Antarctic Alternatives

An article in the Journal of Sustainable Tourism recently noted that a record 125,000 passengers visited Antarctica during the 2023-24 season. It further predicted that travellers to Antarctica could top 452,000 in a decade. And shouldering much of this increase will be its most accessible point, the Antarctic Peninsula, which receives 75% of all visitors. The peninsula is reached by a two-day sail from Ushuaia in southern Argentina down the Drake Passage—the quickest and most cost-effective access, typically featuring itineraries of 10-12 days.

“More and more voyages are venturing further down the peninsula with Antarctic Circle-crossings, a mainstay of most companies, whereas such products were fairly rare a decade ago,” says Steffan Danino, Product and Operations Manager of Albatros Expeditions. 

Such numbers will inevitably raise concerns that over-tourism might have harmful negative impacts on the ecology of the 7th continent. There are, of course, things we can do as responsible travellers to ensure Antarctica remains pristine. For instance, choosing a vessel based on its owner’s commitment to sustainability and protection of the Antarctic ecosystem. And on land, following the guidance set by expedition shore landing teams in keeping a respectful distance from wildlife.