How to pick out an Antartic Expedition

How to evaluate an Antarctica cruise. I’m not going to get into what is nicest or the most luxurious.  Most of the Antarctica ships are pretty nice, but we aren’t going to antarctica for luxury are we?   The mediterranean and Caribbean aren’t going anywhere, save luxury, entertainment, etc for cruises like this.   You are going to Antarctica to see, and understand, antarctica. 

First, only 100 people are allowed from any one ship onto Antarctic soil at any given time, ergo, the more over 100 people on the ship you have, the less you are going to be able to get on.  Look for itineraries that get you deep into the Antarctic and for that you need a specific kind of ship.

The Design, to get deep into Antarctica, you are only allowed to go if you are on a ship that has at least some icebreaking capability. You are likely looking for an Ulstein X-bow, like the Lindblad Endurance, Aurora Expeditions or an Icebreaker like Ponant’s  Le Commandant Charcot.   I think those ships set the standard.  

The staff…  An Antarctic expedition is a foray into the natural world and in this day and age, one on conservation as our polar regions melt.  You need highly trained and capable staff.  Ones that can read the weather conditions and make the most of your limited time on the Antarctic.  You also want people that can not only keep you safe, but also educate you on this fascinating place. 

I think that Lindblad, with its National Geographic partnership and its new ship, the Endurance. Is my first choice.   I think that for the price, Aurora Expeditions really delivers incredibly well, they may not quite be the best, but for the price. WOW.  Then Ponant, if you just need the fancy and are on the Commandant Charcot which is a full-fledged icebreaker.

.

I’d like to invite you to learn more about Antarctica.  This is a sales thing for sure, but they will give you the benchmark that you should judge any trip by there.  Lindblad has a webinar and tell them I sent you.   My rep says they will be picking agents for their next fam partially based on their turnout and I would freaking love to add a 6th continent to my personal list.