5 things you didn’t know about cruising to Antarctica
An expedition cruise is one of the safest and most comfortable ways to travel to a place on earth that very few venture.
Here are some interesting facts about cruising to Antarctica.
1. You can go swimming in Antarctica
Yes, the water will most likely be at freezing temperatures but if you are cruising to Antarctica, most cruise lines will offer the opportunity to take a quick dip in the waters.
Hurtigruten and some other cruise lines offer swimming at almost every stop, while others only allow guests to swim at one port, Deception Island. Deception Island has water that is a little warmer due to volcanic activity.
2. You can mail a postcard home and get your passport stamped
Shopping for souvenirs is limited to onboard the ship and at a few research stations like Port Lockroy. The workers at Port Lockroy come aboard and share their experiences working at the research station. They also stamp passports, postcards and stamps, and souvenirs.
3. There is an active volcano
Most travellers are surprised to learn that there is an active volcano on Deception Island. The snow covers the surface in many places and it is warm from the volcanic activity. There are also ancient whaling stations on the island that can still be seen.
4. You can go kayaking
If you think that swimming in freezing waters is too extreme for you, you can opt for kayaking instead. The coastal waters are calm and you can enjoy views of icebergs, penguins, seals and whales. Some cruise lines will provide appropriate outerwear for kayakers to borrow.
5. Size matters on an Antarctica cruise
In a year, roughly 50 ships visit Antarctica with travellers. These ships range from tiny expedition ships with less than 25 guests to traditional cruise ships with over 1000 guests. It is important to keep in mind what kind of experience you want to receive when booking your cruise. If a ship has more than 500 guests on board, the Antarctic Treaty and International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators prohibit you from coming ashore.
Over60 travellers have their say
Smaller boats make for fast disembarkations
Over60 community member Lynda Hilton said, “I went in 2009. One of my best holidays ever. Antarctica is a truly magical experience – pristine, quiet, majestic – so many adjectives describe it. I was on one of the smaller boats – 120 passengers – which made for easy and fast disembarkations a couple of times a day. Would love to go back for a longer trip but it's so expensive.”
A bucket-list experience
Wendy Phillips said, “A wonderful experience… the beauty, animals and silence are breathtaking and go for a swim. A big tick off the bucket.”
Large ships offer comfort
“Went to Antarctic on the Golden Princess, amazing journey. Going on a large ship made for relatively comfortable buffer against big waves unlike the smaller ships which were tossed about. Privileged to have gone to the southernmost part of the world” wrote Virginia Mary Urquhart.
Incredible scenery
Denise Peck wrote, “One of the most incredible experiences of all our travels. The wildlife, scenery and isolation are just amazing. We have just come back from the Artic and it's so different! Makes you really appreciate the achievements of the yearly polar explorers.”
Have you ever been on a cruise to Antarctica? Tell us what it was like in the comments below.