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.
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.
Many of these cruises depart from the southernmost city in Argentina, Ushuaia. Getting to that location with a direct flight is probably not possible, and even when there, the icy continent is still around 600 miles to he south. The ships that currently travel that route are quite different from typical tropical liners, which can resemble floating cities or amusement parks. Most are ice-hardened, with a 200-passenger limit.
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.
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.
Due to its remote location, cruising to this southern continent can be more expensive than closer adventures. It makes sense to work closely with a travel planner in order to find the best package for the lowest price. Voyages to this area take longer, often lasting from ten to twenty-one days, but provide a priceless opportunity to witness the last truly wild area of the world.
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.
Many of these cruises depart from the southernmost city in Argentina, Ushuaia. Getting to that location with a direct flight is probably not possible, and even when there, the icy continent is still around 600 miles to he south. The ships that currently travel that route are quite different from typical tropical liners, which can resemble floating cities or amusement parks. Most are ice-hardened, with a 200-passenger limit.
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.
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.
Due to its remote location, cruising to this southern continent can be more expensive than closer adventures. It makes sense to work closely with a travel planner in order to find the best package for the lowest price. Voyages to this area take longer, often lasting from ten to twenty-one days, but provide a priceless opportunity to witness the last truly wild area of the world.
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