Sometimes the best way to recharge your batteries is to visit a remote destination where there is no sign of the rat race. The ultimate place to go is one that used to be only for researchers or members of polar expeditions. These days, however, Antarctica cruise deals make it much easier for regular people to visit the White Continent too.
Antarctica is the world's southernmost continent. It's completely covered by ice and conditions here are harsh. The only signs of human occupation are research bases from different countries and every year, fewer than 20,000 cruise passengers visit. After all, ships here have to be specially adapted to deal with the ice.
Ice is the main feature of the landscape too. There isn't much land-based wildlife other than large bird colonies, including penguins. However, the seas are home to creatures such as whales. Your itinerary will likely include the Ross Sea or the Antarctic Peninsula. You may also visit spectacular destinations such as Anvord Bay or the South Shetland Islands.
In winter, it's nearly impossible to sail around the frozen continent. However, summer temperatures can be in the lower teens and the melting ice makes it easier for ships to pass. In December, the height of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, you may even experience sunlight at midnight. It's important to remember though that itineraries can change quite suddenly due to unpredictable weather conditions.
Obviously you'll need to bring warm clothes. In fact, cruises in this part of the world are very casual since practicality and warmth are what you want in your clothing. Especially your shoes should be waterproof although a waterproof jacket and even pants will come in handy too. You'll also need to bring your bathing suit, since many ships visit hot springs near the coast. Good sunscreen and sunglasses are essential as well. Bring everything you might need, since you can't just pop out to the shops to get supplies once you're here.
Cruises to the continent are quite expensive. It's best to thoroughly research the various cruise companies before committing to one. Check whether they include shore excursions and what their safety record is. Smaller vessels can get to more places but the larger ships handle rough seas better. Also check that the company has a good reputation for being environmentally responsible, since the ecosystem in this remote part of the world is extremely fragile. The company should be a member of the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators.
Cruises set out from various destinations. One of the most popular starting points is Ushuaia in Argentina, also known as the world's southernmost city. You may want to explore Patagonia before your departure. Otherwise, set sail from Hobart in Tasmania, Australia; from Invercargill or Port of Bluff in New Zealand; from Santiago in Chile or from Cape Town in South Africa. It's well worth building in some extra time before your cruise so that you can explore these wonderful locations too.
The easiest way to find a cruise package that will suit your needs and wishes is to look online. This way you can easily compare different deals and read reviews by other travelers. However, it's also possible to book at the offices of cruise lines in cities such as Ushuaia.
Antarctica is the world's southernmost continent. It's completely covered by ice and conditions here are harsh. The only signs of human occupation are research bases from different countries and every year, fewer than 20,000 cruise passengers visit. After all, ships here have to be specially adapted to deal with the ice.
Ice is the main feature of the landscape too. There isn't much land-based wildlife other than large bird colonies, including penguins. However, the seas are home to creatures such as whales. Your itinerary will likely include the Ross Sea or the Antarctic Peninsula. You may also visit spectacular destinations such as Anvord Bay or the South Shetland Islands.
In winter, it's nearly impossible to sail around the frozen continent. However, summer temperatures can be in the lower teens and the melting ice makes it easier for ships to pass. In December, the height of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, you may even experience sunlight at midnight. It's important to remember though that itineraries can change quite suddenly due to unpredictable weather conditions.
Obviously you'll need to bring warm clothes. In fact, cruises in this part of the world are very casual since practicality and warmth are what you want in your clothing. Especially your shoes should be waterproof although a waterproof jacket and even pants will come in handy too. You'll also need to bring your bathing suit, since many ships visit hot springs near the coast. Good sunscreen and sunglasses are essential as well. Bring everything you might need, since you can't just pop out to the shops to get supplies once you're here.
Cruises to the continent are quite expensive. It's best to thoroughly research the various cruise companies before committing to one. Check whether they include shore excursions and what their safety record is. Smaller vessels can get to more places but the larger ships handle rough seas better. Also check that the company has a good reputation for being environmentally responsible, since the ecosystem in this remote part of the world is extremely fragile. The company should be a member of the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators.
Cruises set out from various destinations. One of the most popular starting points is Ushuaia in Argentina, also known as the world's southernmost city. You may want to explore Patagonia before your departure. Otherwise, set sail from Hobart in Tasmania, Australia; from Invercargill or Port of Bluff in New Zealand; from Santiago in Chile or from Cape Town in South Africa. It's well worth building in some extra time before your cruise so that you can explore these wonderful locations too.
The easiest way to find a cruise package that will suit your needs and wishes is to look online. This way you can easily compare different deals and read reviews by other travelers. However, it's also possible to book at the offices of cruise lines in cities such as Ushuaia.
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