Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in Antarctica
Antarctica's underwater world is strange and beautiful, and almost nobody gets to see it. That's not an accident. Getting below the surface here requires planning well before you book your voyage.
35 posts — Adventure activities including kayaking, camping, diving, and more.
Antarctica's underwater world is strange and beautiful, and almost nobody gets to see it. That's not an accident. Getting below the surface here requires planning well before you book your voyage.
Spend one night on the ice in a bivouac, with all equipment provided, for an additional fee of roughly $150–$300.
Hiking is available on most voyages as part of shore landings, led by expedition guides, and ranges from casual walks to more demanding terrain depending on the site and your fitness level.
Snowshoeing is a group activity led by expedition guides, requires no prior experience, and is available on many ships as an included or low-cost add-on.
Most activities in Antarctica are accessible to almost anyone. Mountaineering is the exception. It's also the one that puts you in terrain no other passenger on the ship will reach.
Skiing and ski touring in Antarctica are offered by a small number of operators on select departures, primarily in the early season, and require prior ski experience.
The polar plunge is a voluntary jump into near-freezing seawater. It's free, it's brief, and it's one of the more universally beloved moments of any voyage.
Helicopter flightseeing and heli-landings are available on a small number of ships, at additional cost, and are subject to weight limits, medical clearance, and weather conditions.
Submarine excursions are available on a small number of ships, carry roughly six passengers per dive, run 40–60 minutes below the surface, and cost $499–$1,000 per person depending on the operator.
Antarctica is one of the most extraordinary places on earth to make photographs, with conditions and access unlike anywhere else, and a few rules that are non-negotiable.
Citizen science programs invite passengers to contribute to real, active research projects in wildlife monitoring, ocean health, and climate data, at no additional cost, no experience required.
The Clear-Eyed Guide to Antarctica Travel