Welcome to the icy wonderland of Antarctic expedition cruising! If you're considering a journey to the southernmost continent, this guide will help you understand what sets an expedition cruise apart from a regular cruise and what incredible experiences await you.
What is Antarctic Expedition Cruising?
Expedition cruising is an adventurous and immersive style of travel that focuses on exploring remote and often untouched regions. Unlike traditional cruises that might focus on luxury and relaxation, expedition cruises are about discovery, education, and experiencing the raw beauty of nature & its wildlife. It's all about the destination!
Key differences from traditional cruising:
Expedition Ships are usually smaller vessels, typically accommodating 100-200 passengers, allowing for access to remote areas and a more intimate experience. In Antarctica this is particularly important, as the size of ship will dictate where and how often you are able to disembark. The IAATO ship categories are: Expedition ships focus on exploration, wildlife observation, and education with onboard experts. There will be flexible itineraries that can change based on weather and wildlife sightings, allowing for spontaneous and unique experiences.
C1 which carry 13 to 200 passengers and can make landings.
C2 are mid-size vessels with 201 to 500 passengers and can make landings at a smaller number of sites.
CR vessels carry more than 500 passengers and do not make landings at all.
Activities wise, you can expect daily zodiac excursions, landings on remote beaches, guided hikes, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Some expedition ships even have helicopters & submarines.
Traditional cruise ships can carry thousands of passengers, focusing on amenities and entertainment. There is an emphasis on leisure, onboard entertainment, and visiting popular tourist destinations. Y ou can expect fixed itineraries with scheduled port stops and activities. Facilities include onboard pools, theatres, shopping, and organised shore excursions (though not in Antarctica). You are likely to find a wide choice of dining options and all-inclusive drinks and meal options. Whilst Expedition cruises offer all-inclusive, there is likely to be bar service hours, this is partly due to healthy and safety of guests who will be making trips in zodiacs throughout the day.
It's certainly worth thinking about whether an expedition cruise is for you. If you're less interested in getting off the ship, spotting penguins and whales, and the on-board entertainment & relaxation is more your thing, then it may not be the right choice.
Luxury and Sustainability on Expedition Cruises
Many Antarctic expedition cruises offer a high level of luxury. Passengers can enjoy saunas, hot tubs, gourmet dining, and spacious cabins, providing a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration.
Additionally, expedition cruises often focus on sustainability. Operators are committed to minimising their environmental impact and promoting conservation. This includes:
Using cleaner fuels and energy-efficient technologies.
Implementing waste management and recycling programs.
Following strict guidelines to protect wildlife and ecosystems.
Supporting scientific research and conservation projects.
Activities on an Antarctic Expedition Cruise
Antarctic expedition cruises offer a range of epic and unique activities that bring you closer to the natural wonders of the continent, such as;
Zodiac Excursions: Small, inflatable boats called Zodiacs are used to navigate through ice-filled waters, offering up-close views of icebergs, glaciers, and wildlife. These excursions provide intimate encounters with the environment and are often the highlight of the trip. Only 100 people can land on Antarctica at a time, so generally speaking the smaller ships are better for more frequent and longer visits.
Wildlife Watching: Antarctica is home to incredible wildlife, including penguins, seals, and a variety of seabirds. Lucky travellers may spot whales and orca. Expert guides provide insights into the behaviour and ecology of these animals. If wildlife is particularly important to you, I would recommend taking a longer journey to include South Georgia and the Falkland islands on your voyage. Some wildlife, like the Emperor penguin can only be found in certain places, like Snow Hill, where only a few operators visit.
Hiking and Snowshoeing: Guided hikes and snowshoeing excursions on the continent or surrounding islands allow passengers to explore the rugged terrain and enjoy breath-taking vistas. You'll have options to take a circular walk, or trek up the hills to gain a better vantage point.
Kayaking & SUP: For those seeking a closer connection with the water, kayaking or paddle boarding offers a peaceful and immersive way to explore the icy waters and get close to marine life. Some operators will only offer this activity to experienced paddlers, whereas others will offer discovery outings for beginners. You're likely to get more from the experience if you have some practice at home first. You'll be kitted out in dry suits for these activities, so you'll stay warm and dry.
Camping: Some expeditions offer the chance to camp on the continent, providing a unique perspective of the Antarctic wilderness and an unforgettable night under the polar sky. You'll take very little with you, other than a mat, sleeping bag and bivvy, after digging a little hole, you'll spend a night sleeping under the stars - things don't get more epic than this.
Photography Workshops: With stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, Antarctica is a photographer's paradise. Many expeditions include workshops led by professional photographers to help you capture the best shots and some will share a digital photo book with you including shots from the on-board photographer. Even if you're armed only with your phone, I've seen very impressive videos and photos taken without the zoom lens.
Educational Lectures: Onboard experts, including scientists, naturalists, and historians, offer lectures and presentations about the region’s geology, climate, history, and wildlife, enriching your understanding of the places you visit. This is often the highlight of the evenings. I've heard these sessions called 'Edutainment', where you've swapped the musicians and cabaret for science lectures.
Helicopters: There are some operators that even give you the opportunity to see the continent from above, allowing you to marvel at its vastness.
Polar Plunge: A daring and exhilarating activity where brave participants jump into the freezing Antarctic waters. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that few forget!
Choosing the right Antarctic expedition cruise
When selecting an Antarctic expedition cruise, consider the following factors:
Length of the Cruise: Cruises can range from 10 days to over 3 weeks. Longer trips allow for more exploration and a deeper immersion into the Antarctic environment.
Route and Destinations: Different cruises may focus on different regions, such as the Antarctic Peninsula, the Weddell Sea, or the Ross Sea. Research the specific areas and choose one that aligns with your interests.
South Georgia and the Falkland Islands: Wildlife enthusiasts should consider itineraries that include these sub-Antarctic islands. South Georgia is known for its massive king penguin colonies, elephant seals, and historical sites related to Ernest Shackleton. The Falkland Islands offer diverse birdlife, including albatrosses and rockhopper penguins, along with a rich history and unique landscapes.
Season: The Antarctic cruise season runs from November to March. The time of your trip can impact your experience in terms of what you might see, though I've never heard anyone say they wished they'd gone at a different time:
Early Season (November - December): Expect pristine ice landscapes and the beginning of the penguin courtship period. This is also the time to witness the formation of sea ice and enjoy spectacular snowy vistas. This is the best time to try snow shoeing and camping. By December the chicks start hatching and the whales arrive.
Mid-Season (January - February): This period offers the warmest weather and the best opportunities for wildlife viewing, including seeing penguin chicks and seal pups.
Late Season (March): This time is ideal for whale watching as they are more active. The melting ice allows for deeper exploration into the continent. The days are getting shorter.
Emperor Penguins: To see emperor penguins, consider voyages to the Snow Hill or specific expeditions that focus on reaching emperor penguin colonies. These majestic birds are typically found in more remote and harder-to-reach areas, making such expeditions truly unique. Only a small number of operators will visit Snow Hill and I've heard enthusiasts say that to see emperor penguins is one of the top three wildlife experiences in the world
Activities Offered: Ensure the cruise offers the activities you’re most interested in, such as kayaking, camping, or photography workshops.
Ship Amenities: While expedition ships are smaller, they still vary in terms of comfort and amenities. Check the cabin options, dining facilities, and onboard services. For those looking to travel on a budget some operators will offer the option of a bed in a shared twin or triple cabin, as well as single rooms priced for solo travellers. If luxury is important to you, you will be spoiled for choice with a truly personal service.
Expertise of the Crew: A knowledgeable and experienced crew will greatly enhance your expedition experience. Look for cruises with a strong team of guides and lecturers, those who work permanently for that operator and who have stayed with them for longer periods of time.
The Drake Passage: The Drake Shake or the Drake Lake?
One of the defining aspects of an Antarctic expedition cruise is crossing the infamous Drake Passage. This body of water between the southern tip of South America and the Antarctic Peninsula is known for its unpredictable conditions. Some voyages experience the "Drake Shake," where rough seas and high waves provide a thrilling, albeit challenging, adventure. Conversely, lucky travellers might encounter the "Drake Lake," with calm waters making for a smooth and serene crossing.
Sailing the Drake Passage builds anticipation for the arrival in Antarctica and provides an opportunity to engage in the ship’s lecture program, where experts prepare passengers with fascinating insights about the continent’s wildlife, history, and geography.
For those who prefer to avoid the potential rough seas, it is possible to fly one or both ways. Flying over the Drake Passage can save time and provide a more comfortable journey, allowing you to start your Antarctic adventure as soon as you land. Whether you choose to sail, fly, or combine both options, the journey to Antarctica is an integral part of the expedition experience, filled with excitement and anticipation.
So what are you waiting for?
Antarctic expedition cruising is a transformative journey, offering unparalleled access to one of the most remote and pristine regions on Earth. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a curious traveller, the experiences you gain and the memories you create will last a lifetime. So bundle up, grab your camera, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica!
Why not get in touch for a consultation about your Antarctica cruise, I work with a selection of Antarctic expedition cruise operators and I believe in finding the right company to suit your style and expectations.
Contact me at helen.bateman@travelcounsellors.com or 01728 850024.
With thanks to the Expedition Cruise Network for their excellent training and events into all things Antarctica and to Quark Expeditions for the use of their photos in this blog.
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