The blue PLANET

An Antarctica cruise is the ultimate wishlist adventure – and exploring this extraordinary region is easier by ship. Nick Dalton has the lowdown

- Nick Dalton

Glaciers, shimmering turquoise and white; fields of penguins, louder than you can possibly imagine; and the intrepid allure of expedition cruising. As a truly unspoiled wilderness, it’s no wonder so many of us dream of sailing around Antarctica.

“The sheer raw, breathtaking beauty of the place, and seeing some of our most precious wildlife in its natural environment is simply unforgettable,” says Liz Jarvis, Editor of Cruise International. “Nothing is predictable about Antarctica, and that’s what makes it such a special experience.”

Andy Harmer, UK and Ireland director of CLIA (the Cruise Lines International Association) says: “Sailings to Antarctica have surged. Previously a cruise to this continent may have been viewed as out of the ordinary but the launch of new luxury expedition ships has made the region far more accessible to a wide range of travellers, from wildlife lovers and adventure seekers to experienced cruisers who want to go off the beaten track.”

Among the newest offerings is Scenic Eclipse, the ‘discovery yacht’ from river cruise line Scenic. With the looks of a billionaire’s private vessel it takes 228 guests on extraordinary voyages. A fleet of Zodiac inflatables (a staple in this part of the world) lets you step on to the ice, a pair of helicopters let you view it from above – and a mini-sub lets you view it from the depths.

Antarctica is carefully protected; the continent covers 10 per cent of the world’s surface and has no population. Most visits are overseen by IAATO, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, which ensures safe, environmentally responsible travel.