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Staying Connected & Informed

Staying Connected & Informed

Onboard Communication

Local SIM cards do not work on the continent itself. Mobile service is available only near embarkation ports.

Internet Access

  • Satellite internet access on most ships.
  • Service can be slow, expensive, and intermittent.
  • Purchase a local SIM card for your transit country. Airalo eSIMs or Solis Wi-Fi devices are alternative solutions for your pre/post-cruise travel.

Onshore Services

Port Lockroy offers a special postal service. Mail may take an extended period to reach its destination.

Language Aids

  • Expedition staff are typically multilingual.
  • Basic Spanish phrases are helpful in Argentina/Chile. Consider a language tool like Rosetta Stone.
  • Send postcards from Port Lockroy.

Polar Facts

Antarctic Wildlife

  • Pristine, untouched landscapes.
  • Diverse penguin colonies.
  • Rich marine life.
  • IAATO guidelines for visitation.

Geographical Extremes

  • Vast ice sheets.
  • Powerful winds.
  • Extreme cold.
  • Midnight sun in summer.

Travel Insight:

Embrace digital detox in Antarctica. Enjoy the environment without constant notifications.

Daily Operations & Essential Services

Life on an Antarctic expedition ship follows an unique rhythm tailored to the environment.

Ship Schedules

The ship operates continuously. Daily schedules for landings and lectures adjust to weather, ice, and wildlife conditions.

Flexibility is Standard

Expect daily briefings outlining the next day's activities. This adaptability optimizes the experience.

Financial Preparedness

Banking services and ATMs are only found in embarkation ports. All financial needs should be handled prior to boarding.

Currency Considerations

Carry local currency for your pre/post-cruise stay. A small amount of USD or credit cards can be useful for onboard purchases.

Before Boarding

  • Exchange currency in your gateway city.
  • Inform your bank of international travel.
  • Budget for tips and incidentals.

Airport & Travel Support

Enhance your transit experience and address potential travel disruptions.

Travel Benefits

  • Access airport lounges globally with Priority Pass.
  • Seek compensation for flight delays or cancellations with Compensair.
  • Claim eligible funds and assistance with denied boarding.

Seasonal Operations

Antarctic Tourism Season

  • The season runs from November to March.
  • Outside these months, the continent is largely inaccessible for tourism.
  • Within the season, operations are generally full swing.

Holiday Impact

  • Public holidays in your embarkation country might affect banking hours.
  • Service availability could be limited on major holidays.
  • Check local holiday calendars if your trip coincides with any.

Important Note:

The Antarctic tourism season is November to March. Operations cease outside these months.

Respectful Conduct & Norms

Adherence to guidelines safeguards a journey that is both safe and responsible.

Wildlife Respect

Maintain strict distances from all animals. Never feed, touch, or disturb wildlife. Allow animals to move freely.

Observation Guidelines

  • No touching of animals.
  • Photograph responsibly, without disturbance.
  • Stay on designated paths during landings.

Environmental Care

The continent operates on a 'leave no trace' policy. All waste must leave the continent. No items may be removed.

Cleanliness Protocol

  • No littering, ever.
  • Prevent foreign species introduction by cleaning gear.
  • Respect Antarctica's status as a continent for peace and science.

Important Restrictions

Strict adherence to rules protects the fragile Antarctic environment.

Prohibited Actions

  • Disturbing wildlife.
  • Deviating from marked paths.
  • Leaving any waste behind.

Safety Alerts

Prioritizing safety measures for both travelers and the ecosystem.

Safety Reminders

  • Do not approach researchers without permission.
  • No direct interaction with animals.
  • No feeding wildlife.

Traveler Comfort & Care

Onboard Amenities

  • Some ships have wellness amenities like saunas.
  • Opportunities for relaxation.
  • Educational lectures and programs.

Inclusivity

  • Expedition ships are generally welcoming.
  • Most operators follow non-discriminatory policies.
  • Privacy for all passengers.

Antarctic Treaty Information

Treaty Principles

  • Antarctica for peace and science.
  • Scientific research focus.
  • No military activity allowed.

Operator Adherence

  • All tour operators uphold Treaty principles.
  • Ensuring responsible conduct for all visitors.
  • International cooperation for the continent.

Travel Insight:

Your expedition guides provide all specific guidelines. Follow their instructions closely.

Traveler Accessibility

Accessibility in Antarctica presents unique challenges due to the natural environment.

Mobility Challenges

There is no specialized infrastructure for mobility on the continent itself. Terrain is often uneven, snowy, or rocky.

Transportation Adaptations

  • Zodiac transfers require stepping in/out on moving surfaces.
  • Shore landings involve walking on natural, unpaved ground.
  • Ship accessibility varies; some modern vessels feature elevators.

Support for Diverse Needs

Travelers with visual or hearing impairments should discuss needs with operators prior to booking. Expedition staff assist passengers.

Seeking Information

  • Contact your expedition operator for specific ship and landing site accessibility.
  • Some polar travel specialists can advise travelers with specific needs.
  • Full participation in all shore activities is not always guaranteed for all mobility limitations.

Antarctic Stats

Ice Sheet Volume~27 million km³
Average Elevation~2,500m
Ozone Hole PeakSeptember
Avg. Coastal Temp0 to 5 °C
Number of Research Stations~70 (seasonal/year-round)
Major FaunaPenguins, seals, whales

Important Advisory:

Speak directly with your chosen expedition operator regarding any specific accessibility needs before your voyage.