Antarctica is the only continent on Earth that has no permanent human population. The only way for tourists to get there is by sea, and there are no commercial airport facilities. The winds that howl from the interior help power world ocean currents, and the climate is definitely not human-friendly. In spite of these travel challenges, increasing numbers of people are taking advantage of Antarctica cruise deals in order to arrive safely and comfortably.
In the approximate century since the continent was first explored, few visible changes have occurred. The biggest difference is the existence of scientific research outposts and weather stations, but that is the current extent of civilization. There are no tourist traps, and the people who choose to come here are definitely not searching for sandy tropical beaches or coral reefs.
The most practical time for a visit is during the southern hemispheric summer, from November through March. Winter excursions are basically impossible due to extended ice packs, unbearable storms, and of course, weeks of darkness. Summertime high temperatures are more bearable, generally ranging from 23 degrees Fahrenheit to the mid-forties, and the sun stays up late.
Many cruises depart from the southern Argentina city of Ushuaia, but there are few direct flights there. Although it is on the most southern point in South America, the town is still six hundred miles from Antarctica. Numerous ships sail this particular route, but they are not what most people consider to be typical cruise vessels, having a passenger capacity of less than 200 within ice-hardened hulls.
People visit this forbidding region for many reasons, including unique wildlife, especially penguins, sea birds, seals, and whales. While most ships are comfortable, travelers should not expect elaborate night clubs and Las Vegas-style shows on board. The Drake Passage is not often calm, and rough or stormy seas have ultimate control over any scheduled activities.
Once reaching the continental mass, the sights may include small research stations, the beginnings of historic explorations, teeming penguin colonies, and the most important attraction of all, the Antarctic landscape. Unlike the northern polar sea regions, this is a vast continent of high plateaus, volcanoes, and ice-buried mountain ranges. Although weather conditions may not always permit, some cruises offer local climbing and kayaking.
Some ships feature landings in rubber boats, which provide close-ups of icebergs and the local creatures. People choosing to come here are uniquely interested in this continent for both scientific and personal reasons, and are usually excited to meet others sharing that enthusiasm. The voyage by ship takes time, and there are usually experts on board for lectures, presentations, and discussions.
Cruising to this remote region is somewhat costlier than taking more geographically convenient voyages, but well worth the added expense. It makes good sense to consult with a travel planner in order to discover the right excursion for the best price. Most cruises last from ten to twenty-one days, providing a one-of-a-kind experience and creating memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.
In the approximate century since the continent was first explored, few visible changes have occurred. The biggest difference is the existence of scientific research outposts and weather stations, but that is the current extent of civilization. There are no tourist traps, and the people who choose to come here are definitely not searching for sandy tropical beaches or coral reefs.
The most practical time for a visit is during the southern hemispheric summer, from November through March. Winter excursions are basically impossible due to extended ice packs, unbearable storms, and of course, weeks of darkness. Summertime high temperatures are more bearable, generally ranging from 23 degrees Fahrenheit to the mid-forties, and the sun stays up late.
Many cruises depart from the southern Argentina city of Ushuaia, but there are few direct flights there. Although it is on the most southern point in South America, the town is still six hundred miles from Antarctica. Numerous ships sail this particular route, but they are not what most people consider to be typical cruise vessels, having a passenger capacity of less than 200 within ice-hardened hulls.
People visit this forbidding region for many reasons, including unique wildlife, especially penguins, sea birds, seals, and whales. While most ships are comfortable, travelers should not expect elaborate night clubs and Las Vegas-style shows on board. The Drake Passage is not often calm, and rough or stormy seas have ultimate control over any scheduled activities.
Once reaching the continental mass, the sights may include small research stations, the beginnings of historic explorations, teeming penguin colonies, and the most important attraction of all, the Antarctic landscape. Unlike the northern polar sea regions, this is a vast continent of high plateaus, volcanoes, and ice-buried mountain ranges. Although weather conditions may not always permit, some cruises offer local climbing and kayaking.
Some ships feature landings in rubber boats, which provide close-ups of icebergs and the local creatures. People choosing to come here are uniquely interested in this continent for both scientific and personal reasons, and are usually excited to meet others sharing that enthusiasm. The voyage by ship takes time, and there are usually experts on board for lectures, presentations, and discussions.
Cruising to this remote region is somewhat costlier than taking more geographically convenient voyages, but well worth the added expense. It makes good sense to consult with a travel planner in order to discover the right excursion for the best price. Most cruises last from ten to twenty-one days, providing a one-of-a-kind experience and creating memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.
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