Antarctica is the only continent on Earth that has no permanent human population. The only way for tourists to get there is by sea, and there are no commercial airport facilities. The winds that howl from the interior help power world ocean currents, and the climate is definitely not human-friendly. In spite of these travel challenges, increasing numbers of people are taking advantage of Antarctica cruise deals in order to arrive safely and comfortably.
In the approximate century since the continent was first explored, few visible changes have occurred. The biggest difference is the existence of scientific research outposts and weather stations, but that is the current extent of civilization. There are no tourist traps, and the people who choose to come here are definitely not searching for sandy tropical beaches or coral reefs.
Summer in the Southern Hemisphere is the only practical time to visit, lasting from November into March. Travel during the winter is practically impossible due to expanded sea ice, unending storm activity, and weeks of polar darkness. Temperatures during the summer are more livable, ranging from the lower twenties to the mid-forties Fahrenheit. The sun, however, stays up nearly all night.
Many cruises depart from the southern Argentina city of Ushuaia, but there are few direct flights there. Although it is on the most southern point in South America, the town is still six hundred miles from Antarctica. Numerous ships sail this particular route, but they are not what most people consider to be typical cruise vessels, having a passenger capacity of less than 200 within ice-hardened hulls.
One of the primary attractions for visitors is the natural wildlife, including the famous penguins of all varieties and sizes, whales, seals and many winged birds. Although travel at sea is comfortable, travelers will not encounter the Vegas-style revues or crowded night clubs found on some ships. The rough seas common to this region have final control of any scheduled activities, and the Drake Passage is rarely glassy.
Upon reaching the continent, visitors are treated to vast penguin colonies, famed research stations, sites of historic exploration, and of course, the forbidding and immense landscape. Unlike the northern pole, this is no region of sea ice, but a rugged continent with mountain ranges and dry valleys. Some cruises offer kayak trips or local climbing, but conditions may be too extreme to venture outside for extended periods.
Landings are often accomplished using rubber vessels, giving passengers a close look at local sea life and nearby icebergs. Many of those who come here do so for both personal and scientific reasons, and are usually happy to share that enthusiasm and excitement with other passengers. Getting there takes some time, and on-board Antarctic experts present lectures and lead discussions.
Cruising to this remote region is somewhat costlier than taking more geographically convenient voyages, but well worth the added expense. It makes good sense to consult with a travel planner in order to discover the right excursion for the best price. Most cruises last from ten to twenty-one days, providing a one-of-a-kind experience and creating memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.
In the approximate century since the continent was first explored, few visible changes have occurred. The biggest difference is the existence of scientific research outposts and weather stations, but that is the current extent of civilization. There are no tourist traps, and the people who choose to come here are definitely not searching for sandy tropical beaches or coral reefs.
Summer in the Southern Hemisphere is the only practical time to visit, lasting from November into March. Travel during the winter is practically impossible due to expanded sea ice, unending storm activity, and weeks of polar darkness. Temperatures during the summer are more livable, ranging from the lower twenties to the mid-forties Fahrenheit. The sun, however, stays up nearly all night.
Many cruises depart from the southern Argentina city of Ushuaia, but there are few direct flights there. Although it is on the most southern point in South America, the town is still six hundred miles from Antarctica. Numerous ships sail this particular route, but they are not what most people consider to be typical cruise vessels, having a passenger capacity of less than 200 within ice-hardened hulls.
One of the primary attractions for visitors is the natural wildlife, including the famous penguins of all varieties and sizes, whales, seals and many winged birds. Although travel at sea is comfortable, travelers will not encounter the Vegas-style revues or crowded night clubs found on some ships. The rough seas common to this region have final control of any scheduled activities, and the Drake Passage is rarely glassy.
Upon reaching the continent, visitors are treated to vast penguin colonies, famed research stations, sites of historic exploration, and of course, the forbidding and immense landscape. Unlike the northern pole, this is no region of sea ice, but a rugged continent with mountain ranges and dry valleys. Some cruises offer kayak trips or local climbing, but conditions may be too extreme to venture outside for extended periods.
Landings are often accomplished using rubber vessels, giving passengers a close look at local sea life and nearby icebergs. Many of those who come here do so for both personal and scientific reasons, and are usually happy to share that enthusiasm and excitement with other passengers. Getting there takes some time, and on-board Antarctic experts present lectures and lead discussions.
Cruising to this remote region is somewhat costlier than taking more geographically convenient voyages, but well worth the added expense. It makes good sense to consult with a travel planner in order to discover the right excursion for the best price. Most cruises last from ten to twenty-one days, providing a one-of-a-kind experience and creating memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.
About the Author:
When you are looking for information about Antarctica cruise deals, pay a visit to the web pages here today. You can see details at http://www.wildlifeadventures.com now.