Camping in Antarctica is, without a doubt, one of the most diverse experiences to be had when exploring the White Continent.
Each year, around 20,000 individuals set foot on the ice continent, but only a tiny number go on an Antarctica cruise camping excursion.
Camping has grown more prominent as an activity on Antarctica cruises as a way to experience firsthand the sentiments of the early Antarctic explorers.
This once-in-a-lifetime chance genuinely deviates from more regular Antarctica cruises. Camping in Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Camping in Antarctica, under the star-studded night sky and snuggled amongst the Antarctic snow, is something that only a few people choose to do on their Antarctica vacation.
We have included a detailed page about camping in Antarctica below. We aim to cover all the intricacies to make your camping in Antarctica as amazing as possible, from detailing the protocols for camping in Antarctica to what to expect if you decide to embark on this thrilling endeavour!
Where do you go camping?
After a possibly hazardous crossing of the Drake Passage, your Antarctica cruise Expedition Leader will select an ideal location for the overnight camp.
Camping in Antarctica is permissible in any site that does not harm breeding species. However, specific position fluctuates depending on the ship’s location and weather conditions.
Some Antarctica cruises provide countless nights of camping on the ice in various areas, providing guests with a more extended camping experience. This is dependent on the cruise line and the number of guests that choose to camp in Antarctica.
Camping spots include the coastlines of Paradise Bay, the Neumayer Channel, and Neko Harbour.
Your Antarctica camping night
Dinner is normally provided onboard your Antarctica cruise ship, so eat well because no snacks or drinks (other than water) are permitted ashore when camping in Antarctica!
Remember to use the restrooms before disembarking since, once again, only portable toilet bags are brought onshore and can only be used in emergencies.
The inflatable motor boat known as a Zodiac transports you onto the ice. Several excursions between the cruise ship and land may be necessary to transfer all supplies for your night camping expedition in Antarctica.
Then, an expert guide selects a good campsite and instructs how to put up the tents and sleeping bags. Although a few tents will be built, keep in mind that they are mainly for emergency supplies.
Your night in Antarctica will be spent sleeping on a sleeping mat in a sleeping bag!
Building up camp should take no more than an hour, after which you may relax and watch the moon emerge over the Antarctic ice.
You will hear the cracking of sea ice and the lapping of water onto the coast while lying in your sleeping bag. You could even get lucky and hear a whale blow!
Prepare to wake up bright and early after a night of camping in Antarctica, since most camp trips return to their cruise ship around 5.30 am!
Everyone pitches in to assist tear down the campground before returning to the Zodiacs for a hot shower and breakfast on board.
Who is capable of doing it?
Camping in Antarctica is offered to any Antarctica cruise guests who desire to participate and is aimed at anyone with an adventurous attitude.
You don’t have to be a seasoned camper or very athletic to participate. You will also not need to know anything about camping because trained guides will be on hand to assist you.
What you should bring
Your Antarctica cruise operators will give you all of the camping equipment you’ll need for a night of camping in Antarctica. Even though nighttime temperatures seldom fall below -3 degrees Celsius, sleeping bags are often rated for -12 degrees Celsius.
High-insulation foam sleeping mats are given to keep you warm and comfy, and bivy bags are also offered to keep out the night’s cold.
While some cruise lines supply sleeping tents, we strongly advise against using them! This way, you can see the amazing night sky while still experiencing the remoteness of Antarctic ice.
However, in Antarctica, harsh and sometimes unpredictable weather conditions might mean a freezing night camping. As a result, we recommend carrying the following items with you to ensure warmth and comfortable overnight.
Dry thermal underwear, a second fleece, a hat, gloves, and thick socks are required. A windproof and waterproof parka of high quality. Sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended. Trousers that breathe, thermal under gloves, a bottle of water, torch for the head, any drugs you use yourself
While camping in Antarctica, you should be cautious of your surroundings
Camping in Antarctica, one of the most environmentally delicate areas on the planet, necessitates taking measures.
To reduce environmental effects, everyone who goes camping must follow the following standards. Before departing, all reputable tour operators should familiarise themselves with IAATO laws and camping restrictions.
The most important thing to remember is that no artificial heating devices, fuel, snacks, beverages, or food are permitted onshore.
Of course, your cruise operator will include emergency supplies in case of severe weather changes, but they are solely for emergencies.
There are usually restrictions on how many individuals may camp in Antarctica at the same time. This varies according to your tour operator, but typically there is one expert field guide for every 20 participants.
Your campground is carefully selected to avoid disturbing any animals or breeding activity. All human waste and debris must also be returned to the cruise ship to avoid contaminating the pristine environment when camping in Antarctica.
To ensure the safety of visitors while camping in Antarctica, communication with your cruise ship is followed at all times.
Please keep in mind that Weather conditions will ultimately guide Antarctica cruise companies who provide the opportunity to camp. Camping activities may be cancelled if the weather is deemed unsafe.
