What To Expect After Booking Your Antarctica Adventure With Voyagers | Travel Blog
Planning a trip to Antarctica creates a thrilling sense of expectation, but figuring out what to do next can be overwhelming. We know the feeling – trying to find the best equipment, insurance, flights, pre and post trips without any surprises in costs.
This article will help you understand what comes next after you book your dream journey to the white desert in the south. Let's dive in!
Table of content
- A quick overview
- Preparing for Your Antarctica Adventure
- Documentation and Travel Requirements
- What to Expect Onboard
- Daily Activities and Excursions
- Optional adventure activities like kayaking or camping
- Expert Guides and Crew
- Sustainable Travel Practices
- Preparing for the Unexpected
- Final Steps Before Departure
- FAQs
- What happens after I book my Antarctica adventure with Voyagers?
- How should I prepare for my trip?
- What can I expect from my travel reservations?
- What kind of meals will be provided during our expedition?
- Can we visit any significant places related to historical expeditions?
- Are there any privacy concerns when booking with Voyagers?
A quick overview
After booking an Antarctica trip with Voyagers, you get a discount and an email confirmation. Check the "Pax Type" for the deal.
You need to prepare by packing warm layers, waterproof gear, and understanding your itinerary. A pre-departure guide helps with this.
There are important papers like passports and visas for Argentina or Chile. Medical forms, liability waivers and Travel insurance are a must-have too.
Your journey starts with flights to departure cities like Ushuaia, Argentina. Then you set sail from there.
Onboard experiences include cozy cabins, tasty food, daily adventures like Zodiac rides and wildlife viewing, plus learning from experts through talks and lectures.
Confirmation of Your Booking
After booking our Antarctica adventure, we got an email right away. It said we had a "Voyagers 5% + 5%" discount.
They would check for us
The discount made our price about 9.75% less than the usual cost. It wasn't a full 10%, more like 9.25%, but every bit helped us save money for our trip arrangements in Argentina and Chile, as well as other add ons before our trip to the Antarctic continent.
This was important because seeing leopard seals and cruising through Antarctic waters, was on our bucket list, but weren't the only things we wanted to do on our vacation.
We took advantage of being Argentina to spend time in Mendoza wine country.
Preparing for Your Antarctica Adventure
Getting ready for your Antarctica trip is like packing for the most extreme weather field trip of your life. You'll dive into your itinerary, thumb through a guide filled with must-knows before you go, and figure out just what to pack in that suitcase to meet Mother Nature head-on down south.
Understanding your itinerary
We've got your back as you prepare for this ice-cool adventure. Knowing what lies ahead is vital. Our Antarctica trips can vary greatly, from 7 to 34 days, with most adventurers choosing something in the sweet spot of 12 to 21 days.
Each journey offers its own slice of the Antarctic pie—be it getting close with Weddell seals near Elephant Island or tracing the heroic steps at Shackleton's camp.
Your itinerary shapes your adventure; it’s a map to unforgettable experiences.
Starting points are key—Ushuaia, Argentina, and Punta Arenas, Chile—are our main gateways. From there, we set sail across seas brushed by history and teeming with life. Think of your itinerary as a treasure map, where X marks spots like Deception Island’s volcanic wonders or the Lemaire Channel's towering ice walls.
We’ve walked these paths and sailed these waters. In our many years of experience, we can only say that we know you will be surprised at every turn that awaits on this epic journey southward. The excitement builds from day one when we share this guide with you—it outlines not just places but also possibilities: Zodiac landings that bring you face-to-face with penguins, optional kayak adventures amidst bergs or under Southern Lights—a sky show unmatched anywhere else on Earth.
Receiving your pre-departure guide
After booking your Antarctica trip, you'll get a pre-departure guide. This isn't just any booklet. It's packed with tips and tricks for making the most out of your adventure. From what clothes to pack to how to respect the local wildlife, it covers everything.
Think of it as your roadmap for preparing for the cold and ice landscapes ahead.
Our team has traveled there more than once. So, we know a thing or two about what works best in such an extreme place. This guide comes from our own hands-on experience and is meant to ease your way into this incredible journey.
We include stories from past travelers too, adding a real-life touch to every piece of advice offered.
Packing recommendations
We need to be ready for the cold and the adventure that awaits.
Layers are our best friends. We start with thermal fabrics like Merino wool as our base layer, trapping warmth close to our body.
Next, we add a fleece or a wool sweater. This middle layer keeps the warmth in and lets moisture out.
A waterproof and windproof jacket tops off our layers. It guards us against icy winds and surprise snow showers.
Our legs also need layers! Thermal pants under waterproof trousers will keep us dry and warm.
Muck boots are a must-have. They give us grip on slippery surfaces and keep our feet dry during zodiac landings.
We can't forget gloves. A pair that's warm but allows us to handle cameras or binoculars is perfect.
Hats are key, too—both for warmth and protection from the sun.
Speaking of the sun, sunglasses save our eyes from glare off ice and snow.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects our skin from intense UV rays reflected by snow and ice.
This guide ensures we're all set for whatever Antarctica throws at us—cold temps, sudden storms, or bright sunny days!
Documentation and Travel Requirements
Before you can start your Antarctica adventure, getting the right papers in order is a must. You'll need a valid passport, maybe some visas depending on where you're coming from, and don't forget about travel insurance! Health forms show that you're fit for this epic journey.
Passport and visa information
You will need your passport. Making sure you can hop on those flights and ships without any issues.
Now, here's the kicker: getting into Antarctica itself is visa-free. Yep, no red tape to cut through to step onto the icy continent.
However, most adventures to the south pole kick off from Argentina or Chile. These spots might ask for a visa depending on where you're coming from. So a pro tip: double-check those requirements before you're set to jet off.
Travel insurance details
We always tell our adventure seekers, getting travel insurance is a must before setting foot on the Antarctic land. This isn't just about being safe; it's about meeting essential requirements for your voyage.
Your insurance should cover all bases - from medical costs, hospital stays, to the much-needed evacuation and repatriation in emergencies. Let's not forget that it has to cover personal injuries, medical expenses, and those pre-existing conditions too.
Here's the kicker: you need to show proof of this insurance just to board. Yes, you heard right. No proof means no embarkation.
You insurance policy should cover at least $120000 USD of evacuation (this at the time of our latest departures in the 2025 season.
So please make sure everything is in order before we set sail! And trust us, it's worth every penny for peace of mind as you explore those icy wonders.
Medical forms and fitness requirements
Before setting off on this south-polar adventure, we all fill out health forms. They check if we're fit for the trip. It's a must to be able to move around easily on our own. This means going up and down stairs without help, especially during emergencies.
These health checks are common for tough trips like ours. They keep everyone safe while exploring far-off lands like the Antarctic Peninsula or South Georgia Island.
Transportation Details
Getting to the starting point of your Antarctica trip is a journey in itself. We organize flights to cities like Ushuaia, Argentina, and then guide you on how to hop onto the ship that will be your home for the adventure ahead.
Flight arrangements to the departure city
Main spots include Punta Arenas in Chile and Ushuaia in Argentina.
Both places are key gateways for your journey south. We found flights to these cities quite manageable. Look for options early to grab the best deals.
From Punta Arenas, you catch a specialized aircraft flying straight to King George Island, right on Antarctica's doorstep—no Drake Passage crossing needed. This part always gets us excited; flying over the icy continent is a sight you'll never forget! Ushuaia isn't left out either; it offers direct paths into Antarctic territory, making it another excellent starting point.
The journey truly begins before setting foot on the ice.
Our advice? Keep your camera handy from the moment you board your flight—the views en route are unforgettable snapshots into what awaits.
Transfer options to the embarkation point
Getting to your Antarctica adventure starts with a smooth ride. For travelers who book their pre or post trip in Argentina, we've got you covered from the moment you land in Buenos Aires. A comfy transfer from the airport to your hotel awaits, making sure you're well-rested before the real journey begins.
The day before we set sail for Ushuaia, Argentina - our gateway city – we make sure everyone checks in for their domestic flights.
Embarkation day feels like a breeze as we group everyone for bus transfers to the airport. And here's some good news: even if you booked your air travel on your own, some of you will still enjoy these transfer services.
So sit back and relax; we're about to embark on an unforgettable trip from Ushuaia, stepping stones away from Antarctica's icy allure.
What to Expect Onboard
Once you step onto the ship, brace yourself for a journey like no other. Your floating home is where you'll eat, sleep, and dive deep into Antarctica's stunning landscapes and stories.
Overview of your ship
Our ships suitable for the Antarctica adventure vary from luxury cruisers to research style vessels and smaller exploration yachts. Each provides a unique perspective to experience the icy wonderland of the Antarctic.
Luxury cruisers, holding 70 to 500 guest capacity, assure everyone their turn onshore, limiting groups to a manageable number of 100 people at a time (this is by IAATO regulation) . This maintains a personal and mindful interaction with the untouched environment.
On research vessels accommodating 50 to 100 explorers, you discover yourself embarking more frequently with less idle time. These ships are splendid for those who enjoy immediate engagement.
For an even more intimate experience, some of our expedition-style ships host fewer than 100 passengers, making it more convenient to swiftly turn to unplanned wildlife sights or unanticipated stops along iceberg-ridden shores.
Cabin accommodations and amenities
We stay cozy and enjoy the view on our Antarctica journey, thanks to the variety of cabins, from cozy suites to staterooms with ocean views. Even indoor cabins offer the comfort needed to enjoy a unique expedition. Keep in mind the time spent inside one’s cabin is minimal. Each living space is designed for comfort with options for private balconies or floor-to-ceiling windows that let us peer out onto the ocean or icy landscapes anytime we wish.
In these accommodations, spacious living areas become our private sanctuaries at sea. Imagine waking up to sunlight filtering through your window as you gaze at icebergs floating by—this is what mornings look like here.
The ships spread guests across several decks, ensuring plenty of room for everyone to find their perfect spot without feeling crowded.
There's something magical about watching the Antarctic world go by from the warmth of your cabin.
Dining and meal options
After settling into our cozy cabins, we all start thinking about food. Good news: the dining experience is as thrilling as the expedition itself. Every morning kicks off with a buffet full of choices.
Picture plates filled with warm bread, eggs cooked your way, and fresh fruit.
For lunch, you get choices of steamed vegetables, cold cuts - hot dishes that change every day, our chef offered general tsaos chicken, barbecue ribs, beef strogannof, falafel, eggplant parmesean and other delicacies throughout our voyage, soups that warm you up right through – like French onion, oxtail, cream of broccoli or mung bean, and salads for a fresh crunch.
But dinner? Dinner is where they really shine.
It's like sitting down at a fancy restaurant every night; fresh seafood and steaks grilled to perfection. And yes, if you're worried about finding something you can eat – don't be.
They've got everyone covered, whether you need gluten-free or are vegan. They make sure no one goes hungry or feels left out on this adventure.
Dinner is usually a served dish and you have several courses to chose from
Daily Activities and Excursions
Every day brings a new adventure, like stepping onto Zodiac boats for up-close looks at icy landscapes. Spot seals lounging or penguins waddling in their natural habitat, maybe even paddle through quiet waters in a kayak.
Zodiac landings and shore excursions
Zodiac landings and ice walks are the highlights of an Antarctica adventure. Visualize this: you're smoothly sailing over the icy water in a small, durable boat, directed at an untouched shore.
This is what revives the magic of Antarctic exploration. Our Zodiac cruises, lasting between one and two hours, grant us privileged views of iceberg pathways and up close encounters with wildlife in areas that cannot be accessed on land.
Shore excursions take it to another level. We step off our Zodiac onto sequestered beaches or ice sheets, following the path of legendary explorers like Shackleton. It's centered around being in proximity with penguins marching by or watching seals resting on floating ice nearby.
And let's not forget, while we engage ourselves in these awe-inspiring moments, we maintain a deep respect for conserving Antarctica's pure environment. A 5 meter distance from any wildlife is necessary. Do not worry you will have an expert guide by your side to remind you.
"Each stride narrates a tale; every breath we take is saturated with cold, pure Antarctic air.
Wildlife viewing opportunities
We get up close with nature in a big way. Picture seeing penguins toddle on the ice and humpback whales breach the water's surface. It's a feast for the eyes, especially during those months when newborn penguin chicks join the adult parade.
Our itineraries are flexible, letting us take full advantage of wildlife sightings. One day might bring us face-to-face with crabeater seals lounging on ice floes; another could offer a surprise encounter with orcas gliding through icy waters.
Flexibility is key, Antarctic weather can change in the brink of an eye and strong swells and winds will appear, worry not, for experienced captains guide the ships to safe havens. Changes can occur and we must be willing to accept them, it is an expedition after all and we are not on a tour, here we are part of the team and the mission is to explore safely and encounter the most amount of wildlife and unique scenery.
Our guides have sharp eyes and know exactly where to find these creatures in their natural habitat. They'll lead photography workshops for those keen on capturing this breathtaking wilderness, from the majesty of South Georgia island's landscapes to intimate moments with Adélie penguins.
It’s not just about looking; it’s about learning and connecting with these wonders beyond our usual grasp.
Optional adventure activities like kayaking or camping
After seeing the amazing wildlife, we're ready for more action. We can choose to kayak through ice floes or camp on the ice. Kayaking lets us glide quietly near seals and under giant ice arches. Stand up paddle boarding is also an option.
It feels like being in a different world, with only the sound of our paddles touching water. Guides make sure we’re safe and show us the best spots. You are clad in a dry suite, so any tipping into the water is safe and part of the fun.
Camping gives us a night under Antarctica’s sky. Imagine sleeping on ice, surrounded by quiet so deep you hear your own heartbeat. Our crew sets up everything. We just enjoy the silence and stars above us.
Both activities bring us closer to this wild place without leaving a trace behind.
Expert Guides and Crew
Our expert guides and crew are like the GPS of our adventure; they know Antarctica and the different landing sites, they scout out the best spots in advance and help us encounter most wildlife on each occasion. They keep us safe, teach us, and make sure we have a blast.
Introduction to naturalists and expedition leaders
We're lucky to have expert guides who know the ropes of Antarctica. These leaders have dedicated much effort in studying the ins and outs of the white continent. From different areas of expertise like glaciologists, to historians who will share details of Ernest Shackleton's journeys to biologists that enjoy tracking ross seals across the ice.
Imagine being on a zodiac ride and someone pointing out a whale in the distance. That's what they do best.
These folks don't just guide; they teach too. Every evening feels like school, but more fun, with talks on everything from penguins to how climate change impacts Antarctica. We once sat under stars so bright, listening to stories about early explorers and today’s research efforts - it felt like time travel.
Our journey wouldn’t be complete without their wisdom and passion for conservation. They remind us why we must protect this untouched land and its inhabitants. Riding through icebergs or watching adelie penguins play around – these moments hit different when you understand their importance.
Onboard lectures and educational programs
After getting to know the experts who'll guide us through the ice, we're set for a deeper dive. Our journey doesn't just glide over the icy waters; it dives into learning, too. Onboard lectures and educational programs bring the frozen world right into our living room, well, the ship's lounge actually.
Crossing the Drake is so much easier when you are learning and interacting with fellow explorers as you become part of a team that will study the wonders of Antarctic wildlife. You will be invited to participate in Citizen Science and contribute to the research of unique creatures, cloud viewing to help NASA understand global warming and several other high impact tasks.
These talks? They're given by folks who really know their stuff – researchers who've spent years studying things like how penguins live or why glaciers are shaped weirdly.
We'll learn about Shackleton’s endurance expeditions and why Cape Horn is more than just a spot on the map. Ever wonder what makes Antarctic seals so special or how climate change affects this remote part of our planet? These sessions have got us covered.
It's not all history lessons though. We get real-time updates on wildlife sightings too! Imagine sipping your morning coffee while learning which whales might be swimming nearby based on recent observations.
This chance to soak up knowledge about one of Earth's last frontiers turns sea days into classroom days – but way more fun than any school we've been to before.
Communication and Connectivity
Keeping in touch while floating near icy lands seems tough, but don't worry. We've got Wi-Fi on board so you can send photos and updates back home. This way, your family won't miss out on your great adventure.
We've got good news for those worried about staying connected during their Antarctic adventure. Thanks to advancements like Starlink technology, getting online in the most remote place on Earth is entirely possible. Pricing for Wifi ranges from 11 – 40 USD a GB.
Now, many cruise operators offer high-speed internet access so you can share your incredible journey with friends and family back home.
For instance, Quark Expeditions gives guests unlimited access at slower speeds, which is perfect for checking emails or sending a quick update. On the other hand, Antarctica21 steps it up by offering free unlimited standard-speed internet through geostationary satellite connections.
This means you won't have to miss out on any important events while exploring the world’s most remote wilderness. Also the possibility of sharing your experiences on social media.
Staying in touch with family and friends
Some times the signal is great and internet runs smoothly, some times it can be slow as a Galapagos Tortoise (a plug to another amazing destination we offer at Voyagers).
So, we told our friends and family not to worry if they don't hear from us for a bit.
We also learned that in real emergencies, the ship's captain could send urgent messages via satellite phone. It made us feel safe knowing we could reach someone on land if needed.
Sustainable Travel Practices
In our trips to Antarctica, we act with care for the icy lands and waters. We follow strict rules to keep Earth's last great wilderness safe. This means clean travel steps that protect sea animals and land creatures, keeping their homes pure and untouched by us.
It's all about leaving no trace, being kind to nature by not disturbing wildlife, and helping in conservation efforts whenever we can.
Let's make sure our adventure also helps keep Antarctica pristine for future explorers! Keep reading to learn how you can be part of this vital effort.
Guidelines for protecting Antarctica’s environment
We always aim to leave no trace behind on our adventures, especially in such a pristine place like Antarctica. Following the guidelines of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) is part of our commitment.
This means keeping a safe distance from wildlife, not leaving anything behind, and not taking any souvenirs from nature. These rules protect the unique plants and animals living there.
During our journey, we also get involved with citizen science activities. This helps us learn more about how tourism affects this icy wonderland. We encourage everyone to follow these practices.
It's about being good guests in a home that's not ours but belongs to countless species and future generations.
Responsible wildlife interactions
Our guides know a lot about how to travel without harming nature. They share tips on how to enjoy the Antarctic beauty without leaving a mark. For example, we reduce our use of plastic to help protect the ocean's creatures.
It is important to bring a water bottle, ships provide fresh water, but for example, on the Ocean Endeavour they did not provide water bottles, you had to bring your own. Small details when picking a trip that you Voyages advisor can tell you about.
Preparing for the Unexpected
Preparing for the unexpected means always having a backup plan. Weather and sea can change in a heartbeat, so we're always ready with Plan B. We've got safety drills and gear to keep you cozy if the wind decides to dance differently.
Weather and sea conditions
We always say, "Pack your sunglasses and your snow gear." Yes, the weather down in Antarctica can flip faster than a pancake on Sunday morning. One day, you're basking in the sunlight with gentoo penguins waddling by; the next, you're hunkering down as gale-force winds whip across the deck.
It's all part of the adventure.
Our trips are like jelly - flexible. We adjust our itinerary based on what Mother Nature throws at us. Sometimes that means swapping a Zodiac landing for an impromptu whale-watching session from aboard because sea ice blocked our path.
On our last trip, we planned to kayak around Saunders Island but woke up to find everything wrapped in white and temperatures that made your toothpaste feel warm. So instead of paddling through icy waters, we spent more time learning about early Antarctic explorers who braved these wild seas long before us.
This way, every twist and turn brought something new and unexpected – just how we like it!
Safety protocols and procedures
We take safety as seriously as an explorer facing the vast, unknown ice. Think Shackleton meeting the Antarctic for the first time; we're that thorough. Our crew drills regularly to keep sharp.
They know every nook and cranny of our ship like their own pockets.
Before setting foot on board, everyone gets a rundown on do's and don'ts. This isn't just any talk; it's your shield against the unexpected. We cover everything from maintaining a safe gap from the curious penguins to dressing warmly to fend off that biting cold.
Final Steps Before Departure
Double-check your bags, ensure your documents are in order, and give us a shout for any last-minute questions. Your adventure is just around the corner!
Checklist for last-minute preparations
We always note down essentials to not miss anything significant. Our luggage shouldn't exceed 20 kg - that's 15 kg for the large suitcase and 5 kg for the smaller in-plane bag. We opt for flexible and compact bags. Note that the internal flight to Ushuaia only allows for 15 kg.
For attire, we include waterproof outerwear and warm inner layers, along with the right footwear for icy landscapes.
Before departure, we revisit all our travel documents. Passports need to be valid for at least six months beyond our journey's conclusion. Additionally, we cross-verify our health documents to ensure they're current.
Lastly, we prepare for Antarctica's chilly conditions but also keep in mind the possibility of experiencing sunlight during our exploration. Hence, sunglasses and sunblock are essential!
Contacting Voyagers for support
Going through your final preparations, you may find yourself in need of assistance. Don't worry; reaching out to Voyagers is simple and can really ease your burden. One quick phone call to +1 908 887 8589 or +593 97 914 0540, and you're in direct contact with the team who are familiar with every detail of your Antarctica adventure.
They're there to handle all issues, big or small, whether it's confirming your flight information to Ushuaia, Argentina—the starting point for many Antarctic expeditions—or resolving a glitch with using those elusive discounts.
If you are unsure about which thermal gear would best manage the unpredictable weather in Antarctica. One speedy call will have mystery solved quicker than we could zip up our parkas! The Voyagers' team can guide you through the optimal outfit choice and even share some useful packing advice that became real game-changers.
They are also available during your trip, a quick phone call will put you in contact with a 24/7 concierge department that will help make the best of your trip.
This level of assistance is a rare find.
So, feel free to ring up if questions or concerns arise as the day of departure gets closer. Whether it's understanding the finer details of travel insurance or getting a grip on South Shetland Islands' geography before embarking, Voyagers is on your side without any surprise costs!
We've walked you through each step after booking your Antarctic journey with Voyagers. Soon, you'll pack your bags, check all needed papers, and hop on a plane to start this great adventure.
On the ship, cozy cabins await alongside tasty meals and fun days full of wildlife sightings, Zodiac rides, and maybe even kayaking among icebergs. Our expert guides will be there too, sharing stories and knowledge that bring Antarctica's magic to life.
So get ready for an unforgettable trip where every day brings something new and exciting!
FAQs
1. What happens after I book my Antarctica adventure with Voyagers?
After booking your Antarctic voyage, the real fun begins! You'll start preparing for a journey that will take you to places like Ushuaia, Argentina and Punta Arenas, Chile - gateway cities to the icy wonderland. From understanding the climate in Antarctica to learning about its rich history during the heroic age of Antarctic exploration, there's plenty to do post-booking.
2. How should I prepare for my trip?
To get ready for your Antarctic tour, pack clothing suitable for sub-Antarctic climates and gear up mentally for an exciting journey through regions like Scotia Arc and South Orkney Islands. Remember: The effects of climate change on Antarctica are palpable so be prepared!
3. What can I expect from my travel reservations?
With Voyagers' you will receive your vouchers, a cruise contract, travel guides, packing suggestions, pre and post tour arrangements, follow up with the cruise company on all aspects of your expedition. Of course you will experience the trip of a lifetime.
4. What kind of meals will be provided during our expedition?
You will have an assortment of international dishes on your menu. Breakfast and lunch is usually buffet in honor of time and helping you get on excursions and outings quickly, evening meals are served dinners with several courses. Coffee, tea and biscuits as well as other snacks are readily available at all times.
5. Can we visit any significant places related to historical expeditions?
Absolutely! Get ready for some time-travel as we tread paths taken by famous explorers such as Roald Amundsen and Douglas Mawson while visiting key spots from Shackleton Expedition – adding a dash of history into this icy escapade!
6. Are there any privacy concerns when booking with Voyagers?
Rest assured; respect for client privacy is paramount at Voyagers – no third-party cookies here! Bookings are handled with utmost discretion ensuring peace-of-mind throughout your Antarctic adventure.