Explorers and adventurers have been fascinated with one of the most remote places on Earth for centuries - Antarctica. Many dream of visiting this unique continent because of its otherworldly landscapes and wildlife.
And one of the best ways to explore Antarctica is by taking an expedition cruise. These ships are designed specifically for expedition travel, with experienced guides and staff, top-notch amenities, and plenty of opportunities to explore the continent.
But before you book an expedition cruise to Antarctica, you should know a few things. Here are five:
The Weather Can Be Unpredictable
Antarctica is known for its extreme weather conditions. It's the coldest continent on Earth and can cause violent snowstorms that can last for days. So, if you're on an expedition to Antarctica, you need to be prepared for the worst weather conditions Mother Nature can throw at you.
Here are some tips on how you can prepare for the weather conditions in Antarctica:
Dress in layers: It's one of the most important things you can do to prepare for the cold weather. You need to make sure that you're wearing layers of clothing to adjust your body temperature as needed. Wear a base layer, an insulating layer, and a waterproof outer layer.
Bring extra food and water: You need to make sure you have enough food and water to last you in an emergency. Bring extra food and water if you get stranded somewhere or the weather conditions are too severe to go outside.
Know the symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia: Frostbite and hypothermia are two of the biggest dangers in Antarctica. Be sure to know the symptoms of both so that you can seek medical help if needed.
Most importantly, follow the rules placed by your tour guide. Also, cruise expedition planners like Quark Expeditions have a team of experts who are familiar with the conditions in Antarctica and will help you plan for your trip.
You’ll See Lots Of Wildlife
One of the main reasons people want to visit Antarctica is to see its unique wildlife. Penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds are just some of the animals you might see while on your expedition cruise.
It'd be best to learn and identify the different types of wildlife before your trip so that you know how to interact with them appropriately. For example, you should never approach or touch a penguin; they can be aggressive if they feel threatened. Keep your distance, and always give them the right of way.
Try to enjoy them at a distance and take pictures or videos instead. Then, with the proper preparation and research, you're sure to have a safe and memorable experience observing the wildlife in Antarctica.
You Might Get Seasick
If you're prone to seasickness, you should take medication before your cruise. The Drake Passage, the body of water between South America and Antarctica, can be notoriously rough.
Seasickness is no fun, and it can ruin your cruise experience. If you take medication for it, be sure to bring enough for the entire trip, as you may not be able to get more once you're onboard. And don't forget to pack some motion sickness bags, just in case! Better safe than sorry.
You're Going to Be Disembarking From The Ship A Lot
One of the best parts about an expedition cruise is all the opportunities to explore. But that also means you'll be spending a lot of time getting on and off the ship. So be prepared for lots of walking and possible slippery conditions.
As such, pack the proper footwear. You'll want something that is comfortable and can handle getting wet. And make sure to pack a few extras because you may lose one overboard (it happens!).
You Might Not Have Phone Service
If you're planning on being available 24/seven, Antarctica isn't the place for you. There's limited phone and internet service in many areas of the continent. So be prepared to disconnect from the world for a little while.
It's the perfect time to catch up on your reading, take some nature walks, and get to know your fellow expedition members. And who knows, you might even enjoy the experience of disconnecting from the world for a little while.
You can focus on yourself and your goals without outside distractions. It's your chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. So make the most of it! Embrace the opportunity to unplug and enjoy some well-deserved peace.
