I remember my first travels to Antarctica. Waves raged against the hull of the ship as we pushed south. With each passing hour, we grew closer to our destination and to each other. An incredible sense of community was formed. The magnitude of the adventure brought everyone together. We felt like family.
As we journeyed south, following the path carved out by many great explorers before us, the inimitable anticipation of adventure reverberated around the ship. For 36 hours, we battled the mighty Drake Passage, where the convergence of the Pacific, Atlantic and Southern Oceans creates some of the roughest seas in the world.
The crossing of the Drake Passage was an experience in itself — a literal rite of passage, so to speak. As you must travel through the desert to find the oasis and endure the rain to see the rainbow, you must travel through the Drake Passage to reach the last pristine wilderness on earth. We made it through and located our wondrous destination. We had reached Antarctica.
Antarctica is the ultimate once-in-a-lifetime destination. This adventure stands alone. It is truly an unforgettable experience for adults and kids alike. Nowhere on earth can you experience such an untouched, natural landscape. Antarctica is strikingly beautiful; perhaps the most beautiful place on earth.
As the ship drew closer to the continent, everyone was on the lookout for the first glimpse of land. Eyes scanned the horizon. Then as if by magic, blueish-white icebergs suddenly appeared. As we sailed closer to the continent, more icebergs floated past. Some carried incredible mass, bringing into question the very idea of them floating. Finally, our eyes gazed upon land. We cruised alongside Antarctica, taking in the splendid vistas. The calmness was extraordinary. Picturesque peaks jutted out of snow-covered stretches of land. Icebergs dotted the now calm water. The incredible size of the continent became evident, as large cliffs dwarfed the ship.
For the next several days, we traveled around the famed Antarctic Peninsula. We took in the natural wonders around us, and, via Zodiac boat, observed the massive icebergs and glaciers up close. As we zipped around in our inflatable boats, wildlife encounters became increasingly common. The environment teems with animals of all types, including large colonies of penguins that coexist with several different types of seals. (A crowd favorite, these penguin colonies entertain both the seasoned traveler and the impressionable child.) To top it off, whales commonly breach the water in the truest displays of power and grace.
Although not truly explored until the late 1800s, Antarctica offers a rich history. This last great wilderness was the chosen destination of many explorers. In addition to a history of exploration, the whaling industry gained a foothold here. Following in the footsteps of some of history’s greatest explorers, such as Ernest Shackleton, Roald Amundsen and Sir Robert Falcon Scott, we ventured on to the snow-covered continent. The expedition continued as we hiked glaciers and traversed the Antarctic terrain. Landing on the seventh continent invoked a true sense of accomplishment, for it is a feat not completed by most. Antarctica is a true bucket-list destination and will invoke awe in all those who venture here.
Between the stunning landscape, fascinating wildlife, impressive history of exploration and science and the bonding elements of the adventure, Antarctica is perfect for families. It is incredibly kid friendly and provides an abundance of entertainment. There is something for everyone, and all will appreciate the continent’s purity. For children specifically, Antarctica creates an incredibly fun learning environment. The intimacy with nature and wildlife will leave your children starry-eyed. Watch as your children interact with penguins and hike along rugged beaches. They can also learn about some of the bravest explorers in history by following in their footsteps and visiting some of Antarctica’s research bases and witnessing real scientists in action. From hiking pristine glaciers to Zodiac rides next to humpback whales, this is one of most unforgettable experiences in the world.
Prior to my crossing of the Drake Passage and arrival in Antarctica, I had done a tremendous amount of planning and research as the founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage. The company offers special excursions to Antarctica, so it was highly important to me to gain insight and knowledge on this unique destination. Before booking your own journey to Antarctica, it is important to figure out the best method of transportation (ship or plane) and length of time you have available. For families, touring on an expedition cruise ship will ensure the best travel experience. The amount of adventure you would like to experience and the on-ship program is important, as well. There are cruise options where you stay mostly on the ship, while others offer activities such as glacier hiking, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and Zodiac cruises. On the ship, you can participate in a trip where you are given plenty of free time to relax. There are also options where special guests — like famous explorers — sail with you and tell tales of their adventures across the globe.
The vast majority of cruise ships to Antarctica leave from the port city of Ushuaia, Argentina, which is accessed via Buenos Aires or Santiago, Chile. The southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia is an adventure hub located in the Tierra del Fuego region. Prior to your excursion, it is a good idea to devote some time to take in the culture and sites here.
After booking the flights and tour, the last great wilderness awaits.
For more on travel to Antarctica, visit The Explorer’s Passage.