How to Prepare for an Antarctic Cruise

You’ve booked the Antarctic expedition cruise of a lifetime, your international flights are locked in, and you can’t stop dreaming of penguins and icebergs. But what’s next? We know there’s nothing more exciting than the anticipation of your Antarctica cruise, but make the most of this time by ensuring you’re prepared and ready to go for your adventure.

To help you get started, here’s how to prepare for an Antarctic cruise, including a few insider tips that you may not have considered!

Arranging Antarctic travel insurance is essential

Booking comprehensive travel insurance is one of the most important ways to prepare for your Antarctic cruise. This is required by Chimu Adventures and all other major Antarctic operators to ensure you stay safe as you travel. However, it’s also essential for your peace of mind, as insurance coverage means that you won’t be out of pocket in case of any sickness, illness, lost luggage, or unexpected hotel or flight issues in South America or Antarctica. 

Due to Antarctica’s remote location and the extremely high costs associated with medical evacuation from the continent, Chimu requires guests to obtain travel insurance with a minimum coverage of $250,000 USD. However, most travellers find it helpful to also have coverage that includes flight cancellations, sickness, and personal belongings (including electronics and cameras).

How to book your Antarctic travel insurance 

If you’ve never arranged travel insurance before, don’t worry! While it can seem intimidating, the process is very straightforward, and your Destination Specialist can give you an insurance quote when you book your Antarctic cruise. They’ll ask you a series of questions, such as your date of birth, any pre-existing medical conditions, and the types of activities you plan to do on your trip, and can then quote accordingly.

However, there are also lots of helpful travel insurance comparison websites that you can use to help find the right policy.

Book your optional Antarctic activities ahead of time

A small ship Antarctica cruise is an immersive journey like no other, with expedition ships offering twice daily excursions off the ship (weather permitting). You may enjoy an exhilarating zodiac cruise, a naturalist-led hike, or a visit to a historic hut or research station at one of the many Antarctic Peninsula landing sites. 

In addition, many guests are eager to add on optional activities, with many ships offering special programs for sea kayaking, photography, or one-off opportunities to try kayaking or even Antarctic ice camping.

For safety and to ensure travellers have the best possible experience, each voyage has a capped number of places for activities like kayaking and camping. These often sell out months in advance. If these activities are important to you, please lock in your place at the time of booking, so that you don’t miss out.

Any remaining spaces or cancellations will be allocated via an onboard lottery, but this isn’t always the case, as popular cruises sailing often sell out well before leaving port.

Be prepared for the Drake Passage

The thrill of crossing the Drake Passage is something many cruise passengers look forward to—or dread. This famous sea crossing can be unpredictable, offering smooth waters, rough seas, or anything in between.

In reality, most Antarctic vessels are modern and purpose-built with stabilisers and newer technologies, to minimise any disruption as you cruise. Most guests are able to relax during the Drake crossing, using it as an opportunity to attend onboard lectures, meet fellow travellers, or even enjoy a good book and catch up on sleep. 

Feel free to pack your Kindle, podcasts, or even a deck of cards that you may want to play as you sail—there’s always someone else up for a chat and a game!

If you’re worried about seasickness, plan in advance by talking to your doctor before you travel. They can suggest the best over-the-counter remedies or prescription medication that can help you reduce your risk. Anti-nausea medication works best if you take it before you need it, so your crew on board will let you know a few hours before you head into the Drake Passage.

Our best packing tip for Antarctica: Layers are key, but no need to overpack

If you’re wondering how to pack for Antarctica, you’re not alone! 

We always recommend guests dress in layers, so you can add on or remove items of clothing as needed. Most expedition vessels will provide tall waterproof boots (known as muck boots) and an exterior jacket to wear, but you’ll want to bring key items like woollen base layers, warm socks, waterproof outer trousers, and fleece or woollen jumpers.

Plus, standard cold-weather gear like a warm beanie, waterproof gloves, and a neck warmer (gaiter) will keep you warm, no matter what the weather brings.

If you have questions about packing, feel free to reach out. Almost all of the Chimu team have travelled to Antarctica and are glad to advise based on their own experience.

You may want to learn more about the history of Antarctica before you go

As you cruise through Antarctica, you may find yourself following in the footsteps of famed explorers who came before you. Sometimes, learning more about a destination can enhance your visit, as you’ll have a better understanding of the place’s history and significance.

If you’re in search of Antarctic inspiration, here are a few books you may want to read before your trip.

• Endurance, Alfred Lansing: A fascinating insight into the resilience of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic journey in 1915, resulting in his ship being locked in ice.
• Antarctica: A History in 100 Objects, Dr Jean De Pomereu: A fun and insightful read, this book tells the story of Antarctica’s past through the lens of 100 items in museum collections.
• Scott of the Antarctic, David Crane: A beautiful retelling of Captain Robert Falcon Scott's race to the South Pole and the Heroic Age of Antarctic exploration.

Think about your Antarctic photography strategy

As a photography destination, it’s easy to see the allure of Antarctica. Completely unique wildlife, dramatic glaciers and landscapes, and constantly changing light mean this spectacular location is unlike anywhere else.

You can take gorgeous photos in Antarctica with any device, from your iPhone to a state-of-the-art mirrorless camera. However, if photography or videography is important to you, spend some time in advance thinking about your gear, what to bring, and what you’ll need.

Extra SD cards are a must, and many photographers prefer to work with both a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto zoom lens (100-400mm or 200-500mm) for wildlife close-ups. To avoid switching lenses while you’re outdoors and exposed to the elements, you may want to bring along two camera bodies, swapping between them as needed.

If you’re hoping to supplement your gear before your trip, consider lens rental. There are many camera and lens rental companies that allow you to rent by the day, week, or month, providing access to professional-quality equipment for a fraction of the cost of purchasing outright.

Don't forget sunscreen

Antarctica may not be a day at the beach, but the sun is just as intense—if not more so. Sun exposure on the continent is stronger than you may expect. Snow reflection can also increase the risk of sunburn.

Protect yourself by packing SPF 50, plus lip balm with SPF and sunglasses. That way, you can safely enjoy your Antarctic excursions.

If you’re ready to book your Antarctic cruise, or have questions about your existing booking, the team at Chimu Adventures is here to help! Contact us anytime and we can’t wait to help you make the most of your Antarctic expedition cruise.