Antarctic expedition routes and itineraries
Unless you’re an experienced polar explorer, the nuances of different expedition cruises in the ...
Scuba diving in the
AntarcticThe Antarctic represents one of the world's last truly wild frontiers, guaranteeing stark, untouched scenery, unique encounters with wildlife, and a genuine, unbridled sense of adventure.
Diving Highlights
- One of the world’s last true frontiers, where few have been before
- Unique encounters with relaxed and curious wildlife
- Visit research stations and discover relics of historic expeditions
- Spot penguins, albatross, elephant seals, whales, and more
The Antarctic is the planet’s southern polar region, which includes the continent of Antarctica and its surrounding islands – including South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, the South Orkney Islands, and the South Shetland Islands. Despite the immense size of this region, and theories of its existence dating back to Aristotle, the Antarctic’s remote location and hostile environment meant it was among the last corners of the world to be discovered.
Over the years, this wild frontier has seen many expeditions, many of which have left light yet lasting impressions that can still be observed. Of course, the intrigue around this mysterious destination still prevails. Countries from all over the world conduct important scientific research from remote outposts scattered throughout the region, while intrepid explorers venture ever further into the wilderness in search of adventure.
While conditions can be tough, the Antarctic’s unforgiving environment is juxtaposed by some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on the entire planet. Landscapes combine snow-capped mountains and bright blue bays, with rugged volcanic coastlines, glistening glaciers, and breathtaking fjords. What’s more, the Antarctic is an oasis for a unique assemblage of wildlife, from enormous penguin colonies and beaches filled with fur seals, to migrating whales and hunting leopard seals.
Top Antarctic experiences
November to March
Walk in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton
Pay homage to the renowned explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton, who beat the odds to cross South Georgia’s mountainous spine to rescue his stranded crew.
November to March
Scuba dive in kelp forests with fur seals
The Antarctic isn’t just ice, visitors to South Georgia can dive amongst swaying forests of kelp, often joined by fur seals – and sometimes even penguins.
November to March
Spot thousands of breeding emperor penguins
Visit the isolated island of Snow Hill which is home to around 10,000 emperor penguins.
November to March
Land at Point Wild, Elephant Island
Discover this desolate and unforgiving point on Elephant Island where Shackleton’s crew survived for more than a hundred days.
November to December
Encounter half of the world’s southern elephant seals
Around half of the world’s entire southern elephant seal population descend on Elephant Island each year to breed, a true sight to behold.
February to March
Keep an eye out for whales surfacing around the boat
Antarctica’s whale watching peaks towards the end of the season, by which time all migrating pods have made it down to these nutrient-rich waters.
Seasons in the Antarctic
The Antarctic's bitterly-cold temperatures, endless darkness, and solid sea ice, means it is all but impossible to visit during the winter months of April through October. However during the summer months of November through March, daylight dominates this region and temperatures climb to above freezing. At this time, the Antarctic offers one-of-a-kind experiences for adventurous visitors, with vessels venturing further and further south throughout the season, as the sea ice recedes.
