Antarctica is the only continent on Earth that has no permanent human population. The only way for tourists to get there is by sea, and there are no commercial airport facilities. The winds that howl from the interior help power world ocean currents, and the climate is definitely not human-friendly. In spite of these travel challenges, increasing numbers of people are taking advantage of Antarctica cruise deals in order to arrive safely and comfortably.
In the approximate century since the continent was first explored, few visible changes have occurred. The biggest difference is the existence of scientific research outposts and weather stations, but that is the current extent of civilization. There are no tourist traps, and the people who choose to come here are definitely not searching for sandy tropical beaches or coral reefs.
Summer in the Southern Hemisphere is the only practical time to see this area, November through March. Visiting in winter is impossible due to extensive sea ice, raging storms, and months of near-darkness. Temperatures during summer are bearable but not balmy, ranging from the lower twenties to high-forties Fahrenheit. The sun stays bright most of the night.
The most common point of departure by ship is from Ushuaia, Argentina. Getting to this small city will require more than one stop, and once there, Antarctica is still 600 miles away. There are numerous cruise ships plying that route, but they do not really resemble the floating cities that grace warmer waters. These vessels have to be specially ice-hardened, and generally carry no more than 200 people.
People visit this forbidding region for many reasons, including unique wildlife, especially penguins, sea birds, seals, and whales. While most ships are comfortable, travelers should not expect elaborate night clubs and Las Vegas-style shows on board. The Drake Passage is not often calm, and rough or stormy seas have ultimate control over any scheduled activities.
Upon reaching the continent, visitors are treated to vast penguin colonies, famed research stations, sites of historic exploration, and of course, the forbidding and immense landscape. Unlike the northern pole, this is no region of sea ice, but a rugged continent with mountain ranges and dry valleys. Some cruises offer kayak trips or local climbing, but conditions may be too extreme to venture outside for extended periods.
Landings are often accomplished using rubber vessels, giving passengers a close look at local sea life and nearby icebergs. Many of those who come here do so for both personal and scientific reasons, and are usually happy to share that enthusiasm and excitement with other passengers. Getting there takes some time, and on-board Antarctic experts present lectures and lead discussions.
Cruising to this remote region is somewhat costlier than taking more geographically convenient voyages, but well worth the added expense. It makes good sense to consult with a travel planner in order to discover the right excursion for the best price. Most cruises last from ten to twenty-one days, providing a one-of-a-kind experience and creating memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.
In the approximate century since the continent was first explored, few visible changes have occurred. The biggest difference is the existence of scientific research outposts and weather stations, but that is the current extent of civilization. There are no tourist traps, and the people who choose to come here are definitely not searching for sandy tropical beaches or coral reefs.
Summer in the Southern Hemisphere is the only practical time to see this area, November through March. Visiting in winter is impossible due to extensive sea ice, raging storms, and months of near-darkness. Temperatures during summer are bearable but not balmy, ranging from the lower twenties to high-forties Fahrenheit. The sun stays bright most of the night.
The most common point of departure by ship is from Ushuaia, Argentina. Getting to this small city will require more than one stop, and once there, Antarctica is still 600 miles away. There are numerous cruise ships plying that route, but they do not really resemble the floating cities that grace warmer waters. These vessels have to be specially ice-hardened, and generally carry no more than 200 people.
People visit this forbidding region for many reasons, including unique wildlife, especially penguins, sea birds, seals, and whales. While most ships are comfortable, travelers should not expect elaborate night clubs and Las Vegas-style shows on board. The Drake Passage is not often calm, and rough or stormy seas have ultimate control over any scheduled activities.
Upon reaching the continent, visitors are treated to vast penguin colonies, famed research stations, sites of historic exploration, and of course, the forbidding and immense landscape. Unlike the northern pole, this is no region of sea ice, but a rugged continent with mountain ranges and dry valleys. Some cruises offer kayak trips or local climbing, but conditions may be too extreme to venture outside for extended periods.
Landings are often accomplished using rubber vessels, giving passengers a close look at local sea life and nearby icebergs. Many of those who come here do so for both personal and scientific reasons, and are usually happy to share that enthusiasm and excitement with other passengers. Getting there takes some time, and on-board Antarctic experts present lectures and lead discussions.
Cruising to this remote region is somewhat costlier than taking more geographically convenient voyages, but well worth the added expense. It makes good sense to consult with a travel planner in order to discover the right excursion for the best price. Most cruises last from ten to twenty-one days, providing a one-of-a-kind experience and creating memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.
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