waters just off the coast.

KAYAKING:  There are fewer ways to get intimate with the natural beauty of Antarctica. Most ships offer an onboard kayak program that will allow you to paddle in the Antarctic waters during your trip, weather allowing.

CAMPING:  I know, this sounds crazy but you can absolutely camp out in Antarctica. Some of the expedition companies that frequent Antarctica offer the option to spend a night away from the ship. It’s an unreal experience and if you’re interested, be sure to book in advance of your trip to ensure you get a spot.

Pack like a pro on your trip to ANTARCTICA!

Popular regions in antarctica, antarctic peninsula.

The Antarctic Peninsula is the most northerly part of the Antarctic continent and the most southerly area that’s generally visited by  cruises  when it comes to Antarctica travel. The peninsula is separated from Tierra del Fuego, the most southerly point in South America, by the infamously rough and stormy Drake Passage .  It’s a dramatic and seemingly inhospitable place. Huge icebergs and vast ice sheets can be found in the surrounding waters, even in summer, and high, ice-topped mountain peaks rise above the peninsula. It’s the last frontier in the world for tourists, but it’s surprisingly busy with wildlife.  Across the peninsula you can find colonies of penguins, you can watch seals hunting from afar, and watch albatrosses flying through the air. Visitors can kayak through icy fjords, you can call into the Antarctic research centers found on the peninsula, and you can even camp out under the stars.

Visiting Antarctica from New Zealand is an option that is commonly overlooked. This for a couple of reasons but mainly due to the lack of operators that offer this route.   That said, this makes visiting this part of Antarctica really elusive and special.  Itineraries to the Ross Sea leave from Invercargill, New Zealand, and visit a series of sub-Antarctic islands like Macquarie Island, Auckland Islands, and the Snares before heading further south.  They then reach the Ross Sea region where several days are spent exploring Antarctica the same as you would along the Antarctic Peninsula. 

FALKLAND ISLANDS

The Falkland Islands are found far north of the Antarctic continent and are on the boundary of the sub-Antarctic region. They are a popular stop on many Antarctica travel cruises, as itineraries will include the islands before continuing further south.  Off the coast of Argentina, the Falklands are perhaps most infamous for the ongoing dispute that’s pitted Argentina against the United Kingdom, as the islands are a British Overseas Territory. You can experience life on the edge of the world when you visit the small capital of Stanley, explore the history of this remote destination, and the many conflicts that have rocked it, and even drink a few beers in a British pub. The Falklands are wild and windswept, and you can find large colonies of penguins across the islands. Bird lovers will be able to spot Albatrosses, while there are a surprisingly large number of introduced species of animals too, including thousands of sheep. 

SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS

The South Shetland Islands are an archipelago that’s found to the north of the Antarctic Peninsula. They are a popular stop for many cruises taking visitors to enjoy their Antarctica travel experience because the islands are a haven for wildlife in an otherwise icy world. This is one of the most-visited parts of Antarctica, because the islands lie closer to South America, and have a warmer climate than the Antarctic Peninsula. One of the best places to visit is Deception Island , a barren, semi-submerged island that’s actually the caldera of an active volcano. It’s home to thousands of penguins, black sand beaches, and the abandoned remnants of whaling stations.  The largest island is King George Island, where you’ll find a large number of permanent research stations and even an airport. Penguin Island is another volcanic island that, as the name would suggest, is popular for those looking to see large numbers of penguins in the wild.

SOUTH GEORGIA

South Georgia is even more remote and isolated than the Falkland Islands, and along with the South Sandwich Islands, it’s another British Overseas Territory. South Georgia is the largest island in the archipelago, but no one really lives here permanently. It’s an inhospitable land on the edge of Antarctica, and it’s the perfect place for anyone looking to escape the rest of the world. You can find King Penguins, seals, and plenty of whales around the island, while there’s also a surprisingly large number of historical sights. You can pay your respects to an Antarctic explorer at Ernest Shackleton’s grave, you can visit the tiny ‘capital’ at King Edward Point, where a few hardy individuals brave the winters, and you can visit old whaling stations strung around the island. 

ANTARCTICA TRAVEL BUDGET

Antarctica travel has a reputation for being expensive, but considering what you are experiencing and what’s generally included in the cruise packages, they can be surprisingly good value.

Independent travel to the region is virtually impossible, so the only way that you’re getting here is on a cruise, or on a fly-cruise.

Packages vary in cost depending on the length of the trip, your standard of onboard accommodation and the destinations and activities included. Accommodation and food will be included in the total cost, but optional activities such as sea kayaking will cost more.

Flights to the departure point will not be included in most cases. You can get discounts by booking up last-minute spots that have yet to be filled, or by traveling on cruises scheduled to depart at the beginning and end of the summer season.

More expensive cruises may include guest speakers and onboard scientific researchers who will be able to enlighten you along the way. Always check what’s included before booking any Antarctica travel package.

STARTING AT $6,000 USD

While extreme budget travel is never possible when it comes to Antarctica travel, there are ways to get around high costs. The cheapest cruises start from around USD 6000 for a classic 10-day voyage from Argentina, to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll have a basic, shared cabin.

STARTING AT $10,000 USD

Mid-range cruises generally cost upwards of USD 10,000 for a longer voyage taking in more destinations, such as the Falklands and South Georgia, as well as the classic routes along the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.

STARTING AT $20,000 USD

When it comes to luxury cruises in the Antarctica travel sphere, the costs can be endless. If you have the money and time you can easily spend upwards of USD 20,000 for a comprehensive multi-week itinerary with excellent food and onboard guest speakers.

ETHICAL ANTARCTICA TRAVEL

While comparatively few tourists visit Antarctica compared to other destinations across the world, this area of wilderness in the south is unused to human activity.

In the past, animal populations have come to the brink of extinction because of unethical human practices such as whaling or seal hunting.

While this does not happen anymore, the new challenge for Antarctica is increasing tourism, and ethical tourism practices need to be followed to protect the area, as per the IAATO Code.

As a tourist, you need to be aware of your impact on the environment, and that means leaving it as you found it.

Do not litter or discard any trash, either in the ocean or on land. Don’t leave anything behind, but equally don’t take anything you shouldn’t with you, be it as simple as a rock or pebble.

Many travelers visit Antarctica  for the wildlife , and the animals need to be respected. Follow the guidelines at all times, and stay within designated distances from the wildlife. As cute as those penguins might look, don’t get too close.

IAATO CODE IN ANTARCTICA

The IAATO is the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, an organization that was founded in 1991 by a group of private tour companies dedicated to the development of sustainable tourism in the region.

Their focus has always been on safe and environmentally friendly tourism practices within Antarctica, and their code of conduct is a manifesto that’s followed by private companies operating in the area.

The IAATO Code’s objectives compel visitors to Protect Antarctica Wildlife, Respect Protected Areas, Respect Scientific Research, Be Safe, and Keep Antarctica Pristine.

They set comprehensive guidelines that should be adhered to by all private tour companies looking to operate in Antarctica. These rules must be followed by all travelers looking to experience this untouched natural world, so it can be kept pristine for future generations.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN ANTARCTICA

Trips to Antarctica are always predominantly cruise based, however, there are options for you to fly from Argentina to King George Island in the South Shetlands, where you can join a cruise.

You can also fly into the Falklands from Santiago, in Chile, or you can even catch a Royal Air Force transport from the United Kingdom if you are a British citizen.

For most of your trip though, you’ll be on an expedition ship, but offshore excursions to many islands will see you transferring to small Zodiac boats. It is also possible to explore Antarctica by sea kayaking or hiking during landings.

TOP ANTARCTICA TOURS

Antarctic explorer.

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WHEN TO VISIT ANTARCTICA

Being located at the far southern pole, Antarctica has a harsh climate that can only be experienced by tourists in the summer months. The summer, tourist season runs from  October through to March , and all Antarctica travel is undertaken within this window.

Your travel experience may vary though, within the summer months, and deciding when to go will depend on what you want to actually see.

If it’s penguins you’re after, then the colonies are at their most active between December and February, when it’s hatching season. Whales can be seen through much of the summer, with the most sightings occurring between January and March.

At the start of the season, from October to November, you can experience the vast ice sheets as they break up when the weather begins to warm up.

The start and end of the season are generally quieter times, as fewer ships make voyages, due to rougher seas, colder weather, and fewer wildlife sightings.

For more information, check out the  Antarctica By Month: Best Time To Go To Antarctica

LEARN ABOUT ANTARCTICA BEFORE YOU GO

Safety in antarctica.

While the Antarctic is an inhospitable place, joining a cruise will see you in safe hands. The potential for danger though, is much higher than your standard cruise anywhere else in the world, due to the harsh climate and conditions that you’ll encounter.

You may experience rough weather onboard, even in summer, so you will want to take precautions if you get seasick easily. Most cruises have an onboard doctor who can help in case of sickness. In rough weather, you will not want to move around too much either, as accidents can easily occur.

It is extremely important that you abide by all rules and warnings that are issued by the onboard expedition staff. If they tell you to keep one hand free for the boat when moving around, do it.

If they tell you to wait before exiting a zodiac, listen. Simple instructions can save you from serious injury and they are not to be taken lightly.

As with any destination, we recommend learning and adhering to certain safety practices when you travel. Be sure to read our personal  travel safety tips , compiled from our travels across 7 continents.

ANTARCTICA TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Antarctica travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Antarctica and start planning your dream trip.

People Go Snorkeling in Antarctica? (Spoiler: We Did!)

21-day antarctica & south georgia expedition (full trip overview), how to visit antarctica responsibly: antarctica tourism deep dive, antarctica animals – wildlife animals that you can see during a visit, 26 unreal things to do in antarctica, antarctica by month: best time to go to antarctica, 34 antarctica cruise tips you must know before you go, deception island: a different side of antarctica, 121 epic antarctica facts, surviving the crossing of the drake passage adventure, climate change awareness from travel: how to talk about it, should i go to antarctica best time to visit and travel guide.

Ask LP: how can I travel to Antarctica?

Oct 7, 2020 • 3 min read

Antarctica's tourist season starts in November © DreamPictures / Getty Images

The far south of the world may have escaped the pandemic that’s locked down life elsewhere, but that doesn’t mean this summer season is smooth sailing. Antarctica has no cases of COVID-19  – partly due to efforts to keep it that way, and partly reflecting the restrictions placed on other countries. This impacts scientists who make up the temporary residents of the continent and also threatens the Antarctic tourist season, which generally runs from November to March or April.

In a normal year, travelers would converge on Ushuaia (Argentina), Punta Arenas (Chile), and, less frequently, ports in New Zealand and Australia to embark on the long journey south. The shortest route – across the swells and choppy waters of the Drake Passage from South America – takes two to three days to reach the Antarctic Peninsula . Air options like DAP’s overnight trips to King George Island in the South Shetland Islands ($6500 per person from Punta Arenas, Chile) usually gives another way to reach the far south from South America for a more limited time. Services are currently suspended.

There are two big obstacles to getting to Antarctica this year. One is the lack of cruises – most operators have cancelled their schedules for the remainder of the this year and early next year. If cruises can happen at all this season it will be towards the end of the usual period of operation. Hurtigruten has cancelled Antarctica departures until January 2021, but hopes to resume operations then. 

The other is the inaccessibility of gateway destinations. At the time of writing there’s no way into Chile , Argentina , New Zealand and Australia for foreign tourists. All these countries have closed their borders to non-nationals since March, and Argentina has recently paused plans to allow international flights back into the country until at least October 11. In all likelihood, this will be longer. Sub-Antarctic destinations have their own entry restrictions. The Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) are only accessible for essential travel with reduced air links. In order to reach Antarctica, any departing travelers heading south would need to transit Argentina (or one of the other jumping-off countries) and transfer directly to their cruise ship. As you’d expect there’s no confirmed plan for this at present. 

Adding all this up, 2020–21 may be a better time to save for a future Antarctic odyssey. However knock-on demand for 2021–22 is likely to be strong, as capacity is always limited and there is an Antarctic solar eclipse in November next year. That said, specialist travel companies are also keen to encourage booking, and deals for next year are available through experts like Discover the World .

One way for ice-cap enthusiasts to get their fix from Australia is to take a seat on one of the  scenic overflights of the continent run by Antarctica Flights . These 12 hour journeys – using a 787 Dreamliner for the first time – depart from various Australian airports from November to March. They don’t touch down and therefore count as a domestic charter flight. Currently there is not a requirement to wear a mask on these flights.

You might also like:

Is it sustainable to visit Antarctica?    How to pack for a trip to Antarctica    The eternal lure of icebergs: fulfilling a life-long dream of visiting Antarctica   

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• Antarctica & Arctic
• Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent

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Journey to the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)

14 days | follow the footsteps of early explorers on a journey across the antarctic circle.

Set sail for an adventure like no other. Spend 14 days following in the wake of Captain Cook as you cross the Antarctic Circle, home to the midnight sun and towering icebergs. On board the well-appointed Ocean Endeavour, leave Ushuaia and civilisation behind and journey towards the hauntingly beautiful icy wilderness of the Antarctic Continent. Experience the thrill of witnessing seals lie on ice floes, whales breaching the frigid waters and penguins patrolling the rocky shoreline in vast numbers. Enjoy jaw-dropping views witnessed by seldom few as you explore ice-filled bays by Zodiac, landing on Antarctica itself for onshore excursions.

Trip overview

• Enjoy daily Zodiac excursions to iconic landing sites, abundant with birdlife and busy penguins, and witness icebergs in a thousand different shades of blue.
• Experience almost endless daylight in high summer once you are inside the Antarctic Circle. Then, push further south than most Antarctic expeditions venture, exploring the remoteness of this less-visited part of the Antarctic Peninsula.
• Customise your trip with a wide range of optional activities on top of regular Zodiac excursions. Explore the water by kayak, sign up for a photography masterclass, rejuvenate with onboard yoga and massages or take a refreshing polar plunge.
• While most polar expeditions of this kind have a crew-to-passenger ratio of ten, fifteen or twenty to one, Intrepid expeditions on the Ocean Endeavour have an expedition crew member for every eight passengers for a greater personal touch.
• Our experienced leaders have made hundreds of polar voyages between them. They’re experts in marine biology, glaciology and Antarctic history, and they’ll share their knowledge throughout the journey during a comprehensive lecture program.
• The Ocean Endeavour is an ice-strengthened ship – large, sturdy and suited to the unpredictable Antarctic waters. Some people may experience seasickness in occasional rough seas however, we do have a doctor on board should you need assistance. Over-the-counter seasickness medication is usually an easy fix.  
• Temperatures in the Antarctic can get very cold, but it also can get surprisingly warm when the sun comes out. We recommend dressing in layers when you journey outside. We’ll provide you with waterproof boots on loan that are sturdy and warm, as well as an inner jacket that is yours to keep. Please see the Essential Trip Information for notes on what to pack. 
• Depending on the weather, you’ll be travelling around in a Zodiac boat quite regularly to explore the area and search for wildlife. It can get cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you dress appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. A fair level of mobility is needed for wet and dry landings from the boat, as well as on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces. The Ocean Endeavour has a lift, but you’ll need to take the stairs to get to the gangway and some other parts of the ship that the lift does not provide access to. 
• The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and, although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in such a remote area like the Antarctic. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to other locations – which are just as interesting and beautiful! We may also be confined to the ship during rough weather, but there are plenty on onboard resources and activities. The ship’s library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the wellness spa, saunas, gym and yoga classes will keep you fresh for when the weather clears. 

Welcome to Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica, located at the southern tip of Argentina. These parts are known as Tierra del Fuego, often called ‘The End of the World’, but this is just the beginning of your Antarctic adventure. You’ll meet your fellow travellers at the hotel this afternoon, where a welcome briefing will take place. If you arrive early, there are plenty of ways to entertain yourself. Those with a day or two in hand may want to head to Tierra del Fuego National Park on a full day’s adventure, or if you've only got a few hours to kill then why not take a stroll around town and visit the waterfront overlooking the Beagle Channel, or get a taste of Argentina’s famous cuisine at a local restaurant.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

An arrival transfer from the airport on Day 1 is included in your voyage fare. Full details will be sent with your final joining instructions.

Enjoy some free time to explore Ushuaia and the surrounding area before boarding the Ocean Endeavour this afternoon. Once settled, you’ll cast off and make your way through the Beagle Channel towards the infamous Drake Passage. Named after Charles Darwin’s historic ship The Beagle, the deep open water of the channel presents many great photo opportunities. Be sure to wave goodbye to South America if you're not too busy snapping away at the incredible landscapes – your next land sighting will be the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.

• Ocean Endeavour (1 night)
• Welcome Briefing

The Drake Passage is one of the most famous bodies of water on the planet. It can be a little rough, but if weather conditions are good, you can head out on the outer decks for a chance to spot ocean dwellers like whales and dolphins, or perhaps seabirds including the spectacular wandering albatross, prions and petrels. Over the next two days, you'll get to know your expedition team experts as our comprehensive lecture program gets underway. Your polar experts will share their knowledge of the Antarctic region so you can gain a great understanding of its wildlife, history and geology and help prepare you for the adventure that lies ahead. Your expedition team are experts on the marine life that inhabit these parts and will help scout for sightings as you join them on the Ocean Endeavour's bridge and spacious outer decks. With favourable conditions, you are scheduled to arrive at the Antarctic Peninsula late on the evening of day four.

• Ocean Endeavour (2 nights)
• Breakfast (2)
• Citizen Science Program
• Onboard Lecture Program
• Daily Briefings and Recap
• Onboard Gym and Sauna - Free
• Photography Program - USD1299
• Onboard Spa treatments (various prices apply) starting from - USD95
• Yoga and Meditation Classes - Free

The Photography Program has limited spaces available and must be prebooked via your booking agent prior to travel.

It’s time to take your first steps on Antarctica, courtesy of a Zodiac cruise through the icy waters. There are several potential landing sites including Neko Harbour, Petermann Island and Port Lockroy, and while weather dictates which specific site you'll land at, each of them presents an opportunity to get up close with some truly incredible wildlife, watch penguins waddle and seals slide as icebergs and glaciers crackle and crumble.

If you have any questions, look to your expedition team to inspire and educate you about this fascinating part of the world. A range of adventure options are available if you’re feeling active, including snowshoeing, kayaking and day paddling You'll also have an opportunity to take a polar plunge off the Ocean Endeavour. There’s nothing quite like a quick dip in the Antarctic’s icy depths to wake you up!

Antarctica will enchant you with its incredible scenery, from imposing glaciers to towering snow-capped peaks, vast icebergs, and ice strewn channels. Not to mention the wildlife – from extensive colonies of chinstrap, gentoo and Adelie penguins, to crabeater, Weddell, fur and elephant seals and a plethora of fascinating birds. When you are on board the Ocean Endeavour, the expedition team will keep the education going with a range of wildlife and history presentations and documentary screenings, or you can make the most of the onboard wellness facilities including a spa, saltwater pool, sauna and gym, or perhaps join a yoga class with the incredible backdrop of Antarctica!

An average day on board begins with a wake-up call from your Expedition leader around 7 am, giving you time to prepare for the day before joining your fellow expeditioners for breakfast in the Polaris restaurant. You will usually have two excursions per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, with a delicious lunch served on the Ocean Endeavour in between excursions.

• Ocean Endeavour (4 nights)
• Breakfast (4)
• Zodiac Excursion/Cruising
• Guided walking Excursions
• Stand Up Paddleboarding - USD299
• Day Paddle - USD299
• Polar Plunge - Free
• Kayaking Program - USD1299

Optional activities such as Stand-Up Paddle boarding, Kayaking and Day Paddle, are very dependent on weather and sea ice conditions. Your experienced expedition team will provide regular updates on which days they are available throughout your voyage.

Kayaking, Photography Program, Day Paddle and Stand Up Paddleboarding have limited spaces available and must be prebooked via your booking agent prior to travel. Snowshoeing must be booked onboard via your expedition team.

Venturing to the ends of the earth is a moment to revel in, as not all expeditions venture this far south. Weather conditions permitting, celebrations will be in order after reaching latitude 66°33’S and crossing the fabled Antarctic Circle. Toast to the sheer rawness of the surroundings and take it all in – while not a typical landing, the crossing of the Antarctic Circle leaves a lasting memory. Travel past colossal, often beautifully sculpted icebergs, to a point on earth only a few intrepid travellers have sailed. Home to Weddell seals that are specially adapted to this icy environment, they use their canines and incisors to rasp open new ice and maintain holes in the ice through which to breathe. They also have extremely accurate powers of navigation, enabling them to seek out breathing holes when their teeth are worn down and they are no longer able to maintain or create breathing holes in the ice.

You’ll be more familiar with the Antarctic waters as the Ocean Endeavour begins heading north. Test your newfound knowledge of penguin species, and finetune your wildlife spotting skills as you differentiate between fur, leopard and Weddell seals. Zodiac excursions will continue, and your expedition guides will be on hand on the journey north to Ushuaia to ensure you make the most of the peninsula’s wildlife opportunities and capture the perfect photographs.

The Photography, Program and Kayaking Program, have limited spaces available and must be prebooked via your booking agent prior to travel.

The journey’s final leg offers an opportunity to reflect on the spectacular scenery and prolific wildlife encountered throughout the voyage. Spend some time with your fellow passengers, who you’ve no doubt bonded with, and enjoy a final celebration together to toast the end of this Antarctic adventure.

Disembark in Ushuaia after enjoying your final breakfast on the Ocean Endeavour. You have an included morning transfer to Ushuaia airport if you're flying home today, otherwise enjoy some extra time exploring Tierra del Fuego and its rugged surroundings.

On the day you disembark in Ushuaia, we recommend scheduling your flights for departure after 12 noon to allow for any potential delays due to weather conditions.

On this day, we've got your transfers covered! Choose between a morning transfer from the port to Ushuaia airport for your onward flight or a morning transfer from the port to Ushuaia downtown. Enjoy complimentary luggage storage for the day. If you plan to head to the airport at a later time or to your Ushuaia accommodation, it's entirely up to you and at your own expense.

13 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 12 dinners

Expedition cruise ship, zodiac

Comfortable Hotel (1 night), Expedition Cruise Ship (12 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

SPECIAL BOOKING CONDITIONS You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of AUD1500, USD1000, EUR900, NZD1600, GBP800, CAD1300, CHF900 or ZAR17,000 per person per trip for your booking to be confirmed. Full payment is required 95 days prior to departure. Please refer to our “Booking and Conditions” section on our website including the special conditions that apply to Antarctica Voyages (Ocean Endeavour)

COVID 19 VACCINATION COVID-19 vaccination is a pre-embarkation requirement for all guests, staff, and crew on all Ocean Endeavour voyages. We will request a copy of your COVID-19 vaccination status on Day 1

ADVENTURE OPTIONS Approaching a looming glacier in a sea kayak, strapping on snowshoes to reach the best icy viewpoints, capturing the perfect photo of a seal hunting its prey or camping under an Antarctic perpetual twilight – these are just some of the ways you can enrich your exploration of the great White Continent with our additional activities. A range of Paid Adventure Options is available on the Ocean Endeavour, on selected voyages, subject to availability. Your booking agent can assist with availability and pricing. • Kayaking or Photography program - Voyage-duration program available on all voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent. • Day Paddle or Stand Up Paddleboarding - One-off excursion available on all voyages. Pre-book via your booking agent. Additional spaces may be available to book on board via the Expedition Team

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Expedition Travel Guide to Antarctica

Antarctica is the pinnacle of expedition and adventure travel! Start planning your journey to exploring this pristine world of ice, wildlife, and awe-inspiring beauty.

Antarctica | Like nowhere else on earth

Undertaking an expedition cruise to Antarctica is the pinnacle of adventure, a journey to the southernmost reaches of the planet, where untouched landscapes and awe-inspiring wildlife converge in this frozen wonderland. From the towering icebergs and snowcapped peaks of the Antarctic Peninsula to the charismatic penguins of South Georgia, each day is a unique chance to experience the mysteries of this pristine wilderness.

This guide takes you through the most frequently asked questions about travelling to Antarctica! Discover the best time to undertake this polar journey, ensuring optimal conditions for wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes. Get insider tips on selecting the ideal expedition cruise with the help of our Expedition team and how to pack for the everchanging Antarctic conditions.

Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a first-time adventurer, this guide will help to plan your trip, ensuring your expedition to Antarctica is a seamless, enriching, and unforgettable experience at the edge of the world.

The average rating our guests gave their onboard experience

Antarctica voyages between october 2023 and march 2024, s 69°13'3", w 069°40'2", the southernmost point reached by ms roald amundsen, what's it like exploring antarctica.

One of the joys of an Expedition Cruise to Antarctica is that there is no 'typical day'. Flexibility is key, as conditions can be unpredictable, and the safety of passengers and crew is the top priority. One thing we can be certain of is that we are ready from Plan A to Plan Z - each day is dynamic and filled with a variety of activities that take advantage of the unique environment and locations.

Even though your expedition ship is specially designed for sailing amongst the waters of Antarctica, there are limits on where it can go. Our small expedition boats allow us to easily navigate the icy maze, getting you closer to the rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Where the conditions allow, we will use these boats to get ashore for land exploration including hikes, snowshoeing, or if lucky a night spent sleeping out on the ice.

Or what could be better than drifting alongside icebergs or past penguins diving into crystal-clear water? Where the conditions allow, you can take to the water in sea kayaks for a more intimate experience with these frozen landscapes.

How can I get involved with the Science & Education program?

For over 20 years we have been exploring Antarctica, during this time we have been proud to have helped and supported hundreds of scientists, research projects, universities, and organisations to undertake world-leading research.

The onboard Science & Education team aims to unlock your inner scientist with numerous hands-on experiences, helping you better understand the world around where we sail. From researching the impact of climate change on animal populations and sea ice to getting a better understanding of migratory patterns of marine life or meteorological observations in partnership with NASA. We have multiple Citizen Science Projects for you to get involved with.

We are occasionally joined onboard by various international research groups, universities, or scientists. They use the expedition boats to access the remote parts of Antarctica, in return many often run guest lectures or workshops for you to get involved with. When you get on board, speak to a member of our Expedition Team who will be able to provide more information about the projects taking place on board your ship.

*Stats from the 2023 / 2024 Antarctic sailing season

Nights donated to guest scientists from 13 projects, citizen scientist workshops helped guests gain a deeper understanding of antarctica, whale encounters submitted by our guests to happywhale, when is the best time to visit antarctica.

Sitting at and around the South Pole, Antarctica experiences some of the harshest weather conditions on Earth rendering it uninhabited for many months of the year. During the Antarctic winter (April to September), the continent sits in darkness with winds reaching up to 100 mph (160 kph) and temperatures as low as -34 degrees Celcius (-30 degrees Fahrenheit).

In contrast, the best time to visit Antarctica is during the summer months of late November to early March, when the continent experiences milder temperatures, less sea ice, and longer daylight hours, making it more suitable for exploration. It's during this time that the waters, air, and land come alive with the arrival of an array of wildlife species, including penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds, as they return to the continent for breeding.

The onboard Expedition Team are your guides to Antarctica, sharing their knowledge, passion, and expertise with our guests on everything from marine biology and the history of exploration to the impact of global warming & climate change on this fragile ecosystem. They are the experts in our destinations, and being onboard our ships are best placed to share their insight & recommendations on the different voyages - helping you to choose the right one for you.

Best unique sailing | voyage to the late summer sun.

This is one of our newest voyages onboard MS Maud, as she makes her return to Antarctica in 2025. Giving you everything you need for an extended expedition around South America - from the vibrant culture of Santiago and Buenos Aires to the rich history of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia and not forgetting the unique wildlife and landscapes of Antarctica.

With the added bonus of sailing late into the Antarctic Summer, the extended hours of daylight allow you to pack more into your time onboard.

Best Short Sailing | Highlights of Antarctica

Whether you're a first-timer to expedition cruising or to Antarctica, this itinerary gives you a good introduction to both. The 5 days spent amongst the icy maze of the Antarctic Peninsula are unscripted and unplanned, welcome to true Expedition Cruising.

Each itinerary is slightly different as it depends upon the sea and weather conditions, but we hope you will have a range of opportunities to meet some of the 12 million local penguin residents who live on the ice, take part in citizen science projects and marvel at the rugged antarctic landscape.

Best for Wildlife & Wilderness | In-depth Antarctica, Falklands & South Georgia

Sailing onboard one of the smallest ships in our fleet - MS Fram, this itinerary will take you to some of the more remote parts of Antarctica and the islands of the Atlantic Ocean.

Taking in the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, we hope to visit the penguin and bird colonies of these remote islands. Spending 4 days around the Antarctic Peninsula, weather dependant you can get amongst the sea ice and if you are lucky, intimate encounters with the area's unique wildlife.

An expedition to Antarctica is to follow in the footsteps of history's greatest explorers - but unlike our predecessors, travelling to the 7th Continent and the edge of the world is a bit easier than you might think.

Depending on the expedition you choose, we have return flights in the economy between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia in Argentina or Santiago de Chile to Punta Arenas in Chile included in the cost of your voyage.

These flights are operated by different South American airline partners.

They usually depart Buenos Aires/Santiago de Chile early in the morning and land back in Buenos Aires/Santiago de Chile late at night.

We strongly recommend arranging overnight accommodation, as airlines don't confirm flight times until a few days before departure.

What to pack for an expedition to Antarctica?

Even though Antarctica is cold enough to be the only uninhabitable continent on the face of the planet, you are not going to freeze while you're visiting. When you're packing for your Antarctic Expedition there's one piece of sage advice you should always carry with you: "There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing."

To help you prepare we recommend packing the following for your expedition to Antarctica:

Waterproof trousers

Woolen underlayers and second layers

Thin woolen socks, and thick top-layer socks

Polarised sunglasses and sunscreen

Underlayer gloves, top layer gloves

A warm hat that covers your ears

Moisturiser and lip balm

A face mask to prevent windburn

A water bottle that’s insulated against cold

A pair of casual shoes for use onboard

Don't forget you will receive a a reusable aluminum water bottle, which is yours to keep at the end of the expedition.

Organising an expedition to Antarctica can bring about a number of questions! To help, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions to kick-start your planning.

What do I need to pack for Antarctica?

Even though we journey to Antarctica during the warmer summer months, the weather is unpredictable and changes quickly. Be sure to pack lots of warm insulated layers, waterproofs, gloves, and hats.

To ensure we are IAATO compliant, we will lend you rubber boots to wear ashore.

The best time for an Antarctic expedition cruise is during the austral summer, from November to March.

This time brings slightly milder temperatures, an abundance of wildlife activity, and the chance to witness breathtaking landscapes from both sea and land.

How do you get to Antarctica?

For our expeditions to Antarctica, we sail out of two ports - Ushuaia, Argentina for sailings on MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen or Punta Arenas, Chile for sailings on MS Fram.

However, depending on the expedition you undertake, we offer return flights between major airports within Argentina and Chile to smaller regional airports.

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Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent

About this tour.

Discover the magic and wonder of Santiago, Ushuaia and the “White Continent” – Antarctica. Enjoy Santiago, before flying over Patagonia to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Begin your Antarctic expedition aboard the fully equipped National Geographic Resolution by crossing the Drake Passage. Explore vistas of blue-white glaciers and busy penguin rookeries. See breaching whales crashing and scenes of pure ice walls as you observe from the deck of the ship. Explore on shore with our passionate ship's naturalists and learn about the local populations of penguins, seals, and humpback whales. Join a National Geographic photographer for photo tips during your close encounters with Gentoo penguins. Feel the glacial ice crunch as your expedition ship makes its way through a pack of ice with its hull strengthened to “ice class.”

Your Tour Includes

• 2 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• The Drake Passage
• Next-Generation Expedition Ship

Your Tour at a Glance

11 Breakfasts

4 - Very Active

Travel Style

On tour air.

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

On tour air included.

• The cost of all internal flights on tour or within an extension are included into the total tour cost on our website and brochures.
• Purchasing internal flights through Collette is now required on tours where applicable.
• This price continues to exclude all round-trip air getting to and from the tour, as well as any additional air segments required to arrive at or depart from an extension.
• The cost displayed is based on availability at the time of booking.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Cruise through the waters of Antarctica on a fully stabilized polar expedition ship.

Cross the Drake Passage, a milestone for any adventurer!

Enjoy a tour of Santiago, the capital city of Chile.

Cultural Experiences:

Discover multitudes of Antarctic wildlife including seals, whales, albatross and chinstrap, gentoo and Adelie penguins.

Enjoy nearly 24 hours of sunlight as you absorb your surroundings ashore and from the expedition ship’s many observatory decks.

Culinary Inclusions:

Savor fresh and varied meals aboard the expedition ship while admiring the scenery around you.

• Zodiac Forays
• Penguin Colony Close-Ups
• Kayak Excursions
• Photography Guidance
• On Board Educational Sessions

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• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour, upgrade your room.

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Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Room Upgrade

Cruise-Lindblad-National Geographic Resolution New York

Your journey to the White Continent is made even sweeter with a cabin enhancement aboard the National Geographic Explorer. Upgrade to a generously-appointed Main Deck cabin, complete with windows that provide views of an unspoiled Antarctic seascape that no porthole ever could. Or, upgrade to an even larger cabin, where you’ll enjoy even more room to take in the Antarctic vistas from the ship’s Main Deck. You can also enhance your accommodations even further by upgrading to a cabin on the Upper and Veranda decks of the vessel, where you can indulge in a bird’s eye view of the incredible Antarctic. Or, choose a cabin on the Upper Deck that features a balcony for enjoying the sensory experience of your Antarctic journey.

*Total for all passengers

Accommodations

Hyatt Centric Las Condes Santiago

National geographic resolution.

Nights 2-11

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An unparalleled exploration of the southernmost continent

• Indian Ocean Islands
• South America
• Antarctica Peninsula

Antarctica is the highest, driest, coldest, and windiest continent on earth

The antarctic ice sheet is the largest on earth, covering 14 million km² (5.4 million mi²), ice covers roughly 98% of antarctica, which equates to 90% of the earth’s ice, antarctica has no terrestrial mammals, but home to a range of marine and bird life, 60 - 90% of the world’s fresh water is locked in antarctica’s vast ice sheet, the best time to visit antarctica is during summer, from november to march, discover the enigma of this frozen continent.

Antarctica, the planet’s southernmost and least-explored landmass, stands as a testament to the extraordinary extremes of our precious earth. Stretching out as an expanse of ice and snow, it captures the imagination with its stark landscapes and alluring isolation. Nestled almost entirely within the Antarctic Circle, this formidable continent reaches impossible frontiers, hosting the coldest temperatures ever recorded and world’s largest ice sheet.

Its history, both ancient and modern, is interwoven with the audacious spirit of explorers who faced its inhospitable conditions in pursuit of scientific discovery. Much like the intrepid explorers of old who once ventured into the unknown, a journey to Antarctica is an experience that profoundly alters one’s perspective. There truly is nothing that compares to the sensation of exploring landscapes that few have had the privilege of witnessing. The echoes of glaciers rumbling down steep coastal mountainsides and the camaraderie of sharing snowy shores with myriad penguin colonies etch long-lasting memories.

Begin your indescribable Antarctica adventure by clicking on the below hyperlinks to be taken directly to your travel interests.

WILDLIFE | EXPERIENCE | ADVENTURE | STAY | KNOWLEDGE

A Taste of the Wild Life

In partnership with quark expeditions, from chilean patagonia to the antarctic peninsula, marvel at pioneering cross-country conservation efforts on this 19-day journey.

Expedition unveils Antarctica’s beauty

Life beyond the ice

Beneath its seemingly desolate surface, Antarctica thrives with unique life, from resilient microbial communities to majestic marine creatures that navigate its icy waters. While it is the only continent on earth which has no terrestrial mammals, it is home to a wide range of aquatic wildlife and bird species.

During the warmer summer months, from November to March, wildlife is at its most active where you’ll be able to see some amazing animals, including newborn seal pups and penguin chicks. And with over 20-hours of sunshine per day, with much milder temperatures (for Antarctica at least), it is the most welcoming time of the year to visit the White Continent. Dive into the frigid depths of Antarctica’s marine realm, brimming with astonishing life forms adapted to its icy embrace.

Playful penguin

Plunge into the icy depths of Antarctica’s marine world, where resilient penguin colonies huddle along the snowy shores. Antarctica hosts a captivating array of penguin species, each embodying unique traits that reflect their adaptation to the frozen landscapes, painting a vibrant picture of life in the southernmost reaches. Among the approximately 17 penguin species that migrate to Antarctica for breeding, only two—emperor and Adélie—are true Antarctic locals. Other migratory species include chinstrap, gentoo, macaroni, and king, to name a few. To catch a glimpse of Antarctica’s penguins, visit in November when they come ashore to find a mate, usually staying until around March.

Another prominent member of the Antarctic wildlife community is the seal, as Antarctica’s icy waters host an enchanting diversity of species. Common to the White Continent are the fur, ross, Weddell, crabeater, elephant, and leopard seal, each uniquely attuned to the challenges of the frigid environment. From the formidable Weddell seals, navigating frozen depths, to the leopard seal, these marine mammals epitomise adaptability in the face of extreme conditions. They embody the essence of Antarctic resilience, competing with other wildlife for abundant krill supplies.

Wonderful whale

The prime time for whale watching in Antarctica is during February and March, when a plethora of orca, sperm, and humpback whale migrate south to feast on krill fish during the summer months. Other whale species found in Antarctic waters include the blue, fin, minke, sei, and southern right. Among these, the most awe-inspiring is the blue whale. Tipping the scales at over 130 tons, the blue whale is the largest mammal on earth, and is now gradually recovering in numbers after facing near extinction due to hunting. Harbouring a spectacular array of whale species, these marine giants navigate Antarctica’s southern seas, creating a symphony of life that resonates within the frozen expanse.

Bountiful birds

Antarctica’s skies are adorned with an intriguing assortment of approximately 46 bird species, each uniquely adapted to thrive in the world’s most austere environments. From the resilient albatross, gliding with elegance, to the petrel and skua that navigate the icy winds, these avian inhabitants grace the southern continent with their remarkable presence and adaptations. Other interesting bird species include shearwaters, cormorants, bitterns, herons, egrets, sheathbills, jaegers, and gulls, to name only a few.

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Explore the end of the earth

An expedition that will most likely take you farther from home than ever before, Antarctica stands as a realm of superior isolation, boasting abundant wildlife, captivating history, and majestic topography. Accompanied by expert guides, each boasting a wealth of knowledge and incredible passion for this extraordinary continent, let your adventurous spirit run wild as you discover unchartered territories—a journey that only a select few have had the honour and courage to undertake.

Immersive polar adventures set to inspire

Among the most rugged, remote, and ice-filled regions in the world lies a pristine and unexplored landscape that is as breathtaking as it is untouched. This remarkable destination stands ready to offer you an incredibly rich and rewarding otherworldly experience. From traversing snow-covered beaches to witnessing colossal glaciers from above, and cruising through shallow inlets, you’ll embark on an interpretive guiding journey across the earth’s seventh continent; a journey not easily forgotten. Prepare to unveil the hidden secrets of this isolated landscape, embarking on a truly unparalleled adventure.

Embrace the spirit of exploration

For centuries, Antarctica has ignited the spirits of explorers, and now, our uniquely crafted itineraries provide you with the opportunity to unveil its allure. In collaboration with industry experts, we invite you to embark on a series of captivating journeys and exclusive Antarctic expeditions, uncovering the mysteries of this frozen frontier—an adventure that not only promises breathtaking vistas and up-close encounters with polar wildlife but also instils a profound appreciation and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding the boundless wonders of our precious planet. If you are seeking luxury accommodations and bespoke travel experiences far beyond the ordinary, Antarctica will not disappoint.

Antarctic accommodation for all

From intimate expedition cruises that bring you up close to glacial landscapes, to exclusive seasonal lodges offering the seemingly impossible, experience the White Continent in luxurious polar comfort like never before.

Luxury expedition cruises

One of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in the Antarctic experience is by boarding an authentic expedition ship on a luxury Antarctica tour. Unlike traditional cruise liners, these vessels are considerably smaller, allowing travellers not only to approach the continent but also to venture into its glacial landscapes on foot. Typically accommodating between 70 and 200 guests, these luxury cruises offer a more intimate and accessible journey.

Exclusive land lodging

Introducing White Desert; the sole luxury accommodation in Antarctica, or more precisely, the only temporary lodge on the continent. Off-season (from February to October), its structures are dismantled, leaving no trace on the pristine environment. Seeking to truly offer a unique, tailormade experience, White Desert provides guests with a more accessible way to truly experience the ‘real’ Antarctica—that being the untouched interior landscapes of the White Continent.

Be ahead of the (ice) pack

Setting foot on earth’s seventh continent is a privilege and an honour. Undoubtedly, you will return with unforgettable tales of your sea-bound expedition. However, prior to embarking on this remarkable journey, it is imperative to ensure you are equipped with everything necessary to guarantee an adventure that exceeds all expectations. May our expert Travel Specialist team ensure your adventure-of-a-lifetime goes beyond all expectations.

How do I get to Antarctica?

Situated (quite literally) at the end of the world, hidden beneath an enormous ice sheet, Antarctica was the last continent on earth to be discovered. The best way to travel to the White Continent is either by ship or plane from the southern tip of South America.

What to pack when travelling to Antarctica

Preparing for an Antarctic adventure demands meticulous planning and an eye for detail. That’s where we come in—offering our expertly curated list of essential items to pack for your luxurious polar expedition.

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Journey to Antarctica: The White Continent

Trip Overview

This is the classic National Geographic voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula. Over 14 days, experience the majestic landscapes of ice, visit penguin rookeries, Zodiac around tabular icebergs, and meet abundant marine and bird life. You’ll travel in a state-of-the-art icebreaker with biologists, undersea specialists, and professional photographers to help you get the most out of your voyage.

Activities & Sights

• Explore Antarctica with a team of top naturalists
• Meet thousands of excited penguins
• Kayak in pristine and protected waters
• Zodiac cruise through ice-choked channels and explore distant shores on foot
• Early November departures offer the possibility to cross-country ski or snowshoe across the frozen sea ice, conditions permitting

Day to Day Itinerary

• Day 1-2 Depart on an overnight flight to Buenos Aires.
• Day 3 Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
• Day 4-5 At sea crossing the Drake Passage
• Day 6-10 Exploring Antarctica
• Day 11-12 At sea
• Day 13-14 Disembark in Ushuaia and fly to Buenos Aires.

The National Geographic Explorer

Built to handle deep swells and towering waves,  National Geographic Explorer  invites polar exploration while providing exceptional comfort. Originally constructed to navigate Norway’s famed Hurtigruten, or Coastal Express, her high degree of maneuverability, ideal size, and platform for discovery made  National Geographic Explorer  a natural choice for addition to the Lindblad Expeditions fleet.   Her rebuild drew on 50 years of pioneering expedition history and expertise. Today,  National Geographic Explorer  is a purpose-built expedition ship. She is a fully stabilized, ice-class vessel, with an ice-reinforced hull, enabling her to navigate polar passages while providing comfort, elegance and a deep connection to the environment.

For enthusiasts who wish to reach the 7th continent, the ULTRAMARINE --

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Thoughts on a life well traveled

Journey to Antarctica: adventures in Antarctica

A couple of years ago my dad came up with an interesting idea: if he organized winter family trips that were unique we wouldn’t refuse going on family trips, most of these are on my best five trips of a lifetime post . It’s not that our family trips were ever boring, but with this idea came our journey to Antarctica.

Almost two years before the planned trip, so in 2009, we had the option: go on an Antarctica cruise in December of 2011 with National Geographic and Linblad Expeditions , or chose not to and do something else with friends. After this first trip, we then took another NatGeo Expedition to cruise the Peruvian Amazon .

None of use were stupid enough to say no!

Preparing for our trip to Antarctica

We had more than a year to prepare. What were we going to wear? What should we take with us? Especially coming from Mexico and being more prepared for the Mexican beach than Antarctica, we had some shopping to do.

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Antarctica Packing List

Our red antarctica jackets we got from our expedition.

How to go to Antarctica? Drake Passage

We embarked from Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. Our ship was the National Geographic Explorer and once onboard we went over safety protocols as well as introductions with all the experts on board. A NatGeo photo editor showed us how to take better pictures on our trip and we were given talks about Antarctica birds and wildlife we were going to see.  The photo and nature experts on National Geographic cruises make the difference from any other Antarctica cruise or expedition.

We were also warned about the Drake Passage. If you haven’t heard about the infamous Drake Passage, it is where the Atlantic, Pacific and Southern Oceans meet creating huge waves and strong winds. Having to cross about 800 km in these rough seas becomes a challenge. You can either get small 2 to 5 meter waves or 12 meter giants that make you feel like you are in a never ending spiral.

On our way there we were very lucky. Minimum movement and we were able to spend the day taking pictures of Albatrosses and other birds as well as humpback whales. I got pointers from the naturalists and photographers on adjusting my settings to get better pictures of the animals of Antarctica. It was a breeze and very easy sailing. Small waves of about 5 meters on a big ship, we could barely feel the movement.

On our way back, though, we weren’t that lucky. Ropes were set all along the corridors to hold on to, preparing for the forecasts of big waves. Feeling lucky because of our first encounter with the Passage and emboldened, my siblings and I decided to have lunch. As I walked towards the front where the restaurant was, I remember having to hold on as the ship’s movement would send me from side to side. I felt like a pin-ball machine ball being thrown from one side to the other, trying not to fall down the middle. Once at the front, I sat down, cut a piece of bread and as I was putting it in my mouth I realized my mistake. I put it down and, carefully, walked back to my parent’s room. We spent the whole day in a horizontal position (which we were told was the best way to avoid sea sickness), laying on the bed or sofa and watching some T.V. Through the speakers we heard our expedition doctor was sick in his room, not being able to receive any patients. I had never been sea sick in my life until my Antarctic cruise.

The Drake Passage can be very hard, but not a deterrent to visit Antarctica. An uncomfortable day vs memories of a lifetime!

Exploring Antarctica

Our first stop was Deception Island. It bears that name due to its deceptive nature as an island. It is really the flooded caldera of a volcano! A small snippet of Antarctica facts: whale hunting groups had used it as a base for operations and you can still see some whale bones on the island as well as decaying buildings. It is truly an incredible place, not what I expected to see when I pictured Antarctica, as there barely was any ice due to the volcano’s warmth. Here we encountered penguins for the first time! 

I had never really admired penguins until I saw them in their natural habitat, walking around like little toddlers, playing tricks on the others and just going about their lives. They are seriously such funny and interesting creatures! You could just sit and admire how their normal colony life went about.  Every morning we got an itinerary for the day under our door. This included where we were journeying in Antarctica as well as the day’s various activities. Unlike other cruises where there is unlimited buffet hours, our meal times were set pretty strictly to be able to follow the schedule for the day. We got to go on the zodiacs, rigid, inflatable boats, many times and explore around the icebergs. We couldn’t get too close to them because they could tip at any moment. Since the biggest part of the iceberg is underwater, you could misjudge the real size of it, and due to parts being underwater and the changing point of its center of gravity, they could rotate. The colors of the ice ranged from transparent to the most beautiful blueish tones. I never expected to see anything like this in my life! 

Our Antarctica Itinerary

The islands and places we visited were:

• Deception Island
• Devil Island
• Brown Bluff
• Cierva Cove
• Enterprise Island
• Paradise Bay
• Port Lockroy

Some Antarctica cruises only visit the islands and never really touch the Antarctic continent. The Antarctica cruise from National Geographic did and so I can confidently say I’ve been to the continent! We also visited so many other small coves and bays. Port Lockroy has a working postal office, so be sure to send yourself a postcard from Antarctica!

Antarctica’s fauna aka the cute Antarctica seals, whales, penguins and other birds

On one of the first days we got to see whales close by from the zodiacs! Truly magical feeling the water move below you and knowing this creature, ignoring your presence, was swimming underneath. We also saw seals, different kinds of birds and many many penguins! (Yes, penguins are birds but they deserve their own category).

We would have two outings a day, even some during the night because it would never get dark. The most “night” we got was a bit of twilight in the early hours. It was strange looking outside and seeing daylight only to look at your watch and notice it was midnight. My sister and I would keep the blinds open, even at night, since our room had a whole deck looking out towards the back of the boat. It provided spectacular views and photo opportunities like the one above.

Penguins, penguins and more penguins

Some people from our expedition would arrive at a place and just sigh, “more penguins.” Were they kidding? This was a once in a lifetime opportunity! Yes, we mostly saw penguins and ice, but I could spend hours sitting there observing the penguins as they flopped from side to side, fell, slipped, and interacted with each other. We had come all the way to the White Continent, where very few people have the privilege of visiting. You could smell the crisp clean air, hear the sounds of nature and just enjoy being in the moment.

I remember laying down on top of white and pinkish spots on the rocks taking pictures. One of our naturalists laid next to me and exclaimed, “You are one of mine, braving the poo for the photo!” 

I hadn’t realized it was penguin guano, but I didn’t really care. 

Activities on our Journey to Antarctica

Kayaking antarctica.

One of the best experiences was kayaking in Antarctica! We got into the kayaks in pairs and the only rule was to keep our distance from the icebergs. We were free to explore the area, there was even a sunken, rusty ship.   My siblings and I set out and just explored, went around different icebergs and enjoyed our time. We did break the only rule: my younger brother did get out at one point, took a couple of steps and jumped back into his kayak. Just knowing where we were, really letting that set in, made the experience better. Who gets to kayak in Antarctica?

Naturalist, photographers and NatGeo expert talks

During our time on board we had multiple activities and talks. I tried to attend all of them, despite sometimes feeling tired. Naturalists would talk about birds, fish and other living creatures on the continent, as well as about ice and Antarctica itself. There were also some divers on board that would show us a video of their daily dive and explain what they saw. Unlike a tropical reef, there were very few things to see underwater when diving in Antarctica. We also had a talk given by John Evans, who was part of the team to summit Antarctica’s highest point, Mount Vinson, in 1966. Several weeks later, John and his partner climbed the second highest peak: Mount Tyree. He recounted how the second highest was harder than Mount Vinson, and since their climb, no one has summited the way they did. Explorers and climbers haven’t been able to repeat their route.

Polar Plunge

There was also the Antarctica Polar Plunge! My siblings all did the plunge and my crazy sister tried to beat the record (and did) by staying 2 minutes inside the polar water. She couldn’t feel her extremities for about 20 minutes afterwards. My parents and I opted for the sane option and watched from the deck. 

On December 24 we had snow! That night we landed in Antarctica late at night where we could slide down a mountain. I went up four times as sliding down was a lot of fun! At the end of the slide, the snow was so deep you couldn’t walk. It was up to my waist and I have long legs. One of those times I decided to use my sister as a sleigh so we could move faster and not sink. It worked but she got a ton of snow inside her jacket! One of my fondest memories of my Antarctica holiday. Back on the zodiacs, we got some hot coco, spiked for those over 18 with Peppermint Schnapps. It was certainly one of the most unique Christmas Eve’s.

Amazing staff on board

The staff on board the ship were mostly Philippine and we learned some words to thank them. They always saved us the same table, even though we were supposed to be mingling and switching tables and dining companions. Our vacation to Antarctica was a family trip so we blatantly disregarded this. We are one of the weird families that actually enjoy spending time together.  Our captain, Leif Skog, was also wonderful! We were able to visit his deck and see the instruments he used to navigate in the harsh conditions of Antarctica. On one of our landings, after everyone was safely offshore, he anchored the front of the boat onto the beach! An incredibly hard move and risky, he timed it perfectly so as to not get stuck if the tide changed. On one of the last days, we were given the notice that we were going to go rescue some explorers whose boat was stuck. Our captain was called upon to perform rescue missions, he was that good.

Antarctica remains in my thoughts, the feelings of being there, the immensity of the world and ice, the beauty of untouched land.

For me it was and still is a trip that remains in my mind and dreams. I wish my future kids will be able to experience some of the majestic places I’ve been able to feel, I hope they get to feel the strength of a glacier as you hear it roar in the silence of the Antarctic, or the cuteness of a penguin slipping while trying to get to the see and just looking around to see if no one saw. 

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2 thoughts on “Journey to Antarctica: adventures in Antarctica”

Great post – amazing experience. Antarctica is such a mysterious and intriguing part of the world. Just thinking about doing an polar plunge is making me shiver lol 🥶

Thank you Cherryl! It truly was amazing and I agree, the polar plunge is crazy! But kayaking was fantastic!! 🤩

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LATITUDE 66° 32′ S

A JOURNEY TO ANTARCTICA 

going back to Antarctica

A blog dedicated to our second voyage, sharing our experiences on a journey to the southernmost land on Earth.

The Arctic and Antarctic are today major strategic areas on which the planet's equilibrium largely depends. Like the oceans to which they are intrinsically linked, the North and South Poles play a central role in climate regulation and the preservation of biodiversity. Actors and first victims of climate change, they are also sounding the alarm.

This is a window to get inspired and a small contribution to better understand the frozen continent.

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My Trip to Antarctica: Traveling to All 7 Continents

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Kameron traveled on one of Antarctica21’s Air Cruises, read about her experience in Antarctica and her journey to explore all 7 continents.

Friday, September 3, 2021

• Antarctic Flights
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My trip to Antarctica fulfilled a personal goal and dream of mine – reaching all seven continents. I’ve had the opportunity to travel to some amazing places for work and pleasure throughout my life, but I had yet to explore Antarctica and South America.

I had to make it south, all the way south. Traveling to every edge of the earth has stretched the corners of my mind, and I knew the 7th continent would be no different. I was ready to take my trip to Antarctica.

Once I set my mind to it, I knew my friend Lisa would be the best companion for this epic journey across the globe. Lisa and I worked together in the military and civilian world, and she is also an avid traveler. Once we spoke about traveling together, we couldn’t get a trip to Antarctica out of our minds.

We saw Antarctica everywhere – in headlines of the newspaper, on Our Planet streamed by Netflix, everywhere. All these not-so-subliminal messages sealed the deal, and two weeks later, we booked our trip! Our trip to Antarctica would now fulfill two goals, hers and mine – seven continents for me and six continents for Lisa!

Planning My Trip to Antarctica

Traveling to South America and Antarctica would be the capstone of my international travel goals. To get started, though, I needed a plan. Traveling to Antarctica can be a long journey if you cross the Drake Passage – at least two days sailing each way. That wouldn’t work for us, but then I discovered I could take an Antarctic air-cruise.

We decided on the Antarctica Express  air-cruise. With this type of trip, I could achieve my goal within my budget and timelines much easier than I first thought. For me, one of the essential things I wanted to see was the Antarctic wildlife. I booked my trip to Antarctica based on the best time to go to Antarctica to see baby penguins.  These tiny creatures are astonishing as they defy one of the Earth´s harshest environments and survive.

Things I Loved About My Trip to Antarctica

I am a self-described ”nerd” by study and trade, and this was the perfect trip to relax and gain new knowledge. I work in technology, and the scientific aspects of the trip were exceptional. I was amazed by the Expedition Staff, who were knowledgeable about every facet of Antarctica. I learned so much about the wildlife I came to see.

A highlight during my trip was when I got within a couple of feet of a curious penguin, something that I will never forget. While I didn’t approach it, this inquisitive creature decided to come check me out. Utter excitement took over me.

Antarctica is as pristine as you would imagine. It was truly amazing to see Antarctic wildlife up close and personal. We were able to see a variety of seals, birds, whales, and penguins. I was also astounded at how the wildlife interacted with us. These were priceless memories that I was able to make on my Antarctic trip.

I’ll also say, riding on a Zodiac is unforgettable. Each day was different due to the environment – smooth, bumpy, windy, in-a-margarita-icy, and chilly way. We experienced it all.

My pictures cannot capture the absolute beauty of the surroundings, the grandeur, and vastness of the landscape, the variation of wildlife, nor the size of the ice shelves we saw. I was in awe and still am.

My Favorite Day – Exploring the Unknown

Fortunately, we received an extra day’s travel in our itinerary due to the weather and could make two additional landings as a part of our trip. My favorite day was visiting Elephant Point. This destination was an area that none of the expedition staff had visited previously.

It was a surreal moment to step foot on unexplored territory along with the team. To know we were possibly some of the only humans ever to set foot in this part of the world was amazing! In wonder, I said to myself, “I’m in untouched territories!”

I was surprised to learn that the Antarctic Tourism Treaty allows no more than 100 passengers to disembark for an excursion at any time. Due to the number of passengers on our ship, less than 100 , everyone could set foot on the continent all at once and spend as much time as possible at any landing.

Other Antarctica cruise ships can have up to 500 passengers on board a vessel, which is not the same experience. I met a couple our first day in Chile, and they said they were on a ship with over 400 people. Their landings were only about 30 minutes in any location to allow everyone on board a chance to get off. Luckily, we did not have that experience with Antarctica21, and I am happy that we went with a small passenger ship.

My emotions ran the gamut during my trip to Antarctica. It still feels surreal to this day. I am so glad and grateful I did it and shared the journey with a friend. I will forever treasure this trip. It’s pretty challenging to explain to people who haven’t had the chance to see Antarctica, so I encourage everyone just to book their trip.

Story and photos by Kameron Spencer. She traveled on one of Antarctica21’s Air Cruises aboard the Hebridean Sky on January 1-8, 2020. 

If you are interested in joining us on an Antarctic expedition, see our brochures for more information or book a call with us to start planning!

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Inside Abercrombie & Kent's Epic Journey To Antarctica

It is cold, remote and windy, and yet the white continent offers one of the most beautiful and educational experiences of a lifetime..

Sitting on a stone-covered beach on Pourquoi Pas Island, I watch the penguin highway in utter fascination. The Adélies are very busy. They are climbing up and down an icy pathway that connects their nests, on the cliffs above, to the ocean below. There must be at least few thousand of them. They are aware of my presence, but don't seem to care. They haven't learned to fear humans because we don't come to Antarctica to harm them; we come instead to marvel at them.

While these aquatic birds are technically flightless, the sea is their sky. With amazing speed, agility and grace, they "fly" through the water swimming, diving and foraging for food. Like a surfer, they catch air utilizing the propulsion from a wave to help them leap ashore. Adélies, along with Chinstraps and Gentoos, are the three species we have observed in this area of the Antarctic Peninsula.

Our ship is hugging the coastline making its way north from Marguerite Bay, where our voyage began, to the South Shetland Islands.

It took us three days, by ship, to get to this point after leaving the world's southernmost city, Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego, South America. Here travelers can catch a variety of vessels heading to the Antarctic. Once we lost sight of land, the endless swaying began, as we made our way through the 600-mile cantankerous Drake Passage. This is where the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans converge before meeting the Southern Ocean.

I took some seasick tablets, which staved off nausea, but negotiating the ship's corridors took some doing. I am on a 466-foot expedition cruise ship with Abercrombie & Kent (A&K), an award-winning luxury travel company. We are a merry band of 181 passengers, each one thrilled to be taking this journey .

"I always wanted to visit. The first time I came to Antarctica was in 2008 where I met my husband. We are here celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary," says passenger Teddie Chapman from Florida. "It's still the most beautiful place on earth, and I have been to over 110 countries. The landscape changes every day from the huge ice floes to the color of the sky and water. Here is no imprint of man and there are species that have never come in contact with him. It's a destination like no other."

Like all visitors to the White Continent, we are bound by the guidelines set up by the Antarctic Treaty, its Protocol on Environmental Protection, and the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators , which protects all historic sites, monuments, wildlife, scientific projects and the environment at large. We attend mandatory briefings to ensure we comport ourselves properly during shore landings and zodiac tours. We wash our boots, pants and gear each time to prevent introducing non-native species or the spread of disease to this pristine world. We take care where we walk and how close we get to wildlife. We don't pollute, eat or smoke on shore or remove anything.

Yet, even with all these precautions, it's not enough to save the Adélies, who may become extinct before long. They are losing their habitat as the ice floes melt from rising temperatures due to global warming.

We are required to stay at least 15 feet away from the penguins, and I absolutely do. Antarctica is the last untouched wilderness on the planet, and I feel a keen responsibility to do my small part to help keep it that way. After all, this is their world we are passing through. The welfare of Antarctica's animals and environment comes first. This ideology is refreshing compared to other parts of the globe where these values do not exist or are not taken seriously.

Equally inspiring are the founding principles of the Treaty and its Protocol, which has "designated Antarctica as a natural reserve, devoted to peace and science". While every other country on this planet is ruled by a government, Antarctica is not. It is not owned by any nation, but overseen by 42 countries that are part of the Antarctic Treaty System , of which 29 have voting rights. These nations have learned how to put aside their political, economic and religious differences to work together in harmony for the greater good. Antarctica has much to teach us about what can be achieved through peaceful cooperation.

To think that people have only been coming here for a scant 200 years, since its discovery in 1820, is as mind blowing as the exquisite scenery. It is the coldest, remotest and windiest place on the planet, so it has never been able to sustain an indigenous or permanent population. Even the scientific community of about 4,000 people in summer shrinks to 1,000 or so in winter.

We listen to daily enrichment lectures on a variety of topics in the onboard theater, where a recap the day's excursions is also held, often accompanied by a cocktail of our choosing. These lectures are not obligatory, but always packed because they are fascinating. We learn about the history and geology of the Antarctic, its sea birds and marine mammals, about the effects of climate change, and what's it's like to winter over at a research base from experts and scientists who have actually survived it.

"I am blown away by the breadth of knowledge of the A&K team and the guest lecturers they have brought onboard," says passenger Ashley Barrington-Mace from California, who has taken 70 cruises. "This voyage has inspired myself and my husband to chart a new course for our vacation spending. We are going to shift gears and concentrate more on expedition cruising with in-depth learning."

Several lectures we heard were by Dr. James McClintock . He has been studying the effects of climate change and marine chemical ecology for over 20 years at Palmer Station, a U.S. research base we visited on Anvers Island.

Dr. McClintock (University of Alabama at Birmingham) and program co-directors Dr. Charles Amsler (University of Alabama at Birmingham) and Dr. Bill Baker (University of South Florida), investigate chemical compounds they have isolated from the Antarctic sea floor, like seaweeds and invertebrates that can potentially be developed into drugs to fight human disease. For example, they recently discovered an anti-cancer compound in marine invertebrates. With global warming comes a sense of urgency and a fear these valuable species will vanish before they can be adequately studied.

"The riddles of the ecology of marine life in Antarctica are only starting to be solved. Ironically, my fascination with Antarctica is made more intense knowing that climate change is increasingly challenging its abundant marine life. I feel deeply compelled to tell the story of this amazing continent to elevate awareness that might save it in the end" says Dr. McClintock, an author, endowed university professor and a U.S. Antarctic Service medal recipient, among many other distinctions.

Before our visit to Palmer, Dr. Megan Cinino, an ornithologist at the station came onboard to talk about her research work with penguins and giant petrels. A&K Philanthropy presented her with satellite tracking tags so she could monitor the bird's activities. Over the years, A&K has provided high tech equipment, HD cameras and webcams that scientists worldwide can use to observe penguin rookeries. Passengers are welcome to make donations, if they so desire.

"We have traveled with A&K in the past and they always do some sort of philanthropic work so that is one reason why we like to travel with them," says passenger Ann Mackay from Connecticut. "I am grateful to be here. I feel really privileged to see this incredible continent, to listen to these lectures and to see the science going on. It makes you realize how important global warming is and how everybody can do something to help."

I am eating dinner with my newfound friends in one of the two dining rooms, enjoying delicious French cuisine and assorted wines. We are surrounded by large picture windows on 3 sides. We watch in amazement as the ship passes one iceberg after another. It's so surreal. One of my companions notes that every iceberg is even more spectacular than the next with its vibrant colors and geometric designs. By the time dessert arrives we have also passed several ice floes with Leopard and Crabeater seals on them. It's just the craziest thing.

We have been out here for days and have not seen any other ships or people. It's quite remarkable with the world's population being what it is to travel to a place where this can occur. I embrace the isolation and the silence. There is no noise here. I am losing all sense of time. There is nothing to think about except what is before me. I start to forget my earthly woes.

The captain's voice comes over the loud speaker informing us there are Humpback whales off the ship's port side. We all rush out on deck with our cameras donning our A&K expedition jackets, which are ours to keep after the voyage. There are 16 whales, including mothers and calves, spraying, sounding and breaching! They are so close that sometimes we catch the spray from their blowholes. Any photos we take identifying the flukes or fins can be uploaded to a website called happywhale.com . The photos are shared with scientists tracking these gentle giants, letting you know where in the world your whale has been sited. How cool is that?

This day has been action packed. In the morning we went ashore by zodiac at the ghastly hour of 7 a.m. to visit Stonington Island in the eastern part of Marguerite Bay. We explored the abandoned huts, which still had tins of food, pots and pans, mattresses, tools and shoes. These wooden structures were once home to the U.S. Antarctic Service Expedition from 1939-1941, the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) Station E from 1946-1950 and again from 1960-1975, and the Ronne Antarctic Research Expedition from 1947-1948. Finn Ronne, a polar explorer and U.S. Navy captain, came to the base with his wife, Edith. She became the first woman to set foot on the continent. In the early years, the work was concentrated on mapping Antarctica by dog sledge. Later, the research encompassed geology, glaciology and metrology.

When the Ronne expedition arrived, the Brits were not happy to share the island with the Americans. According to one account, Finn forbade his crew from fraternizing with them, but they would sneak over to the British side anyway.

"They would take a circuitous route to the British base because they knew there would be afternoon tea with cakes in a very civilized atmosphere. There was also a fairly good bar. Everyone had their beer mugs and their beer and spirit rations. It was a canteen atmosphere with nice curtains on the windows, and the Americans could pretend they were living a civilized life," says A&K historian Bob Burton, a former member of the BAS, author of 30 books and a Polar Medal recipient for his research in the Arctic and Antarctic. "Eventually, the barriers were broken down and it became clear to the two nations it was best to cooperate and combine their operations."

We are making our way through the very breathtaking Lemaire Channel. Even though it's 10:30 p.m. and it should be dark outside, it's not. It's summer, and that means 24 hours of light. On both sides of the ship are mountains. We move gingerly through sea ice, passing glaciers and icebergs, which I never tire of looking at. They are all so unique. Antarctica is such a strange and magical land. It's unlike anything I have ever seen. I struggle to comprehend the profoundness of this place. Words escape me and seem too trite. It's more of a feeling and I know Antarctica will lure me back. Our ship goes in as far as the sea ice allows before we are forced to reverse direction and head north towards home.

"A lot of people come because they have been everywhere else. It doesn't matter why they came, but it's how they are changed while they are here," says Suzana Machado D'Oliveira, A&K's Expedition Director who has made more than 300 trips to the Antarctic. "They might not even know it by the time they leave the ship, but Antarctica does change people."

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Journey to Antarctica: A complete guide

While we’re stuck at home dreaming of post-pandemic travel to new frontiers - what better journey to dream about than a voyage to the end of earth - Antarctica! Interestingly enough with strict protocols in place about who can and cannot visit, Antarctica remains the only continent in the world with zero COVID-19 cases. Until the pandemic ends (or a vaccine is found) tourists will be unable to travel to Antarctica.

Why Antarctica

‘Antarctica’ in Greek literally translates to ‘the opposite of North’. The continent consists of over 90% of all the ice on our planet - so needless to say it is extremely cold. In fact, it is the coldest, windiest, and driest continent of all. With such conditions, Antarctica might not seem appealing at first, but the stunning landscapes, white mountains, and views of a never-ending expanse of ice and snow, make for an absolutely incredible scenic experience!

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With a population of barely 5000 people (consisting of mainly scientists, researchers, and their support teams) on the continent, Antarctica is one of the few true wilderness experiences on our planet.

A word of caution

Due to the extreme weather conditions a trip to Antarctica is only recommended for those who are comfortable with the cold. Temperatures on the coast usually don’t rise beyond 0 degrees Celsius, even at the peak of summer. The interiors usually never get warmer than -20 degrees Celsius.

When to go?

The best time to visit is in the Antarctic summer - November to February where you get close to 24 hours of daylight.

How to get there?

Getting to Antarctica is easier than one might imagine.

The most popular way to get to Antarctica is on a ship, the best option for those interested in experiencing the incredible wildlife on the continent.

For those who are more interested in experiencing the Antarctic icecap and its terrain, you can also take a flight straight to the interior of the icecap.

Ushuaia to Antarctica (via ship)

Ushuaia in Argentina is a three and a half hour flight from the more well connected Buenos Aires airport. Cruises that start at Ushuaia go via the Drake Passage - a 1000 kilometer body of water that separates Antarctica from South America. It usually takes 36 hours to make the journey to the Antarctic Peninsula. This journey is a wonderful opportunity to get some albatross sightings. Trips that start at Ushuaia range from 9 - 20 days.

Punta Arenas to Antarctica (via ship)

If the idea of the Drake Passage and 36 hours of travel in a ship to get to the peninsula doesn't appeal to you, you can opt to start your journey from Punta Arenas, Chile. The journey from the southern tip of Chile only takes a couple of hours to reach the Antarctic Peninsula. Due to the shorter distance to get to Antarctica, cruises starting at Punta Arenas offer short 4-day trip options.

Punta Arenas to Antarctica (via flight)

A flight to Antarctica is the best option for those who get seasick and prefer to experience the vast icy wonder of Antarctica’s ice cap (and perhaps even visit the South Pole). This flight to Antarctica takes 5 hours on a Russian Illushian plane. The flight itself is an incredible experience as the plane lands on a blue ice runway at a small settlement on the ice cap called Union Glacier. Delays due to weather conditions flying into the glacier are common and you should set aside at least 15 days for such a trip.

What to do in Antarctica

Cruise: Once you reach your destination, you spend your nights on the ship itself. The days are spent exploring the surrounding areas on smaller boats with options to get on the icecap and even spend a night in a tent. This option is highly recommended for those interested in wildlife. There is a high probability of amazing sightings of seals, penguins, and whales.

Flight: When you fly directly onto the glacier you spend your days hiking, using snow scooters and snow cycles to explore the area surrounding Union glacier. You also have the option to venture further towards the center of the continent by taking another flight to the South Pole.

Service Providers/Travel Agents

While there are many service providers offering cruise options to Antarctica, there is only one company, Antarctic Logistics and Expeditions (ALE), offering the flight option. You will, therefore, have to book well in advance for flight and accommodation on the icecap, if that's your preferred travel option. Once you get there, ALE will provide comfortable tented accommodation for you to stay in.

Regardless of which company you choose to go with, the company will provide for your food, accommodation, and activities throughout the duration of your stay. As Antarctica is barely inhabited, you will not be seeing towns or restaurants during your journey there. Due to your sole dependence on your provider, we suggest that you spend your time researching and choose wisely before you pick who you want to book with.

Note on what to Pack

Because of the extreme temperatures in Antarctica, you will need specialised gear to ensure that you’re safe and comfortable. While the company you choose to travel with will share a detailed list, there are a couple of items that you will certainly need and should plan for:

A good down jacket: To ensure that you stay warm during the colder parts of the day.

A pair of sunglasses: The sun's rays are very harmful to your eyes in these extreme regions.

A good pair of boots: So that you can move about comfortably once you are off the ship/ plane.

Sunscreen: The Antarctic sun is very harsh, sunscreen is a must for any part of your body that is exposed.

Antarctica is an absolutely incredible part of our planet. Experiencing the incredible wilderness of the coast or the stark beauty of the landscape are journey’s like no other. Step a little out of your comfort zone for a holiday that you will cherish for the rest of your life.

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• Seabourn’s Latest Expedition Ship Brings a Safari Sensibility to Antarctica. We Hopped on Board.

As the race to bring luxury to Antarctica heats up, "Pursuit" is the latest vessel to take to the South Pole's icy waters in search of innovation.

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An aquatic epidemiologist, a marine mammal scientist, and a behavioral ecologist walk into a bar. That’s not the setup for a punchline; that’s daily life on Seabourn’s new expedition ship, Pursuit .

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Wildlife rules the operations in Antarctica, where penguins, seals, and whales are at the top of travelers’ checklists. Therefore, the ship is run more like an adventure safari in Africa than a cruise. The ship’s expedition team consists of 26 Antarctic experts, each specializing in a different fauna. Like Masai trackers, they are on constant lookout.

“When you do a zodiac cruise, it’s the equivalent of sitting in a safari jeep,” says Patrick Demus, the behavioral ecologist onboard Pursuit. “You never know what you’re going to see when you come around the corner.”

“It’s an ancient, alien world where it’s possible we’re seeing species new to science,” says Merel Dalebout, the vessel’s submersible pilot. “Essentially, this is a time machine, seeing the ocean as it was 500 million years ago.”

Although guests won’t see penguins or whales from the submersible, they’ll see cases of polar gigantism, where starfish, sea spiders, and ancient seaweed are larger than creatures in other warmer oceans.

For guests more interested in the feather-filled, squawking variety of animals, there’ll be dozens of opportunities for sightings. Each morning, the expedition takes zodiacs out to scout for a safe landing where guests may witness a giant elephant seal yawn or a skua attacking a penguin rookery. In the afternoon, another zodiac takes you for an hour-long cruise around glaciers and alongside porpoising chinstrap penguins. You might as well call them what they are: game drives.

“You can see the brutality of animal life a lot clearer here; it’s right in your face,” says Demus. “If you watch a wildlife documentary about certain animals, it takes the filmmakers months to get the footage. It feels like what you see in a documentary about Antarctica, you can actually see that when you spend two hours at a colony.”

When you’re back onboard, there’s still plenty of opportunity for animal sightings. Weddell seals, humpback whales, Adélie penguins, and storm petrels are known to make an appearance whether you’re soaking in the ship’s hot tub or sipping TWG Earl Grey during afternoon tea in the Constellation Lounge.

“There’s nothing like the feeling of looking out from the back of a ship and seeing one whale, two whales, three or four,” says marine mammal scientist Rachel Cartwright. “It reassures us that there is a place where all is well, and eco-systems are intact, and whales still swim leisurely by without fear of nets or fishing.”

From expedition leaders who have climbed all seven of the world’s highest peaks to kayak guides who have recreated Ernest Shackleton’s historic journey to Antarctica, Seabourn’s crew are arguably some of the world’s most interesting.

Apart from the cozier aspects of the ship, including fur-backed lounge chairs near a bar where glacier ice is chipped for Old Fashioneds, these safari guides at sea shine like an iceberg on a sunny day.

“Our team is there sharing the experiences with you on the mobile classrooms onshore, then back on board in the Discovery Center and in the Expedition Lounge,” says Shaun Powell, director of expedition operations. “Over those shared experiences and the knowledge, it allows guests to continue learning about the wildlife, and it fosters friendships that often continue beyond the voyages.”

Seabourn Pursuit’s all-inclusive 11-day expeditions to Antarctica start at $8,624 per person for a Veranda Suite based on double occupancy.

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Journey to Antarctica Part 2 Travel Chat with Ashley & Emily

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Join Ashley and Emily on their captivating journey as they recount the start of their incredible Antarctica adventure. From flying into Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, to their experiences aboard a luxurious small yacht-like cruise ship, they share the highs and lows of their trip, including personal anecdotes and practical travel tips. Key takeaways: Touring Ushuaia and the highlights.Ever seen a glacial lake with crystal-clear water? Hear Emily talk about it!What the luxurious cruise experience to Antarctica includes.They experienced activities such as kayaking in Antarctica and seeing leopard seals.Join Ashley and Emily’s journey to the end of the world, where they explore Antarctica through a luxury cruise and close encounters with nature.  Join Emily from Emily Eats and Explores and Ashley from Ashley Gets Around weekly as they air out their crazy travel stories, share travel tips, and chat about travel – are you subscribed yet? Click that subscribe button so you don't miss a single episode! Do you want to fly in business class for the cost of economy? Join Ashley's free email list at www.ashleygetsaround.com If you want to learn more about getting paid to travel the world, grab this free masterclass, "Make $5K/month While Traveling," at https://email.emilyeatsandexplores.com/class Join Ashley & Emily on Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ashleygetsaround/ https://www.instagram.com/emilyeatsandexplores/

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Passing Thru Travel

Top 5 Luxury Expeditions to Antarctica 2024

Posted: March 11, 2024 | Last updated: March 11, 2024

Though most people don’t think of Antarctica as the destination for their next vacation, it is still pristine, remote, and filled with almost otherworldly beauty. Whether it’s untouched ice landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, or the surreal experience of visiting the Earth’s southernmost continent, there is far more to visiting Antarctica than you might initially expect.

There is an excellent opportunity for those looking for more luxury expeditions in this harsh and remote environment. These expeditions provide unparalleled comfort and style, making the inaccessible accessible without compromising the spirit of adventure. Today, we will journey with the top luxury expedition cruises to Antarctica to learn more about their unique offerings and features that often focus on sustainable travel practices to preserve Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem.

1. Seabourn Antarctica Cruises

For our journey’s first leg, we will be cruising the Antarctic Peninsula with 132 ocean-front suites, luxurious amenities, and custom-built submarines for underwater exploration. The Seabourn Antarctica Cruises represent the evolution of luxury expedition cruising, offering the perfect blend of adventure and opulence.

On this cruise, you will also find spectacular views of icebergs, glaciers, and marine wildlife. The best time to set out on this particular cruise is the austral summer months (November to March) for wildlife viewing and milder temperatures. Just ensure you don’t miss out on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore beneath the ocean’s surface in one of their state-of-the-art submarines.

2. Magellan Explorer

Next, we’re off to the Magellan Explorer, which specializes in Antarctic air cruises, departing primarily from Punta Arenas, Chile. The Magellan Explorer is a modern expedition vessel with private balconies, a range of cabin categories, and state-of-the-art facilities. Explicitly designed for Antarctic air cruises, this experience provides a faster and more direct route to the continent than most of its competitors.

The Magellan Explorer offers an aerial view of the Arctic and a unique lens for Antarctic wildlife and dramatic landscapes. The peak season is during the austral summer months, especially December and January, for the 24-hour daylight provided. For the ultimate experience, opt for a cabin with a private balcony for unparalleled views of the Antarctic scenery.

3. National Geographic Explorer

We’re off to National Geographic Explorer for their expedition cruises along the Antarctic Peninsula. Part of the National Geographic fleet, known for its focus on exploration and education for travelers looking to balance their arctic adventure with a proper understanding of this wild tundra. These expeditions offer a range of activities like kayaking, hiking, photography workshops, and expert-led educational programs.

The surroundings of your expedition will be rich in wildlife encounters, including whales and penguins and stunning ice formations. The best time to visit is from November to March, with each month offering different experiences, from icebergs in November to wildlife in December to January. Just don’t forget to participate in the photography workshops by National Geographic experts to capture stunning Antarctic images.

4. Greg Mortimer

Named after a renowned Australian mountaineer, our next ship embodies the spirit of adventure. The Greg Mortimer cruises the Antarctic Peninsula and beyond with a variety of activities like kayaking, camping, and even stand-up paddle boarding. On the journey, diverse experiences range from crossing South Georgia to observing glaciers and icebergs.

For the best experience, go in the Antarctic summer, with different wildlife sightings possible each month. Make sure to try the unique experience of camping on the Antarctic ice for an unforgettable night in one of the least explored regions of the Earth.

5. Sea Spirit

For our last destination, we’re headed to the Sea Spirit for its expeditions along the Antarctic Peninsula. The Sea Spirit is known for its intimate and luxurious atmosphere focused on providing a more personal and immersive Antarctic experience. With kayaking, camping, and wildlife photography facilities, you’ll experience close-up encounters with penguins, whales, and dramatic ice landscapes.

The best time to embark on this journey is from November to March, with the late season (February to March) being less crowded and offering unique wildlife sightings. For this trip, use the ship’s smaller size for more intimate and less crowded landings.

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The post Top 5 Luxury Expeditions to Antarctica 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Piotrek Golemo.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Kayak with the penguins in the Antarctic this year. Photo / Intrepid Ocean Endeavor

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My 5 Stages of Retirement

Or, how i learned to stop worrying and love retired life.

Katherine Skiba,

Here’s a dirty little secret: At age 67, I joined a garden club.

Not long ago, the idea of secluding myself in a church hall with a bunch of silver-haired dowagers who insist on proper botanical nomenclature (genus and species) would have been unthinkable.

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Not me. Not the hard-charging journalist who chased tough stories from tornadoes to triple murders to terror attacks.

Yet here I am, squirming in a folding chair as a lecturer drones on about how to grow unusual herbs for French culinary sauces I will never make.

How did I get here?

Two years ago, I retired. With a nudge from a neighbor, I joined the club to grow my skills as a floral designer. I had no interest in making a killer béarnaise, but I wanted to branch out, so to speak. (And shame on me, a bottle blond, for throwing shade on the club’s gray-heads.)

On April Fools’ Day, 2022 — no joke — I retired from AARP. My work as a writer and editor here focused on elder fraud , and I was gratified to help victims and alert others to this unconscionable scourge. I also wrote about Alzheimer’s research , centenarians and the catastrophic toll on older Americans of Northern California's Camp Fire , among other stories.

After four adrenalin-fueled decades of news reporting, my years at AARP were a cool-down phase. I was no longer on call 24/7. Even better, working for a nonprofit representing 38 million fellow older Americans proved a master class in retirement. I was in “pretirement” when I started, and I learned from the experts I interviewed and from those colleagues I spoke to for their stories about health , fitness , personal finance — you name it.

At a staff gathering six months into the job, I heard a talk on how to live to be 100 . Among the speaker’s exhortations: Have a “playful, joyful retirement.”

Right afterward, I got a call from my oldest brother announcing that he was retiring. In light of our roll-up-your-sleeves upbringing, I was stunned. But I parroted the lecturer, wishing my sibling a playful, joyful retirement.

Thus, the seed was planted.

No poster child

Let me be clear that I am not an AARP-sanctioned poster child for retirement. No such person exists. AARP aims to empower people to choose how they live as they age. As we approach the off-ramp of our working years, our health, family and finances may be radically different from the next person’s. Everyone’s retirement is theirs alone.

I chose April 1 to call it quits for two reasons: I would never forget the date, and, mischievously, I wanted one last laugh as I bade farewell to the 9-to-5, the cubicle farm, the deadlines and the annual performance reviews (which, as a mature professional, I had come to loathe).

My finances seemed on solid footing. I had a modest newspaper pension and could rely on my husband’s paycheck. I would take a buzz saw to household spending , put off Social Security and not touch our nest egg.

When D-Day (Departure Day) rolled around, I laughed, cried, listened to tributes and gave what my colleagues called a funny speech. I was happier than an inmate being sprung from the big house. I would be out of the office — forever — and freed from the shackles of full-time toil. I’d worked since childhood, first at my family’s long-running restaurant outside Chicago and later in retail and for the U.S. Postal Service, among other places.

Ah, hubris. In the months to come I would learn that, much like other important endeavors — grieving, staying married, shaving my legs — there are stages to retirement. These were mine.

Stage 1: Euphoria

I had won the lottery. Every morning I could ignore the alarm my husband set and do whatever I wanted. My life seemed ripped from the script of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off .

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Freedom tasted sweeter than it looked on paper — and trust me, I had read a lot about retirement. The authors of Happy Retirement: The Psychology of Reinvention ask whether you regard retirement as a time to explore new horizons, put up your feet, search for meaning or contribute on your own terms. I was warm to R&R and new places.

With stress evaporating with each day, I got serious about a diet, ratcheted up my exercise regimen and shed 25 pounds. I was high on my hard-earned freedom and could fit into my old jeans. But honeymoons, history shows, don’t last forever.

Stage 2: Shock and awe

Timing is everything. Mine stunk. The stock market plunged in 2022 — as did my confidence — and the country was gripped by the worst inflation in 40 years . Who was the April fool now?

I retired at age 65½. The Social Security Administration’s life expectancy calculator says on average, a woman my age will live to 87. But my ancestors lived into their 90s, so I wanted a nest egg that was bulletproof.

I shifted some assets into higher-yield investments, eliminated frills, clipped coupons, hunted for bargains and harangued merchants for “senior citizen” discounts (the only time I use that term). Taxes were taking a bite out of my pension , which covered Medicare expenses but didn’t stretch far after that.

I lamented both the loss of my paycheck and the camaraderie of my “work family.” Then I remembered reading about people who “unretire” and go back to the proverbial rock pile after imagining they’d never pick up a sledgehammer again.

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As I had for years, I scoured job listings, but now each opening seemed tailor-made for the Energizer Bunny. I was growing accustomed to what the Italians call il dolce far niente , the sweetness of doing nothing.

Taking even a part-time job seemed as desirable as eating glass, so I doubled down on freelance writing.

Stage 3: The reality of gig work

Though the topics were engaging, churning out freelance stories felt like a deal with the devil. I could not shake my driven, perfectionist tendencies, so I put in too many hours from the solitary confinement of my home office. The state, federal and self-employment taxes whittling away at my measly earnings made me want to weep.

Even worse was the heckling of friends with a few years of retirement under their belts. “When are you going to really retire?” they’d sneer.

I thought I would ace retirement, but the economic downturn was raining buckets on my parade. I felt like a failure.

Stage 4: Retirement 2.0

Once economic conditions brightened, I cut back on freelancing to give retirement a real chance — and get my friends to shut up.

That left me time to swim, refinish furniture, reupholster chairs, paint our fireplaces, entertain houseguests, bake, tame my garden and take my late-in-life passion for flower arranging to the next level. Some attempts to rekindle my softer side belly-flopped. True confession: The sewing machine I bought myself as a retirement gift is gathering dust.

When not immersed in DIY mania, I might luxuriate with a good book. I have learned to love naps. And I’m in the early stages of “Swedish death cleaning,” the art of decluttering your home to ease the burden on your loved ones after you’ve gone. I have chucked an abandoned book project and boxes of yellowed newspaper clips and story printouts. It’s a way to make room for new endeavors in my garage (rechristened “my studio”) and in my life.

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Stage 5: The bucket-list trip

I dislike the concept of a bucket list. Maybe because I don’t want to come off as gluttonous or tempt fate. Zip-lining, swimming with sharks, sticking my head into the mouth of a ravenous lion? No need.

I figured if I had one, and only one, thing I desired to do before the end, my odds of success would climb. My only wish was to visit all seven continents. Once I’d touched down in South America and Antarctica, I would step onto the winner’s podium.

So, when I eyeballed a bargain fare on a reputable cruise line for an excursion to Antarctica via Argentina, my husband and I went for it.

The endless oceans, majestic, snow-draped mountains and Windex-blue icebergs that mark this vast wilderness blew our minds. We breathed in the freshest air we’ve ever inhaled. We hiked, kayaked and heard lectures on the golden age of Antarctic exploration. We befriended the expedition guides (one a woman who had summited the highest peak on each continent) and dined with these raconteurs and other happy bucket listers aboard ship. Now this was retirement.

Of course I did the polar plunge. Why not? Hours of nerves and 30 seconds in 28-degree water equal a lifetime of bragging rights.

The trip taught me two things: Sometimes I need to let my heart be my compass. And for the rest of my days, I don’t need to see another penguin.

Everybody has retirement advice

As I enter year three of retirement, I know that my fellow retirees are spoon-fed more advice than teens, college interns and expectant parents. Some of the one-size-fits-all counsel struck me as dumb.

You’ll be bored in three weeks.

You need to accomplish at least three things a day.

You should take up pickleball .

Let’s take them one by one.

Boredom. It’s preposterous to think any journalist worth their salt would find nothing to do, see, read, try or explore.

Three things a day. To me, that would be phoning it in. 

Pickleball. I’m game but haven’t gone there. Yet.

My advice? Dust off old passions and try new things. Follow the example of smart retirees you know. Brace yourself for requests that you work for free. Set boundaries. After a lifetime of being told what to do (and getting paid for it), remember that “No” is a complete sentence.

It’s your life. Your retirement. Your time. And time, sweet time, always goes by.

Katherine Skiba is a contributor for AARP. She has reported for the  Chicago Tribune, U.S. News & World Report  and the  Milwaukee Journal Sentinel , and is the author of a wartime memoir,  Sister in the Band of Brothers: Embedded With the 101st Airborne in Iraq.

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