Choosing the Best Expedition Ship for Your Antarctic Adventure
Embarking on an expedition to Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that requires careful planning and consideration. This is even more true when you consider the vacation investment for this destination! One of the most crucial decisions you'll make is selecting the perfect expedition ship. The right vessel can enhance your journey by offering access to unique destinations and activities. In this article, we will explore tips for choosing the best expedition ship based on the activities you want for your Antarctic adventure.
1) Fly Over the Drake Passage: Flying over the Drake Passage is an exhilarating alternative to the traditional crossing by sea. When selecting a ship, opt for one that offers fly-in options. You will likely fly in one direction from King George (South Shetland Islands) to Punta Arenas, Chile (or visa versa). If you choose this option, you will only sail the Drake Passage in one direction and you will have a much shorter itinerary, generally 8-10 days versus 18-23 days.
Here are just a few of the expedition ships that provide the opportunity to fly over the Drake Passage, offering a unique and time-saving perspective on the journey to Antarctica. As always, it's important to check with the individual cruise lines for the most up-to-date itinerary information:
Silversea Expeditions - 'Silver Cloud' and 'Silver Explorer'
Quark Expeditions - 'Ultramarine'
Crystal Cruises - 'Crystal Endeavor'
Scenic - 'Scenic Eclipse'
National Geographic Expeditions - 'National Geographic Endurance'
Pro-tip: this is a great option if you are prone to seasickness. If you’re not, sailing the Drake Passage will provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience and you will see some amazing glaciers and wildlife along the way. We recommend sailing if you’re okay trying the Drake Passage, which could be “Drake Lake” or “Drake Shake” - we were fortunate to have Drake Lake and you might be lucky too! Drake Shake is said to occur approximately 35% of the time.
2) Determine where you want to go: When thinking about Antarctica, you will have options on what destinations to include. Do you want to only hike on the Antarctica Peninsula? This would be the shortest, least expensive route. Do you want to go to the Falklands and see the abundance of penguins up close and personal? Do you want to see South Georgia Islands? We think you do! Keep in mind, just because your itinerary includes other locations, your landing will depend on weather and there is nothing you, the crew or the captain can do about it.
Pro-tip: If you’re going to see the wildlife, we highly recommend including both the Falklands and South Georgia Islands in addition to the Antarctic Peninsula. You may never go again, so be sure to see all there is to see on your first trip. Many say South Georgia is even better than the Antarctica Peninsula itself!
3) Hike on Antarctica: For those seeking to explore the mesmerizing landscapes of Antarctica on foot, it's crucial to select a ship that provides ample opportunities for hiking excursions. Look for expeditions that offer onboard experts, such as knowledgeable naturalists and experienced guides (known as the expedition team), who can lead informative hikes and ensure your safety. Additionally, consider vessels with sturdy landing equipment, as they will enable easier access to remote and untouched locations. Most expedition ships will offer this option and it's typically included in the cruise fare.
Pro-tip: the size of the ship can indeed impact the number of landings it can provide in Antarctica. Larger expedition ships tend to have more amenities and facilities on board, but they may face limitations when it comes to making landings in certain areas or accessing smaller landing sites. Choose a ship with less than 200 guest capacity so you maximize the landings and locations. Seabourn Expedition ships have 24 experts on their expedition team.
4) See Penguins and Sea Birds: Antarctica is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including adorable penguins and majestic sea birds. To maximize your sightings, choose an expedition ship that offers zodiac cruises and landings in areas teeming with these magnificent creatures. Opt to include South Georgia and the Falkland Islands to maximize your birding opportunities. Again, find vessels that employ knowledgeable naturalists who can provide insights into the behavior and habitat of Antarctic wildlife, making your encounter even more memorable.
Pro-tip: depending on the month (typically Nov, early season, to Mar, late season) you will see different stages of wildlife. For example, in early season mid-Nov to early Dec, you may see pristine snow with an abundance of whales from a recent migration, elephant seal pups, or penguins with eggs. During high season, mid Dec to mid Feb, you will be more likely to see the newborn penguins. From Feb to Mar, you should see birds, seals, and whales! Of course, nature can be unpredictable, but this may help you make an informed decision.
5) Fly in a Helicopter and Land on a Glacier: For an unparalleled adventure, consider an expedition ship that incorporates helicopter rides and glacier landings into its itinerary. This allows you to witness Antarctica's breathtaking glaciers and ice formations from a unique vantage point. Look for vessels that are equipped with helicopters and offer professionally guided Heli-tours, providing you with an exclusive perspective of the continent's beauty.
Pro-tip: Quark’s Ultramarine offers 10-15 min rides in a helicopter, and it’s included in the cruise fare. And if you’re lucky, you will get to go twice, complimentary. Of course, you can opt to pay for a longer ride as well.
6) Camping: Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Antarctica by spending a night under the stars. When choosing a ship, inquire about their camping programs. Some vessels offer equipped camping sites and experienced guides who ensure your safety and provide educational insights into this extraordinary environment. Look for ships that prioritize sustainable practices and adhere to strict environmental guidelines to minimize impact on the delicate ecosystem.
7) Kayaking: Exploring Antarctica's icy waters in a kayak offers an intimate and tranquil experience. Select a ship that provides kayak excursions led by qualified guides. Look for vessels that can accommodate different skill levels, ensuring both beginners and experienced kayakers can participate. Safety measures, such as expert instruction, proper equipment, and small group sizes, should be prioritized to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Pro-tip: most ships offer this activity for an additional charge. We love kayaking with the Seabourn Expedition Team.
8) Seeing Nature from a Zodiac: A zodiac cruise serves as an excellent way to get up close and personal with Antarctica's awe-inspiring scenery. Opt for an expedition ship that organizes frequent zodiac excursions, enabling you to navigate through ice-filled channels and witness towering glaciers and captivating wildlife from a unique perspective. Look for vessels with experienced guides who can offer insightful commentary and assist in capturing memorable photographs.
Pro-tip: Most ships will include Zodiac viewings as complimentary but be sure to ask your travel advisor to confirm this for you. Seabourn Expedition ships include many rides in Zodiacs to make the most of your landings!
Choosing the best expedition ship for your Antarctic adventure is vital in ensuring a truly life-changing experience. By considering the activities you wish to engage in, such as flying over the Drake Passage, hiking on Antarctica, observing penguins and sea birds, flying in a helicopter, camping, kayaking, and exploring in a zodiac, you can select a vessel that caters to your specific interests. Remember to prioritize safety, knowledgeable guides, and sustainable practices to make the most of your journey to the white continent. Call Julie at 562-433-3841. Call us today for a complimentary 30-minute consultation!
