Antarctica Cruise & Antarctica Holidays

Antarctica

Antarctica, the world's most remote and final frontier, remains a remarkably unknown and mystifying attraction for explorers and intrepid travellers alike - and A&K continues to set the standard for travel to the White Continent.

Unique itineraries

With the input and advice of experienced captains and field staff, A&K has developed a diverse series of itineraries in Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands, all designed to show the best these spectacular destinations have to offer. The programmes also remain flexible in order to take advantage of changing conditions and seasonal wildlife sightings. Combining pre-planning know-how from A&K's Melbourne office, around-the-clock support from ground offices in Argentina and Chile and on-board expertise by A&K staff ensures the ideal expedition experience to Antarctica.

Experience and safety

Abercrombie & Kent has been operating expedition cruises to Antarctica since 1992 (with more than 150 successful and safely operated voyages) and is amongst the longest functioning Antarctic operator. In addition A&K is a long-standing full member of IAATO and operates in full compliance of all IAATO, Antarctica Treaty, IMO and SOLAS requirements for tourist operations. A&K's Antarctica operations exceed all environmental protocols of operation as set by IAATO, the National Science Foundation, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Antarctic Treaty Party nations. Simply put, A&K operates in keeping with the adage: "Take only photographs; leave only footprints."

Who visits Antarctica?

Though high levels of physical exertion or fitness are not required, this is not a passive destination. Remote, pristine and still little visited, Antarctica by its very nature lends itself to a hands-on exploration such as A&K offers. Unpredictable weather, wildlife and ice conditions dictate daily manoeuvres but the journey is made with a group of energetic, like-minded fellow adventurers, led by veteran lecturer/guides on expeditions that bring this incredible destination within reach.

How cold is it?

In Antarctica, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, the only months that visits are feasible are the austral summer months. At this time of the year, daily Antarctic temperatures average from 3 to 8C° and may climb as high as 10C° on the more northerly islands. Wind-chill is as important as temperature in its effect on the visitor. The continent's ice cover and gravitational forces conspire to produce a type of wind unique to Antarctica - katabatic winds which may suddenly surge producing a blizzard-like effect and stop just as suddenly. Such conditions call for special clothing requirements. A&K provides each cruise passenger with a water-resistant, hooded parka especially designed for conditions in Antarctica - a lasting memento as well as practical apparel. Travellers will be provided with a recommended clothing list.

A wildlife paradise

Set against dazzling landscapes, Antarctica is home to an astonishing assortment of wildlife, largely unaffected by the presence of humans. Depending on the locations visited you may encounter the following: Antarctica: seals (leopard, crabeater, fur, elephant and Weddell); whales (orca, humpback and minke); penguins (chinstrap, Adelie and gentoo); birds (wandering and other albatross species, snow, pintado and Antarctic petrels, skuas, sheathbills, Antarctic terns and blue-eyed shags). South Georgia: seals (fur and elephant); birds (king penguins and various albatross species). Falkland Islands: mammals (fur seals and dolphins); birds (upland geese, peregrine falcons, king shags, Magellanic snipe and black-browed albatross (New Island); rockhopper (New Island); gentoo and Magellanic penguins).

Best time to visit

A&K's Le Boreal departures will operate during the prime high season between mid December and mid January - the most comfortable period of the Antarctic year and a time when the continent is at its spectacular best. Special highlights includes:

• Scientific research activities in full swing
• Most active period in penguin colonies as this period covers most of the hatching and fledging of new chicks
• Playful and active seal pups are in highest abundance
• Ideal lighting conditions providing optimal photography
• Increased whale watching opportunities as days longer and relatively warmer create nutrient rich environment for whales and other marine mammals
• Christmas and New Years on South Georgia and Antarctica
• SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE, please contact us for more details

Exclusive Philanthropy Mission Trip

Nowhere is the Earth's changing climate more apparent than in Antarctica, where some areas are warming at a rate of two to three times the global average. Contribute toward climate change research on Fighting Climate Change in Antarctica, a Philanthropic Journey aboard MV 'Le Boreal,' a new all-balcony expedition ship, in December 2012. World renowned marine biologist Dr. Jim Mc.Clintock will lead the expedition. Twelve days from from US$9,896, subject to availability.

A&K is a long-time member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. Founded in 1991, this organization advocates, promotes and practices safe and environmentally sound travel to the Antarctic. Staff and crew follow the highest codes of conduct to ensure that the presence of 'Le Boreal' and her passengers has minimal effect on the landscapes through which they travel. In Antarctica, a whale photo-identification programme and a project devoted to helping save the albatross and other seabirds dying needlessly on long-line fishing hooks.

Tourism has the potential to enrich yet also threaten the fabric and spirit of fragile destinations.

• Learn More about the Le Boreal vessel
• A day in Antarctica
• Antarctic Wildlife
• Our Guides in Antarctica