Camping Like an Explorer
An Uninhabited Continent Opens Its Doors for One Incredible Night
What’s camping in Antarctica like? Long after most passengers are tucked away in their cabins, chances are you’ll still be lying awake, cozy in your sleeping bag, captivated by the ethereal sounds of gently lapping waves, creaking glaciers and perhaps the blow of a whale passing in the night.
The air seems even more pure than in the daytime, the scale of your surroundings even more humbling, and by morning you’ll find yourself wondering how you could possibly describe this once-in-a-lifetime experience to friends back on board.
PROGRAM DETAILS
- $295 per camper
- Select voyages only
- 1 Overnight, weather permitting
- Ages 12 and older are welcome
- Limited spots – sign up early!
What to Expect
After dinner and a full briefing on board, day turns into dusk, and we head ashore to camp. We set up in a breathtaking spot near the edge of the water, surrounded by a landscape rarely seen by human eyes.
Our experienced Camping Team will be right there with you to show you how to dig a shallow hole for wind protection, how to set up your bivy and sleeping bag, and most importantly – how to use the portable toilet!
Once camp is set up, you’re on your own – explore along flagged routes if available, or just relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of Antarctica at night. Our team will gently wake you at dawn to start breaking down camp so you can get back onto the ship for a hot shower and a hearty breakfast.
What Not to Expect
Camping in Antarctica is not your typical camping experience, because Antarctica is not your typical destination. We have a responsibility to protect the environment and the wildlife, which is why you won’t see campfires, cookstoves, or coolers. Aside from emergency rations, essential medical supplies, and drinking water, it’s just you, the waves, and the ice.
Once you’re settled on shore, the ship will sail a short distance away to give you complete immersion in your surroundings. Be aware that once you are ashore, barring rapidly deteriorating conditions or a serious medical emergency, you will not be able to get back to the ship until morning.
About Bivy Sacks
During your camping adventure, you will not be sleeping in a tent. Instead, you will use something called a bivy sack. Just larger than your sleeping bag, a bivy offers protection from water and wind, allowing you to truly experience your surroundings, while staying warm and snug.
Won’t I Be Cold?
Believe it or not, many people find themselves too warm at some point during the night! Our sleeping bags are designed for temperatures far lower than what we expect – you likely won’t see lower than 10° F (-12° C) overnight. It’s best to avoid sweating, which can make you colder while you sleep. This is why we recommend bringing a dry set of thermals and a pair of socks ashore to change into before getting into your sleeping bag. That being said, if you are a person who does not enjoy the feeling of cold air on your face while you sleep, this may not be the best experience for you!
What We Provide
We supply all the equipment you need to be comfortable, warm, and safe during your night on the ice.
- Mountaineering bivy sack
- Insulated sleeping pad
- Insulated sleeping bag (rated to -20° F / -29° C)
- Sleeping bag liner
- Dry-bag to carry all of the above
- Portable toilet for the group
- Emergency rations and medical supplies
What You Should Bring
Come ashore in your normal, daily excursion wear – warm layers, waterproof pants and parka, boots, etc. Using the dry bag we provide you, bring a clean, dry set of thermals (top and bottom) and a warm pair of socks to change into before getting into your sleeping bag for the night. You may also want to have a flashlight on hand.
Always remember you are in a wild and unpredictable environment, so be prepared to layer up if necessary!