Ask people who have been to Antarctica and they’ll tell you the a cruise is one of the best ways to explore this magnificent continent. It is also the most laid back and the safest way to go sight seeing.
Here are a few things you need to remember when you go an Antarctica cruise.
- You can actually swim in Antarctica
Believe it or not, there are plenty of spots where you can swim in this frozen continent. The water is constantly in freezing temperatures so swimming here is not for the faint hearted. Most cruises will give you the opportunity to experience Antarctica’s waters up close. Hurtigruten and a few other cruise lines will let you take a short swim on each stop, but others limit swimming to only one spot, which is the Deception Island. The water on this beautiful spot is a bit warmer due to volcanic activity.
- Get your passport stamped and mail a postcard home
One of the unique experiences onboard your Antarctica cruise is the opportunity to meet workers at Port Lockroy. The workers will come aboard and share their experiences working at the research station. Ask the to stamp your passports, postcards, and souvenirs if you like.
- There’s an island volcano in Antarctica
Surprise, surprise! This just proves how magical is. In Deception Island, one of the stops, there’s an active volcano quietly sitting and that is covered in snow. It’s also responsible for making the waters around the island swimmable.
- You can go kayaking if swimming is not your thing
Can’t stand the freezing ocean? You can actually go kayaking if you wish. The waters near the ports and coasts are mostly calm. Kayaking will give you memorable views of icebergs, penguins, seals, and whales. Don’t forget your outerwear!
- Your ship’s size matters
Nearly 50 ships visit Antarctica each year but not all of them are allowed to dock if they carry more than 500 passengers. If you want to see Antarctica up close and personal, choose smaller ships and talk to your travel agent before booking your tour to make sure all the activities you set to experience are included.
Is Antarctica on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments.