Having made the intrepid journey to get to Antarctica, you may be surprised by the variety of activities on offer in this pristine wonderland. However you choose to get to Antarctica, you can expect an array of options available designed to immerse you in the magnificent landscapes of the White Continent and discover its captivating wildlife. Whether you are seeking active adventures or quieter contemplation of these other-worldly lands, our Antarctica specialists will find out what is most important to you and assist you in planning the perfect itinerary to make your experience a truly unforgettable one.
THINGS TO DO IN ANTARCTICA
VISIT A PENGUIN COLONY
One of the most endearing creatures to see in Antarctica is undoubtedly the penguin. If you are visiting Antarctica as part of a luxury expedition cruise, spending time out on deck will afford plenty of opportunities to spot playful penguins skating along the ice and diving into the water. There is nothing quite like disembarking to visit a penguin colony on dry land, however. After an initial assault on the senses of noise (and smell!), it is utterly fascinating to observe these entertaining birds going about their daily business, marching to and fro, guarding their chicks or honking loudly as they squabble over the best stones to build their territories. Truly one of the best Antarctic experiences there is.
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ZODIAC SAFARIS
On a typical cruise around Antarctica, you will likely disembark more than once for a thrilling safari by Zodiac – a top-of-the-range inflatable motorboat designed to access smaller landing sites, as well as deliver closer encounters with the Antarctic nature. The most memorable safaris include journeys around breathtakingly beautiful playgrounds of icebergs, which often appear dazzling blue in colour, or wildlife themed expeditions where you can come almost face-to-face with formidable leopard seals snoozing on floating ice.
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KAYAKING IN ANTARCTICA
Many Antarctic expedition cruises offer the option to add excursions by kayak to your classic cruise programme. Setting out by kayak into the pristine Antarctic waters and gliding around picturesque ice formations without the sound of a motor adds another dimension to your visit, affording you a greater appreciation of the serenity and natural beauty of Antarctica. Do note, however, that kayak and guide availability is usually limited so you should express your interest in kayaking as soon as you plan your cruise
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VISIT A REMOTE ANTARCTIC SETTLEMENT
Few people associate Antarctica with human settlement, but a smattering of scientific research stations can be found across the continent, as well as a small number of sites with an intriguing history. One of these is Port Lockroy, a former whaling station which served time as a British military base during the Second World War before being transformed into a scientific research station until the 1960s. These days Port Lockroy is a preserved historic site, boasting a museum showcasing an intriguing collection from the base’s past, the world’s southernmost working post office – and a particularly lively population of gentoo penguins.
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ICE HIKING IN ANTARCTICA
Gentle walks to penguin colonies and scenic viewpoints will generally form part of most Antarctica visits when you are on dry land, but those with a keener interest in hiking can opt for a cruise which offers a dedicated hiking and snowshoeing add-on – the Magellan Explorer, for example. More challenging hikes can take you to elevated lookouts, delivering sweeping panoramas of Antarctic landscapes. Those seeking the ultimate physical challenge may wish to consider a stay at White Desert’s exclusive Echo Camp, where you can hike to the summit of a nunatak, go ice climbing or abseil down a frozen cliff.
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HELICOPTER FLIGHTS IN ANTARCTICA
As expedition cruise operators become ever more innovative, the option to soar over breathtaking Polar landscapes by helicopter opens up a whole new dimension to your Antarctica experience. The Ultramarine, for example, comes equipped with two top-of-the-range twin engine helicopters which offer guests not only flightseeing journeys but also the chance to add memorable experiences only accessible by helicopter such as ice sheet landings, heli-trekking or the opportunity to visit a remote Emperor penguin colony.
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ICE CAMPING IN ANTARCTICA
For an unforgettable night under endless Polar skies, nothing beats the experience of camping in Antarctica. Many expedition cruises can offer the option of setting you up in a comfortable camp for the night where the only sounds to break the serenity are the distant calls of penguins or the splash of a breaching whale. Wake to the ethereal glow of sunrise over the ice, having spent a night like no other.
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POLAR PLUNGE
Finally, though by no means compulsory, for some a true immersion into Antarctica can also be a quite literal one! On some expedition cruises, a timely stop may be made to offer those with a sense of adventure the chance to take a Polar Plunge – a brief, invigorating dip into Antarctic waters. Conditions are strictly monitored throughout with an onboard medic and safety team at hand, so all you need to worry about is building yourself up to take the plunge!
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