When most people think of holidays or expeditions South America or Europe come to mind.
Not the girls from House of Travel Botany Junction and Howick. They took a leap and explored the unforgiving continent of Antarctica.
Here they provide a breakdown of this life-changing adventure to help you plan your own.
Day 1: Santiago to Ushuaia
Our trip began with a 12-hour flight to Santiago, then a two-hour flight to Buenos Aires with another 3.5-hour trip to the historic city of Ushuaia.
From here we boarded the Seabourn Pursuit and began our 10-day expedition cruise.
Day 2-3: Ushuaia to Antarctica through the Drake Passage
We sailed aboard the Seabourn Pursuit and headed south by way of the Beagle Channel. The infamous Drake Passage usually takes 48 hours but we got to the deserted continent in just 36 hours.
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.
Day 4-10: Exploration, wildlife encounters and Antarctic Circle
On a day-by-day basis, the explorations were similar. There were ice landings and zodiacs which happened every day.
To see the Gentoo penguins of the Antarctic in their natural home doing what they do nesting, fishing, swimming and socializing was indescribable.
They were so curious and came to check us out walking along the penguin highway.
Onboard the zodiacs there are multiple specialists that are experienced in different fields.
Antarctic Circle, polar plunge and a lot more
We were very lucky to visit the Antarctic Circle and were given a certificate to state we’d visited one of the most isolated places on Earth.
There’s a range of activities to do in Antarctica. 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 and a must-do.
Top highlight
During a zodiac expedition the 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.
Packing tips:
- Uggs were a lifesaver for moving from the cabin to the boots room and strolling around the ship.
- Opt for gaiter to insulate the neck and prevent warm air from escaping.
- We wore polar fleece tights but also had thermals if needed. Take waterproof pants.
- Warm wool socks or good ski socks.
- Ski gloves and a headband or muffs that cover your ears.
- Good beanie and a gaiter.
- If you can get ski goggles they’d be preferable but sunglasses are a must.
- Around the ship during the day is leggings, track suit or jeans.
- Sunscreen and lip balm is a must.
Best time to go
The main season runs from end of November until March.
How much does it cost?
Most cruises starting at around NZD$8000 per person and going all the way up to NZD$20,000 per person depending on the cruise line and length.
