I'm GOING to Antarctica!! I don't care what it costs! I rather $$$$$ pay a price and be ACCOMPLISHED than sit in a rocking chair in my 90's thinking with regret, "I wish I would have..."
Off in 4 weeks, been round the world but never got to Antarctica, last two years have been awful, lost my wife, had to retire, major health problems and Covid so decided to go and getting very real now.
I hope your trip went well. If you see this and want to share some of your experiences I'd love to hear them. I am 23 years old and am saving for a trip. Whatever you are willing to say I'd very much appreciate hearing. God Bless you.
I’m 72 so I took an easy leisure Celebrity cruise to Antarctica in February of 2024. I bought all of the things that Gary recommended as they were recommended on different cruise sites. Since we did not have any land excursions, I didn’t use any of the special cold weather clothing. A beanie, a merino wool turtleneck, and a bulky sweater were all that I needed while on deck. I came home with hundreds of dollars of unused items that could not be returned as the 30 day return window had closed. The Falkland Islands were very windy so I appreciated my heavy duty hoodie. Binoculars are a must. If I had not recently had two hip replacements, I probably would have opted for the cruise sailings that provided land excursions.
I went on an Antarctic cruise early in the season - late October to middle of November. It was a great time to be there. The temperatures weren't all that bad. And the ground where we went ashore had not yet been chewed up by people tromping around. I was on the Ortelius, which is one of the smallest ships, originally a research vessel. There weren't very many amenities, but the food was very good. Our planned itinerary included the Falklands, South Georgia Island, Sandwich Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Because there were only 100 passengers we were able to sometimes make two landings in a day. We experienced very rough seas due to storms that lengthened our time at sea, but the Drake Passage was a "lake." Because I'm a winter hiker and ice climber I had all the requisite gear, although I did buy a jacket and waterproof pants. The ship supplied muck boots, which are mandatory because every landing is a water landing. The cost of the trip, including travel insurance (also mandatory) was around $18,000.
This is a very informative video. I have booked one of the National Geographic expeditions for January 2024 and after seeing this I think I made good decisions thus far. This is a very balanced presentation and should be seen before you book a cruise to this place.
I just came back from the classic Antarctica cruise with Quark EXpedition on their Ultramarine ship. What Gary said was right on, to the point. We had incredible weather the whole time we were there , and the Drake passage crossing to and from were pretty calm. Dress in layer is a must, and water proof pants is essential . Quark Expedition loaned us the boots and gave us a parka, I wore 2 pairs of short cashmere socks with the boots in outings, and it was warm enough. I had been to most parts of the world, but this trip was an eye opening for me: the world is supposed to be like that!
If you are a photo nut like me there are a couple of extra things you need. Most importantly 5 zip lock bags. Each big enough to fit your entire camera body and lens into. Cut the bottom two corners out, take your camera strap off your camera and threat them, from the outside into the bag and reattach to your camera. You can now hang your camera around your neck and pull the bag down over the entire camera or rip open the zip, slide it up the straps and use it normally. It gets wet on the zodiacs and we watched so many amazing cameras completely die. Take about three lens cleaning cloths, punch a hole in them, attach 1m of string and then you can tie it into your pocket. You will be able to clean ocean spray and whale snot (i kid you not) off your lens on a moving zodiac in the wind. I took a 18-400 lens. Don't ever count on being able to change lens in the zodiacs. Buy a lanyard with a pulley and take a small waterproof point and shoot as well. You can keep in your top jacket pocket. There are times where it is so wet you cannot open your zip lock. The best shot of the whole trip came from my point and shoot as a whale fully breached metres from our zodiac. All the expensive DSLRs missed the shot. And keep this one with you at all times while moving around the ship. They say the best camera to take is the one you are holding in your hand right now.
Good point about cameras except that you are too conservative. You need 2 of everything just in case one camera - mine did. It isn't necessary to buy the 2nd camera as you can either rent one or borrow one from a friend but do bring 2 of them.
Visited Antarctic Peninsula in January 2005 on M/V Polar Star, a Finnish built icebreaker of around 5,000 tons and catering for around 90 passengers. 18 days, including return flights from LHR and about 8 days on the peninsula itself for about £4,200 all in. Of course, it's gone up a bit since then! Drake Passage running at 8 - 10 metres but great fun! Usually 2 or 3 peninsula landings by Zodiac boat each day, very friendly and helpful crew and an adventure in every sense of the word. Many years ago I had a vivid dream where I was walking on Antarctica - on waking up I was determined to make it happen and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. Can't fault your advice - it's spot on!
I was able to go in Feb. 2015 for about half the normal price by being in a group that contacted a travel company 18 months in advance. They were going to charter a small ship with a 120 passenger capacity, and by paying a $1K per person non-refundable deposit we locked in 6 3-berth cabins for 18 people at 2800 each. We were provided parkas to keep, and loaned boots. I found that wearing waterproof rubber gloves over knot inner gloves worked well. For other layers I had thermal underwear under a ski bib along with sweaters. We had Drake Lake on the way over. On the return the weather forecast was bad so we left a day early and went at the ship's maximum speed across. Still quite rough but only a single day to cross in bad weather. Since the docking space is reserved, we spent the last day slowly cruising the channel.
No kids? Expensive and limited number of ships every year plus restrictive regulations on large ships on disembarkation on the peninsula? This is bloody perfect.
We, in our early 80's got a very good bargain. We went from Ft Lauderdale and back on HAL through the Panama, down the west coast of South America. To the peninsula for several incredible days. Then the Falklands, up the East Coast, the Amazon to Manaus. Then home to FTL on March 20, 2020 just before Covid shut down the airlines so we could fly home. The fare (not the total cost) was $20K total for my wife and I for a 77 day cruise. I know I'll never find another bargain like that. Full disclosure, we were in an inside cabin.
Very interesting video. I’m going on the silver cloud in February, doing 10 days in Antarctica then 21 days from Ushuaia to Cape Town. Can’t wait. It’s the trip of a lifetime.
We are about 99% ready to call our travel agent for a January 2023 13 day trip on Viking. You are right about the cost; $16,400 USD PP!!!! Its a once in a life time trip.
@@mioangel1227 We booked in mid-June 2024. Viking was running a special for free airfare (about $3200 for two) and free spirts package. We picked 23 Nov which was a lower price due to it is early in the season and it cross over the Thanksgiving Holiday. We'll be celebrating Thanksgiving in Antarctica!
For those travelers dreading Drake's passage, an alternative is to fly to King George Island and start your expedition there. Avoid 2 days in Drakes's passage and gain those extra days on the ship. We just finished a 5 day on Ocean Nova over New Years and it was wonderful. Sunny and calm. Everyone was stripping off their gear as soon as we landed ashore. They put out a big tarp for our gear. Many of the guests were only in one thin layer. We were delayed flying off King George island for one day due to weather so we got an extra day on board.
@@tipsfortravellers It was great, even spent a winter at the South Pole. And worked a high altitude field camp in the middle of nowhere. Now need to save up some money to take my daughter on a cruise when she older so she can see it. PS - love the videos
Haha, I was like whoa, the bedroom looks very recognizable. I just went on Silver Cloud and it has the new paint job of white and silver. On top of that, it also embarks at Puerto Williams in Chile now.
Did it this on Seabourn Quest, 450 passenger ship, and landings happen. I understand no landing for ships with more than 500 passengers. Quest was the perfect Expedition Ship. Highly recommended
Excellent tips for Antarctica. Like you we were incredibly lucky with Drake Lake but the Scotia sea was extremely rough. I'm glad you emphasised ships carrying over 200 can't land, I'm not sure everyone is aware of that rule. We had 190 guests on Le Lyrial, which was perfect. We went for our 60th BD treat and hoping to go again before we reach 70🤞
@@tipsfortravellers We loved Le Lyrial, it was chartered by Abercrombie and Kent and the expedition team were amazing. All the cabins have balconies and as it's a French ship with French crew the food is amazing. We were thoroughly spoilt. We loved the ship so much we went on Le Boreal, the sister ship, on our Arctic cruise and it was faultless. How wonderful to have Antarctica to look forward to in November.
I've got a cabin on hold and will be putting down my deposit in the next week. Going March 2022. I decided to search for videos to learn more and so excited to find several from you. Thanks for the great info!
@@everwake2689 sadly, no. Because of the omicron surge, the cruise company cancelled all of the remaining cruises for the season. I rebooked for March 2023. I'm not a patient person, so to add an extra year on top of the 1.5 years I already waited is torture, but it'll be worth it!
@@andrewespinoza7108 I booked a year and a half out. I'm not sure how far they have the schedule. I would check with a travel agent or go to the cruise company's site (if you've picked one).
This was cheaper than I thought, I already have all that gear living in Indianapolis (it's gotten down to -56°F with windchill), a lot of this stuff I already know from growing up camping and traveling with family and the Scouts. This just makes me want to go a bazillion times more.
We are off to Antarctica with Sliver Seas in November can’t wait. We went to Svalbard with them a few weeks ago as practice. That was amazing hopefully Antarctica is just as exciting. Drakes Passage looks a challenge…
@@jacksont9455 Do you mean the Artic or Antartica? If Antartica then it was just as good. Not so much wildlife but the views were fantastic. We saw humpbacked whales, several types of penguins in huge colonies, Leopard Seals and other seals. Many bird types like Albatrosses and Pectorals. The Drakes Passage was easy for me, but many were sea sick. That stopped us going to Cape Horn which was disappointing. I have to point out it a long trip there and back.
Thank you for these information, the most important things you mention that there is no landing on land in big ships 👍🏻 .. i'm collecting info to make my trip to Antartica.
Thanks for the opinion. I also think landing on Antarctica would be better than viewing it but I certainly wouldn’t belittle anyone’s experience or desire to do the scenic cruising. Let’s face it, it is walking on rocks and snow. It doesn’t feel different from doing that anywhere else. You do it so you can say you did it and check off your bucket list.
Hello Trips for Travellers, Excellent tips in your "8 important watch-outs'" video. I have booked to go in December 2022 and I am *so* excited. Malcolm.
You are good 😃. Just went Dec. 1 - 19 and we flew to Buenos Aires and then the next day We got on a chartered flight down to Ushuaia. When we got to our cabins we had an inner puffy coat with an outer coat for wind and water which was blue instead of red and a waterproof bag thing with a steel water bottle, oh they provide muck boots that go up to your knees . This was our seventh continent and evidently it was for many other people on our ship the Vega company Swan Hellenic.
No. We live in the Northwest section of lower Michigan. My grandchildren are experienced travelers and have no problem with cold, snow and ice. I will be taking 16, 14 and 11 years old grandsons. They are well behaved young men. The younger one went on and Encore Alaska cruise. He was great. I wish you well. DRS / RVN Vet.
Thank you for sharing. For those of us who are more “experienced “ (a/k/a older) than you, the lack of landing an on the continent, is not an issue. Arthritic knees are an issue if you’re considering hiking on uneven terrain.
Thank you, Mr. Bembridge. My husband and I are booked on the Viking Octanis to Antarctica leaving in just 4 weeks, and your insights, particularly about the Drake Passage, are helpful.
The brochures don’t do a good job explaining Ushuaia. It’s such a pretty town at the end of the world and there is a lot of stuff to see and do there. It’s worth a couple of days. The brochures also don’t do a good job in sending people to Iguazu. That’s such an amazing place and everyone should see it
We flew back to Buenos Aires from Ushuaia and then directly to Iguazu just in time for New Year's. The hardest part was packing...Iguazu was balmy compared with Antarctica...needed summer clothes to get to the falls. Still, it was well worth the extra side trip.
As much as you spoke about many great and helpful facts. I do feel you dismissed the reality for many people..... if people could pay £££££ then they would. However if your only able to spend £££, even if its for a cruise sailing visit, then I'm sure more people would visit. Being able to sail- by for a few days on a big ship.... is still better than not seeing it at all in my opinion.
I've booked for a cruise by in January 2024, not too concerned I won't land, visited Greenland for 3 months and Svalbard for 18 days. I agree with your comments.
This is my goal before I am 45. Im set on wanting to go on a research ship so badly! Could you cover the different companies and their differences, please?
You ain't getting on board a research ship unless you're a scientist.. You'll have to cruise there as a tourist..Get ready to shit some Dollar bills..Like roughly 12,000 of them
May you please provide a short note about the temperatures during your stay at Antarctica? Update: We're currently (February 8-18th, 2020) there, and up to now, the temperature never was lower than minus 5 degrees Celsius.
Thanks for the informative video. One thing you didn’t address is whether it is suitable for people with some mobility issues and what are the physical fitness requirements for this trip. Do you need to have zero physical issues? Can you manage if you have knee or hip problems for example? That sort of thing is very interesting to me.
Don't forget your sunscreen for exposed skin and chapstick for your lips. Don't wear perfume or cologne when going ashore. Also, I'd recommend not taking any of your most treasured jewelry with you on your trip. Plus, ladies, don't bother with your makeup on the excursions. You're covered in layers. Go without the face paint from one lady to another. The only painting your face needs is sunscreen and chapstick for those exposed areas. Stay safe. Make sure you know how to use all of the survival gear. Make sure your whistle works (before you leave the main ship) even if the crew finds it annoying.
Sorry. Wrong on two accounts. First, our Celebrity Cruise we just booked for January costs $2,000 per person with window berth plus airfare, so about $3,500 each total from Seattle to Buenos Aires. Second, Norwegian Cruises has the same sized ship as Celebrity and do allow you to land on Antarctic ports. But they charge about double for the privilege. So size in this case doesn’t matter to hike on the Antarctic Continent. We opted for the cheaper cruise to fit our budget.
You need to double check as ships with over 500 guests are only allowed to sail around Antarctica and no landings are permitted. I think it is unlikely / impossible either Celebrity or Norwegian will be landing guests. Neither carry the RIB boats either to land guests. www.antarctica21.com/journal/are-small-ships-better-in-antarctica/
Very helpful information. I’m thrilled to hear that human numbers are limited at any given point. This is our last unspoiled continent. For the love of God, let’s not mess another one up! 😢😢😢😢😢 As much as I would love to go, I will wait until climate change makes it a beach destination! Swimming with the penguins would be so much fun. 😂😂😂😂😂
You sound very South African? Is it possible? My family and I are getting ready to venture to Antarctica late in 2022. We are taking our own small ship, a 43mt sea rescue vessel. Your information would be so very helpful for our planning. Brian
We are senior citizens. We are planning to visit. We are afraid of drake sheck. Please guide us what to do should we plan or cancel. Thanks. We will appriciate to know name of Cruise ship and its operator you traveled. Best Regards
It is hit and miss, so it can be calm. I have been twice now and it has been that mix. But in my view, and even people who were prone to seasickness and found it a bit challenging, agreed too was worth it all once there. My advice is to book a cabin if you can midship and low and take with you medication or talk to your doctor about being prescribed the behind ear patches so you have something available if you do feel seasick, but be ready for the magnificence once there. I have been on Silversea and Ponant. I am going back later this year, agin on Silversea.
I'm GOING to Antarctica!! I don't care what it costs! I rather $$$$$ pay a price and be ACCOMPLISHED than sit in a rocking chair in my 90's thinking with regret, "I wish I would have..."
I am with you, it is super expensive, but I am stepping up on faith, I have to go, I just have to...
Package price ?
Yup! Me too!
You won't be sitting in a rocking chair in your 90s but on the streets if money is your biggest obstacle of whether you should be going.
@@willchu I'm financially comfortable but thank you for your concern 💝
Off in 4 weeks, been round the world but never got to Antarctica, last two years have been awful, lost my wife, had to retire, major health problems and Covid so decided to go and getting very real now.
So sorry for your losses. Enjoy your trip.
I am so sorry for your loss. Enjoy your trip. I'm saving but don't know if I can save enough before my knees give out. 🤩
How was your trip dude??
I hope your trip went well. If you see this and want to share some of your experiences I'd love to hear them. I am 23 years old and am saving for a trip. Whatever you are willing to say I'd very much appreciate hearing. God Bless you.
I’m 72 so I took an easy leisure Celebrity cruise to Antarctica in February of 2024. I bought all of the things that Gary recommended as they were recommended on different cruise sites. Since we did not have any land excursions, I didn’t use any of the special cold weather clothing. A beanie, a merino wool turtleneck, and a bulky sweater were all that I needed while on deck. I came home with hundreds of dollars of unused items that could not be returned as the 30 day return window had closed. The Falkland Islands were very windy so I appreciated my heavy duty hoodie. Binoculars are a must. If I had not recently had two hip replacements, I probably would have opted for the cruise sailings that provided land excursions.
I went on an Antarctic cruise early in the season - late October to middle of November. It was a great time to be there. The temperatures weren't all that bad. And the ground where we went ashore had not yet been chewed up by people tromping around. I was on the Ortelius, which is one of the smallest ships, originally a research vessel. There weren't very many amenities, but the food was very good. Our planned itinerary included the Falklands, South Georgia Island, Sandwich Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Because there were only 100 passengers we were able to sometimes make two landings in a day. We experienced very rough seas due to storms that lengthened our time at sea, but the Drake Passage was a "lake." Because I'm a winter hiker and ice climber I had all the requisite gear, although I did buy a jacket and waterproof pants. The ship supplied muck boots, which are mandatory because every landing is a water landing. The cost of the trip, including travel insurance (also mandatory) was around $18,000.
This is a very informative video. I have booked one of the National Geographic expeditions for January 2024 and after seeing this I think I made good decisions thus far. This is a very balanced presentation and should be seen before you book a cruise to this place.
We're thinking about doing the Feb. 2024 with Nat Geo to Antarctica!
well have you gone yet?? haha we need an update!! 😅
No kids you say?
Saving those pennies starting NOW!
😂😂😂😂😂
I just came back from the classic Antarctica cruise with Quark EXpedition on their Ultramarine ship. What Gary said was right on, to the point. We had incredible weather the whole time we were there , and the Drake passage crossing to and from were pretty calm. Dress in layer is a must, and water proof pants is essential . Quark Expedition loaned us the boots and gave us a parka, I wore 2 pairs of short cashmere socks with the boots in outings, and it was warm enough. I had been to most parts of the world, but this trip was an eye opening for me: the world is supposed to be like that!
If you are a photo nut like me there are a couple of extra things you need. Most importantly 5 zip lock bags. Each big enough to fit your entire camera body and lens into. Cut the bottom two corners out, take your camera strap off your camera and threat them, from the outside into the bag and reattach to your camera. You can now hang your camera around your neck and pull the bag down over the entire camera or rip open the zip, slide it up the straps and use it normally. It gets wet on the zodiacs and we watched so many amazing cameras completely die. Take about three lens cleaning cloths, punch a hole in them, attach 1m of string and then you can tie it into your pocket. You will be able to clean ocean spray and whale snot (i kid you not) off your lens on a moving zodiac in the wind. I took a 18-400 lens. Don't ever count on being able to change lens in the zodiacs. Buy a lanyard with a pulley and take a small waterproof point and shoot as well. You can keep in your top jacket pocket. There are times where it is so wet you cannot open your zip lock. The best shot of the whole trip came from my point and shoot as a whale fully breached metres from our zodiac. All the expensive DSLRs missed the shot. And keep this one with you at all times while moving around the ship. They say the best camera to take is the one you are holding in your hand right now.
Good point about cameras except that you are too conservative. You need 2 of everything just in case one camera - mine did. It isn't necessary to buy the 2nd camera as you can either rent one or borrow one from a friend but do bring 2 of them.
Excellent advice! Thank you.
Visited Antarctic Peninsula in January 2005 on M/V Polar Star, a Finnish built icebreaker of around 5,000 tons and catering for around 90 passengers. 18 days, including return flights from LHR and about 8 days on the peninsula itself for about £4,200 all in. Of course, it's gone up a bit since then! Drake Passage running at 8 - 10 metres but great fun! Usually 2 or 3 peninsula landings by Zodiac boat each day, very friendly and helpful crew and an adventure in every sense of the word. Many years ago I had a vivid dream where I was walking on Antarctica - on waking up I was determined to make it happen and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. Can't fault your advice - it's spot on!
For those who live in colder climates, just take clothing that you normally wear in winter. It can be colder in Chicago in January than in Antarctica.
I’ve lived through -50C (-58F) … I really want to experience Antarctica
Layers is the key, add or subtract to your comfort!
I was able to go in Feb. 2015 for about half the normal price by being in a group that contacted a travel company 18 months in advance. They were going to charter a small ship with a 120 passenger capacity, and by paying a $1K per person non-refundable deposit we locked in 6 3-berth cabins for 18 people at 2800 each. We were provided parkas to keep, and loaned boots. I found that wearing waterproof rubber gloves over knot inner gloves worked well. For other layers I had thermal underwear under a ski bib along with sweaters. We had Drake Lake on the way over. On the return the weather forecast was bad so we left a day early and went at the ship's maximum speed across. Still quite rough but only a single day to cross in bad weather. Since the docking space is reserved, we spent the last day slowly cruising the channel.
Which boat was this?
Years ago there was a cruise that left from Tasmania and came back to New Zealand that went right into the Ross Ice Shelf and visited McMurdo Base
No kids?
Expensive and limited number of ships every year plus restrictive regulations on large ships on disembarkation on the peninsula?
This is bloody perfect.
We, in our early 80's got a very good bargain. We went from Ft Lauderdale and back on HAL through the Panama, down the west coast of South America. To the peninsula for several incredible days. Then the Falklands, up the East Coast, the Amazon to Manaus. Then home to FTL on March 20, 2020 just before Covid shut down the airlines so we could fly home. The fare (not the total cost) was $20K total for my wife and I for a 77 day cruise. I know I'll never find another bargain like that. Full disclosure, we were in an inside cabin.
Very interesting video. I’m going on the silver cloud in February, doing 10 days in Antarctica then 21 days from Ushuaia to Cape Town. Can’t wait. It’s the trip of a lifetime.
Were you able to make it before Covid hit?
@@maizy1203 yes got home to Sydney 2 days before our borders closed. It was an incredible trip. The wildlife absolutely spectacular❤️
Did take a plane from cape town to ushuaia ? Or u have to go by europe? Sorry for the dumb question but its a trip i reall want to do.
@@itstherealguy9762 it was a 21 day cruise. Ushuaia to Cape Town
We are about 99% ready to call our travel agent for a January 2023 13 day trip on Viking. You are right about the cost; $16,400 USD PP!!!! Its a once in a life time trip.
looking at that too!
Going to Antarctica on Viking Octantis this November. Can’t wait.
Could you tell me please, how far in advance did you book it? Thanks! I just started doing my research.
@@mioangel1227 We booked in mid-June 2024. Viking was running a special for free airfare (about $3200 for two) and free spirts package. We picked 23 Nov which was a lower price due to it is early in the season and it cross over the Thanksgiving Holiday. We'll be celebrating Thanksgiving in Antarctica!
For those travelers dreading Drake's passage, an alternative is to fly to King George Island and start your expedition there. Avoid 2 days in Drakes's passage and gain those extra days on the ship. We just finished a 5 day on Ocean Nova over New Years and it was wonderful. Sunny and calm. Everyone was stripping off their gear as soon as we landed ashore. They put out a big tarp for our gear. Many of the guests were only in one thin layer. We were delayed flying off King George island for one day due to weather so we got an extra day on board.
Very cool. I’m bringing a group to Antarctica on the Ocean Nova starting this February 1st. We can’t wait! Hope we get the same weather as you.
I miss Antarctica. Spent about 2 years there.
Wow! Amazing. It is an incredible place
@@tipsfortravellers It was great, even spent a winter at the South Pole. And worked a high altitude field camp in the middle of nowhere. Now need to save up some money to take my daughter on a cruise when she older so she can see it. PS - love the videos
Great information Gary. Looks expensive bit worth it.
Great video's, very concise no-nonsense and to the point.
this has been my dream trip since i was a little kid. one day i’ll make it happen. i can’t wait 🌊
All good points. I would suggest one avoid jeans as they tend to be heavy and absorb moisture (your sweat).
Some good travel tips! I will be cruising to Antarctica March 2023. Thank you for posting.
Worked at McMurdo back in 2008. Was amazing.
We are going on the Quark Ultramarine in Feb 2022- nervous about the Drake - but excited for this trip. Thank you for your tips and words of wisdom!!!
It’s now February 2022 … I hope you have the best trip !! Save travels !!
Haha, I was like whoa, the bedroom looks very recognizable. I just went on Silver Cloud and it has the new paint job of white and silver. On top of that, it also embarks at Puerto Williams in Chile now.
TFS! I went to Puerto Williams and Puerto Toro! Amazing adventure!
Did it this on Seabourn Quest, 450 passenger ship, and landings happen. I understand no landing for ships with more than 500 passengers. Quest was the perfect Expedition Ship. Highly recommended
Excellent tips for Antarctica. Like you we were incredibly lucky with Drake Lake but the Scotia sea was extremely rough. I'm glad you emphasised ships carrying over 200 can't land, I'm not sure everyone is aware of that rule. We had 190 guests on Le Lyrial, which was perfect. We went for our 60th BD treat and hoping to go again before we reach 70🤞
Did you like Le Lyrial? I was supposed to be going to Antarctica again in November 2020 and it’s been moved to November 2021
@@tipsfortravellers We loved Le Lyrial, it was chartered by Abercrombie and Kent and the expedition team were amazing. All the cabins have balconies and as it's a French ship with French crew the food is amazing. We were thoroughly spoilt. We loved the ship so much we went on Le Boreal, the sister ship, on our Arctic cruise and it was faultless.
How wonderful to have Antarctica to look forward to in November.
Thank you for the information to get ready for a trip.
I've got a cabin on hold and will be putting down my deposit in the next week. Going March 2022. I decided to search for videos to learn more and so excited to find several from you. Thanks for the great info!
Your turn will be here soon fellow voyager hope you have an amazing adventure
Did you go, Gordon? How was it?
@@everwake2689 sadly, no. Because of the omicron surge, the cruise company cancelled all of the remaining cruises for the season. I rebooked for March 2023. I'm not a patient person, so to add an extra year on top of the 1.5 years I already waited is torture, but it'll be worth it!
@@gordongraham7 how far out can you book? I was thinking 2023 2024
@@andrewespinoza7108 I booked a year and a half out. I'm not sure how far they have the schedule. I would check with a travel agent or go to the cruise company's site (if you've picked one).
What a great video. Convinced me I won't be able to make this trip, but fun to watch anyway. Thanks.
Another great video. I would love to visit the Antarctica. The information you gave is both interesting and informative.
Thank you! Very helpful and lots I didn’t know before!
So on my bucket list. Hope I make it some day
This was cheaper than I thought, I already have all that gear living in Indianapolis (it's gotten down to -56°F with windchill), a lot of this stuff I already know from growing up camping and traveling with family and the Scouts. This just makes me want to go a bazillion times more.
Stunning photography and great recommendations !
Thanks for sharing this video. I truly enjoyed it.❤
Excellent video Gary. Thank-you.🙂
We are off to Antarctica with Sliver Seas in November can’t wait. We went to Svalbard with them a few weeks ago as practice. That was amazing hopefully Antarctica is just as exciting. Drakes Passage looks a challenge…
How was it????
@@jacksont9455 Do you mean the Artic or Antartica? If Antartica then it was just as good. Not so much wildlife but the views were fantastic. We saw humpbacked whales, several types of penguins in huge colonies, Leopard Seals and other seals. Many bird types like Albatrosses and Pectorals. The Drakes Passage was easy for me, but many were sea sick. That stopped us going to Cape Horn which was disappointing. I have to point out it a long trip there and back.
Thank you for your suggestions and tips. They are very much appreciated. 👍 📸 😜
Thank you for these information, the most important things you mention that there is no landing on land in big ships 👍🏻 .. i'm collecting info to make my trip to Antartica.
The ship with no more than 500 passengers, used Zodiacs for a once a day landing, but you can still land.
I get seasick just thinking about cruises- but I love these videos- great information and really interesting!
Rx scopolamine patches are great! Tiny, clear and stick behind your ear.
I can't wait hoping to do this in 2 years
Expedition ships usually provide boots.
Thank you for your tips Gary!!! Very helpful. Appreciate you doing these videos.
Glad you like them!
Good tips! This was super useful. Thank you!
Great video and loved your honesty. This is exactly what I would prefer to hear prior to major trips. Thank you
Thanks for the video! Very informative!
Excellent, practical advice.
Excellent and important information, as always. I agree and I hope others listen to you. Thanks, Gary!
Thanks for the opinion. I also think landing on Antarctica would be better than viewing it but I certainly wouldn’t belittle anyone’s experience or desire to do the scenic cruising. Let’s face it, it is walking on rocks and snow. It doesn’t feel different from doing that anywhere else. You do it so you can say you did it and check off your bucket list.
Hello Trips for Travellers,
Excellent tips in your "8 important watch-outs'" video.
I have booked to go in December 2022 and I am *so* excited.
Malcolm.
You are good 😃. Just went Dec. 1 - 19 and we flew to Buenos Aires and then the next day We got on a chartered flight down to Ushuaia. When we got to our cabins we had an inner puffy coat with an outer coat for wind and water which was blue instead of red and a waterproof bag thing with a steel water bottle, oh they provide muck boots that go up to your knees . This was our seventh continent and evidently it was for many other people on our ship the Vega company Swan Hellenic.
No. We live in the Northwest section of lower Michigan. My grandchildren are experienced travelers and have no problem with cold, snow and ice. I will be taking 16, 14 and 11 years old grandsons. They are well behaved young men. The younger one went on and Encore Alaska cruise. He was great. I wish you well. DRS / RVN Vet.
Very helpful Gary!!! Looking carefully for 2024.
Thank you for sharing. For those of us who are more “experienced “ (a/k/a older) than you, the lack of landing an on the continent, is not an issue. Arthritic knees are an issue if you’re considering hiking on uneven terrain.
Informative and well done video.
I’m going in two weeks! Ty for this ! Celebrating my 30th bday 🎉
Have fun!
Really nice video, precise and to the point 👍🏿
Thank you for the very informative video!
A once in a lifetime experience.
Very informative and good production values. Thanks.
Very comical to watch the gear section of this video as a Canadian; this is normal winter wear for us 😅
😂
Also not for those with limited mobility.
Thank you, Mr. Bembridge. My husband and I are booked on the Viking Octanis to Antarctica leaving in just 4 weeks, and your insights, particularly about the Drake Passage, are helpful.
How it was it?
Thanks for a great video
The brochures don’t do a good job explaining Ushuaia. It’s such a pretty town at the end of the world and there is a lot of stuff to see and do there. It’s worth a couple of days. The brochures also don’t do a good job in sending people to Iguazu. That’s such an amazing place and everyone should see it
I agree. I was really amazed by Ushuaia and had not expected that at all...
We flew back to Buenos Aires from Ushuaia and then directly to Iguazu just in time for New Year's. The hardest part was packing...Iguazu was balmy compared with Antarctica...needed summer clothes to get to the falls. Still, it was well worth the extra side trip.
As much as you spoke about many great and helpful facts.
I do feel you dismissed the reality for many people..... if people could pay £££££ then they would. However if your only able to spend £££, even if its for a cruise sailing visit, then I'm sure more people would visit.
Being able to sail- by for a few days on a big ship.... is still better than not seeing it at all in my opinion.
Great point !
I've booked for a cruise by in January 2024, not too concerned I won't land, visited Greenland for 3 months and Svalbard for 18 days. I agree with your comments.
Fair comment, I would rather see it the flesh than not see it at all.
Great feedback!
This is my goal before I am 45. Im set on wanting to go on a research ship so badly! Could you cover the different companies and their differences, please?
You ain't getting on board a research ship unless you're a scientist.. You'll have to cruise there as a tourist..Get ready to shit some Dollar bills..Like roughly 12,000 of them
No thanks
May you please provide a short note about the temperatures during your stay at Antarctica?
Update: We're currently (February 8-18th, 2020) there, and up to now, the temperature never was lower than minus 5 degrees Celsius.
Very interesting video and you also seem to be a very nice person. I'll call you "Dad" as from now on.
As always brilliant advice
I am related to Earnest Shackleton one of the first explorer !!
great video,thank you
Have friends who twice had too close encounters in zodiacs with Leopard Seal...Beyond scary
i love your videos!
Fab to hear! Thanks :-)
Leaving in 2 weeks!!!!!
Exciting!!! Have a great time!!!
Excellent advice
Thanks for the informative video. One thing you didn’t address is whether it is suitable for people with some mobility issues and what are the physical fitness requirements for this trip. Do you need to have zero physical issues? Can you manage if you have knee or hip problems for example? That sort of thing is very interesting to me.
Don't forget your sunscreen for exposed skin and chapstick for your lips. Don't wear perfume or cologne when going ashore. Also, I'd recommend not taking any of your most treasured jewelry with you on your trip. Plus, ladies, don't bother with your makeup on the excursions. You're covered in layers. Go without the face paint from one lady to another. The only painting your face needs is sunscreen and chapstick for those exposed areas. Stay safe. Make sure you know how to use all of the survival gear. Make sure your whistle works (before you leave the main ship) even if the crew finds it annoying.
Gr8 tips..thnx
great info. really want to go
Sorry. Wrong on two accounts. First, our Celebrity Cruise we just booked for January costs $2,000 per person with window berth plus airfare, so about $3,500 each total from Seattle to Buenos Aires. Second, Norwegian Cruises has the same sized ship as Celebrity and do allow you to land on Antarctic ports. But they charge about double for the privilege. So size in this case doesn’t matter to hike on the Antarctic Continent. We opted for the cheaper cruise to fit our budget.
You need to double check as ships with over 500 guests are only allowed to sail around Antarctica and no landings are permitted. I think it is unlikely / impossible either Celebrity or Norwegian will be landing guests. Neither carry the RIB boats either to land guests. www.antarctica21.com/journal/are-small-ships-better-in-antarctica/
Same for me, just happy to go somewhere different 😊.
I didn't dress that warm working outdoors in -40 weather.
Another reason for the cruise line to charge extra ?
Very helpful information. I’m thrilled to hear that human numbers are limited at any given point. This is our last unspoiled continent. For the love of God, let’s not mess another one up!
😢😢😢😢😢
As much as I would love to go, I will wait until climate change makes it a beach destination! Swimming with the penguins would be so much fun. 😂😂😂😂😂
I'd love that, too! 😂
You sound very South African? Is it possible? My family and I are getting ready to venture to Antarctica late in 2022. We are taking our own small ship, a 43mt sea rescue vessel. Your information would be so very helpful for our planning. Brian
How was it?
I'm going on one of those cruises that you don't get off, so no need for fancy clothes, t-shirt and shorts enough.
Thank you.
Thanks for this video. Now I’m certain that this cruise is not for me.
Hi Gary....thanks for the advice.....cheers!
hey there i just wanna say that I'm a bit worried about the exam about P&IDs
Another tip from a veteran of Antarctica, do not get downwind of a penguin colony. It really, really smells.
Same as the dogs In Greenland but no choice when on sled.
I live in Wisconsin in few months it will be like Antarctica here.
😂
Booked for Feb 2026
Do you think I have time to book for December 2024? Thanks.
We are senior citizens. We are planning to visit. We are afraid of drake sheck. Please guide us what to do should we plan or cancel.
Thanks.
We will appriciate to know name of Cruise ship and its operator you traveled.
Best Regards
It is hit and miss, so it can be calm. I have been twice now and it has been that mix. But in my view, and even people who were prone to seasickness and found it a bit challenging, agreed too was worth it all once there. My advice is to book a cabin if you can midship and low and take with you medication or talk to your doctor about being prescribed the behind ear patches so you have something available if you do feel seasick, but be ready for the magnificence once there. I have been on Silversea and Ponant. I am going back later this year, agin on Silversea.
What is your thoughts about 14 Night Antarctica & South America, Aboard: Norwegian Star
I've booked for this January😅.
Crossing the Drake strait is quite of an experience by itself. It's not a trip recommended for the ones having sea sickness.
that's my concern....which ship handles this better, and what time of the year is best?
What ship/cruise company did you use where you had landings? Thank you.