"You have to want something out of the ordinary. If you want to know that every Tuesday the ship is going to be in a particular port, this isn't for you," notes Prisca Campbell, marketing manager for Quark Expeditions. Her comment sums up the personality of travelers who book cruises to the Antartica or other locales where they can expect cold weather and itineraries that change without notice.
Who Goes?
Cruises to the Antarctica are for travelers who enjoy waking up without know exactly what they are going to do that day. Ship captains will change direction after reviewing ice charts and checking out local conditions, so there's no set course.
These trips are for travelers flexible enough to handle changing weather conditions, because even though most trips go in the Antarctica's summertime, one never know if it's going to be sunny, snowing or bitterly cold.
What to Expect Traveling on a Small Ship
Smaller expedition ships that carry no more than 48 passengers and have hulls strengthened enough to bash through ice in the water can get guests closer to the icebergs and snow-covered surfaces. From the smaller ships guests can take a zodiac to penguin rookeries and along the front of an ice shelf, kayak in ice-filled waters and dock on land to explore.
When to Go?
Most of the cruises are scheduled between November and March, because of the weather.
What's It Going to Cost?
The cost varies according to the company, the length of the cruise and what types of activities are included. Quark Expeditions offers a variety of trips including November safaris to watch Emperor penguins while the adults are still caring for fluffy chicks and "adventure" options that include camping overnight using polar gear. This trip starts at $9,995, but other Antarctica trips start at $4,495. Fifteen day Antartica trips with Lindblad Expeditions start at $9,450.
Learn More About Cruises to the Antarctica
Linda Garrison, About.com’s cruises guide has been to the Antarctic. Visit the section on her website that tells about her Antarctica cruise and includes lots of pictures of icebergs and penguins.
