Is a cruise to Antarctica worth it? Our top reasons to say yes!

Ready to conquer Antarctica? Let Katrina and Karen from House of Travel Botany Junction inspire your next big leap!

When most travellers daydream about an epic holiday, they usually picture South America’s vibrant culture or a charming European escape. But not Katrina and Karen. These two daring travellers from House of Travel Botany Junction set their sights on Antarctica - one of the most remote, exhilarating, and unforgiving places on Earth.

We caught up with them to hear all about their life-changing experience. Read on for the full scoop of their incredible 10-day Antarctica cruise itinerary, and start planning your own journey to the world’s highest, driest, windiest continent.

Beginning of the journey from New Zealand

Our trip began with a 12-hour flight to Santiago, then a 2-hour flight to Buenos Aires and finally another 3.5-hour trip to the historic city of Ushuaia. From here we boarded the Seabourn Pursuit and began our 10-day expedition cruise to Antarctica.

Top tip: Split up this long journey with overnight stays as Santiago and Buenos Aires - two interesting cities that are worthy of exploration.

From Ushuaia to Antarctica through the Drake Passage

We sailed aboard the Seabourn Pursuit from Ushuaia and headed south by way of the Beagle Channel. By the next morning, we were well into the infamous Drake Passage. It usually takes two days, however, we managed to get to the deserted continent in just 36 hours.

Onboard the cruise, we found the atmosphere to be very social, as the other passengers were very well- travelled and as exited as we were to add this amazing experience to our bucket list. The average age of our travel companions was around 40 – 50 years old. 

Exploration, Wildlife Encounters & Antarctic Circle

On our third day at sea, everything changed as we launched into a series of exciting “firsts.” Each day followed a similar rhythm, if the morning brought an ice landing, the afternoon was all about zodiac exploration, and vice versa. No matter how many times we suited up, stepping onto the ice or zooming between icebergs in a zodiac never lost its thrill.

Heading into Antarctica, we were instantly captivated by the striking white and dreamy azure shades of the icebergs, glaciers, and ocean. Our very first ice landing was beyond words... a proper goosebump moment! Standing right there among Gentoo penguins, watching them nest, fish, swim, and socialise in their natural Antarctic home, really brought home the magic of “Wow, I’m actually in Antarctica!”

They were just as curious about us as we were about them, waddling right up on their so-called “penguin highway” for a closer look. We’d been told to keep about 15 feet away, but they often came closer anyway - an adorable reminder that you’re truly a guest in their world.

Onboard each zodiac, you’ll meet a fascinating range of specialists, everyone from penguin gurus and iceberg experts, to nature-loving ecologists. Believe it or not, the temperature was a surprisingly balmy -2°C. Because you’re at the very bottom of the planet, there’s about 20 hours of daylight each day, with only four hours of gentle twilight to break up the sun.

Antarctic Circle, Polar Plunge & whole lot more

We were lucky enough to cross the Antarctic Circle, and even received a special certificate to prove we’d ventured to one of the most remote places on the planet. This side trip was part of Seabourn’s flexible route planning, which can change depending on the weather or any unexpected opportunities.

Antarctica also offers a surprising mix of activities. You can glide through icy waters in a kayak, take a submarine ride to glimpse the ocean floor, or dare to do the legendary Polar Plunge. We took the plunge ourselves, and “refreshing” doesn’t even cover it. Those 30 seconds in Antarctic waters are heart-racing in the best possible way. It’s a must-do for anyone looking to truly feel alive in this frozen wonderland.

The most magical moment

On one zodiac outing, the driver switched off the engine and asked us all to stay completely still and quiet. It was one of those “pinch me” moments. Everything fell silent... no hum of machinery, no chatter... just the distant crackle of ice and the soft flap of a passing gull’s wings.

Essential Antarctica Packing List:

1. Pay attention to the packing list... Pack some cozy Uggs; they were a lifesaver for moving from the cabin to the boots room and strolling around the ship.

2. Layering is key - opt for gaiter to insulate the neck and prevent warm air from escaping. And opt for merino, like a singlet layered with two layers of merino topped with your jacket”.

3. We wore polar fleece tights but also had thermals if needed. A must is to have waterproof pants... Get them in a size bigger to accommodate layers.

4. Warm wool socks or good ski socks.

5. Ski gloves and also something like a head band or muffs that covers your ears... (you can thank us later!)

6. A good beanie and our new best friend - a gaiter. You need this on the zodiacs.

7. If you can get ski goggles they would be preferable but sunglasses are a must.

8. Around the ship during the day you'll want leggings, a track suit or jeans. At night, it's not as dressy as other cruises but bring what you might wear to dinner out when at home.

9. Sunscreen and lip balm is a must.

Best Time To Go

The main season runs from end of November until March. Go early for lots of snow, early December for nesting season, or January through March for hatchlings and whale watching.

How much did it cost?

The cost of embarking on a cruise to Antarctica can vary depending on the departure date, how long the cruise goes for, and the type of cabin you book on the ship with most cruises starting at around NZD$8,000 per person and going all the way up to NZD$20,000 per person. It just depends on the cruise line and length.

There are different types of cruises - either scenic where you sail around and don’t get off or ones like we did where you do ice landings so please ensure you get the one that fits your wishes and budget.

Interested in planning your own Antarctica expedition? Connect with Katrina Cole here to plan your Antarctica journey with tips and guidance from the experts.