Howard’s Top 5 Tips for Antarctic First-Timers

First time travelling to Antarctica? Here's Howard's top 5 tips to make the most of your expedition.

About Howard Whelan

Howard’s lifelong passion for adventure, writing and filmmaking has taken him to many of the planet’s wildest places.

Howard Whelan is a polar expedition treasure. He was part of the team that made the first Australian ascent of Mount Everest. He has visited both the east and west sides of Antarctica extensively and was a critical part of the production of the award-winning film, Happy Feet.

1. Never miss a landing

While our ships are small enough to manoeuvre through the icy waters, sometimes you just want to get up close and personal with some of the sights, which is why we can take you one step further with our included landings.

You’ll have the chance to visit historic huts used by the explorers of old, scientific research bases or bays thriving with wildlife, all you have to do is hold tight and feel the exhilaration of the fresh air as we cruise across the water on a Zodiac. We aim for two shore excursions per day (weather permitting) and encourage you to take up each opportunity!

2. Trust your guides

Our highly acclaimed expedition specialists are some of the best in the business. Many are recognised world leaders in their fields, and they enthusiastically share their knowledge to ensure that each moment you spend with us is interesting and educational. With small groups and the highest ratio of expedition team to passengers (1:7) you are in safe hands with our expert guides. Meet the expedition team

3. Try something new

With the support of our experienced expedition team, feel secure to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Experience a true sense of exploration with our huge range of included and optional activities.

Zodiac cruise into a craggy cove to take a closer look at rockhopper penguins scaling a cliff, or take a guided hike across the ice to take that perfect shot, or take the the leap on an icy polar plunge. You can also choose from a large selection of optional activities to make the most of your adventure.

4. Remember to put your camera down

Although we are all tempted to photograph each step of the journey, don’t forget to put the camera from time-to-time. Use your senses to record what you hear, see, smell and experience – that will stay with you forever, longer than some photos you take.

It can be relaxing to disconnect while you are onboard, the perfect excuse to be out of reach and may give you more genuine stories when you get home.

5. Connect and care

Connect and care for the place and the creatures around you and appreciate what a privilege it is to be in this place. With its cold climate and harsh conditions, Antarctica has given rise to some fascinating and awe-inspiring wildlife. With onboard Antarctic wildlife experts and frequent excursions, our trips put an emphasis on learning all about the creatures that inhabit this incredible region.

Celebrating Antarctic 2022 Season

We are thrilled to be celebrating a 100% success rate for our first return season to Antarctica in almost two years.

From January to April, we had hundreds of adventurous expeditioners from around the globe join us across eight voyages. A combination of our strengthened health & safety measures, our experienced Expedition Team and the fantastic cooperation of our passengers ensured that this season was a resounding success.