Antarctica FAQ
What is it like on the expedition vessels?
Our expedition vessels feature all the essentials for a safe and comfortable voyage into the best areas of Antarctica: ice-strengthened hulls, doctors onboard, cabins with private bath, libraries, professional chef staffs, fleets of fast and agile zodiacs, some of the most knowledgeable and experienced guides on the planet, and much, much more. For more details on our expedition boats, visit our Vessels page:
Is it difficult to get to Ushuaia, Argentina?
Ushuaia is the gateway city for your Antarctic expedition. It is the southern-most city in the western hemisphere, so while it is not a short journey, it is relatively easy to fly there. Flights typically are routed through Buenos Aires. If time allows, we highly recommend a few nights in this leading city of the world. For Visas, etc. you will want to visit the Argentine consulate’s page for your nation/nationality to determine any necessities or fees to travel through Argentina. Flights into Ushuaia may book up months in advance. We recommend reserving flights ASAP after making your reservation. We have an air specialist; call us for schedules and quotes.
Do they limit how many people visit Antarctica?
There is no annual limit to the number of tourists allowed on Antarctica. However, the cost and arduousness of the trip generally preclude many from traveling there, keeping numbers of tourists to a nominal level. There is a per-ship limit of 100 guests on land however, at any given time on any given landing visit.
Is it very expensive to travel to Antarctica?
While not an inexpensive undertaking, visiting Antarctica is often the #1 highlight of any keen traveler’s travel portfolio. We can help find the best dates, ships, and itineraries to fit almost any reasonable budget, including ship departures not on our web site. It is best to email or call us with what you need and we’ll do our very best to match you with your needs.
What equipment is available for rent?
As needed, waterproof parkas, Wellington-type boots, rain pants (with and without insulation), and backpacks are available for rent during your expedition through a local Ushuaia shop. Just let us know if you want to rent anything and we will help you with more information.
What if I need a different date, one not listed on the site?
If you need other options, don’t hesitate to call or email us, as have access to a broad variety of excellent expedition vessels that offer comparable itineraries and prices, sometimes less expensive than our standard offerings.
Age Range & Nationality
Passengers on a typical voyage range from their 30s to their 80s – with a majority usually from 45 – 65. Our expeditions attract independent-minded travelers from around the world. They are characterized by a strong interest in exploring remote regions. The camaraderie and spirit that develops aboard is an important part of the expedition experience. Many departures have several nationalities on board.
Combating sea sickness
Anticipate some rough water on the voyage. Should you be prone to motion or sea sickness, please consult your physician which medication is appropriate and its side effects.
To avert motion sickness, avoid alcohol, tobacco, excess liquids, and confined spaces. Most people feel better sitting on deck looking at the horizon or prone with eyes shut. Oddly, you will feel better with some food, such as crackers or dry toast in your stomach. Many people eat to avoid feeling sick. Remember, once you start to experience motion sickness, medications are of little help.
Dress code
In keeping with our expeditions atmosphere, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing for all activities. Keep in mind that much of the spectacular scenery can be appreciated from deck, which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles and make sure the parka is never far away in case of the call “Whales!” comes over the loudspeaker and you have to dash outside. Wear layers since it is comfortably warm aboard the ship – and often cold on deck.
Gratuities
The customary gratuity to the ship’s service personnel is made as a blanket contribution at the end of the voyage which is divided among the crew. You will receive detailed guidelines aboard. Tipping is a very personal matter and the amount you wish to give is at your discretion. As a generally accepted guideline, we suggest US$8 to US$10 per person per day. It is better for the crew, if we can give them cash US Dollar.
Non-smoking policy
On board our vessels we have a non-smoking policy. It is prohibited to smoke inside the ship. You can smoke on deck but do not throw your cigarette filter overboard ! Do not smoke on the aft deck in the proximity of zodiacs, engines and fuel. Please respect the wishes of non-smokers.
Your physical condition
You must be in good general health and you should be able to walk several hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very demanding. Although we spend as much time as possible ashore, you are welcome to remain aboard the ship if you like. To join most excursions, you must be able to get up and down the steep gangway from the ship to the water level to board the Zodiacs. Staff will assist you in and out of the boats. This will become progressively easier with practice. Ashore it can be slippery and rocky. You are traveling in remote areas without access to sophisticated medical facilities, so you must not join this expedition if you have a life-threatening condition, or need daily medical treatment.