9 posts — Articles for travelers who are curious about Antarctica but haven't yet committed to going.
People hear "Antarctica" and immediately want to know either how to get there or why anyone would bother. If you're in the first camp, here's what others have found on the other side of that decision. If you're trying to explain it to someone in the second camp, this might help.
Antarctica is one of the least visited places on earth. That fact alone tells you something about the people who make the trip.
Antarctica voyages can range from $6,000 to $50,000+ per person for a standard Peninsula trip. The price range is wide, and a handful of specific factors determine exactly where you land in it.
Every time you read about the 100-person landing limit, the boot-washing protocols, or the vessel scheduling system for landing sites, those rules trace back to the same source. It's time to explain where they come from.
There are two ways to visit Antarctica by ship. They are fundamentally different experiences that happen to share a destination. Neither is the right choice for everyone, which is why it's worth understanding what each actually involves before you start comparing prices.
Experienced cruisers and people who swear they would never get on a cruise ship can both find comfort and pleasure on an expedition voyage. They key is finding the right operator and vessel to suit your style.
Antarctica is one of the most sensitive environments and ecosystems on earth. What that means for you is wholly dependent on your perspective of how humans are or are not affecting it.
The short answer is yes. If your window is limited and your budget is what it is, go. The Peninsula will not let you down.
Medical evacuation coverage is required by virtually every operator and is relatively affordable. Trip cancellation insurance is a different matter entirely, and the cost can surprise people who discover it after they have already booked.
The Clear-Eyed Guide to Antarctica Travel