I’m not a big fan of the cold, and I cringe deep in my soul at the idea of immersing myself in ice-cold water. The fact that I was shivering in nothing but a bikini and socks on the shores of a bay in Antarctica came as much of a surprise to me as to anyone else. With my arms wrapped around my goosebumped flesh, I looked at my travel partner, Lyle, who had the same worried look on his face.

“Are we really going to do this?” I asked. “How can we not? We’re in Antarctica!” he said enthusiastically, even though his expression was anything but enthusiastic.

With that, we took a deep breath and ran towards the arctic waters. The initial shock of frigid waters didn’t hit me immediately until I held my breath and plunged into water colder than anything I had ever felt. I think I lasted all of three seconds before squealing with shock and veering off toward the shore and my dry clothes.

We had just done our first Polar Plunge, and our first time was in the bay at Deception Island, Antarctica. As they say, if you’re gonna go, go big! The Polar Plunge was the ice cube on top of the frozen cake, and here’s why I can’t wait to do it again.

Note: The writer was a hosted guest of Hurtigruten Expeditions. All opinions are her own.

1. Where I Went And Why

When you have the chance to knock off the last of the seven continents off your list and journey to a land sheathed in mystery and adventure, you jump at the chance. I had always dreamed of seeing Antarctica — made famous by legendary explorers such as Roald Amundsen, Sir Ernest Shackleton, and Sir Edmund Hillary.

Lyle and I embarked on the Hurtigruten Expeditions 12-day Highlights of Antarctica cruise. It ventured from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and the southern Argentina port of Ushuaia, before embarking on the MS Fridtjof Nansen, recently voted the safest and most sustainable cruise ship in the world.

After a rough and tumble 2 days crossing 600 miles of the notorious Drake Passage to reach the tip of the peninsula of Antarctica, we immediately started exploring. Because Hurtigruten Expeditions focuses on sustainability, science, and small-ship experiences, many of our expeditions were accompanied by working scientists on board.

2. Adventure And Excursions

Wildlife And Icy Views

Like a line of red and yellow ants, we weaved up the side of a snowy mountain on a hike to a chinstrap penguin colony at Orne Harbor; our first steps on the actual continent of Antarctica. The pathway was slippery and required hiking poles, but the views of the vast land and seas from atop the mountain were staggering. Jaunty little chinstrap penguins waddled, protected fuzzy gray chicks, and honked at each other.

Earlier that day, we went kayaking, watching icebergs calve and flip while penguins lept gracefully through the waters. Another day, we visited several penguin colonies. And on other days, we explored old Antarctica homesteads and took inflatable Zodiacs to get up close and personal with whales. Seals lounged on the ice like big gray potatoes while arctic birds like petrels and albatross soared above. While Antarctica seems desolate and intimidating, it is surprisingly full of life, and each day was a thrilling foray into discovery.

Be Flexible

Each day held potential for hiking, kayaking, Zodiac excursions, or wildlife viewing. However, the itinerary is at the mercy of the weather, so it’s best to expect delays, cancellations of activities, and hiccups along the way.

3. Learning About Antarctica

Education And Environment

The Antarctica cruise wasn’t all fun and games, though we had plenty of those. Climate researchers, students, and experts in their field, our Expedition Team led lectures about Antarctica on topics ranging from icebergs, history, ornithology, whale numbers, and phytoplankton as well as photography and stargazing.

These experts were our guides on landings, hikes, and expedition boat cruising. I was one of the lucky “lottery” winners to accompany a scientist on a Zodiac expedition to attempt to take a skin sample from a mother humpback whale and her calf while also collecting water samples to track the DNA of what creatures passed through the waters.

Other programs on board Hurtigruten’s MS Nansen included a class on how to use the GLOBE Observer app, a citizen-science app that lets you record cloud coverage anywhere you are to complement NASA satellite observations; the global Happy Whale program that lets cruisers identify individual marine mammals; Aurorasaurus, the first citizen science project that collects sightings of the northern and southern lights; and eBird, which allows guests to record seabird distribution, among others.

4. What I Liked, What I Didn’t

My favorite activities on Hurtigruten Expeditions’ Antarctica cruise were the outdoor explorations. The guides were thoroughly trained in guiding and safety, and even when a nearby iceberg flipped over in front of us while kayaking, we never felt unsafe. 

The leisurely days crossing the Drake Passage, and after the day’s activities, were filled with lectures, science lab activities, games, and more. The onboard lounge and bar with its massive windows was a perfect place to relax, sip on an Irish whisky, and watch for whales.

As guests, everyone is given a polar expedition jacket to keep, which is probably the best jacket I’ve owned. Guests are also loaned rubber landing boots, floatation devices, and special cards that track when you get on and off the ship. Safety is a big priority.

Bring Snacks

One thing I didn’t like about the cruise was the limitation of available snacks, though, I think it’s part of Hurtigruten’s efforts to reduce waste. The three restaurants on board have set hours of operation, so if you miss the window, you go hungry. We took to-go boxes of snackable items from the buffet to munch when we felt snacky.

Fun Fact: Hurtigruten Expeditions is the first cruise line to implement SpaceX’s broadband service Starlink across all ships. Today, the company now offers high-speed, low-latency connectivity across its entire fleet, and it worked fantastically for me while I was on board.

5. How You Can Do An Arctic Polar Plunge Too

Our last day in Antarctica was on Deception Island, a horseshoe-shaped active volcano. The sun was finally shining as we hiked for 2–3 hours around the rim of the volcano, which was dormant but incredibly windy. You’ll have to be able to take pretty steep inclines over rocky terrain for this hike, but the views of the bay and the ship below are well worth the huffing and puffing.

At the end of the hike, the Hurtigruten crew was ready with towels and guides to lead brave souls into the icy waters for the Polar Plunge. Frankly, I was surprised that the majority of guests from young to old braved this extreme activity, but we did. 

Be prepared by bringing an extra set of dry clothes and dry socks, as well as a hat for wet hair and gloves. You’ll have to wear socks into the water because the sand can burn your feet (it is still volcanically active), but the water was a balmy 31 degrees Fahrenheit. Back at the ship, guests who braved the ordeal all received a personalized certificate.

But the bonding that night over dinner and drinks was the best as we all recounted our icy dip and shared photos and videos.

What You’ll Need

Pack plenty of layers, preferably with an inner woolen layer. You’ll need waterproof or water-resistant pants for the excursions, two water-resistant pairs of gloves, a warm hat, a backpack for excursions, motion sickness pills, warm quick-dry jackets, polarized sunglasses, and a swimsuit. While on board, the dress code is casual, so think denim, wool, t-shirts (underneath), GoreTex, and fleece (wool).

I found having a casual pair of slip-on shoes or tennis shoes for the ship was comfy and helpful.

Also, medical travel insurance with emergency evacuation is required. 

Hurtigruten Expeditions

The optional Polar Plunge was one of the last adventures offered on Hurtigruten Expeditions’ Antarctica cruise. Throughout the week, we explored the world’s most southern continent — an intimidatingly beautiful land encased in millennia of ice and snow — and embarked on adventures ranging from snow hikes, scientific excursions, kayaking among icebergs, and hiking with penguins. And while I hate the cold and being cold, the cruise was among the most impactful experiences of any destination I’ve been to.

Related Reading:

• 7 Best Things About Visiting Antarctica
• 6 Physician Tips To Prepare For A Cruise To Antarctica
• I Took A Solo Trip To Antarctica And It Was Amazing

Antarctica and the polar regions have fascinated me since I was in my 20s. I read about Sir Ernest Shackleton, Roald Amundsen, Robert Falcon Scott, and others. I watched movies and documentaries about expeditions and penguins. I collected marketing materials on Antarctic tours from dozens of companies at travel shows. Yes, I was an Antarctica nerd.

The plan was to go when I turned 50. Well, 50 came and went. We ended up going to Easter Island and the Atacama Desert instead. Both are spectacular destinations, but they are not Antarctica.

Finally, when I retired from full-time work at 57, it was time for the Antarctica exploration. I booked at the very last minute — about 4 weeks before my departure date. Surprisingly, I had managed to get one of the limited kayaking slots for that voyage. The stars continued to align during the trip — we had perfect weather for kayaking in Antarctica. It was more than I had ever hoped for.

Is It Worth The Cost To Experience Antarctica?

Yes, yes, and yes! It is very expensive to go to Antarctica. The kayaking package was an extra $1,000+. I have been to many amazing places — Angkor Wat, the Pyramids and temples in Egypt, Easter Island, Machu Picchu, the Great Wall and Terracotta Army in China, Tibet, Petra in Jordan, the Colosseum, Borneo, the Ngorongoro Crater … You get the picture.

Antarctica is equally amazing yet very different from those places. 

The glaciers are enormous and exquisitely beautiful. You can’t take your eyes off the wildlife — penguins, whales, seals, and birds. To top it all off, you are in a place that very few people have been and that has a history of amazing explorers. It doesn’t get better than that.

Kayaking In Antarctica Is An Unbelievable Experience

I had three things on my must-do list for my Antarctica trip — kayak, camp overnight, and see lots of penguins. Since I was only able to do two of these three things, I may have to go back another time to camp.

I love kayaking because it gives me an intimate experience of the water and what’s going on around me. In Antarctica, that means having penguins swimming right by you, seeing whales up close, and feeling the impact of a glacier calving. It adds another dimension to the experience of being in Antarctica.

Being In The Bay With Penguins

I couldn’t stop smiling and laughing as the penguins swam by, diving, splashing, and generally making a lot of noise. We were kayaking in a bay about 100 feet from the shore. A whole school of Penguins had just entered the water. They were off on a fishing trip. I’m not sure who was having more fun — them or us.

Another time, we watched penguins as they stood on a cliff deciding whether to enter the water. They were looking out for seals. They spent 10 minutes walking back and forth to the edge of the rocks. Finally, one took the plunge and the rest followed, swimming right towards us. Seeing all this from the vantage point of a kayak in the water is a unique experience.

Feeling The Enormity Of Glaciers Calving

One day as we were kayaking, we heard an enormous boom and looked up to see a glacier calving in the distance. When this happens, it can cause a large wave that can overturn kayaks. Our leaders quickly gathered us in a safe formation. Fortunately, this glacier didn’t cause a wave and we were safe. It gave us an intimate experience of what it means for glaciers to calve.

Watching A Whale Close Up

Another one of my favorite kayaking moments was when a young minke whale became curious and decided to swim in circles around our group. For 20 minutes, we watched. Fortunately, the whale stayed far enough away from us that we weren’t in any danger.

Kayaking In The Wind And Waves

We were very lucky on our trip because we had very good weather and were able to kayak seven times during the trip. If it’s too windy or the waves are too high, the kayaking is canceled because it’s too dangerous.

Our last kayak was the most challenging one. It took place at night as our itinerary had changed due to too many glaciers in the Lemaire Channel. It was windy, dark, and wavy when we set out to kayak. I was tired and cold but happy to be in a tandem kayak with a partner.

Launching A Kayak Onto An Ice Shelf

An ice shelf is an ice platform that extends into the sea, sometimes for miles. Our expedition leader told us to start paddling fast towards the ice shelf and launch our kayaks onto the ice. It was scary but, low and behold, we ended up sitting in our kayaks on the ice sipping hot chocolate served to us by the on-ice team. It is a very fond memory of mine.

Some Cruises Have Different Kayaking Options

There are some ships that have kayaking included for everyone and, on those trips, you might only get to kayak once. There are also expedition cruises that are all-inclusive with kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, and other activities every day. On my trip with Quark Expeditions, you had to purchase the kayaking package ahead of time and there were only 16 slots.

What If You Don’t Kayak?

The people who don’t kayak take zodiacs to shore and spend most of their time on shore. It’s an equally wonderful experience. The kayaking team had less time on-shore and more time in the water.

You Need To Be An Intermediate Kayaker

To kayak in Antarctica, you need to have some experience kayaking before you go. You don’t need to be an advanced kayaker, but you do need to know how to get out of your kayak if it were to capsize. This is called a wet exit. You also need to be able to kayak for 2–3 hours at a time.

What Do You Bring To Kayak In Antarctica?

Packing for Antarctica is very tricky. There are weight limits for all baggage on charter flights from Buenos Aires down to Ushuaia. Your cruise will let you know what they are providing on-board. Most provide parkas and rubber boots.

On our trip, Quark provided dry suits, flotation devices, and booties for the kayakers. Generally, we wore several base layers under the dry suit. I brought neoprene gloves and our kayaking leaders had dishwashing gloves which we put over our gloves to keep our hands dry. I also brought a waterproof case for my iPhone and a dry bag to bring my camera on the kayak. I also had a small waterproof camera that I brought on as well. Many people had go pros and other equipment.

Pro Tips

Book Early

If you want to kayak, it’s best to book your trip very early. Or find a company that includes kayaking for everyone. Booking 18 months ahead is generally needed to secure kayaking space.

Prepare Physically

Make sure you’re comfortable kayaking for 2–3 hours at a time. You want to be able to enjoy the experience and not feel exhausted, struggling to get your kayak to move. As I shared above, we had seven opportunities to kayak which is more than the number of times they usually happen. If I wasn’t in good shape, I would have been thoroughly exhausted by the third or fourth trip.

Be Familiar With Your Camera’s Operations

Being in a kayak is a wonderful vantage point from which to take some amazing pictures. You’ll need to be comfortable putting your camera equipment in a dry bag and be very familiar with its operations. Your hands will be in gloves and you’ll be in the cold weather, so you need to be very prepared and knowledgeable about the operations of your equipment.

Make Sure To Follow Your Cruise’s Instructions About Packing

Your cruise operator will tell you exactly what you need to bring for kayaking. If they don’t tell you, ask them. You have limited space in your luggage and weight requirements to meet, so you don’t want to bring things that you don’t need like a wet suit, booties, and other kayaking equipment.

Kayaking in Antarctica was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever had in my life. I am deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to do so. It’s a unique way to experience a unique destination. If you can do it, I highly recommend that you do.

Read up on TravelAwaits’ kayaking articles, including:

• A Beginners Guide To Kayaking: From Learning To Paddle To Buying A Kayak
• My 10 Favorite Places To Go Kayaking In Texas
• I Tried Ocean Kayaking In The Azores, Here’s How It Went

Viking recently launched the newest member of its fleet: the expedition ship Octantis. With its current itineraries focused on the Great Lakes and Antarctica, the gorgeous vessel seamlessly transitions between the serious science conducted on-board, and the high-end travel option Viking’s become recognized and lauded for during the past 25 years.

I recently had a chance to cruise on the Octantis, chat with Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen, and learn more about what makes this ship so special. Here are six quick takeaways from my time onboard:

1. It’s Smaller Than It Looks

Fans of Viking’s river cruises might be a bit intimidated at first by Octantis’s size. At 665 feet, with a beam of 77 feet, this is a long, slender ship, with a total of six decks and a range of different staterooms to accommodate 378 guests. While sturdy enough to cut and glide through arctic ice, she feels comfortable, accessible, and even cozy. I never felt lost, but always felt at home on the Octantis. Of course, the attention to detail shines as well.

 “Luxury means so many things to different people,” Hagen explained. The Octantis, he said, “is not opulent, but elegant in its details.”

2. Serious Science Takes Place On The Octantis

It becomes very clear — very quickly — that Octantis was designed with scientific research in mind. The commitment wasn’t an after-thought, but rather baked into the ship’s very DNA. Viking has established collaborative partnerships with top universities, non-profit organizations, and government entities, allowing scientists to conduct research on board with the aim of sharing data to advance climate research and mitigation.

While on Octantis, I had the chance to tour the ship’s hangar, where a fleet of Zodiac inflatable boats, special operations boats, and even two submarines are stored. While guests get the chance to take excursions on each of these vessels, they are also essential to data collection in the Great Lakes and Antarctica. They are all deployed by the ship’s scientists in pursuit of valuable data to support projects including analysis of bird migration patterns, wildlife surveys, and even measuring the amount of microplastics in the water. The ship’s scientists also routinely release weather balloons to gather climate data for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Octantis has a fully-equipped, onboard laboratory, and its resident and visiting scientists are eager to share their research and expertise with guests through talks and tours. The innovative, symbiotic connection between science and leisure is evident on Octantis, and it’s one accepted, appreciated, and celebrated by all on board.

“It allows for both comfort and scientific exploration,” said Hagen. “I have never seen a ship like this, ever. Our guests will have an interesting, meaningful experience onboard. We are certainly appealing to the curious, and we want to offer a superior product.”

3. It’s Loaded With Art And Culture

The Octantis is an expedition boat in the truest sense of the word, a vessel of opportunity for scientists and guests alike. However, when you’re ready to take a break from the action and adventure, rest assured there are plenty of opportunities to do just that. Like on other boats in its fleet, Viking took the time and care to curate an art collection that reminded me of a museum gallery at every turn. 

Featuring mainly Norwegian artists, the works range widely, from watercolors and oils to inks, textiles, and even glass and wood sculptures. There is also a fascinating collection of archival photographs and artifacts documenting past Arctic expeditions (the dogs look particularly annoyed). Passengers who download the onboard app will find a guided tour that can be synced up with listening devices in each room. It’s a great way to really get to know the stories behind the gorgeous collection.

Another way to unwind and get a culture fix is to cozy up with a book from the ship’s extensive library. Each title here was also curated with both the itinerary and guest in mind, and there’s ample cozy space to enjoy these good reads, perhaps with a glass of wine or crafted cocktail, but always with a stellar view.

4. You Can Take A Snowbath – Really

Plan on running both hot and cold at the ship’s Nordic spa. Traditional treatments on offer (and included in your fare) will have you working up a warm glow in the sauna or herbal-scented steam room, then racing into the snow grotto or bucket shower for a refreshing and quick cool-down. Even the outside pools feature a cold plunge, a medium-moderate section, and then a bath-like temperature. 

Guests are encouraged to alternate between all the options to get the maximum benefit, which includes detox, relaxation, and boosted circulation. Additional options at the spa include a hygge massage, where you receive a soothing session while lying on a heated sand table for maximum cocooning comfort; or the Nordic Restart treatment, which includes a cranberry body scrub, followed by a massage, topped off with a relaxing scalp ritual. This spa is top-notch, and you’ll want to take full advantage of it!

5. Every Palate Will Be Pleased

The Octantis offers elevated cuisine, no matter if it’s grab-and-go or a five-star sit-down dinner experience. The self-service World Café, where a majority of the ship’s seating is located, runs the gamut of meal choices. From made-to-order eggs and waffles in the morning and a whole range of entrees for lunch, they even offer sushi, custom-grilled meats, including lamb chops and ribeyes, and an assortment of pastas and other hearty dishes for dinner. Desserts are to die for here, too.

Mandfredi’s, a fine Italian dining experience, and The Restaurant, which serves fusion favorites, are open for dinner by reservation only. If you need a sweet or savory pick-me-up, Mamsen’s fits the bill for snacks nicely in between meals. And room service is also always available in your stateroom. There were a few mornings I took a quiet breakfast in my room, looking out at the lovely Great Lakes scenery. It was a wonderful way to start the day.

The bottom line is I was highly impressed by the meal offerings on the Octantis, and always felt well-fueled and ready for the next adventure. 

6. Activities And Adventure Abound

Speaking of adventure, there’s plenty to go around on board the Octantis. Keep in mind both the Great Lakes and Antarctic expedition itineraries lean into the nature around them, and a bit less on offerings in each city or town along the way. While there was great sightseeing on Mackinaw Island, I spent my 3 days in Canada’s Georgian Bay, hiking, kayaking, and going out for scenic cruises on the aforementioned Octantis scientific vehicles. The hikes were challenging, there were the expected black flies and other summer bugs, and several activities were canceled due to high winds. It didn’t matter, though. The sum of the experiences was so rich, I found it completely worth the extra few challenges encountered along the way.

The Octantis is unlike any other cruise ship I’ve been on before. The clear onboard commitment to science, data gathering, exploration, and education made me feel less on vacation and more on an adventure. The chance to engage with science in a thoughtful way — along with the great excursions and Viking’s impeccable attention to detail and comfort — make her a winner. I look forward to seeing how the data gathered from Octantis, and her soon-to-be commissioned sister ship Polaris, will help increase overall understanding of our natural, wondrous world.

Be sure to check out all of our Viking Cruise content, including:

• 17 Best Things I Ate On My Viking River Cruise
• Viking River Cruises’ Romantic Danube: How To Make The Most Of Every Stop
• Viking River Cruises: 9 Tips For Enjoying The Best Cuisine On And Off The Ship

I never thought much about going to Antarctica. It wasn’t a bucket-list trip until I was watching a segment on photographing icebergs on a program called Tales by Light. I mentioned the program to a fellow photographer at work the next day. Call it destiny — her upcoming cruise to Antarctica had one remaining spot open and it was geared toward photographers. You just can’t ignore signs like that from the universe, so I plunked down a hefty deposit and secured my spot on the trip. 

Before I dive into the best things about visiting Antarctica, let me give you a range of options for your tour. Cruises run the gamut, from ones that sail past Antarctica — sometimes referred to as sightseeing cruises — to ones referred to as expeditions. With expeditions, you disembark and set foot on the Antarctica Peninsula (weather permitting), and depending on the itinerary, you may explore the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the South Shetland Islands as you make your way to Antarctica.

If you have limited time or are incapacitated by seasickness, consider a combination flight/cruise expedition. You’ll fly to King George Island and cruise around Antarctica’s much calmer waters before flying back to South America. 

Different price points, length of trips, ports of call, activities (helicopter tours, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, camping overnight on Antarctica, etc.), and amenities aboard the ship mean there are a number of cruises to choose from. Since I was jumping on board an already planned trip, all these big decisions had already been made. The 18-day cruise I took with Zegrahm Expeditions was roundtrip from Ushuaia, Argentina. It stopped at the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, the South Shetland Islands, and Antarctica Peninsula. The icebreaker ship carried fewer than 100 guests.

Here are the seven best things I experienced visiting Antarctica:

1. It’s An Adventure

Unlike a cruise with set ports of call and a schedule to keep, a cruise to Antarctica doesn’t necessarily operate that way. That’s not to say cruise lines don’t have a schedule. They do. It’s just that Mother Nature, a high surf, an entertaining pod of whales, or even the appearance of a double rainbow can change plans. 

A cruise of this nature is more of an adventure because of where you’re headed and because of the relatively small number of people. You really can linger if a pod of humpback whales is showing off their tail flukes and breaching close enough for you to see their barnacles. 

A cruise to Antarctica is all about experiential travel — soaking in each moment. You may never go back and tour operators know that. They want you to have the fullest experience possible while you’re there. 

2. The Wildlife

Wildlife is plentiful. It’s hard to imagine life thriving in this inhospitable environment, but it does. Six types of seals and sea lions, seven species of penguins, eight species of whales (with several subtypes of killer whales), and about 40 species of birds other than penguins live on or around Antarctica for at least part of the year. 

Many of Antarctica’s animals are migratory, traveling thousands of miles to breed or follow a source of food over the course of a year. Nearly 100 million birds migrate to Antarctica to breed in the spring. Humpback and blue whales migrate to Antarctica for a summer full of feeding on krill — a shrimp-like animal that is less than three inches long.

Antarctica cruises run from the end of October to March. If you have a specific animal you want to see, you’ll want to schedule your expedition around the animal’s stay in South Georgia or Antarctica. 

Generally speaking, penguins begin to hatch and elephant seals court on South Georgia in November. Whales migrate in December and seal pups lounge on South Georgia’s beaches in December. In January, the penguin chicks sport very fluffy feathers and stay in their nurseries (called creches), and whales and seals are back in the area to feed. February is best for whale watching and fur seals and their pups are plentiful. If you’re interested in seeing the nesting wandering albatross on South Georgia, February is the month to do so. By March, the penguin chicks are grown and adult penguins are molting — it isn’t the most photogenic month to visit and the temperature is dropping.

If you’re most interested in seeing king penguins, you can see chicks the entire season, especially on South Georgia. King penguins have a 14-month breeding cycle so you’ll see chicks and adolescents with brown down rather than feathers throughout the season. King penguins live in massive colonies (100,000 or more birds).

Pro Tip: Emperor penguins that stand about four feet tall, live farther inland on Antarctica. If seeing these majestic birds is a must, you’ll need to cruise inland via the Weddell Sea or fly in to see them. Very rarely, an emperor may be spotted on the peninsula.

3. The Ice

The photographer on the Tales by Light program I watched was most enthusiastic about the ice. Once I saw the colors, textures, and different formations of sea ice and witnessed icebergs calve and roll, I understood why ice would be a highlight. 

There are more than a dozen types of sea ice from icebergs to flat pancake ice. As your cruise ship enters icy water, it will slow to a snail’s pace with the crew on the lookout not only for icebergs whose major mass lies below the surface of the water but growlers that are nearly covered with water, difficult to spot, very hard, and extremely hazardous. 

Ice is a photographer’s friend in Antarctica because of the variety of colors, shapes, sizes, and textures. Ice can be turquoise blue to steel gray. Many icebergs have windows or keyholes in them adding interest. I took as many photos of ice as I did wildlife.

If your greatest interest lies in photographing ice and the landscapes, plan to travel in January or February since there will be soft light at dawn and dusk. On the summer solstice in December, the sun is visible for 24 hours. 

Pro Tip: With the snow, ice, and nonstop sunshine, consider using a polarizing filter for your landscape photography.

4. Stepping Foot On The 7th Continent

As I mentioned, this trip is an adventure with no guarantees. Expedition leaders make every attempt to have you set foot on the 7th continent – typically on Antarctica Peninsula. 

Pro Tip: According to regulations, set forth by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, no more than 100 people can be onshore at a time. Keep this in mind when you’re researching cruise ships. If you’re traveling with more than 100 passengers, your time onshore will be reduced.

5. You’ll Marvel At The Tenacity Of Polar Explorers

You’re likely to have a historian on board to give you lectures on the trials and triumphs of the polar explorers. As you learn about their efforts to reach the South Pole without any of the advantages we have today, you’ll gain an appreciation for their achievements — whether they succeeded or failed in their attempts.

You’ll cruise by and perhaps land on Elephant Island — a small, rocky, inhabitable island where Sir Ernest Shackleford’s men stayed for more than four months awaiting their rescue after their ship was crushed by ice in the Weddell Sea. 

If your cruise takes you to the former whaling station at Grytviken on South Georgia, you’ll see Shackleton’s grave.

6. You’ll Learn A Lot

When the ship is underway, whether, for several hours or several days (between South America and Antarctica), the expedition leaders will give lectures on everything from photography, to bird and whale watching, to geology. Expedition leaders have varied backgrounds and are often expert naturalists or wildlife biologists. 

As an added bonus, you’ll dine with the expedition leaders and any guest lecturers on board. It gives you a chance to learn even more about Antarctica or their fields of study.

7. You Can Take A Polar Plunge

A few hardy souls earned certificates for jumping into Paradise Bay’s freezing water during the polar plunge. The crew attached safety straps to pluck them out of the water if needed and the ship’s doctor attended. If you’re brave enough to take the dip, you deserve the certificate and the bragging rights.

Pro Tip: This is truly a trip of a lifetime. As a photographer, I tend to get caught up taking pictures. Put your camera away once in a while and soak up the beauty, listen to the ice sizzle and crackle, watch the antics of the penguins, and feel the ripples under your zodiac boat after a whale breaches. Savor the moments.

This is truly a trip of a lifetime. And while it isn’t as rigorous as a mountaineering expedition or a sailing vacation in which you’re part of the crew, it isn’t your typical cruise with endless buffets and umbrella drinks by the deck pool.

A cruise to Antarctica is an expedition, an exploration of a remote, untamed continent miles away from civilization. And miles away from a hospital. There are many adages about planning ahead. I first learned the six “P’s” in the Army: “Prior planning prevents p-ss poor performance.” It was a favorite in the operating room, too, where it served to remind the physicians, nurses, and technicians entrusted with caring for patients to check and double-check that everything was in order, and we were ready for the day. 

For your upcoming cruise to Antarctica, here are six tips — six “P’s” to help prepare you for your trip of a lifetime.

1. Pay A Visit To Your Healthcare Provider

Before you book a cruise to Antarctica, make an honest assessment of your health. Whether you find you have some medical problems that need to be addressed or you’re perfectly healthy, be sure to visit your healthcare provider before your trip.

If you have chronic illnesses such as heart disease, high blood pressure, a history of strokes, blood clots, diabetes, asthma, sleep apnea, or have had recent surgery, a visit with your primary care provider as soon as you book your trip will give you time to medically get yourself in the best shape possible.

Even if you’re healthy, pay a visit to your provider for medication refills and to discuss your need for medication to prevent or lessen seasickness.

There is a healthcare provider on board the ship to evaluate and treat minor illnesses (gastrointestinal upset, colds, mild infections, etc.) and emergencies like a fur seal bite. But you’ll need to be flown to a hospital in Argentina, Chile, or home if your illness or injury is serious or can’t be treated onboard.

Pro Tip: Depending on the tour operator, your healthcare provider may need to verify and sign a medical history form for the ship’s doctor to review several months before departure.

2. Plan For Seasickness

Most expeditions traverse the Drake Passage between Antarctica and South America. This is the roughest stretch of water in the world. I had never had motion sickness before, so I was confident I’d be okay on the 2-day transit across the Drake Passage. 

I was very wrong. 

It’s much better to prevent seasickness than to try to treat it after the fact. There are both medications and acupressure devices to help prevent or minimize the symptoms. The wise passengers on the cruise wore scopolamine patches before we entered the Drake Passage. This is a prescription-only medication you need to bring with you.

Alternatively, talk to your doctor about over-the-counter Dramamine or Marezine. Your healthcare provider will make sure there are no interactions with medications you already take. 

The acupressure wrist bands that apply pressure to the “nausea” point receive mixed reviews in studies. They have no side effects so they seem to be a good adjunct to medication.

If you opt not to take preventative medication (personally, I think this is a huge mistake), ginger lozenges or ginger ale can soothe an upset stomach — provided they stay in your stomach long enough to do anything.

3. Practice Balance-Improving Exercises

Most days include excursions on Zodiac boats whether you are viewing icebergs, whales, and seals from the boat or making a landing on South Georgia or Antarctica Peninsula. The crew assists you on and off the Zodiacs, but you’ll make their jobs easier if you have the lower body strength and balance to climb in and out of a moving ship to a bouncing inflatable and vice versa. The greater test of strength and balance occurs on shore landings as you battle the surf when climbing in and getting out of the Zodiac boat. 

Trails on South Georgia are unpaved. If you’re interested in seeing more remote penguin colonies or retracing part of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s trek, you may walk several miles on a moderately strenuous hike over hilly terrain. Bring walking poles if needed for balance.

Walking around the ship’s deck or passageways in rough seas requires good balance as well. The ship is equipped with handrails throughout. 

Start exercises to improve leg strength and balance as soon as you book your trip. The Mayo Clinic provides an at-home exercise regimen to improve your balance. Joining a tai chi group is particularly helpful as this discipline’s main goal is improving balance in a non-strenuous way. 

Pro Tip: If you’re carrying heavy camera gear, hand it to the crew on the Zodiac so you have both hands free. Accept their help getting on and off the ship and Zodiac no matter how good your balance is.

4. Pack Appropriately

Having waterproof clothing for cold weather is so important, many tour operators provide both muck boots and jackets. You’ll need to bring waterproof pants to wear over your clothes. Layering is key — choose waterproof outerwear for your Zodiac excursion that you can remove or unzip if it gets warm while you’re hiking in South Georgia.

Depending on how acclimatized you are to cold weather, bring thinner or heavier thermal underwear, shirts, sweaters, or a fleece jacket, pants, sweatpants, or leggings. The tour operator I went with provided boots for us to use, but if you wear an unusual size jacket or shoe or wear orthotics, check to make sure they can accommodate you. If you bring your own, boots need to be slip-on and tall since you’ll be getting out of the Zodiac into shallow water and walking up to the beach.

Check with your tour operator about dinner wear. Cruises to Antarctica tend to be casual without the need for formal dinner wear.

Bring your prescription and over-the-counter medication in your carry-on bag, with plenty to last the entire trip. If you use a CPAP machine, bring it and the supplies you’ll need with you. You should be able to buy distilled water and any personal items you’ve forgotten in Ushuaia before you embark, time permitting. 

The ship I traveled on did not have a gift shop, sundry shop, or laundry services on board. If you need to hand wash your clothes, bring eco-friendly detergent.

Pro Tip: If your cruise departs from Argentina, the weight limit per piece of luggage on the domestic flight you take from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia is about 50 pounds.

5. Purchase Medical Evacuation Insurance

Most tour operators require medical evacuation insurance. It may be included in general trip insurance, but you’ll need to read the contract carefully to determine what exclusions the coverage has. Alternatively, you can purchase stand-alone medical evacuation insurance. 

Evacuation from an Antarctic cruise back to Argentina, Chile, or home will make a serious dent in your savings. Cruise experts, Expedition Trips, recommend $200,000 due to Antarctica’s remote location.

Trip cancellation and interruption insurance are separate insurances (although you can add a medical evacuation rider to it) that reimburse the cost of the trip due to covered causes. Read the contract carefully as many causes are excluded. 

Pro Tip: Trip cancellation plans require you purchase the insurance within 10 to 21 days of booking the trip for pre-existing medical conditions to be covered.

6. Plan Early For Your Unique Circumstances

Planning early to accommodate your unique circumstances is key. I’ve read about a wheelchair-bound woman who cruised to Antarctica and made it onto the continent. All of that took prior planning. That said, reach out to the tour operator you’d like to use before you book your trip if you have limited mobility. Most ships have elevators and several ADA-compliant rooms. 

A trip to Antarctica is a feast for the senses, so visual or hearing impairments shouldn’t stop you from traveling here. For the visually impaired who are assisted by a guide dog, dogs were banned in Antarctica in 1992 after being used as sled dogs since the early days of exploration. I don’t believe you can make an exception for a guide dog, although I can’t guarantee that’s the case. 

For those with severe food allergies, you should be able to avoid a particular food but there will be a risk of contamination because small ships have one kitchen and can’t accommodate preparing food in a gluten, dairy, or nut-free kitchen for example. A passenger with a severe gluten allergy brought all of her own food for the Antarctica cruise I took.

Pro Tip: Proof of a completed series of COVID-19 vaccines and a recent negative test are required by most tour operators. If you are unvaccinated for personal or medical reasons (allergy to a component of the vaccine, for example), contact the tour company about your eligibility to take the cruise before you book your trip.

With cruises departing South America and heading directly to Antarctica, the trip time is shortened but you miss the tiny island of South Georgia. With the even shorter version — flying to King George Island off the Antarctica Peninsula and beginning your expedition from there — you also miss South Georgia. But including South Georgia in your itinerary offers wildlife viewing and on-land experiences that make your expedition to the 7th continent a trip filled with adventure, discovery, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Before we look at the nine reasons why South Georgia should be part of your expedition to Antarctica, let me give you a little bit of information about what to consider when you research your cruise. 

In keeping with the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, the continent is shared by countries around the world. Its primary purpose is to provide a place of collaborative scientific research. And 29 of the 54 countries that signed the treaty have research bases in Antarctica. 

Tourism to Antarctica is regulated in order to lessen the impact travelers have on the continent. The expedition you choose should be part of the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO). IAATO limits the number of people on any given landing to 100. They also regulate the landings and lengths of the visits so the land and wildlife are not adversely impacted. You’re ferried from ship to shore on a Zodiac boat. If the ship you choose for your expedition has fewer than 100 guests, you’ll be able to participate in every shore landing offered.

Here are the reasons why the tiny island of South Georgia should be part of your Antarctic adventure.

1. You’ll Have Boots On The Ground

Except for typically one trek on the Antarctic Peninsula, the majority of excursions to destinations in Antarctica involve sightseeing from Zodiac boats. With South Georgia, you’ll be exploring on foot, with easy hikes and up-close experiences with wildlife (curious penguins walk up to you). 

Short hikes take you to nesting areas or viewing platforms from where you’ll see stunning panoramas of the beaches and the Scotia Sea — a part of the Southern Ocean.

2. You’ll See Albatrosses Take Off

Several types of albatrosses inhabit South Georgia and the small islands that surround it. While viewing wandering albatross from the ship’s deck, the birds look big but not enormous. You’ll get an up-close view of them on Prion Island, just off of South Georgia’s north shore. The wandering albatross’s wingspan is the largest of any living bird on the planet, reaching 11 feet. To get airborne, they have to get a running start. Once they are airborne, they can glide for several hours without flapping their wings. Individual albatrosses have been tracked and found to cover 12,000 miles over the course of the year. They breed on South Georgia and other subantarctic islands beginning each November.

Black-browed albatrosses, with about 7.5-foot wingspans, are found on South Georgia. A huge colony of 400,000 breeding pairs nest on the Falkland Islands but a very respectable colony of 70,000 breeding pairs lives on South Georgia so you’ll see them on your visit. Dove gray downy chicks hatch in their mud nests in late December and early January. 

These are just two species of albatrosses on South Georgia. You’re likely to spot more albatross species between South America and Antarctica. You’ll also see petrels, skua, cormorants, kelp gulls, Antarctic terns, and Antarctic prions.

Pro Tip: Albatrosses are considered threatened and near-threatened depending on the species, due to fishing and pollution. To find out more about conservation efforts, visit the Agreement on Albatross and Petrel Conservation’s website.

3. You Might Spot Macaroni Penguins

In 18th century England, “Macaroni” referred to high society, sophisticated young men who toured Europe and adopted a taste for Italian pasta and fine European clothing, including wigs and feathered caps. The verse, “Yankee Doodle came to town riding on a pony. He stuck a feather in his hat and called it macaroni,” was a way the British Army put down the less well-dressed colonials during the Revolutionary War.

Upon seeing penguins on the Falkland Islands with a flamboyant splash of yellow and orange feathers on their heads, English sailors named them Macaronis. Their habitat extends from South America to the Antarctic Peninsula. 

The world’s largest population lives on South Georgia but colonies are remote. Your best chance of seeing them is when they enter the water in search of krill — the shrimp-like crustaceans that make the Macaroni’s feathers orange.

4. You’ll Experience The Chaos Of A King Penguin Colony

South Georgia is home to some of the largest King penguin colonies in the world, too. A short walk from your Zodiac landing on Salisbury Plain or St. Andrews Bay gets you to King penguin colonies with 100,000 plus breeding pairs that are trumpeting, courting, waddling, and, in the case of the juveniles — whistling — to their parents. The noise is deafening, and the smell of guano is quite strong, nevertheless, the experience is unmatched. 

IAATO requires visitors to stay at least five meters (16 feet) away from any wildlife. Curious juveniles, called oakum boys, have brown downy feathers and can be seen throughout the season, as King penguins breed every 14 months. You will also see molting adult penguins that are land-bound and hungry until they replace their feathers and return to the sea to feed.

Along with King penguins, South Georgia is also home to Magellanic, Gentoo, and Chinstrap penguins.

Pro Tip: Sit or stand quietly when you are near a colony. Curious penguins are likely to approach and break the five-meter rule.

5. You’ll Marvel At Massive Elephant Seals

Gold Harbour, named for the color of the beach’s golden mountain backdrop at sunrise and sunset, is home to King penguins, fur seals, and massive elephant seals. Adult elephant seal males weigh up to 8,800 pounds and dwarf the females that weigh from 900 to 2,000 pounds. Juvenile male elephant seals practice sparring on the beach, otherwise, the entire lot of elephant seals seem content to sunbathe while they’re on land.

6. You Can Retrace Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Trek

No expedition to Antarctica would be complete without learning about polar explorers that attempted and succeeded at reaching the South Pole. Sir Ernest Shackleton’s attempt failed but he was heralded as a hero. After his ship, the Endurance was crushed by ice in Antarctica’s Weddell Sea, Shackleton and his men made their way to Elephant Island. Shackleton went with a small group of his men to find a ship to get his men home. 

Shackleton sailed on a small boat to South Georgia and hiked over snowy, icy, rugged terrain to reach Stromness whaling station in 1916. He returned to rescue all of his men on Elephant Island about 4 months later.

Depending on weather conditions, you can retrace the final part of Shackleton’s trek to Stromness. Stromness became a ship repair yard after whaling ended. Humans left in 1961. Now it’s fur seal city.

7. You Can Send A Postcard 

South Georgia Heritage Trust is based in Grytviken and serves to restore and protect South Georgia. They’ve eradicated rodents that were introduced when Grytviken was a Norwegian whaling station. The rodents were preying upon bird eggs and putting seabirds that nest on South Georgia at risk for extinction.

Buildings, including a white wooden Norwegian Lutheran church, whale processing equipment, and whale oil vats are scattered about Grytviken. Docent-led tours and the museum tell of the whaling station’s history. You can buy a souvenir in the museum shop and mail a postcard from Grytviken’s post office. 

8. You Can Toast Sir Ernest Shackleton

While at Grytviken, you can visit Sir Ernest Shackleton’s grave. He died on South Georgia in 1922 from a heart condition. Traditionally, visitors toast Shackleton with a glass of scotch whiskey, reserving just a bit to pour on his grave. It was his favorite drink.

A short, whitewashed picket fence encircles the cemetery filled with graves of the whaling station workers and sailors. Many succumbed to industrial accidents and many died from typhus. South Georgia’s magistrate William Barlas, was the last person buried here. He was swept into the sea by an avalanche in 1941.

9. You’ll Enjoy Days At Sea

With the extended journey to South Georgia, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy at-sea days. Whether you attend one of the many lectures given onboard, read a good book, watch for whales, dolphins, or seabirds, or play a card game with fellow passengers, a sea day is a chance to relax and enjoy a little downtime before your adventures begin in Antarctica.

Pro Tip: If you’re departing from South America, expeditions to South Georgia and Antarctica include several stops in the Falkland Islands. The best months to make this trip are November through February. To maximize your time on land during excursions, book your cruise on a ship carrying fewer than 100 guests.

The world can’t really get a new ocean, of course, since Earth actually has just one interconnected ocean. Historically, though, it has been divided into four regions: Pacific, Atlantic, Arctic, and Indian.

Now you can add a fifth ocean, called the Southern Ocean.

That’s because on June 8, which happened to be World Ocean Day, the National Geographic Society announced it is “making a change to recognize the Southern Ocean as a fifth official ocean in [its] atlases and maps!”

The northern limit of the Southern Ocean — which encircles Antarctica — varies between about 50 degrees and 62 degrees south latitude. That said, National Geographic will use 60 degrees south latitude as a proxy for the Southern Ocean’s northern ecological limit.

Formally recognizing the waters around Antarctica makes sense because “scientists have known for many years that the icy waters around Antarctica form a distinct ecological region defined by ocean currents and temperatures,” National Geographic Society geographer Alex Tait explained in the announcement.

A Unique Ocean

The Pacific, Atlantic, Arctic, and Indian Oceans are defined by the continents that border them. The Southern Ocean, on the other hand, is defined by a current.

Here’s why. Scientists estimate that the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) began approximately 34 million years ago, National Geographic explains. When Antarctica separated from South America, it allowed water to circulate freely around Antarctica.

“Extending from the surface to the ocean floor, the ACC transports more water than any other ocean current,” National Geographic explains. “It pulls in waters from the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, helping drive a global circulation system known as the conveyor belt, which transports heat around the planet. Cold, dense water that sinks to the ocean floor off Antarctica also helps store carbon in the deep ocean. In both those ways, the Southern Ocean has a crucial impact on Earth’s climate.”

The waters south of the ACC are colder and ecologically distinct from other oceans, and they’re home to thousands of species that live nowhere else on Earth.

“The Southern Ocean encompasses unique and fragile marine ecosystems that are home to wonderful marine life such as whales, penguins, and seals,” National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Enric Sala said.

The Need For Change

The U.S. Board of Geographic Names, created to maintain “uniform geographic name usage” through the federal government, already recognizes the Southern Ocean. A motion to recognize the Southern Ocean worldwide was proposed to the International Hydrographic Organization in 2000 — but some of the organization’s members dissented.

It is now time for a change, Tait explained, and National Geographic formally recognizing the Southern Ocean aligns with the society’s “initiative to conserve the world’s oceans, focusing public awareness onto a region in particular need of a conservation spotlight.”

“We’ve always labeled it, but we labeled it slightly differently [than other oceans],” Tait said. “This change was taking the last step and saying we want to recognize it because of its ecological separation.”

Tait also told the Washington Post that, in addition to map labeling, there’s an educational reason for recognizing the Southern Ocean as the world’s fifth ocean.“When students learn about parts of the ocean world, they learn it’s an interconnected ocean,” Tait said. “Then they learn there’s these regions called oceans that are really important, and there’s a distinct one in the icy waters around Antarctica.”

Want to experience the Southern Ocean for yourself? Be inspired by Sue Davies’s reflections on taking a solo trip to Antarctica.

A small ship cruise to Antarctica was a dream of mine for decades. I finally got the opportunity to go this last November. Hurtigruten offered a voyage featuring their newest ship, the MS Roald Amundsen, round trip from Punta Arenas (including flights from Santiago). The 17-day itinerary proposed stops at Cape Horn and Stanley in the Falkland Islands, cruising through Patagonia, and five days in Antarctica.

1. Glacier Alley Giants

Our first morning dawned bright and clear as we cruised through the Beagle Channel. Giant tidewater glaciers — shining white in the sun with hints of turquoise blue, and indications of what was to come– crept down the mountains as we passed. We spent the day admiring the massive rivers of ice flowing down the mountains to the crystal clear waters of the Patagonian fjords. Pia, Holanda, Francia, Alemania, Espana — the glaciers’ names were announced as we passed by. Soaking in the Jacuzzi on the stern, drink in hand, was a perfect start to a voyage tracing the path of the early Antarctic explorers — Robert Scott, Fridtjof Nansen, Ernest Shackleton, and our ship’s namesake, Roald Amundsen.

2. The Wandering Albatross

The fine weather continued so we put in at Cape Horn. A sturdy wooden staircase led up the steep cliffs. We met Chilean navy captain Otaiza and his family. They’re assigned to tend to the lighthouse (and any tourists who stop by). They happily posed for photos and sold us souvenirs and cards we could send home. Wide wooden boardwalks led across the boggy landscape to the famous Albatross Monument dedicated to the 10,000 mostly forgotten sailors who’ve lost their lives battling ferocious storms while rounding the Horn.

We spent the next day enjoying the amenities aboard our splendid new ship as we “braved” the infamous Drake Passage. I spent time relaxing in the Explorer Lounge, meeting new friends over jigsaw puzzles, and steaming in the hot tub and sauna. I also really enjoyed the daily lectures on Antarctic wildlife and early explorers. I liked participating in the Polar Collective (a citizen science project). Becky — the onboard ornithologist — led the daily eBird survey. Katya taught us more about clouds while we collected data for NASA’s Cloud Observer program

3. Hiking On Half Moon Island

The fabulous weather allowed us to arrive early at Half Moon Island — our first stop in Antarctica. We waited for our assigned boat groups to be announced. Dressed in our (ship supplied) muck boots, jackets, and life vests, we lined up in the ship’s “black box” to board the RIBs (rigid inflatable boats) that would ferry us to shore. The expedition crew had marked out the territory for our shore excursion. They kept a watchful eye out for anyone wandering off or getting too close to any wildlife. Strict rules of engagement (no closer than five meters) were enforced.

We located a group of chinstrap penguins huddling atop a rocky outcrop high on a ridge. Further on, the landscape opened up to overlook a huge glacier across the water. Another half mile trek led to a larger colony of gentoo penguins. Lowering clouds and darkening skies signaled it was time to return to the ship.

4. Orne Harbor

Every voyage is different. Weather conditions and other vessels in the area influence the captain’s decisions. This is expedition cruising (even if the ship is luxurious), and flexibility is key. Orne Harbor turned out to be our only landing on the Antarctic mainland.

I was so excited, just to be “On The Ice”! Sunny skies and clear, cool days allowed us to really savor it. Hiking over the next ridge, hoping to find a penguin colony. Scanning the waterline, looking for seals, whales, and icebergs to photograph. Kayaking through calm waters with rafts of penguins keeping pace. Silent but for the dip of your oars and the thumps and thuds of the nearby growlers and ’bergy bits. Camping overnight in the wilderness, thousands of miles from civilization. Nights so dark, you could see the stars in all their splendor. Just remember the practicalities — no real bathroom, only the ice “throne” (toilet) made especially for us.

5. A Walk Onto The Pack Ice

We spent the next week exploring Antarctica’s South Shetland Islands. The MS Roald Amundsen is perfectly fitted for this type of voyage. With her hybrid propulsion system, she can sail silently on battery power (it also saves fuel and cuts down on emissions). Her ice-strengthened hull allows passage through the ice fields that most other ships must give a wide berth. Her computerized dynamic positioning system eliminates the need to anchor, so no noise to scare off the wildlife, and no damage to the sea bottom environment.

We saw just how valuable this all was one morning as our captain drove the ship right into the pack ice. Our wake made the only mark in the untouched sheets of ice overlaying the dark ocean. We eagerly watched from the rails as our crew tested the ice for safety (thickness). Then, group by group, we descended the gangway to frolic in the virgin snow. We tromped around the cordoned-off area, turning it to slush as we marveled at the miles of pristine wilderness just past the limits allowed us. Settling for selfies alongside the ship and snow angels on the ice, we rejoined the ship to admire the spectacular scenery scrolling past as we cruised through narrow Lemaire Channel with the sun slowly sinking behind the surrounding mountains.

6. Vernadsky’s World Famous Vodka

We were welcomed to tour Ukraine’s Vernadsky Station on Galindez Island. We saw the kitchen, radio room, workshops, laboratories, and rec rooms, including the copy-cat British pub where we played a game of pool. I liked looking at the faded photos lining the walls — ships from 100 years ago bringing famous Antarctic explorers alongside more recent scientific soccer teams. The researchers were happy to show us around and share their homemade vodka. We could also shop in the “southernmost souvenir shop in the world” and send a postcard home.

7. The ‘Real’ Antarctica

I was thrilled to experience the “real” Antarctica and visit the largest known colony of gentoo penguins at Cuverville Island. We finally got hit with the expected freezing snow, ice, and howling winds. Before this, most days I was much too hot in my long underwear. On this day, the wind chilled, and I couldn’t keep the snow off my camera. Not allowed to approach the penguins, we huddled together waiting out the squall. Soon enough, it cleared and the sun appeared. Smiling, I soaked up the sun, sitting in the fresh snow. I delighted in watching the thousands of birds and their antics. Grunting and groaning at each other in their mating rituals. Stealing treasured pebbles from their neighbors’ nests. Surfing down the hills on their bellies, pushing themselves along with their stubby little wings. Climbing back up takes some serious effort, but they take it in stride, trucking uphill like tiny animated tanks in tuxedos.

8. Go Inside A Sleeping Volcano

Cruising through Telefon Bay, inside the volcanic crater of Deception Island, we passed an abandoned whaling station baking on the beach. Our RIBs deposited us on a pebbly black beach to meet a solitary crabeater seal. A few brave souls took advantage of the slightly warmer water due to the local volcanic action and took the polar plunge. Brrrr! I clambered up the steep path leading to a bare black moonscape with steaming fumaroles in the distance. We could hike to the rim of the caldera for fantastic views, but some would have liked to explore further. As we slipped through narrow Neptune’s Bellows late afternoon, leaving the island behind, we were escorted out to sea by a family of whales and rafts of porpoising penguins.

9. Another Day For The Birds

A cool and foggy morning found us hiking the sheep-shorn rolling green hills of West Point Island in search of a promised colony of rockhopper penguins with their fantastical yellow eyebrows. Albatross and rockhoppers shared the rookery atop steep seaside cliffs. Our guides managed the traffic so we wouldn’t stress the birds. We were only allowed to struggle along the slippery paths around the cliff tops among the nesting birds in small groups. I chose to accept a jeep back to a local farm where the table was laid for us. We had tea and our fill of a dozen delicious treats before heading back to the beach. To our great delight, pods of Commerson’s dolphins raced our RIBs to the ship.

The Ice Awaits

Those were just a few of the unforgettable experiences I had on this Hurtigruten cruise. It’s an amazing adventure and now possible to do it in comfort and style, unlike those early explorers. My ship was fairly accessible, with wide doors, passages, and elevators. Getting in and out of the RIBs may be hard for some people, and a couple of hikes had some steep spots. The crew helped all they could, but Antarctica is a very remote and extreme environment. Hurtigruten requires a doctor’s report and proof of insurance before boarding.

I’d recommend going later in the season (October to March). It was fantastic to see the pristine scenery, but November isn’t the best time to see wildlife. In December and January, the penguin chicks start to hatch and the seal pups are born. February should be prime time to see whales. It’s also when seals and fluffy penguin chicks start growing into their black and white adult plumage. Any time is worth it, just go!

And before you do, read up on

• How To Travel To Antarctica
• I Took A Solo Trip To Antarctica And It Was Amazing

The sky was dark. A brisk wind and some waves. We paddled in our kayaks past Port Lockroy, the former British military base and now museum. Gentoo penguins waddled about. We launched our kayaks onto the fast ice. I was cold and tired. And very grateful. I had really done it: kayaked in Antarctica. Seen penguins feeding chicks, swimming, and arguing. Watched minke and humpback whales breach from 50 feet away. Stepped foot on the seventh continent.

Antarctica: My Dream Trip For Turning 50

Antarctica was my dream trip. Since I was 30, I had planned to go to Antarctica. I read every book on Antarctica. Saw every movie. Went to see penguins in the Galapagos and South Africa. Attended travel shows and grilled the tour company representatives. I was intent on going for my 50th.

Age 50 Comes And Goes

For my 50th birthday, Regina (my spouse) and I found ourselves on Easter Island and in the Atacama Desert instead. A spectacular trip — but not Antarctica. The next year it was Oaxaca, Mexico, followed by South Africa, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Cuba, Sri Lanka, Budapest, Portugal, Spain, London, Greece, Italy, Denmark, Paris, and even Norway and the northern lights. And still we had not booked the Antarctica trip.

When I was 56, I finally asked, “Are we ever going to go to Antarctica?

Regina said, “I don’t want to go.”

I was heartbroken.

Then she said, “Why don’t you go without me?”

Over the past two decades, Regina and I had been to 45 countries together. She was the planner and paid attention to details. I was the dreamer and the finder of offbeat things to do.

I couldn’t imagine doing such a big trip on my own. But I couldn’t imagine giving up my dream.

Deciding To Go Solo To Antarctica

It was 11 p.m. in mid-November. Another Antarctic travel season had already started. There was the possibility of a last-minute deal. I did an online search and found a cruise with one single cabin and one kayaking space available. There was a huge discount since I was booking so late — and no single supplement. It seemed like the stars were aligned. I’d have to give up the idea of camping since that was already sold out, but I could kayak. I grabbed it immediately.

Packing And Worrying

I worried about packing. How was I going to bring everything and stay within the weight limits? What was I going to do alone in Buenos Aires? Would I be safe at night? Would I have anyone to talk to? Eat dinner with? Would I actually make it to Antarctica?

Packing for Antarctica is a challenge. There is so much gear to bring — cameras (DSL, underwater, and GoPro), extra batteries, a tripod, base layers (several), gloves, hats, waterproof pants, and more. The baggage limits were 44 pounds for checked bags and 11 pounds for my carry on. My camera equipment alone weighed almost 11 pounds.

I carefully planned my packing. Weighed my bags about 40 times to make sure that I was under the weight limit.

I also worried about my flight and the possibility of bad weather. I elected to have a two-day cushion in Buenos Aires in case of a flight cancellation.

Two Days In Buenos Aires

In order to make sure that there was one organized outing in my first days in Buenos Aires, I booked a street art group tour. Street art is a passion of mine. And I thought that I would have someone to talk to at least for a few hours. It was a good plan.

The tour guide told me about the Asociacion Madres de Plaza de Mayo (Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo) demonstration the next day. The mothers have been protesting the disappearance of their children for more than 40 years. I set off for the plaza the next day. It was an honor to join their protest.

Meeting My First New Friends

The next morning it was time to take the bus from the hotel to the charter flight for Ushuaia, where we would embark on the cruise. The bus to the airport was buzzing with excitement. Everyone was talking to everyone. And we were all so excited. On the airplane, I immediately made friends with the people sitting in my row. A nurse from the Midwest traveling solo. A 70-year-old man traveling solo. A 30-something young woman also solo. It turned out that the boat had a lot of single cabins, so there was a whole contingent of us solo travelers.

There were 16 people on the kayaking excursions and we bonded as well. My worries about being lonely were gone.

Kayaking In The Southern Ocean

Kayaking in the Southern Ocean was beyond my dreams. Minke and humpback whales surfaced nearby. Penguins were everywhere — in front, behind, underneath, and on the side. We saw enormous penguin colonies with thousands of birds. On land, we watched penguins feeding chicks. And diving into the water. We heard and saw an iceberg calving (from a safe distance, of course).

It was everything that I dreamed of and more. My next aspirational trips are to Greenland and the North Pole. Perhaps I’ll do those solo, too.

Tips For Going Solo To Antarctica

Antarctica is a great trip for solo travel. Make sure the boat that you are going on has doubles, triples and/or single cabins. This is an indication that there will be many other solo travelers.

Going to Antarctica is very expensive. You can save money by booking very early or very late. If you want to camp or kayak, booking early is better. I was very lucky to get a kayaking spot when I booked.

You can also save money by sharing a cabin — and that’s a good way to make a new friend if you are traveling solo.

Talk to everyone. I made friends with other solo travelers, married couples, and families. On my boat, everyone talked to everyone. This might not be the case on every cruise, but it is a possibility!

Go to the lectures about Antarctica, penguins, whales, photography, and other topics. You may find like-minded people there.

Get to know the cruise and expedition teams. On my trip, they were very friendly and happy to spend time talking about almost anything.

If you are concerned about global warming, you will learn a lot about it on the trip. Share all that you learned when you come back.

The last and most important tip: Go to Antarctica. It is an unforgettable experience and a privilege to be able to go.

Building your bucket list? Here are 12 things to expect when visiting South America for the first time, plus how visiting Rwanda changed one writer’s life.

The Arctic Circle is alluring in its remoteness; it’s one of the last few places on Earth that feels like a true adventure. That said, visiting the Arctic Circle also means you’re traversing some of the world’s most fragile ecosystems. Polar bears, whales, walruses, and a host of rare and endangered wildlife call these lands and waters home. Inuit communities across the north are also navigating recent tourism influxes, not to mention a changing climate.

The Arctic Circle is a bucket-list and awe-inspiring destination, but you shouldn’t just book a tour or hop on a plane and hope for the best. The Arctic and its inhabitants need travelers to research, take time, and plan their trips responsibly.

I was invited to experience northern Canada and Greenland with Adventure Canada, a small-ship expedition company that focuses on responsible travel, both culturally and environmentally. After touring with an expedition team of climate change scientists, geoscientists, archaeologists, culturalists, and explorers, I learned how to decrease my footprint on a trip to the fragile north. Here are seven takeaways to help you visit the Arctic Circle responsibly.

1. Choose A Responsible Tour Company

The Arctic Circle is not like, say, Europe. You can’t just show up with a backpack and figure it out. In most cases, it’s best to travel with a tourism company to ensure you’re safely visiting these wildlife-rich destinations (for the wildlife and yourself). By choosing a responsible tourism company, you’re taking a big first step toward responsible Arctic tourism.

Companies like Adventure Canada, which runs small-boat Arctic expeditions like the one I joined, make it easy to select a sustainable Arctic travel opportunity. Just look on the tour operator’s website or social media for clues. For instance, Adventure Canada empowers local communities by hiring Inuit guides at all levels — including as expedition leader — so guests learn from the people who actually live there. They also support the not-for-profit program Students on Ice, which fosters education among young and diverse conservationists. If your tour company can check at least a few of these boxes, you can head into your trip knowing you made a smart and safe-for-the-environment choice.

2. Opt For Smaller Ships

As its narrow, ice-filled passageways indicate, the Arctic was not built for massive cruise ships. Adventure Canada ships typically host 200 passengers or less, which means a lower impact in terms of tourist numbers and a smaller, less intrusive ship.

Speaking of small boats, another way people travel through the Arctic’s Northwest Passage is by sailing, but this requires massive research on logistics, permits, and hiring the right crew. (For a glimpse into this type of travel, watch the 2015 documentary The Polar Sea.)

3. Learn About The Culture

Before even stepping foot on Arctic soil, spend time learning about the Inuit culture. This is an entirely different culture than most people are used to, but it’s not “foreign” or “exotic.” It’s just, well, different. By learning about Inuit history — including troubling treatment in Canada — you’ll go into the trip with an appreciation for just how strong willed the people welcoming you really are.

By learning about contemporary Inuit culture, you’ll be able to relate better once you step foot on their soil. Circling the Midnight Sun is a great book that highlights the changing Inuit culture. Its author and longtime explorer, James Raffan, was actually part of the Adventure Canada expedition crew during my High Arctic trip, too.

4. Enjoy Wildlife, From A Distance

Wildlife is one of the biggest High Arctic draws. You have the chance to see narwhals, polar bears, humpback whales, seals, walruses, and so many other unique and awe-inspiring animals. But these wild animals should remain, well, wild. That means enjoying the Arctic wildlife must happen at a safe distance. On foot, you should never approach a wild animal for a whole host of safety reasons. But even if you’re on a boat or bike ride, don’t let the excitement of capturing a good photo put a vulnerable animal at risk.

In many cases, it’s not up to you how close your tour guides get to an animal. With an eco-friendly company like Adventure Canada, guides are required to stay a ways back, unless the animal approaches the ship or zodiac boats on its own. Sure, the captain will idle and let the ship slowly move in the direction of, say, a polar bear on land, but when we saw swimming animals or vulnerable wildlife on the shores, we stopped, looked through binoculars, then moved on.

If you’re on a one-off tour with a company, let them know from the get-go that you’d rather stay at a safe and respectful distance if you spot whales or bears. This will set the tone for a responsible wildlife-viewing trip and will take the pressure off your guides, who are inevitably working for a tip.

5. Don’t Photograph People Without Permission

When you’re visiting a new place like the Arctic, it’s tempting to pull out your camera the second you land in a new community. Of course, you can take photos of these beautiful towns and the warm, welcoming people — but only if you ask. A good rule of thumb for travel photography is, If you wouldn’t do it at home, don’t do it here. I try to start a conversation first so that I can make a genuine, albeit brief, memory with the person; the photograph will then help me remember this once-in-a-lifetime connection.

6. Buy Local Souvenirs

As climate change impacts lifestyles across the Arctic, many Inuit are turning to tourism as a way to make ends meet. That’s why buying your souvenirs straight from the source — on the ground in local Arctic communities — is incredibly important. This approach guarantees your money goes to the artist or maker, which also means you could have the chance to meet the person behind your souvenir!

If you’re unsure about whether you’re buying from a locally sourced shop or not, ask the store owner where they get their merchandise. Or, if you’re on an expedition with Inuit guides, ask them for tips on where to shop.

7. Spread Your Knowledge At Home

Visiting the Arctic Circle is a rare privilege. This trip-of-a-lifetime will put you face to face with the reality of climate change. Iceberg views will leave you awestruck, as will the diverse wildlife that flocks to the them. Interacting with Inuit people will help you put a face to climate problems, as they’ve been among the first to suffer — and are the least to blame.

A trip to the Arctic Circle is only responsible if you go home and spread your knowledge about what you saw in the Arctic Circle — and not just the beauty or the narwhal sighting. According to Cedar Swan, CEO of Adventure Canada, giving voices to vast environmental problems is one of the best ways her company can make a difference.

“I think our opportunity is to come home and be ambassadors for this place, because this experience shapes us and makes us just a little bit different,” she said. “Our hope is that we all go home as advocates, as allies, and with connections meaningful enough that we’ll fight for it.”

A Few Things To Know Before Visiting The Arctic

Now that you’re ready to visit the Arctic responsibly, here are a few things to keep in mind before you jetset up north.

The Arctic Circle spans over 9,000 miles. Some of the easiest places to visit include northern Canada, Alaska, and northern Greenland. Your guide will likely choose your route for you, but if you know you want to visit say, Greenland, choose a company that specializes in this portion of the Arctic.

It’s crazy sunny! Sure, it’s chilly — and downright freezing (or below) — most of the year, but in the summer, the sun radiates off the icebergs and water. Bring sunscreen and some good sunblock on your spring, summer, or fall Arctic trip. That said, if you’re visiting in the winter, you won’t have to worry about sunscreen because there’s no sunlight!

Cold weather kills camera batteries, so make sure you pack a spare battery for any device you bring. Take it from the girl whose camera battery almost died when the first whale was spotted!

If you’d rather work your way up to the Arctic, Iceland may be a good place to test the waters — literally. Here’s how to visit the Blue Lagoon in Iceland as part of a trip north.

On December 4, 2021, the sun will go dark over Antarctica and the lucky voyagers aboard the Poseidon Expeditions Sea Spirit will have a mesmerizing and unobscured front-row seat.

A Solar Eclipse At The Bottom Of The World

Although solar eclipses are fairly common phenomena, occurring every 18 months or so, solar eclipses at the poles are fairly rare. It’s not a stretch to consider this cruise a once-in-a-lifetime chance to journey into the wild, uninhabited natural splendor of Antarctica, and to see the sun briefly blotted out over the planet’s most southern sea.

What makes the experience even more memorable is the fact that the sun shines nearly 24 hours a day in Antarctica during December, so you’ll be able to see the sky transition dramatically as the moon moves between the Earth and the sun.

Paul Sutter, a renowned scientist and published author, will be a special guest aboard the Sea Spirit, lending further credibility and prestige to this unparalleled journey.

Setting Sail For Antarctica

The Sea Spirit will set sail on November 21, 2021 from Ushuaia, Argentina and will return to the same port on December 12. Plan to arrive in Ushuaia on November 20, as your one-night hotel stay there is included. The southernmost city in Argentina, Ushuaia has a ton of character and you can spend your free day exploring the history of this fascinating region or simply enjoying a fine craft beer in one of the many cafes and quaint bars that line its streets.

The southern seas are abundant with sea life, and one of the first stops on this itinerary is the Falkland Islands: a fabulous place to check out penguins and albatrosses in their natural habitat. The Sea Spirit circles the Falklands for two days, briefly stopping in the Port of Stanley.

Up next: South Georgia Island. This truly off-the-beaten-path destination is home to many different kinds of penguins and sea lions and boasts untouched natural vistas. After bidding goodbye to this remote island, you’ll experience the solar eclipse as the Sea Spirit traverses the Scotia Sea. The trip will then conclude with a visit to the South Shetland Islands near the very bottom of the globe.

What You Need To Know Before Boarding

This bucket list trip is an extraordinary opportunity, so tickets do not come cheap. Plan to spend between $18,395 and $39,995 for your ticket to board the Sea Spirit. This ticket does not include airfare, alcohol on the ship, or staff gratuities. It does include your hotel in Ushuaia, accommodation, a complimentary parka, meals on board, excursions, and special glasses to wear during the eclipse.

Also, keep in mind that you should never touch wildlife, no matter how friendly or adorable the penguins or any other critters seem. The snow at the bottom of the earth is very reflective, so pack plenty of sunscreen to avoid getting the dreaded Antarctic sunburn.

Always stick with your guides during excursions. Antarctica is wild and unpredictable, and your guides are experts in both weather conditions and safety. Finally, Drake’s Passage is known for its rough seas. Even if you’re not prone to seasickness, pack medication so that you can enjoy your cruise to the fullest.

Antarctica is one of the last true wildernesses in the world, and an extraordinary bucket list destination — not to mention the perfect place to see the 2021 solar eclipse. Read up on how to travel to Antarctica and what to do and where to go during an Antarctica bucket list trip.

Vacations are wonderful, but sometimes you just feel like you keep visiting the same places — or types of places — over and over again. To mix things up, you can visit (or at least daydream about!) one of these unusual places. Instead of a trip to another popular beach or resort, prepare for an almost otherworldly travel experience.

1. Blood Falls, Antarctica

The deep red Blood Falls were first discovered in 1911 by Australian geologist Griffith Taylor, but the “why” behind the coloration of the waters has only been confirmed this year, thanks to explorations beneath the glacier by a probe. Iron deposits and other minerals have colored these ancient waters, buried beneath the mountain of ice for millennia and resulting in the stunning natural wonder.

If you plan to head to this unusual destination, go between October and late March when the continent receives the most sunshine. Learn about how to travel to Antarctica and plan on a helicopter tour since that’s the only way to get to this incredibly remote location.

2. Puerto Mosquito, Puerto Rico

There’s nothing quite so romantic as a moonlit beach on a remote shore. Unless you can meander the sands of a glow-in-the-dark beach, that is. So venturing to Puerto Mosquito, the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, on Vieques Island in Puerto Rico will boost the awe factor all the more.

Don’t let the name scare you. The bay is named for the pirate, Roberto Cofresí, and his small boat, El Mosquito, not for those blood-thirsty insects.

You’ll probably want to visit this incredible destination during the summer months. You’ll have glassy water for clear, crisp views of the bright beaches at night and the underwater life by day. Aim to travel around the new moon for the brightest views possible. You can either fly or take the ferry to Vieques and the bay from San Juan.

If you want to photograph this phenomenon, you’ll also want to invest in a reasonably high-quality camera that works well in low-light settings since your typical iPhone won’t capture the glow.

3. Lake Hillier, Australia

Lake Hillier is located on Middle Island, part of the Recherche Archipelago. It’s believed that the unusual lake looks like a strawberry milkshake because of the extremely high salinity of the water, which is only separated from the ocean by a thin strip of sand and forest. The pink waters were first written about by Matthew Flinders in 1802 and have been a wonderment for the world since.

While you can get to the island via boat, the view from the air is most spectacular. But if you want to spend a day on the island, you won’t regret that, either. Go swimming in pink waters — it’s like taking a dive into the Dead Sea with its incredible buoyancy — and hike through the forests. If you’re lucky, you’ll even come across the colony of little penguins that live there.

4. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

While this incredible destination is more well-known than some others on this list — being a UNESCO Heritage Site and all — there are still some pretty odd aspects that qualify this natural phenomenon as one of the strangest spots on the planet.

Giant’s Causeway has about 40,000 interlocking columns of basalt. Each pillar has a hexagonal shape and gives the whole area the look of steppingstones — giant steppingstones. Some of these columns are 39 feet tall and each column typically has five to seven irregular sides.

The Causeway runs about four miles along the shore and can easily be accessed by a variety of means, including some stunning bike trails that follow the Irish coast. Buses, trains, and tour companies run from nearby and semi-distance cities, including from Belfast.

5. Goblin Valley State Park, Utah

Out in the heart of Utah lies Goblin Valley State Park, where thousands of hoodoos — referred to as goblins by locals — create a unique landscape of earth pyramids and red rock. Certain parts of the park even form maze-like sections where you can explore and play for hours.

At the heart of the park, you’ll find the Valley of Goblins, with three established trails that just about anyone can hike. The overlooks, strange formations, and wilderness make this a unique experience as it is, but what’s even better is that the park has no restrictions on where you can hike. Scramble across the sandstone, hide in the rock formations, or bike the 21-miles of graded dirt bike trail to catch views of Capitol Reef, Thousand Lake Mountain, Factory Butte, the Henry Mountains, and Boulder Top.

6. The Nazca Lines, Peru

The Andes Mountains and Rainbow Mountain range in Peru are incredible wonders from the air. But a third flightpath — stranger by far — will take you over the Nazca Lines. These giant geoglyphs — designs etched into the ground — lie south of Lima by about 250 miles and are well worth the flyover.

The Nazca Lines were created by the ancient Nazca people and depict plants, animals, and other shapes meaningful to their culture and way of life. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was created at least 2,000 years ago. How and why the people formed these shapes a quarter of a mile long remains a mystery to researchers today. Over 70 animals and plants, including a hummingbird, cactus, and llama, are represented by the lines, along with 800-plus straight lines and over 300 geometric designs make up the ancient wonder.

You can book tour flights with various companies to experience the Nazca Lines or a combination outing with the Nazca Lines and other natural wonders in the vicinity.

7. The Tianzi Mountains, China

For fans of the movie Avatar, you’ll find this fascinating: The Tianzi Mountains inspired the film’s setting. Because of this, the mountains are sometimes referred to as Avatar Mountain. The stunning and unusual quartz sandstone mountain range is believed to have been formed millions of years ago through the irregular rising of the earth’s crust over a two-million-year period.

To get there, you’ll need to book travel with a specialized shuttle service or tour company and take a cable car to the top. There are no trails here, however, so, hiking’s not an option. That said, stunning photos are guaranteed!

8. Pamukkale, Turkey

When you research popular Turkish attractions, you’re guaranteed to learn about Pamukkale. The white travertine terraces and bright pools are a picturesque natural phenomenon near the ancient ruins of the Greek-Roman city of Hierapolis. The UNESCO World Heritage site receives nearly two million visitors each year thanks to the glory of the natural wonder, the historical sites, and the hot springs.

You can take a minibus, cab, or bus or train from Denizli and other nearby cities. A short 15-minute hike from the town takes you to the pools of Pamukkale. Headed to Turkey? Make time for these four places in Turkey you’ve probably never heard of (but need to visit).

Most vacationers leave home in search of endless summer, but believe it or not, the icy peaks of Antarctic glaciers might be just what you’re missing in your vacation life. In fact, the number of tourists visiting the South Pole has shot way up since the turn of the millennium; by the 2009 season, more than 37,000 people made the trek south. (Compare that to just 15,000 tourists a decade earlier.)

Well, nearly 40,000 tourists can’t be wrong. Antarctica features dreamlike landscapes, incredible wildlife, and, luckily for those of us who don’t relish the cold, amenity-packed cruise ships that make their way to the remote region on a steady schedule. Plus, think of the stories you’ll be able to tell — if you’re hoping to brag about your vacation, you can’t do much better than Antarctica.

Here’s what you need to know to visit one of the world’s last remaining frontiers.

Where Is Antarctica?

Antarctica is located — you guessed it — in the Antarctic region of the Southern Hemisphere. The closest inhabited land mass is the tip of South America, so most vacationers leave from Ushuaia, Argentina, which is about 800 miles away.

Antarctic cruises generally stay near the sub-Antarctic islands, which is where you’ll find whales, penguins, fur seals, and other vertebrate wildlife. Farther south, the continent’s climate turns totally inhospitable, with temperatures reaching as low as -135.8 degrees Fahrenheit (which isn’t exactly ideal for vacationers).

The good news: Around the South Shetland Islands, Antarctica’s climate is relatively moderate. The annual average temperature around King George Island is about 27.9 degrees Fahrenheit, so if you’re worried about freezing to death, you can relax; just make sure to dress in layers, and you should be fine.

How To Get To Antarctica

Obviously you won’t find many direct flights to Antarctica — nor would you want to spend an extended period of time on the mainland. It’s the most isolated, secluded continent, and all Antarctic vacationers visit via ship.

Sailing From Argentina

Most vacationers brave Drake Passage (more on this in a moment) and book a cruise from Ushuaia, Argentina. While cruise lengths vary, most last for 8 to 24 days. Stay flexible; Antarctic expeditions depend on the weather, and there’s a decent chance that you’ll encounter a delay (travel site Cool Antarctica estimates that delays affect 5 to 10 percent of Ushuaia cruises).

If you’re traveling during the Antarctic summer, your chances of a delay should be fairly low, but prepare for the worst and check your hotel’s policies — you might have to spend a few extra days in Argentina, which certainly won’t ruin your vacation.

Sailing From New Zealand

If you’re visiting Australia or New Zealand anyway, you might consider booking an Antarctic cruise leaving from Invercargill, New Zealand. Located at the southernmost point of New Zealand, Invercargill offers a few cruise options, though you’ll spend about a week on the open sea before finally reaching your destination.

Obviously, this means that you’ll pay more than what you’d pay if you embark from Argentina. You’ll still have to brave difficult waters, but you’ll visit the eastern side of Antarctica, which is much less popular with tourists. If you’re hoping to see historic sites from the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration — and you’re willing to brave the elements — this trip certainly has some appeal.

With that said, most vacationers will want to take the Argentinian route. It’s less expensive, faster, and better suited to tourism.

Sailing From King George Island

If you’re looking for a shorter trip — or if you get seasick easily — you can book a flight to King George Island, bypassing Drake Passage entirely. Sure, it’s not quite as exciting, but it’s convenient, and potentially better for travelers on a strict schedule.

To take this route, you’ll visit Punta Arenas, Chile, where Aerovías DAP offers flights to Frei Station on King George Island. You’ll fly in a fairly small plane and land on a rudimentary flight strip; from there, you’ll make your way to a cruise ship and enjoy the rest of your vacation.

The disadvantages of this route: Flights are subject to delays, and they’re expensive.

Preparing For Drake Passage

If you’re leaving from Argentina, you’ll have to go through Drake Passage, the body of water between the southern tip of South America and the South Shetland Islands. It’s a notoriously difficult stretch, and if you get seasick easily…well, brace yourself.

Sailors say that Drake Passage has two modes of operation: Drake Shake and Drake Lake. If you’re fortunate, you’ll experience Drake Lake, and you’ll have smooth sailing — but Drake Shake is characterized by massive waves, strong winds, and general unpleasantness for everyone involved.

With that said, while you should prepare for the worst, know that most travelers see Drake Passage as part of the Antarctic adventure. Pack some Dramamine patches, don’t drink alcohol, and try to enjoy the rocking and rolling. Remember: The waters will be much calmer when you arrive at the continent proper.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Antarctica?

Antarctica really only has two seasons: a chilly summertime and a dark, freezing winter. These seasons don’t quite line up with those you’ll find stateside, either.

Vacation season in the Antarctic stretches from November to March, with 20 hours of sunlight per day in December and January. If you want to avoid the worst of the cold, plan your trip during the holiday season.

Of course, you’ll encounter bigger crowds if you head for the pole in December. It’s considered the best month for Antarctic tourism, so if you’re looking for a more isolated experience, consider going in spring or fall.

Typically the only people who travel to Antarctica between April and September are scientists and photographers. During the Antarctic winter, temperatures plummet to -40 degrees Fahrenheit around the coasts.

If you think that’s bad, try heading inland toward the high ground in winter (don’t actually do this). At the inland scientific outpost, Vostok Station, the temperature once hit -128.5 degrees Fahrenheit. That was the coldest natural temperature recorded on Earth, at least until satellites measured an area of -135.8 degrees Fahrenheit in 2010.

In other words, you’ll want to plan for a visit in the Antarctic summer unless you’ve got a very, very good reason to do otherwise.

What Is There To Do In Antarctica?

You’ve booked your trip, survived Drake Passage, and you finally arrive in Antarctica. Now what?

If you’ve booked a cruise, your itinerary is probably fairly strict, and you’ll probably spend most of your time touring and experiencing the incredible beauty of the South Shetland Islands. That’s not to say that Antarctic vacations aren’t packed with adventure — you simply need to plan any excursions in advance.

Whale Watching In Antarctica

Antarctic waters are home to multiple species of whales, including the iconic orca and the awe-inspiring humpback. Along with penguins and dolphins, these animals are at their most active between December and April, with the best chance of sightings in February and March, according to tour group Responsible Travel.

Choose a tour that takes you through Wilhelmina Bay and the Lemaire Channel, both krill-heavy hotspots for hungry whales. Be sure to keep your camera at the ready; you never know when the next humpback will roll or spray.

Get Up Close And Personal With Coastal Life

When you’re ready to leave the comforts (and warmth!) of the cruise ship, try booking a coastal tour on a small, 10- to 12-person vessel called a zodiac boat.

These smaller, lighter boats can take you closer to the glaciers and landmasses where whales gather and penguins roam. Be sure to keep an eye — and a camera lens — out for leopard seals lounging on the ice floes.

Photographing In Antarctica

With magnificent icebergs, incredible wildlife, and lighting that a filmmaker would kill for, Antarctica is a photographer’s dream. The cruise industry has taken notice, and you can book a number of Antarctic cruises designed specifically for photography enthusiasts.

Tour group Lindblad Expeditions has even teamed up with the undisputed champions of nature photography at National Geographic to build packages around capturing unbelievable Antarctic images.

Brush up on your skills while you travel with onboard clinics led by certified photo instructors. Real-life National Geographic photojournalists accompany tourists on every trip to give them a professional edge.

Environmentally Responsible Tourism In Antarctica

Growing interest in Antarctica’s wonders has, ironically, contributed to the environmental degradation of the region. There’s no single government in charge of protecting Antarctica; it’s considered a “scientific preserve” and belongs to all nations.

That doesn’t mean you have to stay away, though. Since 1991, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) has pursued its mission to “advocate and promote the practice of safe and environmentally responsible private-sector travel to the Antarctic.”

As long as you book your tour with an IAATO-registered provider and follow the guidelines and rules your tour operator shares with you, you can enjoy the region guilt free. In fact, the IAATO credits tourism with strengthening conservation efforts in the Antarctic.

“First-hand travel experiences foster education and a better understanding of the destination and the need for responsible tourism,” the IAATO writes on its website. “Visitors to Antarctica — representing more than 100 different nationalities on average per season — return home as ambassadors of goodwill, guardianship, and peace.”

That’s as good a reason as any to book your trip. It’s the adventure of a lifetime, and a great way to expand your perspective.

Photo Credit: Cassie Matias / Unsplash

Travel to Antarctica might seem like a far-fetched dream to some, but those who actually make it will discover a wealth of activities and attractions to see and do in this icy land. Paying a visit to this cold and dry continent represents some of the most unique things that one can possibly do in the world. And it’s not all frigid snow! Depending on the time of year, you can easily find yourself exploring in a T-shirt. A trip like this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so here are some of the best things you can do at this incredible travel destination, plus tips every traveller needs to know when they start their research.

Visit penguins

This is undoubtedly one of the biggest highlights for all trips to Antarctica. Watching these cute little creatures in their natural habitat is fascinating. Probably the most exciting thing of all is how close you can get to these curious animals if you sit tight and let them approach you. While penguins are often characterized as little cuties in tuxedos, 7 of the world’s 17 varieties of penguins can be found in Antarctica, representing a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and even colours. Keep an eye out for the delightfully named “Rockhopper” variety, which has bright yellow eyebrows!

Go Kayaking

No travel to Antarctica is complete without having explored the icy cold water in a kayak. Pass by floating icebergs, watch the leopard seals swim around, and paddle with penguins right next to your boat. It’s a truly unique experience. With a little luck, you’ll see unusual cloud formations, have a close encounter with whales, and even have some downtime with hot chocolate and Baileys!

Swim at Deception Bay

This island is actually an active volcano and was previously used as an old whaling station. It definitely has an ominous air, as you can find oil drums, boilers and whale bones on its shores. Some people even go swimming here due to the warmer temperature of the waters from the volcano (warmer -but not warm, per say!) If you’re not convinced on the merits of a polar plunge, the scientific history of the area is fascinating. And if you do decide to take the plunge, know that bragging rights are forever yours. Friends back home don’t need to know that the water isn’t quite as icy as they might imagine!

Go whale watching

What better place to partake in this activity than in Antarctica? Whales are in charge in this part of the world and getting a sighting of a whale in such a wild environment is a magical experience. Since whales haven’t been hunted here for decades, they aren’t shy about showing off near boats. Humpback, Antarctic minke, and orca whales are commonly sighted. If kayaking isn’t your thing, most Antarctic expeditions include the option to ride out in a small Zodiac-style boat for an up close and personal experience.

Stop by the bar at Vernadsky Research Base

That’s right. A bar! In fact, it’s the world’s most southernmost bar. Originally founded in 1947 as an Antarctic expeditionary base before it was sold to Ukraine for one British pound, if you can make your way over to this remote station, you can ask for a vodka (distilled on site) for just three bucks. Female passengers dedicated to maintaining a strict budget will be reassured that undergarments are also accepted as currency here.

Run a marathon

No, really! Antarctic Ice Marathon is the only official marathon run on mainland Antarctica and is a member of the Association of International Marathons & Distance Races (AIMS). If you’re up for running in -20 degrees, you’ll have bragging rights for completing the southernmost marathon in the world! And if you’re a passionate runner, you’ll be joining only a small handful of people who have run marathons on every continent – assuming you’re up to completing the other 6 runs in slightly less chilly locations.

Send a postcard from the world’s coolest post office

In this case, “coolest” may just apply to the temperature as well! Port Lockroy, a former British research station which ceased operations in 1962, is now a museum and home to the world’s southernmost post office. If you’re especially keen on experiencing Antarctic life, you can even apply to work there – no post office experience required! Their website has a helpful list of travel tips and information on what you can expect when you’re visiting the Antarctic.

When to go:

For bearable weather, travel to Antarctica in the summer – summer for the southern hemisphere that is! That’s November to March. Late January is a nice mix of longer daylight hours and falls around the conclusion of the penguin baby season and the start of the whale season.

Access points:

Cruise ships depart mostly from Ushuaia (Argentina), as well as Hobart (Tasmania), Christchurch (New Zealand) and Cape Town (South Africa).

Packing points:

Suitcase restrictions are stringently enforced on the Antarctic cruise ships, which are much smaller than your typical tourist cruise ship. It’s wise to add some money to your travel budget to invest in quality clothing pieces which minimize space and maximize versatility. An outdoor adventure sporting goods store will have everything you need but it won’t be as cheap as a stop at your local mall. Most ships offer laundry services. It will be expensive but well worth it to stretch a limited wardrobe.

In particular, don’t skimp on your jacket if one isn’t included for you on the ship. A great fit that allows easy movement and that’s friendly to walkers and kayakers is important. It has to keep you incredibly warm, reasonably dry and – let’s be honest – make you look good as you’ll be sporting it in a ton of photos. A solid primary or jewel tone colour will look great against the clear blue skies and the bright white snow. If you ever wanted a bright yellow or pink jacket, now’s your moment!

Waterproofing isn’t only important for your jacket – it also extends to your technical gear. Dry bags and camera protection bags are essential. And don’t forget your boots. You’ll be stepping off Zodiac boots into water that’s a foot deep or more.

The choppy seas around the Drake Passage are notorious for their ability to trigger crippling motion sickness in even the staunchest of stomachs. Even if you’re normally very resistant to the sways and swells of boat travel, packing over the counter motion sickness remedies is highly recommended.

Last but not least – don’t forget your sunscreen! And sunglasses will come in handy as well. Clear skies mean bright sun.

Cost expectations:

Costs can vary on any kind of trip but Antarctic cruises are especially multifarious. A basic 10-day cruise in bunk-style accommodations might be as low as $6000 per person, while a 22-day adventure in a cabin suite might be closer to $40,000 – per person!

Rest assured that there are still excellent options at the lower end of the price spectrum. The most important thing is that you have the package which best matches your needs and expectations. Not all expeditions actually traverse the Antarctic Circle, while others include extra stops in the Falkland Islands and South Georgia.

Despite the high costs, the prices are rarely completely inclusive. Excursions like kayaking or zodiac trips can often cost extra – and usually sell out before the trip actually starts. Reading the fine print will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises and reserving any optional activity you’re keen on well in advance is highly recommended.

A Dream Well Worth Waiting For!

Maybe you’re a travel bucket list junkie or perhaps you just love doing something a bit off the beaten path. Whether or not you just love the cold weather or your intrigued by the idea of exploring the most untouched place on Earth, the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands and South Georgia have a lot to offer and are well worth the visit. A trip to Antarctica is hardly the stuff of a spontaneous, last minute discount vacation. For some travelers it can take years of saving and some considerable planning. But the reward is the ultimate trip of a lifetime!

Cover Photo Credit: Unsplash / henrique setim

There are certain vacations you take that just could not turn out any better. Everything about them keeps you not only reliving the adventure, but telling the tale to anyone who will listen for years to come. You see stunning sites, do things outside of your comfort zone, have a blast, make great new lifelong friends, and never want to leave. You find yourself planning the next trip before this one ends. Welcome to the world of adventure cruising.

When you take an adventure cruise, your experiences are plentiful and most likely will exceed any expectations.

On one adventure you might find yourself in a kayak with penguins jumping over the boat.

On another you are taking photography lessons from a renowned NatGeo photographer in the Antarctic.

And not to be outdone, on still another you find yourself doing a polar plunge off the back of your boat into the freezing Alaska waters…just because.

Adventure cruises are nothing remotely close to your typical cruise. First, they tend to be very small with at most about 100 people. Second, they are extremely casual; little luxury and frills. And third, the whole trip is preplanned with activities. All you have to do is show up and be open for whatever mother nature and the crew throws at you.

My first experience on an adventure cruise was with Lindblad Expeditions to Antartica. If you have not been, get yourself there before climate change destroys the character forever. It is truly a trip of a lifetime. I have subsequently taken trips with UnCruise Adventures traveling through the wilderness of Alaska and Costa Rica. There are many companies to choose from besides the ones I mention. So, do your own research, talk to friends, or ask your travel agent for recommendations.

Just be warned…Adventure cruising could easily become a habit and your favorite way to vacation. They are even great for kids. Here’s why…

Simplicity is Key to On Board Life

As I mentioned, these cruises are not for people seeking total luxury comfort, having staff at your beck and call, and if you’re looking for night life. That said, there are differences in amenities between companies. We found Lindblad to be on the higher end in terms of rooms, amenities, and food. So search for your comfort level. But here is what makes on board life special.

Everything is pretty much taken care for you. Your only decisions might be which activity to partake in and which entree you want for dinner. Typical decisions you might have to make include if you want to kayak, bushwhack, do a shoreline hike, snorkel, or do that polar plunge off the back of the boat.

Everyone goes to one dining room at the same time and while choices are limited, they are accommodating to dietary restrictions. There’s no decision on what you are going to do or reservations to be made.There’s not an endless buffet or tons of snacks available and you actually get in a bunch of exercise with all the available adventures/activities. This is really a good thing. Plus, the food is actually excellent.

There’s no long walk to get to the dining room or any other space. It literally takes you a minute or two to get anywhere on board.

You won’t be told some activity is fully booked. You can embark and disembark quickly. We’re talking literally 5 minutes.

Casual is the keyword. No dressy clothes are needed and if you bring them, you will feel totally out of place. This is your chance to glam it down! It makes packing a snap, leaves more time for fun and socializing, no worrying about what to wear, putting on make-up, or blowdrying your hair. Seriously, you are too afraid you’re going to miss out on something spectacular. Then, there’s always your chance to spend time with the captain and crew on the bridge.

And perhaps best of all, if you want to read a book or take a few moments for yourself, there are plenty of spaces you can go to be alone or share if you so choose…

The People

I’m talking both your fellow passengers and the staff. You will have great opportunities to meet many new friends or at the very least, enjoy your time on the cruise together. First, you will be traveling with like-minded people who chose this trip for its itinerary and activities. So, you’re starting off with something in common. Second, most activities including meals are done as a group, sort of forcing you to be together. Besides, people generally don’t take adventure cruises if they are anti-social. They want to share the experience, making camaraderie and socialization easy. An added bonus is that many times these cruises have passengers from around the world, which means the chance to make a new friend from New Zealand just got easier.

In terms of the crew, they actually get to know who you are and call you by your name. You fill out a questionnaire ahead of time, so they know all about your preferences, allergies, and dietary restrictions and from the interactions, you can tell they’ve actually read it! They’re also professional, knowledgable, make great guides, and like to have fun. I’ve yet to meet a shy crew member on my trips! And of course, hugs and kisses are handed out as you disembark.

It’s All About the Adventures

Perhaps you’re dying to hike in the rainforest of Costa Rica. Or maybe your bucket list includes visiting the Antarctic continent. If not, maybe you envision yourself kayaking by the icebergs in Alaska. Or to you, the perfect vacation is fly-fishing in the waters off Belize. Your choices for adventure abound and really depend on what sites you want to see and the level of activity you’re ready for. But, here’s what I love about the adventure in adventure cruises…

You’ll get to smaller ports simply because your boat can navigate in and out of places that you just can’t do with a large ship. And with access to smaller ports, comes access to more authentic experiences with the local people and their culture. You get to soak it all in without swarms of tourists around. Plus being so small, the ship’s crew can arrange private events and unique excursions in the ports just for the passengers. On one trip, after a full day of being out in the wild, we were treated to dancing and music from the local people accompanied by a meal prepared with all local foods.

There’s just more time for the adventures.You can swim, kayak, and paddle board right off the boat. Plus, you can participate in activities you wouldn’t be able to on just any regular vacation. You will never kayak among icebergs and penguins unless you get there by boat. Which also means, you’ll get to see so much more up close and personal, like being so close to a whale or iceberg, you could literally touch it. Well, we did in one instance…

You have experts on board such as photographers, naturalists, and oceanographers that are there to impart their knowledge and act as your guide. This means that a big focus of the trip is not only on the adventure part, but also education, making these trips great for kids. Many nights, the passengers gather in the common room and review what has been seen and learned from that day. You’ll also find books on board about the places you’ll visit and the wildlife. There are few, if any, stops at tourist traps for you to shop for souvenirs. Yeah!

The element of surprise is always present. You never know in nature what you will find around the next bend. If the captain spots something amazing, they can cruise on over or stay longer in one place. We got to encounter “whale soup,” a stunning sunset, and a mamma grizzly and her cubs fishing for food because the crew is always on the lookout for something spectacular to add to your memories.

Luckily, the cruises I have been on have a great respect for and appreciation of and are better for the environment. This is very important to me when I travel and something I do worry about. You’re not bombarding a town with hordes of people impacting the natural environment. Besides, the crew are very attuned to this and let you know what you can and can’t do in this regard.

I honestly can’t think of any negatives to adventure cruises unless, of course, you simply hate being on boats or hate being active! But, if becoming lifelong friends with fellow passengers, being able to relax and just enjoy the journey, and being open to new experiences and educational opportunities sound like your kind of vacation, then what are you waiting for…

Many people pride themselves on traveling independently, however that will only get you so far. Whether due to climate or political instability, here are 5 places around the world that you can only visit with a tour group

1. Antarctica

For many world-weary travelers who have already crossed all the continents that aren’t made of ice, Antarctica is the last truly unexplored place to visit. For others, it is a chance to go see penguins up close. Either way, tourists to Antarctica can only visit with authorized tour groups, which usually depart from the Argentinian port of Ushuaia.

Your ship will take three days to arrive in Antarctica, and your tour will take you to see some of the natural marvels of the icy continent. The penguins are the main draw, but you can also see a variety of seals, whales, and quite a few icebergs. Some conservationists are worried that mounting tourism is putting a strain on the Antarctic environment: shop around to find a tour operator that practices responsible tourism, and remember to leave no trace and not bother the animals.

2. North Korea

As you can probably imagine, North Korea isn’t a place you can simply book a flight to and explore independently. (In fact, as of last year, Americans can’t visit North Korea at all without special permission.)

The country is famous for its totalitarian oppression of its citizens, and its attitude to tourism isn’t much different. You can only visit North Korea as part of a tour group, and you will be supervised at all times by government representatives.

You absolutely cannot go unless you’re willing to get a little taste of what it’s like to live under Kim Jong-un. Your passport will be confiscated, your conversations monitored, and you will have no say in the itinerary or the activities. You will not have the opportunity to speak to locals, and you are at risk of being imprisoned for any dissent or perceived slight. If these restrictions do not dissuade you, you can book a tour to North Korea from China with a specialist agency.

Another place that you can only visit with a guide is the Korea Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a strip of land along the North-South Korea border. Korea DMZ tours usually leave from Seoul and take you up to the Joint Security Area, also known as the Truce Village of Panmunjom. This is the location for all negotiation between the two countries, and can be an interesting day trip for those who are interested in North Korea yet unwilling – or unable – to commit to the full tour experience.

3. Tibet

Few places in the Himalayas have the cultural significance and enduring appeal of Tibet. Unfortunately, few places are also so heavily contested and controversial, and there is significant regulation from the Chinese government making access to the region difficult.

You can only access Tibet from mainland China or Nepal, and you require a Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) permit to do so. One of the requirements for the permit is that you book a guide for the entirety of your stay and pre-arrange private transport for trips outside of Lhasa, the main city. Going anywhere but Lhasa also requires specific permits. For that reason, while booking a private guide is possible, the cheaper and easier option is booking an organized tour group.

One other thing to watch out for is the customs border. You may be checked for reading materials or objects that are “detrimental to China“, which means some Tibet guidebooks and any media about or featuring the Dalai Lama could be confiscated.

4. Bhutan

Another Himalayan destination, albeit a less popular one, is the secretive Kingdom of Bhutan. Unless you are a citizen of India, Bangladesh, or the Maldives, the only way in is through a tour operator, with all-inclusive tours that do not often come cheaply. This is because Bhutan includes a minimum daily fee of $250 on its visitors, a tax intended to restrict visitation in Bhutan to high-quality, low-impact tourists.

The flipside of this is that Bhutan remains beautifully unspoiled by tourism and development, making it a stunning destination for wildlife, trekking, and Buddhist culture. If you have the budget, you’ll probably find it worth the cost.

5. The Inca Trail

The Inca Trail at Machu Picchu is one of the main things on the Peru visitor’s checklist, so it can come as a bit of a disappointment to independent travelers to find out that you need to do it with a guide. There is also a limit of 500 permits a day for the trail, which means it may be worth booking well in advance during peak season. These restrictions protect the site from excessive wear and keep it from becoming unpleasantly crowded.

It is worth remembering that as one of the most popular attractions in the country — and indeed the continent — you were never really going to be able to enjoy the Inca Trail alone. So, if you are going to be surrounded by tourists anyways, you may as well enjoy the bonding experience of doing it with a tour group. You could also book a private guide for the trek, but it is considerably pricier.

If you’re absolutely dead set on seeing any of these these locations, make sure you take all the necessary preparations (and precautions). By and large, these aren’t your average trips!

Interested in more once-in-a-lifetime destinations? Consider visiting the Sahara through Egypt or Morocco.

Global warming, urbanization, pollution, and neglect have caused many destinations irreversible damage already. Now might be the time to plan a trip if any of these places are on your bucket list!

1. Antarctica: Penguin Country

Known in part for its substantial penguin population, Antarctica might be uninhabited but it’s far from untouched.

In the past century, studies by Australian authorities have found that atrocities such as the harvesting of Antarctic species, contamination of soils, discharge of sewage and garbage into the sea, and general disturbances have affected all species in the world’s most mysterious continent.

While specialists are trying to minimize the damage as best they can, much of it is probably irreversible.

One piece of good news came recently with the discovery of a “supercolony” of Adelie penguins, a species that many had feared was in massive decline for decades. The colony was found on the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula on the Danger Islands. The negative effects of human activity and climate change have apparently been less devastating here.

The best way to see Antarctica is by cruise, but make sure that when you book, you select a cruise line that is a member of IAATO and abides by regulations for safe and responsible operation.

2. The Great Barrier Reef

Off the coast of Queensland in northeastern Australia sits 2,300 km of reef known as the Great Barrier Reef. It’s not only the largest living thing on the entire earth, its magnificence can actually be seen from space – much like the Great Wall of China.

Sadly, scientists report that nearly 93% of the reef has already been devastated by coral bleaching, with the result that the reef has lost much of its color. The cause is pollution and global warming.

While the Great Barrier Reef is resilient and capable, at least to some extent, of restoring itself, many fear that its resilience is reaching its limits. Some scientists believe that if the current level of damage is sustained over the next couple decades, the reef might cease to exist entirely.

Whether you cruise or snorkel along it or take a hot air balloon ride above it, you might want to think about seeing the Great Barrier Reef sooner than later!

To read more about the Great Barrier Reef and other wonders of the ocean, check out 10 Safe And Serene Scuba And Snorkeling Destinations.

3. The Snows Of Mount Kilimanjaro

The snow that sits atop Africa’s highest mountain actually earned itself some fame in 1938 when Ernest Hemingway wrote a short story called The Snows of Kilimanjaro. Since then, the state of the environment has deteriorated dramatically, and it has taken a toll on the great mountain.

While climbers have been ascending to the peak for years in a bid to capture memories and photos from the icy summit, that won’t be an option for very much longer.

Scientists estimate that by 2020, the glacial ice that rests on the crest of the mountain will likely be gone forever. Yes, the mountain will still exist and people will still be able to climb it, but it won’t ever be quite the same without that iconic snowy peak.

4. Florida’s Everglades

There are few places in the world that have remained untouched by the expansionist development of mankind, and it’s hitting close to home for many in the States as well.

Florida is beloved for its large wildlife population, including over 350 species of birds, and many of these species live in the Everglades, a national park and a wetland of global significance.

As urbanization and pollution have increased internationally, the Everglades have been deeply impacted, and the degradation has landed this national treasure on the UNESCO danger list. While it has been on and subsequently off the list in the past, skeptics doubt that it will be removed this time, citing increasingly substantial losses of marine habitats and a decline in marine species.

Environmentalists certainly hope for some kind of reversal, and for the glades to be taken off the list soon, but regardless, now is the time to check out this magnificent park before it loses more of what makes it so special! (Just as long as you do so in a responsible way.)

5. Venice: The Sinking City

A legendary city of romance and a crown jewel of Italy, Venice has made a fortune from tourists on the premise that it’s a “floating city.” Unfortunately, this floating city is actually sinking.

The World Monuments Fund (WMF) placed Venice on its list of places under threat, a list that no one wants to make. The cause of Venice’s increased risk is the large number cruise ships that have been traversing the canals more frequently in recent decades, damaging the ancient foundations of the city with underwater vibrations.

There was a ban on passenger ships for a short period of time, but Italian courts reversed the ruling and the problem is now as serious as it has ever been.

With more flooding, continued sinking, and rising sea levels all over the world, Venice might not be around much longer without a significant change.

To read more about the dangers facing the city of canals, check out Why Future Generations May Never Get To See Venice.