Antarctica Voyages - Useful Information
14.25 million square kms
'Permanent' population of 1,200 people working at 42 research stations year round
Managed by the Antarctic Treaty since 1961 that has 44 countries as members. Great Britain, Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, Australia and Norway all have claims to territory
Surrounding the South Pole, Antarctica's nearest neighbour, South America, is roughly 1000 kilometres away. Tierra del Fuego, half-Argentinian and half-Chilean, is the main gateway for flights and cruises around Antarctica.
October through to March is the Antarctic Summer and the only time the continent is accessible to visitors:
October/November - The ice is melting and the birds mating
December/January - Warmest months when penguins are hatching, lightest time of the year when there are 20 hours of daylight
February/March - Best months for whale watching, adult penguins are on shore
Average summertime temperature is 0o C.
To appreciate this extraordinary continent one needs the finest naturalist and ecologists. To this end every cruise has a number of leading experts in their respective field to guide you. Their skills jointly cover Antarctic history, ornithology, geography, geology, oceanography, marine biology and glaciology.
The Antarctic summer, though cold, ranges between -15 degrees and 4 degrees centigrade, but with the appropriate clothing it is not uncomfortable if suitably dressed. The sun is harsh on the skin and is often out even when conditions are windy.
This is hard to predict. Sailors always advise when heading to the open sea "prepare for the worst and hope for the best." At some point during the voyage, it is likely that you will encounter heavy seas - although how rough and for how long is unpredictable. Please consult your doctor about the appropriate medication for sea sickness.
This is a question we get asked a lot. Basically all cruising starts in the Antarctic Summer (northern winter months) from November to February each year. Sea and weather conditions are always unpredictable, however the wildlife viewing is always good and so much is happening during this short period of time. Here are some ideas of what is happening from the natural history point of view.
November (late spring): Courtship and colour.
Penguin's courtship ritual, with nest building and stone stealing and Elephant seal courtship is most active on South Georgia. Spring Flowers bloom on the Falkland Islands.
December - January (Full summer): Birthing and youngsters. These are Antarctica's warmest months and the wildlife activities are in full swing. The first penguin chick's hatch on South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, followed in mid December by the earliest Antarctic chicks. Seal pups are visible on South Georgia.
February - March (Late summer): Feeding, fledglings and whale watching.
Whale watching is at its best during the late summer months and it's increasingly common to spot fur seals along the peninsula - Penguins colonies at their busiest, fetching krill and feeding chicks. Receding ice allows exploration further south along the Antarctic peninsula - young fur seals at their most playful on South Georgia.
Visas are not required for UK citizens. All other countries please check with your local consulate.
No special vaccinations but we recommend polio and tetanus. (if you are a seasoned traveller you will already have these). We recommend that you consult a medical practitioner or call MASTA on 09068 224100.
This expedition is not physically demanding and exactly how much you do in terms of landings is your choice. There is a qualified doctor and infirmary on board each expedition. Although we spend as much time as possible ashore, you are welcome to remain aboard ship or return whenever you like. Much of the wildlife and scenery can be appreciated from deck and they cater for all fitness levels when on shore.
The minimum age is 16 years of age. There is no upper age ceiling, however prospective travellers should be aware that this is an adventurous exopedition rather than a conventional cruise.
High quality cold weather gear is essential, including parka, scarf, thick woollen sweaters, hats, socks, mittens and warm trousers, waterproof rubber boots. Your day sack should include sun protection, sun block, sunglasses, camera and binoculars. A full kit and equipment list is supplied on booking together for warm clothing suggestions and advise.
This venture can easily be combined with extra travel plans in Argentina and/or Chile.
For further details or to check availability, please either call one of our consultants 01285 880981 or complete our enquiry form.
