Making The Most Of Antarctica Cruise Deals

Making The Most Of Antarctica Cruise Deals

by Beryl Dalton

The White Continent used to be a place that you could only visit if you were part of an expedition or if you could get a job at one of the research bases there. Now it's easier to get there. With <A href="http://www.wildlifeadventures.com">Antarctica cruise deals</A>, you can even take the kids on a journey to one of the world's most unspoiled destinations.

No other continent is further south than Antarctica, which is in fact home to the South Pole. It's a vast region but there are almost no people here except in and around the various research bases. Several countries have bases here and most bases are located near the coast, where conditions are less harsh than further inland. Ships need to be adapted specially to be able to sail the icy waters.

However, the continent is one of stunning scenery, with rugged mountains, vast expanses of ice and hot springs. Wildlife here consists mainly of marine mammals such as whales as well as migratory birds, including penguins. Cruises generally visit the Antarctic Peninsula, the Ross Sea, the South Shetland Islands and Anvord Bay.

The only time that you can really visit is in summer, which falls between November and March in the Southern Hemisphere. Temperatures can reach into the teens and vessels can make their way through the ice, something which is impossible in winter. Antarctic summer days are long and even at midnight there can still be daylight. However, the weather here is always unpredictable and your itinerary may change at the last minute.

Most cruises around Antarctica are quite casual and your clothing should focus on warmth rather than on style. You'll also need waterproof gear, especially footwear, for getting around on the ice. For the hot springs, you'll want your bathing suit. Sunscreen is essential since severe sunburn is a real risk and you may also want to bring sunglasses for the glare. Remember to bring everything you might need, since you can't simply buy supplies at your destination.

Cruises to the continent are quite expensive. It's best to thoroughly research the various cruise companies before committing to one. Check whether they include shore excursions and what their safety record is. Smaller vessels can get to more places but the larger ships handle rough seas better. Also check that the company has a good reputation for being environmentally responsible, since the ecosystem in this remote part of the world is extremely fragile. The company should be a member of the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators.

Cruises set out from various destinations. One of the most popular starting points is Ushuaia in Argentina, also known as the world's southernmost city. You may want to explore Patagonia before your departure. Otherwise, set sail from Hobart in Tasmania, Australia; from Invercargill or Port of Bluff in New Zealand; from Santiago in Chile or from Cape Town in South Africa. It's well worth building in some extra time before your cruise so that you can explore these wonderful locations too.

You can book cruises to Antarctica once you're in a port that offers voyages there, such as in Ushuaia. However, it's easier to simply book online. Online is a better option too because you can compare deals and customer feedback.



You can visit <a href="http://www.wildlifeadventures.com">www.wildlifeadventures.com</a> for more helpful information about How To Make The Most Of Antarctica Cruise Deals.

---------------------------------------------------
You are receiving this because you signed up for it on 2012-04-22 from IP 114.79.13.119
To fine-tune your selection of which articles to receive, just login here:

http://www.uniquearticlewizard.com/bloggers/

using your username:

To unsubscribe please use the following link:

http://www.uniquearticlewizard.com/unsubscribe.php?mail=wisatanusantara3.alankoesumah@blogger.com&code=d48035f43fb1db56998290ec5232b52c
---------------------------------------------------