Travel to Argentina: Antarctica

Why travel to Antarctica

There are only a few places left on Earth that remain untamed by man. Antarctica is one of them. Its frozen landscapes are breathtakingly desolate and 98% of its surface is comprised of ice—which at some places can measure up to 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) thick. Unless you’re a hardy scientist set on bundling up and hunkering down in one of the several research stations—the only place to find human life here—your visit will be via an Antarctica cruise.

Cruises to the Antarctica region last at least a week (and usually much longer) and are designed for travelers with a sense of adventure, an eye for beauty, and respect for Mother Nature. An Antarctica cruise provides an exhilarating sense of sweeping isolation as your ship sails for days with nothing in sight but piercingly blue waters. You’ll also step foot on the most unexplored terrain in the world during land excursions and marvel at the miracle of life in this harsh, icy land as you see the penguins, whales, seals, birds, and other wildlife that thrives in this fridge region.

What to do in Antarctica

Watch wildlife. One of the most impressive things about Antarctica is how despite harsh conditions, the region supports an abundance of wildlife. If you keep your eyes open, you’re likely to see all sorts of marine creature, including penguins (Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adelie), seals (Weddell, crabeater, and leopard), whales (killer, humpback, and Minke), and numerous flying seabirds.

Off-ship excursions. You’ll have a variety of opportunities to debark and explore the rugged terrain of Antarctic by foot. Activity options will vary depending on cruise ship selection and weather conditions, but you could find yourself hiking along rocky beaches, enjoying unexpected thermal hot springs, kayaking among glaciers, or mountaineering up icy inclines.

Practice photography. The pearly white glaciers and polar blue seas of Antarctica reflect off each other to create a sensational kaleidoscope of colors. If you’re traveling during the summer months, the sun will sparkle most of the day, and green moss and red lichens clinging to rock sides will gleam like gems. When the sun finally does set, it melts down to the horizon, and if you’re lucky, the Southern Lights, also known as Aurora Australis, might splash across the sky at night.

Visit research stations. There are several research stations on the islands surrounding the continent of Antarctica. You may have the opportunity to visit one of these outposts of scientific discovery and learn more about the surrounding winter wonderland.

When to visit Antarctica

Antarctic weather can be punishing, so the wise pay close attention to the way the wind blows. The best time for an Antarctica visit is during the Antarctic summer from November through March. However, weather in the remote area of the world is unpredictable so make sure to pack for varying temperatures, anywhere from 20-50 °F.

During the rest of the year, temperatures plummet and passages ice over. Though some cruise ships do operate during fringe summer months, the itinerary will be at the mercy of sudden climate changes, and you should expect last minute changes or cancelations for off-ship excursions. Also note that you’ll be experiencing long hours of sunlight—up to 20 hours in February.

December or January are the best months to catch a glimpse of penguins, fur seals, and elephant seals. The best time to see whales is in March.

Antarctica Cruise Ships

Ocean Nova

Built to face the rough and icy waters of the Antarctic, the stylish Scandinavian-designed Ocean Nova boasts 38 comfortable cabins equipped with all modern amenities to make your cruise to the Antarctica as enjoyable as possible. It's ice-stengthened hull allows the Ocean Nova to sail and park in some of the most remote and unattainable locations, providing ample opportunities for on shore explorations. The boat features a spacious dining area, glass-enclosed observation and presentation lounges ideal to admire the breathtaking landscapes from aboard, an exercise room and fully-stocked library.

Ocean Nova Cruise Photos »

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Clipper Adventurer

The elegant Clipper Adventurer is an adventure ship which has been operating in Antarctica since 1975, and underwent massive renovations in 1998. One of the most comfortable cruise ships sailing the Antarctic continent, this 101 meter-long boat feature 61 well appointed cabins all boastings outside views and modern amenities. Among the amazing facilities aboard are a presentation room, 2 lounge bars, a library, gift shop, exercise room and massage therapist. With twin, triple, superior, deluxe and suite cabins, the Clipper Adventurer is able to accommodate the needs and preferences of all travelers.

Clipper Adventurer Cruise Photos »

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