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.
To newcomers, the continent still appears much the same as it did when the first explorers reached the south pole a relatively few years ago. There are established research outposts and installations, but no places for tourists to shop for souvenirs. The people who come here are definitely not looking for warm, sandy beaches, but some of the oldest ice on earth.
Summer in the Southern Hemisphere is the only practical time to see this area, November through March. Visiting in winter is impossible due to extensive sea ice, raging storms, and months of near-darkness. Temperatures during summer are bearable but not balmy, ranging from the lower twenties to high-forties Fahrenheit. The sun stays bright most of the night.
The most common point of departure by ship is from Ushuaia, Argentina. Getting to this small city will require more than one stop, and once there, Antarctica is still 600 miles away. There are numerous cruise ships plying that route, but they do not really resemble the floating cities that grace warmer waters. These vessels have to be specially ice-hardened, and generally carry no more than 200 people.
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.
While there are no quaint villages, visitors are rewarded by seeing the sites of famed explorations, research facilities, enormous colonies of various penguin species, and most importantly, the forbidding Antarctic landscape. Unlike the northern Arctic Ocean, this is a vast area of land punctuated by rugged, ice-buried mountain ranges, volcanoes, and dry interior valleys. Some stops include kayaking or climbing, weather permitting.
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.
Because of its geographic isolation, a cruise to this part of the world can be costlier than other vacation packages. Consult with your local travel planner to find which options best suit your interests within a particular budget. A typical voyage lasts anywhere from 10 to 21 days, and seeing this last polar wilderness up close is an experience most people treasure for the rest of their lives.
To newcomers, the continent still appears much the same as it did when the first explorers reached the south pole a relatively few years ago. There are established research outposts and installations, but no places for tourists to shop for souvenirs. The people who come here are definitely not looking for warm, sandy beaches, but some of the oldest ice on earth.
Summer in the Southern Hemisphere is the only practical time to see this area, November through March. Visiting in winter is impossible due to extensive sea ice, raging storms, and months of near-darkness. Temperatures during summer are bearable but not balmy, ranging from the lower twenties to high-forties Fahrenheit. The sun stays bright most of the night.
The most common point of departure by ship is from Ushuaia, Argentina. Getting to this small city will require more than one stop, and once there, Antarctica is still 600 miles away. There are numerous cruise ships plying that route, but they do not really resemble the floating cities that grace warmer waters. These vessels have to be specially ice-hardened, and generally carry no more than 200 people.
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.
While there are no quaint villages, visitors are rewarded by seeing the sites of famed explorations, research facilities, enormous colonies of various penguin species, and most importantly, the forbidding Antarctic landscape. Unlike the northern Arctic Ocean, this is a vast area of land punctuated by rugged, ice-buried mountain ranges, volcanoes, and dry interior valleys. Some stops include kayaking or climbing, weather permitting.
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.
Because of its geographic isolation, a cruise to this part of the world can be costlier than other vacation packages. Consult with your local travel planner to find which options best suit your interests within a particular budget. A typical voyage lasts anywhere from 10 to 21 days, and seeing this last polar wilderness up close is an experience most people treasure for the rest of their lives.
About the Author:
You can visit www.wildlifeadventures.com for more helpful information about Antarctica Cruise Deals Open The Door To Travel Adventure.
No comments:
Post a Comment