Antarctica, The Last Frontier?

With all the news of new ships, new ports of call, new technology etc, I wonder if there is anywhere “new” that people have not visited yet? I guess that Antarctica must be one destination that not many people have visited for various reasons.  If you are one of those people who have always dreamed of this as a destination, my advice to you would be to do it now rather than later. It is not “untouched” by global warming unfortunately. From what I read, once upon a time a glacier would calve in about once a week, now it is about 5 to 7 times a day.

There are distinctive categories of Antarctic cruises. The first one is for those who want the ultimate polar experience. Basically on small ships with about 200 passengers on board.  The second would be ships with more than 500 passengers.  Of course the smaller ships are the ones you should be looking for if you are really wanting the Polar experience.

Scenic and Crystal cruises are the “high tech” ones to look out for, if you want that kind of thing. With mini subs and helicopters, lots of spacious accommodation and facilities on board, may be worth having a look as they are rather fab!  If you are looking for something else, then take a look at Hurtigruten. The Roald Amundsen is a new ship which will have her maiden season in October, November and December of 2018. She will be a hybrid ship and the “greenest” expedition vessel to be built.  This ship will have 100% of sea view rooms, 50% of these will have a balcony. There will also be a pool on deck for you brave souls!

These are not the only cruise lines to go to the Antarctic of course, would be worth taking a look at Princess and Celebrity for the bigger ships. The frozen continent is however, pretty much dominated by small expedition ships such as  Ponant, Silversea, and Seabourn.

There is no doubt about it, these cruises do not come cheap but what they do offer is really a trip of a lifetime to experience and immerse yourself in a fantastic remote (so far!) destination.

If you are interested, give me a call.

Till next time x