TOP TIPS FOR VISITING ANTARCTICA

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Choose a small expedition cruise ship 

The key to enjoying Antarctica to the fullest is to leave the ship behind as much as possible and go exploring. As only 10 passengers from a ship can step foot on to Antarctica at any one time, you should choose a smaller ship. If your ship carries 200 people it limits the amount of time you can get off the ship, and if you are on a larger ship that carries 500 plus passengers you can’t disembark at all. When booking ships for clients I will select a ship that carries 150 passengers. 

One of my all-time travel highlights in Antarctica was kayaking silently amongst huge icebergs and getting up close to wildlife. Other experiences that you might want to try while you are there include camping on the ice like the famous explorers, snowshoeing or taking the famous polar plunge.

Sailing through the Drake’s Passage will turn the excitement levels up a notch. On quieter days you will experience the Drake Lake – a relatively tranquil cruise across the water. But if you sail on the day when the water is rougher you will experience the famed Drake Shake and you’ll see your cruise ship staff battening down the hatches. While some travellers view the Drake Shake as a badge of honour, others who have poor sea legs and are prone to sea sickness might want to avoid it. 
If you want a smoother option, instead of cruising from Argentina through the Drake’s Passage and onto Antarctica, you can fly from Chile to King George Island and step aboard your cruise ship there. 

Smart travellers will book an Antarctic cruise well ahead. An early booking can bring you great savings, but it can also mean that you have your pick of the cabins. Your Lightfoot Travel Designer will help you navigate your way through the dizzying array of expedition ships on offer and will create a trip that fits your needs and budget. 

Make your trip to Antarctica even more impressive. Travel to the White Continent to see the solar eclipse on 4 December 2021. The last total eclipse was almost 20 years ago. What’s unique about this eclipse is that it will move from east to west across to Antarctica. In other parts of the world it will move from west to east. This reverse eclipse will only be seen in polar regions. 

The Lightfoot Team travels to Antarctica at least once a year and can recommend the best ships and expeditions. Let us help you experience Antarctica with a tailor-made itinerary that suits you. Enquire now!