Antarctica

Iceberg and Glacier Viewing: The scenery is breathtaking, with massive icebergs and glaciers. Zodiac boat tours allow close-up views and navigation through ice-filled waters.

Antarctica expeditions and small-ship adventures offer hundreds of Zodiac landing opportunities at various sites, including research stations, wildlife viewing areas (especially penguin colonies), and historic sites like Ernest Shackleton's hut.

Some trips offer kayaking among icebergs and for real close-ups with marine life and the famous "polar plunge," where you jump into the icy waters from the ship, reserved mainly for the hardier adventurers, but you never know. 

Educational Programs and Citizen Science are essential features of trips to Antarctica. These are important because it is expensive to send scientists down to this isolated continent, so deputising travellers as scientists can be a significant advantage and cost-saving in research. Also commonplace are onboard lectures and presentations by experts in glaciology, marine biology, climate change, and polar history, enhancing the experience and offering more profound insights into the region's environment, wildlife, and exploration history.

Wildlife Watching: Antarctica's wildlife is a major attraction, with opportunities to see different species of penguins (such as Emperor, Adélie, and Chinstrap), seals (including Weddell, Leopard, and Fur seals), whales (like Humpback, Minke, and Orca), and numerous seabirds.

Antarctica's cultural and historical interest is deeply tied to the age of exploration, notably through expeditions led by figures such as Ernest Shackleton and Otto Nordenskjöld. Shackleton's Endurance expedition is celebrated for its remarkable survival story, while Nordenskjöld's Antarctic expedition on the Antarctic is noted for its scientific achievements despite severe hardships.

These stories, among others, highlight human determination and the early scientific exploration of the continent. They contribute to the rich tapestry of Antarctic history that continues to fascinate and inspire exploration and conservation efforts today.

Some expedition cruises are themed around the past's great explorations, mainly those that visit the Weddell Sea, where Shackleton’s ship Endurance was discovered 2022 under the Ice.

Polar activities in Antarctica range from skiing to scuba diving but most frequently include zodiac boat tours to explore icebergs and coastline, wildlife viewing of penguins, seals, and whales, kayaking among icebergs, visiting research stations, participating in citizen science projects, and camping on the Antarctic continent.

These activities offer intimate experiences with the continent's environment and unique wildlife, making them a highlight for many travellers.

With its deep history of exploration and fascinating stories of accomplishment and survival, there is a natural draw for adventure seekers who travel to Antarctica. 

Visitors to Antarctica are privileged to travel there, and we always recommend choosing operators who adhere to strict environmental guidelines and seek to minimise their impact on this wilderness. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) is a critical organisation that sets guidelines for responsible tourism in Antarctica. Selecting a ship to visit the Antarctic carefully is essential, and an IAATO member should operate it. 

Always strictly follow guidelines for minimising your environmental impact, such as avoiding single-use plastics and not disturbing wildlife. We advise that you familiarise yourself with IAATO rules long before you travel; links are added below. You will also have a pre-trip briefing, usually held in a hotel, explaining how to ensure you travel responsibly and safely within the region. Do not ever engage with or touch the wildlife.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date, and always Check visa requirements for each country you plan to visit. Requirements can vary depending on your nationality. Selecting comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, evacuation, and trip cancellation is also essential. Antarctic travel, especially when opting for flight-inclusive trips, is heavily weather dependent, and trips can get cancelled, so check the terms and conditions of your principal operator and ensure your insurance covers weather-related disruption. Evacuation from Antarctica is expensive; also check your insurer's coverage of this, as most operators will specify it as a contract requirement. 

Travellers to this region should expect harsh and unpredictable weather, including cold temperatures, strong winds, and rough seas. Expedition cruises to Antarctica require a certain fitness level, including hiking on uneven terrain and getting in and out of Zodiac boats. Antarctic cruises can also be expensive, reflecting the remote and challenging nature of operating in the region. And if you have chosen a fly cruise, delays are common and can result in days waiting on either side of the Drake. 

If you're prone to seasickness, bring appropriate medication or alternative remedies. The ship's medical centre can also assist, but there is a lot of discussion about seasickness on support forums and getting tailored advice is worthwhile. 

In general, for those seeking an extraordinary journey, an expedition cruise to Antarctica is a life-changing adventure emphasising the importance of preserving this environment for future generations.

The best months to visit Antarctica are during the austral summer, which spans from November to March. During this period, conditions are more favourable for travel and exploration. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect in the different summer months.