Highlights of Antarctica: From Icy Landscapes to Wildlife

Hello, esteemed polar pioneers,

I recently heard from someone (who, of course, has never been to Antarctica) that a trip to Antarctica can only be boring. Apart from white snow and ice, there is nothing to see there.

Well, I am aware that a trip to Antarctica is not suitable for everyone. A minimum level of interest in nature, animals, and environmental protection should be present.

However, those who are prepared for thisextraordinary journeywill discover a paradise:

Unique nature

• There are many mountainsin the interior of the country (the highest mountain is Mount Vinson at 4,892 meters).
• Partially extinct and still active volcanoesform a unique skyline. The world’s southernmost active volcano is Mount Erebus (3,794 meters) on Ross Island in the Ross Sea
• Hot springs on Deception Island
• The Antarctic ice sheet is the largest ice mass on Earth.
• Subglacial lakes: Freshwater lakes beneath the ice
• Glaciers, ice tongues, and ice lakes
• Ice shelves are freshwater ice plateaus that float on the ice independently of the continent. They form 44 percent of the coastline in Antarctica and are between 100 and 1,000 meters thick. Look forward to landing on the ice shelf.
• Abandoned whaling and research stationstell the story of history in the ice
• International research stations that are still in operation
• The huts whereRoald AmundsenandErnest Shackletonfound shelter

Diverse wildlife

In addition to nature, wildlife is the big attraction of Antarctica.

No,you won't encounter polar bears here. (For polar bear sightings, I recommend one of our varied cruises or expeditions to the Arctic or the North Pole).

Antarctica is a mecca for animal lovers. Only the most robust animals have made their home here and survive the harsh winter. You will see the following animals on every Antarctic voyage:

• Emperor penguins, Adélie penguins, gentoo penguins, and chinstrap penguins are just a few of the penguin species whose colonies you can observe and film up close.
• Whalesaccompany you on your journey through the Southern Ocean, swimming alongside the ship on both the left and right sides.
• Four different species of seals: Weddell seals, harbor seals, leopard seals, and elephant seals
• Seabirds, seabirds, and more seabirds

Outdoor activities

Theshipsoffer different activities:

Camping in Antarctica, kayaking, polar diving, snowshoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, helicopter excursions (MS Ortelius) , and much more. We call these expeditions"base camp. " Your expedition ship serves as a "base camp" while you explore the Southern Ocean, its islands, and icebergs.

On board with you are lecturers, i.e., scientists from various fields, who will give you an insight into Antarctica with entertaining and exciting lectures.

Don't miss out on the attractions of the seventh continent. Would you like to know more?

>> You can reach us here. Request a callback.

With polar regards

Yours, Stephanie Gräf