A voyage cruise to Antarctica is a unique adventure, blending awe-inspiring natural beauty with physically demanding activities and strict environmental protocols. Here’s what to expect:
### Overview of the Experience
Antarctica cruises typically depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, and involve crossing the Drake Passage, a 2-3 day journey known for potentially rough seas. Voyages last 10-20 days, depending on the itinerary, with daily landings or Zodiac excursions (weather permitting) to explore the Antarctic Peninsula, nearby islands, or sub-Antarctic regions like South Georgia. Expect stunning landscapes—icebergs, glaciers, and mountains—alongside wildlife such as penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds. The experience is highly structured due to environmental regulations set by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO).
### Key Activities and Procedures
#### 1. **Safety Protocols: Putting on Life Jackets**
- **What to Expect**: Before any Zodiac excursion, you’ll attend mandatory safety briefings. Life jackets are required for all water-based activities, including Zodiac cruises and landings. These are typically provided by the cruise operator and are adjusted to fit snugly over your layers of clothing (thermal base layers, fleece, and a waterproof parka, often provided by the operator).
- **Process**: You’ll retrieve your life jacket from your cabin or a designated storage area. Crew members will demonstrate how to put it on correctly, ensuring straps are secure and the jacket is comfortable yet functional. You’ll wear it over your outer layers before heading to the lower deck for Zodiac boarding. Briefings emphasize how to use the life jacket in an emergency, including how to activate inflation mechanisms if needed.
#### 2. **Walking Down to the Lower Deck**
- **What to Expect**: To board Zodiacs, you’ll descend to the ship’s lower deck, often referred to as the “mudroom” or embarkation area. This area is typically compact, with benches and racks for gear. The ship’s motion, especially in the Drake Passage, can make staircases and narrow corridors challenging, so expect handrails and crew assistance.
- **Process**: You’ll walk down internal staircases or, in some cases, external gangways to reach the lower deck. The crew will guide you, ensuring you move in small groups to avoid congestion. You’ll likely be wearing multiple layers, including heavy boots, so take your time to avoid tripping. The mudroom is where you’ll finalize preparations, such as putting on waterproof pants or checking your gear.
#### 3. **Stepping into a Vat of Disinfectant**
- **What to Expect**: To prevent introducing non-native species or contaminants to Antarctica’s pristine environment, IAATO mandates strict biosecurity measures. Before and after each landing, you’ll step into a vat of disinfectant to clean your boots.
- **Process**: In the mudroom, you’ll step into a shallow tray filled with a biodegradable disinfectant solution (often Virkon or a similar product). You’ll scrub your boots with a brush to remove dirt, seeds, or organic material. This process is repeated when you return to the ship to ensure no contaminants are brought back. Crew members monitor closely to ensure compliance, and you may also vacuum or brush your outer clothing to remove seeds or debris.
#### 4. **Using the Sailor’s Grip to Board Zodiacs**
- **What to Expect**: Zodiacs, small inflatable boats, are the primary means of getting from the ship to shore or for scenic cruises. Boarding them requires the “sailor’s grip,” a technique to ensure safety on the unstable platform.
- **Process**:
- At the gangway or boarding platform, a crew member will stabilize the Zodiac against the ship. You’ll approach the edge, where another crew member will assist.
- The sailor’s grip involves grasping the wrist (not the hand) of a crew member, who grips your wrist in return. This creates a strong, secure hold.
- With your free hand, you’ll hold onto a rope or rail for balance, step down onto the Zodiac’s edge, and then onto its floor. You’ll sit on the pontoon (the inflatable sides) or a bench, keeping your hands free to hold ropes for stability.
- The process requires coordination, especially if the sea is choppy, but crew members are trained to assist passengers of varying mobility levels.
#### 5. **Disembarking Zodiacs with Assistance and Wading Ashore**
- **What to Expect**: Landing sites in Antarctica vary—some are rocky beaches, others are snowy slopes or icy terrain. Disembarking Zodiacs can involve “wet landings,” where you step into shallow water to reach shore. The landing crew ensures safety and assists with every step.
- **Process**:
- As the Zodiac approaches the shore, the driver will position it as close as possible to the landing site. The crew assesses conditions (tides, waves, and rocks) to choose the safest spot.
- You’ll swing your legs over the Zodiac’s side, using the sailor’s grip with a crew member standing in the water or on shore. They’ll guide you to step onto the ground, which may involve navigating big rocks or uneven terrain.
- For wet landings, you’ll step into water that can range from ankle-deep to knee-deep. You’ll wear waterproof pants (often provided by the operator) pulled over knee-high rubber boots to keep water out. These pants are typically Gore-Tex or similar material, tucked tightly around the boots to form a seal.
- The landing crew will direct you to a marked path or staging area to avoid disturbing wildlife or sensitive environments. They’ll also brief you on how to walk on slippery surfaces or avoid penguin highways (paths used by penguins).
### Additional Notes
- **Physical Demands**: Antarctica cruises require moderate fitness. Navigating gangways, Zodiacs, and uneven terrain can be challenging, especially for those with mobility issues. Operators often ask about your physical capabilities during booking to ensure suitability.
- **Weather and Conditions**: Weather is unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 8°C (28°F to 46°F) in the Antarctic summer (November-March). Expect wind, rain, or snow, which can affect landings. Excursions are weather-dependent, and the crew prioritizes safety.
- **Gear**: Operators typically provide waterproof parkas, backpacks, and sometimes boots. You’ll need to bring thermal layers, gloves, hats, and sunglasses. Waterproof pants are essential for wet landings and are either provided or recommended for purchase.
- **Wildlife and Environment**: You’ll maintain a distance from wildlife (e.g., 5 meters from penguins) per IAATO guidelines. Landings are limited to 100 passengers at a time, so larger ships rotate groups. Expect 1-2 landings or Zodiac cruises per day, each lasting 2-3 hours.
- **Other Activities**: Beyond landings, cruises offer lectures on Antarctic history, geology, and wildlife, plus activities like kayaking, camping, or polar plunges for an additional fee. The ship’s lounge and observation decks are great for spotting whales or icebergs.
### Tips for Preparation
- **Practice Mobility**: If possible, practice stepping on and off low platforms or walking on uneven surfaces to prepare for Zodiacs and landings.
- **Layer Up**: Dress in layers to stay warm and dry. Ensure your waterproof pants fit well over boots to prevent leaks.
- **Listen to Briefings**: Pay close attention to safety and biosecurity briefings to understand protocols and expectations.
- **Stay Flexible**: Weather can cancel or alter plans, so be ready for schedule changes.