Is a cruise to Antarctica worth it? Yes, and here’s why

Interested in Antarctica? Give this article a read!

Most people when they think of holidays or expeditions think about South America or Europe. Not Katrina and Karen from House of Travel Botany Junction. They took a leap and explored the unforgiving continent of Antarctica.

We sat down with Katrina and Karen and asked them to give us a complete breakdown of this life-changing adventure to help you plan your own.

Investing in a cruise to Antarctica is rarely a snap decision. It’s one of the most remote destinations, the world’s highest, driest and windiest continent, and even the most enticing deals come at a significant cost. But is it worth it? Absolutely. 

Read below to know the full 10-day itinerary for Antarctica.

Beginning of the journey from New Zealand

Our trip began with a 12-hour flight to Santiago, then a 2 hour flight to Buenos Aires with another 3.5-hour trip to the historic city of Ushuaia but it would pay to split it up with overnight stays as Santiago and Buenos Aires are so interesting. From here we boarded the Seabourn Pursuit and began our 10-day expedition cruise.

From Ushuaia to Antarctica through the Drake Passage

We sailed aboard the Seabourn Pursuit from Ushuaia and headed south by way of the Beagle Channel. By the following morning, we were well into the infamous Drake Passage. It usually takes 48 hours, however, we managed to get to the deserted continent in just 36 hours. With the journey usually taking 2 days each way, this meant we spent 6 days exploring and learning about the white continent. Onboard the cruise the atmosphere was very social. We met with other passengers who were very well travelled and were as keen as us to add this amazing experience to their bucket list. The average age being around 40 – 50 years old. 

Exploration, Wildlife Encounters & Antarctic Circle

On our third day at sea, we began our firsts. On a day-by-day basis, the explorations were similar. There were ice landings and zodiacs which happened every day. If an ice landing was done in the morning, then the zodiac would be done in the afternoon, and vice versa.

Heading down to Antarctica we were blown away by the pristine white and azure blue of the icebergs, glaciers and the ocean. Our first encounter was an ice landing and was indescribable - to see the Gentoo penguins of the Antarctic in their natural home doing what they do nesting, fishing, swimming and socializing. This is when we had our first “OMG! I’m in Antarctica” experience. They were so curious and came to check us out walking along the penguin highway. We had been instructed to be no closer than 15 feet from them but often we had to move away as they came up to investigate who we were.

Onboard the zodiacs there are multiple specialists that are experienced in different fields. One day you could have a specialist on ice bergs or penguins, or naturists, etc. The temperature was surprisingly warm at a stunning -2 degrees Celsius. Being at the bottom of earth, there is 20 hours of sunlight and about 4 hour of ‘duskiness.’

Antarctic Circle, Polar Plunge & Lot more

We were very lucky to visit the Antarctic Circle. Here we were given a certificate to state that we visited one of the most isolated places on earth. This diversion was a backup route, showing the great range of Seabourns flexibility in case of poor weather patterns or opportunities that presented themselves.

There’s a wide range of activities to do whilst down in Antarctica – who would’ve thought? Ranging from Kayaking, viewing the ocean floor in a submarine, to the Polar Plunge. We decided to do the Polar Plunge and refreshing is an understatement. The 30 seconds in Antarctic waters is an exhilarating, heart-racing experience which is a definite must-do.

Our ABSOLUTE Top Highlight:

At one point during a zodiac expedition the zodiac driver turned all engines off and we were asked to not move or make a sound. This was a majestic and a real ‘Pinch Me’ moment. The sound of truly…Nothing. Not a sound to be heard except for ice bergs cracking and the odd gull flapping around

Packing Tips:

1. Pay attention to the packing list... Pack some cozy Uggs; they were a lifesaver for moving from the cabin to the boots room and strolling around the ship.

2. Layering is key—opt for gaiter to insulate the neck and prevent warm air from escaping. And opt for merino, like a singlet layered with two layers of merino topped with your jacket”.

3. We wore polar fleece tights but also had thermals if needed. A must is to have waterproof pants.... Get them in a size bigger to accommodate layers.

4. Warm wool socks or good ski socks.

5. Ski gloves and also something like a head band or muffs that covers your ears... Godsend.

6. Good beanie and our new best friend a gaiter. You need this on the zodiacs.

7. If you can get ski goggles they would be preferable but sunglasses are a must.

8. Around the ship during the day is leggings, track suit or jeans. At night not as dressy as other cruises but what you might wear to dinner at home.

9. Sunscreen and lip balm is a must.

Best Time To Go:

The main season runs from end of November until March: go early for lots of snow, early December for nesting season, or January through March for hatchlings and whale watching.

How Much Did It Cost:

The cost of embarking on a cruise to Antarctica can vary depending on the departure date, how long the cruise goes for, and the type of cabin you book on the ship with most cruises starting at around NZD $8,000 per person and going all the way up to NZD $20,000 per person just depends on the cruise line and length. There are different types of cruises - either scenic where you sail around and don’t get off or ones like we did where you do ice landings so please ensure you get the one that fits your wishes and budget.

Interested in planning your own Antarctica expedition? Connect with Katrina Cole here to plan your Antarctica journey with expert tips and guidance from the experts.