ANTARCTICA PRACTICALITIES

When you visit Antarctica you will be travelling through 2 gateways, Buenos Aires and Ushuaia. Both cities have numerous tourist attractions and are great places to base yourself whilst exploring the surrounding area. Trips Worldwide recommends two nights in Ushuaia before your cruise departs to allow for any delays or missed connections. The last thing you want is to miss the boat.

Once on your way to Antarctica you will see many types of wildlife and experience varied weather conditions. The itinerary, which is supplied by your ship, can be subject to change. No two cruises are the same. Each day will bring a different experience with the ever-changing scenery. Wildlife is plentiful in Antarctica and you will not be disappointed by what you see. You can expect to see penguins in their hundreds, pods of whales and a variety of sea birds gliding on the Antarctic thermals. However, it is not just the wildlife that makes Antarctica so special. You will be amazed by the vast amount of ice in its various forms; it has been estimated that 300,000 icebergs are in the Southern Ocean at any one time. Be it the towering face of the glaciers which drop vertically to the Oceans edge, or the dramatically sculptured ice bergs which float in their ever changing landscape or the smaller ice relatives known as ‘the Bergy Bits’ bobbing around, all adding to the beauty of this place.

Passports/Visa Information

A valid passport is required with all flight tickets and cruise names booked as stated on your passport and this must be taken on the ship with you, please do not leave it in a safe of a hotel. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled date of return home.

You do not require a visa to visit Antarctica.

Insurance

You must have comprehensive travel insurance for all Antarctic voyages. As Antarctica is so far away and far from any hospital treatment you must make sure your insurance covers for hospitalisation, emergency travel and repatriation. Once you have paid your deposit certain fees will apply if you decide to cancel your cruise, for this reason y9ou should take our insurance at time of booking.

In case of an emergency on board the ship you will be evacuated when and where possible to the nearest medical station which will be in Argentina or Chile. Please make sure your insurance will cover this unlikely event.

Medical Matters

All Antarctic cruises require passengers to be in good health, as you will be travelling in remote areas without sophisticated medical attention. Each ship will have a doctor and small infirmary on board for limited medical assistance. If you need these services they will be added to your account at the end of the cruise. It is advisable to take your own first aid kit with the basic tablets which will act on muscle pain, headaches, colds and any day to day illnesses.

Sun block is also a necessity, factor 50+ is advised, you will also need a pair of strong polarised sunglasses.

(A suggested medical kit)

- Cold & Flu tablets - it is not uncommon to get a cold - long flights, changes in temperature and climate can all contribute.

- Paracetamol/Panadol

- Antibiotic tablets

- Plasters/Band Aid’s

- Antiseptic cream

- Antacid tablets

- Throat lozenges

- Sun Block, 50+

- Sea sickness tablets

You will also require a reasonable level of mobility for getting around the ship and for stepping down the gangways and onto the zodiacs. The crew will always assist at these times.

On booking you will be forwarded a confidential medical questionnaire, which must be completed, and dependent on your ship, your GP’s signature and blood group will also be required. The form is then handed to the doctor on board your ship and will help assist if a situation arises. If you are on medication please ensure you bring an adequate supply of these to last the entire journey. A dental check up before your departure is also advised as a precaution.

Water

The water on board the ships is drinkable and requires no additional purification.

Motion Sickness

The seas between South America and the Antarctic continent can sometimes be rough, even decidedly rough on occasions. Anticipate some rough water on the voyage. Should you be prone to motion or sea sickness, please consult your GP which medication is appropriate and its side effects.To avert motion sickness, avoid alcohol, tobacco, excess liquids, and confined spaces. Most people feel better sitting on deck looking at the horizon or prone with eyes shut. Oddly, you will feel better with some food, such as crackers or dry toast in your stomach. Many people eat to avoid feeling sick. Remember that once you start to experience motion sickness, medications are of little help.Once in the Antarctic waters conditions are calm as there is a lot more shelter and motion sickness is seldom a problem. Wristbands work well for some people, others require medication, please consult your GP.

The Antarctic Treaty

Any activity in Antarctica, be it scientific or tourist related is governed by the Antarctic treaty of 1959. Trips Worldwide embraces the guidelines set for visitors to the continent. All the ships we use are members of the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) who practice and promote safe, responsible and environmentally friendly activities travelling to and on the continent.

KIT LIST FOR ANTARCTICA

Antarctica is a continent most enjoyed if you are comfortable and warm. You will need clothes that will adequately protect you against cold and wet conditions the following kit list gives you an idea and a starting point of what to pack for your voyage.

- Wind and waterproof insulated parka, large enough to wear over layers.

- Waterproof trousers, these should be loose enough to fit over other trousers, these are essential to keep you dry whilst travelling on the zodiacs.

-  Waterproof ‘Wellington’ style boots, essential for wading through 10-inch deep icy water when disembarking the zodiacs; allow enough space to wear 2 pairs of socks. If you do not have these they can be hired in Ushuaia however these must be pre booked.

- A medium weight fleece.

- Full set of thermal underwear.

- Insulated gloves, liners are also suggested so you can take the thicker pair off and still operate your camera with the thin pair on.

- Woollen hat (preferable wind proof) and neck gaiter or scarf.

- A good pair of sunglasses with UV filter protection. The sun shines for almost 24 hours a day in Antarctica and the reflection from the ice can be quite dangerous.

- Sun block for face and lips.

- Extra pair of prescription glasses and contact lenses if worn.

- Binoculars for wildlife spotting.

- Zip lock plastic bags for storing your camera and any other items you need to protect.

- Swim suit, as some boats do have a sauna on board. You will also need this if your cruise takes you to Deception Island where you can bathe in the thermal controlled waters, old protective footwear is also recommend for this excursion.

Also recommended;

- You will need to layer your clothing for maximum comfort, take enough long sleeve tops and warm trousrs. Thick woollen socks are also recommended, you may like sock liners too. You may like to take collapsible trekking poles with you (if you have any), to aid you on the ice. Heat-treated hand and foot warmers are also beneficial.