Antarctica is the only continental area on the planet that still has no permanent human population. There are no commercial airports, and access is available only by water. The climate is unbelievably harsh, and the winds blowing from mid-continent drive ocean currents thousands of miles. Regardless of these environmental challenges, travel here is becoming very popular, and Antarctica cruise deals can help make this the trip of 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.
The most practical time for a visit is during the southern hemispheric summer, from November through March. Winter excursions are basically impossible due to extended ice packs, unbearable storms, and of course, weeks of darkness. Summertime high temperatures are more bearable, generally ranging from 23 degrees Fahrenheit to the mid-forties, and the sun stays up late.
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.
One of the primary attractions for visitors is the natural wildlife, including the famous penguins of all varieties and sizes, whales, seals and many winged birds. Although travel at sea is comfortable, travelers will not encounter the Vegas-style revues or crowded night clubs found on some ships. The rough seas common to this region have final control of any scheduled activities, and the Drake Passage is rarely glassy.
While there are no quaint villages, visitors are rewarded by seeing the sites of famed explorations, research facilities, enormous colonies of various penguin species, and most importantly, the forbidding Antarctic landscape. Unlike the northern Arctic Ocean, this is a vast area of land punctuated by rugged, ice-buried mountain ranges, volcanoes, and dry interior valleys. Some stops include kayaking or climbing, weather permitting.
Landings are often carried out via rubber vessels, providing visitors with close-up views of wildlife, giant icebergs and rugged coast. The people who come here do so for personal, scientific and adventurous reasons, and are usually happy to share their enthusiasm with those having similar viewpoints. Getting there takes a few days, and there are usually expert presentations, lectures, and group 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.
The most practical time for a visit is during the southern hemispheric summer, from November through March. Winter excursions are basically impossible due to extended ice packs, unbearable storms, and of course, weeks of darkness. Summertime high temperatures are more bearable, generally ranging from 23 degrees Fahrenheit to the mid-forties, and the sun stays up late.
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.
One of the primary attractions for visitors is the natural wildlife, including the famous penguins of all varieties and sizes, whales, seals and many winged birds. Although travel at sea is comfortable, travelers will not encounter the Vegas-style revues or crowded night clubs found on some ships. The rough seas common to this region have final control of any scheduled activities, and the Drake Passage is rarely glassy.
While there are no quaint villages, visitors are rewarded by seeing the sites of famed explorations, research facilities, enormous colonies of various penguin species, and most importantly, the forbidding Antarctic landscape. Unlike the northern Arctic Ocean, this is a vast area of land punctuated by rugged, ice-buried mountain ranges, volcanoes, and dry interior valleys. Some stops include kayaking or climbing, weather permitting.
Landings are often carried out via rubber vessels, providing visitors with close-up views of wildlife, giant icebergs and rugged coast. The people who come here do so for personal, scientific and adventurous reasons, and are usually happy to share their enthusiasm with those having similar viewpoints. Getting there takes a few days, and there are usually expert presentations, lectures, and group 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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