5 Things to Know Before Cruising to Antarctica

There’s nowhere on Earth quite like Antarctica. It’s vast, silent and impossibly remote, the kind of place that makes you stop, look around, and wonder how it’s even real. Despite being larger than the United States and covering nearly 10% of the planet’s surface, there are no cities, no shops, and no permanent population.

What it does have is wildlife in abundance, windswept landscapes that stretch to the horizon, and a scattering of research stations quietly going about their work. It feels untouched, almost frozen in time, and that’s all part of the appeal.

A Destination Like No Other

For many travellers, cruising to Antarctica feels like stepping onto another planet. The ice formations are surreal, the wildlife encounters unforgettable, and the sense of stillness is unlike anything else I’ve ever experienced. It leaves a lasting impression, and it’s not uncommon to hear guests describe it as life-changing.

Yet, despite all this, only around 100,000 tourists visit each year. Compared with the likes of the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, that’s a tiny number. The exclusivity is part of what makes it so special, but it also means that preparing properly is key to making the most of your journey.

Our very own Voyage Consultant, Ashley, has sailed to Antarctica twice with Swan Hellenic Cruises. His first expedition was in December 2022, departing from Ushuaia and exploring both Antarctica and South Georgia. He returned again in March 2024, this time sailing from Ushuaia to Cape Town, via Antarctica, South Georgia, and the rarely visited Tristan da Cunha.

As for his bucket list? Sailing from New Zealand or Tasmania to explore Macquarie Island and McMurdo Sound is high on the list, as is the chance to visit the elusive Emperor penguin colony at Snow Hill.

And his favourite place on Earth? That honour goes to South Georgia - though he affectionately describes Macquarie Island as “an Aussie South Georgia.”

So, if you’re thinking about making the journey, here are Ashley’s top five tips to help you prepare.

1. Do your Research

Before setting off on your Antarctica cruise, take some time to learn about the wildlife you might see. Knowing the difference between a gentoo penguin and a chinstrap, or being able to identify a Weddell seal, makes each encounter more meaningful.

Ashley recommends bringing a simple wildlife checklist. Include the species you're hoping to spot and leave room for surprises. It’s a small step, but it makes every sighting feel like a real discovery.

Gentoo Penguin - Photo taken by Ashley Lowndes

2. The Best Camera is the One You Have

Whether you're snapping photos on your phone or using a professional DSLR, the best camera is the one you’ll actually carry. If it’s too bulky or complicated, it might end up staying in your cabin.

Ashley’s advice? Don’t worry about having the latest gear. Just bring what you’re comfortable using. If you’re keen on photography, pack a long telephoto lens for wildlife and a wide-angle lens for capturing Antarctica’s dramatic landscapes.

King Penguin in South Georgia - Photo taken by Ashley Lowndes

3. Choose the Right Antarctic Expedition for You

Not all Antarctica cruises are the same. Some offer adventurous activities like kayaking, hiking, or even diving beneath the ice, while others take a more relaxed approach with scenic cruising and expert-led lectures.

One of the most important things to consider when choosing your expedition is ship size. Ships carrying more than 500 passengers aren't permitted to make landings in Antarctica at all. Those with 201 to 500 passengers can usually land once per day, sometimes paired with a Zodiac cruise if weather allows. Ships carrying 200 guests or fewer offer the most flexibility, often making multiple landings each day. However, only 100 people can be on land at once, so you’ll usually go ashore in small, scheduled groups.

If you're unsure about sailing across the Drake Passage, look for itineraries that include a flight. This lets you skip the roughest stretch of water and get straight to the ice.

Ashley has done both styles and says choosing the right expedition is key to making the most of your trip.

Gentoo Pair - Photo taken by Ashley Lowndes

4. Remember to Enjoy the Moment

It’s easy to get caught up trying to capture every second on camera. But some of Ashley’s most vivid memories came from simply standing still and taking it all in.

Breathe in the fresh Antarctic air. Listen to the sound of gentoo penguins gathering pebbles or the distant call of a humpback whale. Let the silence surround you.

Photos are important, but nothing replaces the feeling of truly being present in the moment.

Gentoo Penguin - Photo taken by Ashley Lowndes

5. Don't Miss the Lectures!

Your expedition guides aren’t just experts, they’re passionate storytellers. Each day, they’ll host lectures covering everything from Antarctic wildlife and geology to personal stories of exploring the polar regions.

Ashley says the lectures helped him see the landscape through new eyes. Learning about what you’re seeing as you sail through it adds so much more depth to the journey.

If you can, attend as many as possible. They’ll deepen your understanding and leave you with a greater appreciation of the White Continent.

Weddel Seal - Photo taken by Ashley Lowndes

Are you Ready to Start Your Own Antarctica Adventure?

If you're ready to start planning your Antarctica voyage or simply want some expert advice, feel free to email Ashley directly or submit an online enquiry with details of your preferred itinerary.