It’s safe to say there are an abundance of good reasons why travellers are picking an Antarctic cruise over sunnier destinations. Perhaps you are a photographer wishing to document some of the most beautiful and rarest wildlife on the globe, or one of your lifelong ambitions is to learn more about the history and culture of the north.
One thing that is for certain is there’s been a huge growth in the popularity of Antarctic cruising since 2019. In fact, there was a 51% increase in those searching for Antarctic cruising in 2022 compared to 2019, according to the information found by Audley Travels Antarctic cruise experts. With that in mind, here are some of the reasons why cruising the Antarctic is becoming a trip so many of us want to experience.
Wide Range of Activities
If there is one thing that attracts travellers to Antarctic cruises more than anything else, it’s the wide range of activities you can take part in. Whether you want to go snow-shoeing, kayaking, or even overnight camping, there are unique attractions like spending time with penguins in their natural habitat that have proven very popular with travellers.
Rich, Diverse History
The Antarctic is bursting with historical sites. The region is full of abandoned whaling stations, trapping and hunting camps, and expedition base camps. Those who have visited museums and enjoyed reading about the Antarctic from afar are sure to benefit from joining an Antarctic cruise, visiting the continent in person, and soaking up the rich, diverse history of the continent. This is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for travellers.
Antarctic Wildlife
Arguably the most enticing reason of all to go on an Antarctic cruise is getting to witness the wildlife in person. Many people’s fascination with penguins, who are synonymous with the Antarctic is thanks to watching the BBC series Frozen Planet. Narrated by the legend Sir David Attenborough, viewers learn more about the fascinating wildlife on the continent, making them eager to see them in person with their very own eyes.
Breath Taking Scenery
Anyone interested in taking an Antarctic cruise are best to make sure they bring their camera along. This is because the continent is known for its beautiful scenery. If you hop on board an Antarctic expedition cruise, the ships have large windows which provide panoramic views of the icebergs and icy waters. Greenland in particular is one of the most spectacular places on earth. Far from just being covered in ice and snow, this dramatic polar region has diverse landscapes that are each as awe-inspiring as the next.
Whether it’s seeing the Antarctic wildlife up close, getting to experience panoramic views like no other or taking part in activities that nowhere else on the planet can offer, it’s clear to see why so many travellers are choosing to book an Antarctic cruise this year and beyond.
