Travel Antarctica | Antarctic Cruises | Cruise Antarctica

Win a trip for two to Antarctica

2012-01-23T21:49:00.000+11:00

Win a trip for two to Antarctica with the Natural History Museum and Aurora Expeditions valued at £10,000.

To celebrate the opening of our Scott's Last Expedition exhibition we are offering one lucky winner and companion of their choice a place on an incredible Antarctic Peninsula expedition. The expedition is departing from Argentina in November 2013 (dates and details to be finalised).

Witness soaring snowcapped peaks, sheltered waterways, sculpted icebergs, penguin rookeries, seals and whales on board the Akademik Shokalskiy or Polar Pioneer.

The fantastic prize is kindly donated by Aurora Expeditions, an Australian-owned expedition cruising company travelling to remote areas of the world such as Antarctica.

Aurora Expeditions offers small ships, small groups, low-impact and personal experiences and big adventures, carrying a maximum of 54 passengers on board the ship. Flexible itineraries, educational lectures by expert staff, an open bridge policy and numerous Zodiac landings attract adventurous souls keen to explore the Great South.

The closing date for the Free Prize Draw is Sunday 2 September 2012 at 23:59 BST (British Summer Time).

Antarctic expedition duo break record

2012-01-20T17:13:00.001+11:00

Race to the finish to make last flight out

James 'Cas' Castrission and Justin 'Jonesy' Jones are just days away from successfully completing their attempt to become the first team to ski unsupported from the edge of Antarctica to the South Pole and back.

For the past 80 days, 29-year-old Cas and 28-year-old 'Jonesy have skied over 1900km – that's further than from Brisbane to Melbourne. Travelscene American Express is a Gold Sponsor of the record breaking attempt and General Manager Jacqui Timmins said the countdown is on as the pair battle on to make the last flight out of Antarctica next Friday, 27 January.

"Cas and Jonesy are on track to succeed in their push to finish in time but it's coming down to the wire," Travelscene American Express General Manager Jacqui Timmins said. "I've just been on the satellite phone with Jonesy and while they're tired, hungry, and exhausted, they are confident they will make the finish line in time."

"They have already smashed one world record by becoming the first to travel more than 1800km through the Antarctic unassisted and they're doing well to succeed in completing their Crossing the Ice expedition on time despite the heaviest snowfall in the region in years."

"Cas and Jonesy need all the help they can get right now as they push through the final week towards the finish line. It's going to be tight but they're determined and they keep on keeping on. These guys couldn't even ski not that long ago and now they're managing an incredible 45kms a day."

"They're so incredibly grateful for all the support they've received from Travelscene American Express. From messages of support from Members through to our support as a Gold Sponsor and travel partner, they're adamant that without our involvement, the expedition wouldn't have happened."

"Despite a mighty effort on a daily basis, it's going to be close," Travelscene American Express General Manager Jacqui Timmins said.

"As a Gold Sponsor of this incredible expedition, we're watching Cas and Jonesy' progress closely and we've got our fingers and toes crossed that the weather holds and that they're able to keep clocking decent distances on a daily basis."

"You can follow this amazing journey via www.casandjonesy.com.au and not only send Cas and Jonesy a message of support but also see via their webcasts just how truly tough this record-breaking trek is."

Mirroring their expedition, Cas and Jonesy are also looking to raise $100,000 for You Can, the youth cancer charity.

Free exhibition at State Library NSW: Finding Antarctica

2012-01-15T13:24:00.000+11:00

For full details see: Finding Antarctica: Mapping the Last Continent

Suite dreams on Antarctic cruise

2011-12-17T08:57:00.001+11:00

Seal basks in the sunshine as Zodiacs from L'Austral tour Foyn Harbour. Picture: Roderick Eime.

Guests examine the wreck of the Norwegian
whaling vessel. Picture: Roderick Eime.

TRAVELLING to the end of the Earth can now be done in hedonistic comfort, writes Roderick Eime.

Antarctica is for the hardened traveller, the gritty explorer and world adventurer used to privations and hardships. That is, until the arrival of vessels like L'Austral.

French-flagged cruise line Compagnie du Ponant (or just Ponant) has launched two of its planned three new-generation, green-certified luxury expedition cruise ships.

Le Boreal took to the seas in May last year, followed by L'Austral in June this year. A third, as yet unnamed, vessel will be launched in the middle of 2013.

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Port Lockroy celebrates 100 Years

2011-12-13T20:34:00.006+11:00

Port Lockroy c.1962

By Roderick Eime, editor of Adventure Cruise Guide

One hundred years ago, the so-called Heroic Age of Antarctic exploration was at its height. Men like Scott, Shackleton, Mawson and others, forgotten to time, opened up the great Southern continent for science, exploration and adventure. Their exploits were consumed voraciously by the popular press, the adoring public following their every step as these incredible men, apparently impervious to hardship and deprivation, forged deeper and deeper into the harsh frozen realm in search of glory in the name of the great British Empire.

The Great War stifled many plans and left a world bruised and battered but Antarctic exploration continued, albeit subdued. In the Second World War, Britain was afraid its hard won Southern interests may be threatened and the secret Operation Tabarin was organised in 1943 to patrol and report on any enemy movements in the region around the Antarctic Peninsula. Bases at Deception Island, Hope Bay and Port Lockroy were expanded and manned by naval personnel who had no idea where they were headed. Issued sunglasses on their departure from Britain, they surmised their destination would be warm and tropical. Wrong.

Further bases were added and this effort gradually transformed into the current multi-national presence we see today. Visitors aboard Antarctic cruise vessels frequently visit these sites. Some are maintained while are others have been left to “benign neglect”. One in particular, Port Lockroy, celebrates one hundred years since its establishment, first as a whaling outpost, then 'Base A' as part of Tabarin in 1944.

Abandoned in 1962, but restored and preserved since 1996, Port Lockroy is now the most visited site on the Peninsula with visitor numbers hitting a peak of 17,000 in a recent year. As many as 30 vessels visit the 'living museum' in the course of a season (between November to March) and the little post office handles around 17,000 items of specially marked items of mail. The gift shop carries everything from postcards and books to fridge magnets and fleecies. One passenger from a private charter spent $12,000 in a single visit, so the little outpost certainly pays its way.

Once the preserve of the male-only British Antarctic Survey, Port Lockroy is currently manned, if that is the correct term, by a team of five, four of whom are women. Their duties include occasional surveys of the healthy Gentoo penguin colony and serving the stream of guests hungry for genuine Antarctic souvenirs. An additional Nissen hut has been built to enhance crew comfort, but otherwise the structure is faithful to its original design, complete with recreated radio room, kitchen and common areas.

“Anyone from any country can apply to work here for a season,” says Ulva the current base commander and officer of the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust, a not-for-profit charity set up to maintain the historic bases.”We're only supplied once a year, but also rely on help from the many cruise ships to bring additional items and ferry staff.”

Fancy a stint at an Antarctic base? Why not apply for a position on Port Lockroy? For information on the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust and its work, visit www.heritage-antarctica.org

Tourists' iceberg dilemma

2011-12-04T19:54:00.002+11:00

An iceberg the size of the ACT is
blocking access to Mawson's Hut.

by Craig Hoggett | The Mercury

TOURISTS forking out top dollar to visit Mawson's Hut for centenary celebrations this summer are likely to face disappointment as the "Antarctic factor" heaves an enormous icy obstacle in ships' paths.

Expedition cruise ship MV Orion is due to start its 19-night Southern Ocean voyage on Thursday, with prices for the 100 passengers starting at $19,365 a person.

Orion expedition leader Don McIntyre said the Antarctic always had challenges but an iceberg the size of the ACT blocking access was "unique".

"Whilst it's not looking good, no one will know until we get there," Mr McIntyre said.

"We always maintain a simple philosophy we work with the Antarctic factor. You cannot dictate terms with Antarctica, it lets you in at its pleasure you have to work with it, you can't fight it."

A 2500 sq km tabular iceberg was part of a much larger ice mass that broke free from the Ross Ice Shelf in 1987 but subsequently broke up as it drifted westwards.

Parts of the "B9B" iceberg have grounded on the approach to the Mawson's Hut site at Commonwealth Bay.

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IAATO Launches New Website

2011-12-04T04:50:00.001+11:00

The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) has launched a new website, providing a wealth of new information for prospective travelers to Antarctica. The new site also features an expanded Media Center for journalists and enhanced features for IAATO members.

"The familiar URL www.iaato.org remains the same, but the similarity stops there," noted IAATO Executive Director Steve Wellmeier. "The new site provides much better graphics and navigation tools, including a search function and site map. One of our goals is to provide accurate information for the Antarctic traveler, particularly in the area of environmental stewardship, guidelines for visitors, and answers to the many questions they might have."

Not all plain sailing in wild Antarctica

2011-11-29T08:47:00.005+11:00

Cool fun: Australian adventurers James Castrission and Justin Jones in the Antarctic Source: Supplied

THE weather is perfect. The sea is calm, the sky a dazzling blue. The day seems to challenge the common assumption that the frozen continent is almost always rainy.

I'm not saying my trip of a lifetime is all plain sailing. Our feisty little ship pitches through choppy seas while crossing the Drake Passage, south of Ushuaia - the Argentine tourist town from which most cruises to the icy land depart.

Read Full Story at The Daily Telegraph

Qantas The Australian Way: Go with the floe

2011-10-13T08:58:00.003+11:00

Photo essay and article by Peter Robinson and images by Peter Eastway from Qantas The Australian Way, October 2011

Open publication

Historic Antarctic expedition

2011-10-01T09:01:00.002+10:00

One Ocean Expeditions ship Akademik Ioffe in Antarctica.
A cruise voyage will take place to South Georgia in November to bury
the ashes of British explorer Frank Wild next to Ernest Shackleton. Picture: Supplied

photo of Sir Earnest Shackleton (L) and
Frank Wild in Antarctica. Picture: Anthony Reginato

IT WAS his final wish to be buried next to Ernest Shackleton and 90 years after their last expedition together, Antarctic explorer Frank Wild's request will finally be granted.

Wild, considered one of the great Antarctic explorers, will be buried beside his former boss in Antarctica this year after an exhaustive search for his long-lost ashes.

Four of his Australian descendants will be among the passengers taking part in a commemorative cruise with One Ocean Expeditions to South Georgia in November to take his ashes to their final resting place.

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AKADEMIK SERGEY VAVILOV TO JOIN ONE OCEAN EXPEDITIONS FLEET

2011-09-25T10:38:00.001+10:00

In what is seen as the most exciting development of the year for the expedition cruise industry, One Ocean Expeditions (OOE) has announced that the highly regarded Akademik Sergey Vavilov will join Akademik Ioffe as its second polar expedition vessel with effect from November 2012.

The Vavilov has been described by OOE's competitors as 'one of the finest expedition ships to sail the polar seas' and is sister ship to the Ioffe, which OOE currently operates exclusively under a long term charter agreement.

Both vessels were built in Finland in the late 1980's for the Russian Academy of Science. Both undertook hydro-acoustic research and consequently are extremely quiet, fast and stable. They are widely acknowledged as the best expedition vessels for difficult polar waters.

One Ocean Expeditions was founded in 2006 by Canadian Andrew Prossin, a 20 year veteran of Antarctica and the Arctic. Known for his innovative approach to expedition cruising, he has worked extensively with both vessels and it was an obvious fit for his new company to bring these vessels into the fold.

"This addition to our fleet was both necessary and timely for OOE", he said. "It is necessary because our 2011/12 season has almost completely sold out and we definitely need a second vessel. It is timely because the opportunity to take the Vavilov now puts us in a leading position with the two best expedition vessels in the world".

With a capacity of 105 passengers, (but limited by OOE to 92) the Vavilov will initially be deployed in Antarctica, followed by the 2013 Arctic season. But first, the ship will be extensively refurbished. "The Vavilov is a great ship, and with the forthcoming improvement program we will have no trouble bringing her up to the high expectations of One Ocean Expeditions' clients", said Prossin. "This is a terrific platform where we can offer an innovative expedition product and continue to hone the high levels of onboard guest services our clients have come to expect from us." A major renovation is planned, including redecorated cabins, enhanced, modernised public areas and a wellness centre.

For further details contact Active Travel on 02-9264 1231 or visit www.activetravel.com.au

East Antarctica: Frozen Folly

2011-08-30T21:53:00.003+10:00

A trip to East Antarctica is anything but a walk in the park. Our Adventure Cruise Guide editor follows gingerly in the footsteps of Sir Douglas Mawson. Words & Photos: Roderick Eime

“Beyond the Roaring Forties there are the Furious Fifties and Shrieking Sixties, for the storms that ravage these regions become more and more severe as one proceeds further south.” – Herbert Ponting, 1921

Who in their right mind would willingly subject themself to this kind of discomfort? And to call a voyage to Antarctica a ‘cruise’– especially if you’re venturing beyond 70 degrees south – is a serious misrepresentation.

If your idea of a cruise is sitting on a deckchair beside a pool with a pina colada in one hand and a Jackie Collins potboiler in the other, read no further. Deep Antarctica is one of those places, like the moon, that is just so distant and unreachable that to travel there is almost the stuff of fiction.

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Rod travelled with Heritage Expeditions

SMH: In Memory of Mawson

2011-08-30T21:46:00.000+10:00

On parade ... the MV Orion approaches the Antarctic continent.
Photo: Louise Southerden

A century after the explorer embarked on his expedition, Louise Southerden steps ashore on Australia's Antarctica.

You've spent days crossing the Southern Ocean from New Zealand, found your way through pack ice, seen your first house-sized berg. Now, here it is: the Antarctic continent, a wall of ice with a sloping brow, filling the southern horizon.

Nothing prepares you for that first glimpse of this alien land and the simple vastness of it. The South Pole is still, incredibly, 2630 kilometres further south, across all that ice, some of it four kilometres thick. All you can do is stand and stare.

Then, out of the whiteness, a rocky point appears: Cape Denison, on Commonwealth Bay. This is one of the few places in east Antarctica, due south of Australia, where the largest ice sheet on the planet kneels down to meet the sea, allowing you to step ashore. It's also where a timber hut built by Douglas Mawson and his men in January 1912 still stands.

Aurora Expeditions Celebrates Sir Douglas Mawson's Centenary

2011-06-21T01:23:00.000+10:00

Aurora Expeditions have three exciting voyages to commemorate the centenary of Sir Douglas Mawson's Australasian Antarctic Expedition. In January 1912, explorer Douglas Mawson and 17 others landed at Commonwealth Bay. For the next year, they braved appalling conditions, when the wind speed averaged nearly 80 km/h, occasionally peaking above 320 km/h. Their expedition ranks as one of the most successful in polar exploration history.

Each of Aurora Expeditions' Centenary voyages visits three outstanding regions: Macquarie Island, where Mawson set up a communications base; the East Antarctic coast, a vast region where the polar plateau offers a dramatic backdrop to Mawson's Hut; and New Zealand's exquisite subantarctic islands.

Passengers departing on the first Mawson's centenary voyage will mark the departure from Hobart of the 1911-14 Australasian Antarctic Expedition (AAE) led by Sir Douglas Mawson on Dec 2 1911—exactly 100 years to the day after the AAE sailed for Macquarie Island.

"The Mawson's Huts Foundation is looking forward to welcoming all passengers to the Sir Douglas Mawson Centenary dinner in Hobart on Thursday Dec 1. Over 500 guests are expected to attend the dinner which is being supported by the Federal and Tasmanian governments and a flotilla of hundreds of ships will farewell your ship as you sail down to the Derwent on the first leg of your voyage to Mawson's Huts at Cape Denison.

Patron of the Foundation the Governor General of Australia Ms Quentin Bryce AC has been invited to attend the dinner which will also mark the beginning of the "heroic era" celebrations for Antarctic exploration which saw the Norwegian Amundsen reach the South Pole ahead of the British Explorer Robert Falcon Scott, his demise and then Mawson's own incredible feat of survival after the loss of two colleagues". David Jensen, Mawson Hut Foundation.

These 26-day voyages are Aurora Expeditions' most adventurous in scope, with extended sea crossings and the chance to explore the pack ice edge, where much of Antarctica's marine life, including whales, seals and penguins, can be found. The voyages will visit Mawson's Hut and the abandoned French base at Port Martin, and the working research station of Dumont d'Urville. Prices start from US$17,475 per person twin share.

The voyage, "Emeralds of the Subantarctic" is a 13-day expedition, which takes you to Macquarie Island and Campbell Island, the Auckland Islands and, depending on sea conditions, a rare Zodiac cruise of the Snares Islands. This region contains the greatest diversity of seabirds in the world, often in astounding numbers. It's a tremendous opportunity to visit a wildlife wonderland. Prices for this voyage start from US$7,325 per person twin share.

Aurora Expeditions will be utilising their ship Akademik Shokalskiy for the East Antarctica voyages The decision to use small, ice-strengthened ships allows Aurora Expeditions to visit areas that other large cruise ships can't. For many years, Aurora Expeditions has been a leading expedition cruise company specialising in Antarctic and European Arctic expeditions. Since the early 1990s, Aurora Expeditions have shared their love of Antarctica with small groups of adventurous individuals keen to explore one of the wildest places on Earth.

Aurora Expeditions' dynamic team all share a great respect for natural and cultural environments. Aurora Expeditions continues to approach expedition travel as a catalyst for making a difference in one's life, and in the world.

Rabbits and rats targeted on Macquarie Island: ABC

2011-04-26T17:08:00.000+10:00

For the past few days wild weather has held up plans to begin a special eradication program on a rugged Subantarctic island.

A team of specialists, including 12 dogs, has arrived offshore at Macquarie Island, ready to begin the crucial operation.

The project aimed at eradicating rabbits and rodents is no overnight quick fix. It's expected to take five years and cost at least $25 million.

From the island, Tracy Bowden reports.

INTO THE FROZEN SOUTH - Historic Hurley Video from Pathe

2011-04-23T13:01:00.002+10:00

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The World’s Most Innovative Antarctic Expeditions

2011-04-14T13:39:00.000+10:00

Experience the magic of Antarctica in the Summer of 2011, aboard the celebrated research vessel, Akademik Ioffe. This ship is considered the best equipped, most stable and most capable Antarctic expedition vessel in the world, with a maximum of just 95 guests. All voyages include well presented lectures, up to three shore excursions per day when in Antarctica and a complimentary Antarctica wet weather gear hire package. For the adventurers, we include the option to spend a night camping on the ice as well as sea kayaking. You also enjoy outstanding international cuisine prepared by our team of chefs. There are 10 expeditions to choose from – departing between November 2011 and March 2012. With the Aussie dollar so strong, there will never be a better time to go! Popular expeditions include:

Antarctic Peninsula Adventure
(4-departures this season)

11-day expedition departing from Ushuaia, Argentina. Experience the breathtaking scenery of the Antarctic Peninsula – a region teeming with wildlife, towering glaciers, icebergs in all shapes and sizes and historic research bases. Our days are filled with excursions ashore accompanied by our naturalist guides. *Ask about our special airfares to South America.

Journey Below the Antarctic Circle
(1-departure this season)

On this 13-day voyage, we journey further south than we do at any other time in the season. Our aim is to cross the Antarctic Circle, below 66 ° 33' south. We aim to head as far south as Crystal Sound, an icy sweep of water surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Antarctic continent. The scenery here, combined with the extended light at the height of the Antarctic summer, make for truly jaw-dropping sights in every direction. Be quick, this expedition sells out every season! *Ask about our special airfares to South America.

The Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula (3-departures this season)

On this far-reaching expedition to the islands of the South Atlantic Ocean and the Antarctic continent, you revel in 19 awe-inspiring days of exploration. Busybody penguins in rookeries by the thousands, stupendous icebergs reflecting startling greens and blues, humpback whales feeding on krill, and, of course, the continent-sized sweeping ice sheet of Antarctica are just some of the highlights of this outstanding expedition. *Ask about our special airfares to South America.

Contact Active Travel – the Antarctic travel experts.
Call 02 9264 1231, email sydney@activetravel.com.au or visit www.activetravel.com.au.

Visit the Antarctic Centre in Christchurch

2010-11-14T00:27:00.001+11:00

by BELINDA MERHAB || AAP

Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, driest place on earth.

It is twice the size of Australia, drier than the Sahara and temperatures can get as low as minus 89C.

More interestingly, it's a place to party, with concerts, bars, a bowling alley and a hefty supply of condoms.

This is what I discovered when I visited the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch, one of New Zealand's most popular tourist attractions.

It isn't Antarctica, but it's the closest thing to being there, without actually being there.

The city of Christchurch is one of five official "gateways" to Antarctica, where some 70 per cent of travellers to the icy continent leave from.

The centre is home to the US, Italian and NZ Antarctic programs as well as the Antarctic passenger departure terminal.

During winter, there are roughly 500 people based at 34 stations across Antarctica.

The population, made up of scientists, researchers and station support staff such as cooks and cleaners, swells to a couple of thousand in the summer months.

Centre manager Mike Hyde and our guide, Sue Best, are two of Antarctica's most passionate ambassadors, who promise to give us a taste of what it's like there.

Having arrived in Christchurch to torrential rain and gale force winds, weather described by the locals as the worst they've seen in a decade, their promise shouldn't be too hard to fulfil.

Our first Antarctic experience is a ride aboard a Hagglund, a Swedish all-terrain vehicle, strongly resembling an army tank - it was originally designed for military use - used in Antarctica since 1985.

I climb into the first of two carriages, joined by caterpillar tracks, and don my headset, as we make our way across a series of small earth mounds.

Our driver explains that the only difference between this vehicle and the Hagglunds used in Antarctica is the padding on the seat, for which I am very grateful.

He then sets out to show us what this beast can do: we drive over a 1.5m crevice and climb the Hill of Terror which is followed by a seven metre drop straight into a pond, demonstrating the amphibious capabilities of the vehicle.

Back on dry land, Sue tells us what life on Antarctica is like.

She should know, she's spent five summers and one winter there as a cook.

According to Sue, Antarctica is a place to "party hard" and she jokes with us about the number of condoms shipped there each year and the drinking that goes on.

But on a serious note, Antarctica is not for the faint-hearted.

Those wishing to travel there are subject to psychological testing before departure.

You must be able to work well in a team environment and you have to be resilient.

Once the polar winter sets in around March, the continent (depending on where you are) is subject to four to six months of constant darkness.

At Scott Base, the main NZ station, there is darkness from April to August.

The weather leaves some areas totally cut off from the rest of the world, as the temperature becomes too cold for aeroplanes and freezes the sea, making ship access impossible.

Over 10 years ago, American physician Dr Jerri Nielsen made headlines around the world after discovering an aggressive form of cancer in her breast during the Antarctic winter, in March 1999.

The extreme weather conditions meant her station was closed off from the outside world until the end of the year.

With help from doctors via satellite email and colleagues that she trained to care for her, Dr Nielsen treated herself.

She performed a biopsy on her breast and treated herself with anti-cancer drugs delivered in an airdrop by the US Air Force in July 1999.

That October, she was rescued by the Air National Guard in minus 50C conditions.

According to Dr Bryan Storey, Professor of Antarctic Studies at the University of Canterbury, the continual darkness during the winter months can bring on the winter blues.

"People do get affected by the continual darkness," says Dr Storey.

"People are made aware of it, the station always try to keep some structure to the day, so people get up and have a breakfast, and lunch, and dinner and have activities and work to do.

"It keeps people in a routine.

"On Scott Base, there might be 20 people and they look after each other and organise events that keep things ticking on."

Sue tells us that the darkness "can be depressing".

"You want to sleep all the time," she says.

In summer, you have the opposite problem: perpetual daylight.

From November to January, the sun does not set and Sue says people hang sheets on their windows to get some shut eye.

There's also a two-minute limit on showers - water needs to be conserved in order to put out the frequent fires that occur as a result of the dry atmosphere.

It is so dry, you must drink two to three litres of water every couple of hours to prevent dehydration and if you walk outside in normal clothing, 60 seconds is all it will take to freeze the moisture in your lungs and kill you.

To get a feel for just how cold it is, Sue takes us to the Snow and Ice Experience, a snow-filled room, designed to make you feel as though you are actually in Antarctica.

There's even an igloo.

We are given rubber socks to put over our shoes and coats, to experience what it is like in Antarctica on a hot summer day. It's a scorching minus 8C.

Thirty seconds of simulated Antarctic winds is all I can handle before leaving the room. But apparently, it's very popular among tourists from warm countries and it can actually be difficult to get them out.

Finally, we see the fairy penguins, or Little Blues, all of whom have been rescued from the wild and have disabilities.

Some are wearing pink booties - seriously.

Apparently, penguins can get calluses on their feet if they stand for too long, and don't spend enough time swimming, and if this happens, they are given pedicures and are forced to wear the shoes.

After watching the penguins eat their lunch, we head over to the centre's cafe for some refreshments of our own.

Upon returning to Sydney later that week, I spread the word about Antarctica's sea of condoms to all my friends and family.

For once, they seemed to be interested in the tales from my travels, confirming the theory that sex sells.

A quick Google search of Antarctica+condoms confirms the rumours.

In 2008, 16,500 condoms were reportedly delivered to Antarctica's McMurdo base station, the main US base, where just 125 people were stationed - I'll let you do the math.

IF YOU GO:

The International Antarctic Centre, 38 Orchard Road, Christchurch. Call: 64-3- 353-7798

Visit: www.iceberg.co.nz

The centre is open every day of the year from 9am.

Entry for adults is $55, children aged 5-15, $36, and family passes are available for $145.

Entry for children under five is free.

The writer was a guest of the Antarctic Centre, Accor Hotels, Christchurch Tourism and Pacific Blue.

Experience the 'Heroic Era' of Antarctic Exploration

2010-09-07T15:00:00.001+10:00

Imagine spending New Year's Eve or early 2011 as part of an Antarctic expedition. Join the purpose-built expedition cruise ship Orion for modern-day exploration of Antarctica with departures leaving from Dunedin (New Zealand), in December 2010, and Hobart, in January 2011.

Cross the Antarctic Circle before heading for Cape Denison and a rare visit to Douglas Mawson's historic huts, built for the 1911-1914 'Australian Antarctic Expedition'; or explore the Ross Sea region including Scott and Shackleton's bases still surviving from the 'Heroic Era' of Antarctic exploration.

These timber buildings are rare in a world context. Just six complexes surviving from the 'Heroic Era' of Antarctic exploration: a period of great human adventure, exploration, research and discovery on the last continent to be explored.

Whipped by ferocious katabatic winds, it is a wonder that there are any remnants of buildings left at all. Yet, remarkably, in addition to the historic buildings, there are plentiful examples of clothing, food, crates, sleds, ropes and kerosene tins remaining, literally frozen in time.

At over twice the length and 10 times the weight of Douglas Mawson's wooden ex-whaling barquentine, Aurora, the purpose built expedition ship Orion (with the benefits of oversized stabilisers, retractable sonar and ice strengthened hull) provides her 100 guests with the needs of today's adventurers: technology, safety and creature comforts that include fine food and wines, a gym, boutique, hairdressing, sauna and massage facilities - as well as 80 staff, specialist lecturers and polar expedition crew to look after every need.

These are true expeditions - both cross the Antarctic Circle, voyaging further south than the position of the South Magnetic Pole. Magnetic compasses are useless in these waters, an area that remains largely unsurveyed.

Orion's 10 Zodiacs, purpose designed expedition transport for intrepid modern-day adventurers, will be put to good use for landings ashore in Antarctica and World Heritage listed sub-Antarctic Snares, Auckland and Macquarie Islands, pristine breeding grounds for countless wildlife.

On Macquarie Island the King penguin colony alone is estimated to have in excess of 170,000 breeding pairs. So rare are visitors here that they are usually ignored by birds, seals and penguins alike as they go about their daily business. See Elephant seals, some weighing as much as three tonnes - more than a car - and the massed gathering of Royal penguins coming and going from the sea.

Never to be forgotten expeditions to some of the most exciting and wondrous places on earth.

Mawson's Antarctica - Commonwealth Bay 2010

18 night expedition: Dunedin / Antarctica / Dunedin
Expedition departs 28th December 2010 Dunedin / Snares Islands / Auckland Islands / Commonwealth Bay region / Macquarie Island/ Dunedin

Fares from $19,365 per person for an Ocean View category B Stateroom
Suites from $26,710 per person for a Junior Suite
Orion's spacious Owners' Suites are $40,555 per person

Scott and Shackleton's Antarctica - Ross Sea 2011

21 night expedition: Hobart / Antarctica / Christchurch
Expedition departs 27th January 2011 Hobart / Macquarie Island / Ross Sea region / Campbell Island / Christchurch

Fares from $22,590 per person for an Ocean View category B Stateroom
Suites from $31,160 per person for a Junior Suite
Orion's spacious Owners' Suites are $47,315 per person

NOTE: Please note that all Antarctic voyages are subject to possible variation according to prevailing weather conditions and as such are opportunistic in nature. On occasion intended destinations will need to be changed for safety or other reason.

Further information on Orion Expedition Cruises can be obtained by visiting the website www.orionexpeditions.com

For reservations or to obtain a brochure call Orion Expedition Cruises: 61-2 9033 8777 (Sydney callers) 1300 361 012 (regional and interstate) or your travel agent. Email: info@orionexpeditions.com

Ranked #2 expedition cruise ship in the world in the current Berlitz Cruise Guide, Orion is the world's latest purpose-built luxury expedition cruise ship, featuring an unmatched range of onboard facilities.

With 80 crew and a maximum of 100 passengers for Antarctic voyages Orion offers the highest staff to guest ratio and guest to public space ratio of any ship based in Australian waters.

Icebreaker and Ross Sea Voyages

2010-08-07T15:03:00.008+10:00

Dear Adventurers

We are now in the depths of the southern winter, the snow is low on the mountains and we had a -5ºC frost here in Christchurch earlier in the week. That is as cold as a cool summer’s day in Antarctica, but despite looking there were no icebergs and penguins were a little thin on the ground as well! If you have always wanted to see icebergs and penguins, you could wait till the next ice age or you could join us for the experience of a lifetime in Antarctica!

Heritage Expeditions continues to offer its very successful expeditions to the Ross Sea Region of Antarctica, and after many years of planning we are pleased to bring you a full range of expeditions to South Georgia & the Antarctic Peninsula. Our Antarctic Peninsula expedition’s sail aboard the former Swedish icebreaker MV Polar Star which carries just 100 passengers is supremely well suited to polar navigation with its icebreaker hull allowing us to explore where others are unable. Aboard the expedition program has the same focus on experiences ashore and education that we have always valued.

As an introductory offer Wild Earth Travel has for a limited time the exceptional one off rate of AU$5,844 per person in a double berth with private bathroom on our 9th December and 6th January 10 night departures from Ushuaia.

That is a huge 35% discount of the regular price!

Alternatively if you want to turn a classic adventure into a once in a lifetime trip this offer is extended to our 19 night expedition taking in The Falklands Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica on which double berths are now only AU$10,702 per person on our November 21st departure!

If you have already been to Antarctica and have Antarcticus Feverus or you have always wanted to experience Antarctica there has never been a better time.

Contact us today for further details – offer ends August 10th so don’t delay!

Best Regards

Aaron Russ
‘Small Ships, Big Adventures’

IN THE HEART OF THE ICE CONTINENT, VISIT ANTARCTICA WITH HAPAG-LLOYD CRUISES’ EXPEDITION SHIPS

2010-06-12T12:21:00.000+10:00

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ Small Expedition Ships Won’t be Affected by New Bans That Will Keep Large Cruise Ships Out of Antarctica Starting in 2011

he International Maritime Organization adopted a ban on the use and carriage of heavy fuel oil for ships sailing in Antarctica this month, effectively meaning that beginning August 1, 2011 most large cruise ships will no longer be able to sail in Antarctica. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ two expedition ships, the 5-star* MS HANSEATIC and the 4-star* MS BREMEN have always used diesel fuel, state-of-the-art waste disposal systems (rubbish-incinerator and biological sewage treatment plant on board) and environmentally-friendly underwater paints (TBT-free), which will allow both ships to continue this very popular route in 2011 and beyond. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ expedition ships carry no more than 184 passengers. Zodiac (small motorized boats) landings, under the guidance of experienced experts who give detailed instructions to passengers about proper conduct while in Antarctica, never exceed 20 people.

łWe support all changes to current regulations, if they are geared towards protecting and conserving Antarctica, said Sebastian Ahrens Managing Director of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. łWith our passengers, cruises to Antarctica have not suffered a loss of fascination in that the secret of an unforgettable cruise to Antarctica is to have a small-ship operator that offers trips off the beaten paths. And this is exactly what our expeditions are all about all under the premise of leaving the environment intact.˛

Hapag-Lloyd cruises is an active member of IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators) a voluntary union of Antarctic tour operators that have agreed to promote ecologically sustainable tourism in the Antarctic continent and, at the same time, benefit from the experience of the other members.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will be offering two Antarctica international (German/English) cruises in early 2011 on the MS HANSEATIC and the MS BREMEN. Both ships are well equipped for travel in difficult waters, with both holding the highest ice class ranking for passenger vessels (E4). Also shallow drafts and high manoeuvrability allow the ships to enter waters larger cruise vessels cannot reach. Guests explore the world’s best-kept secrets in zodiacs (small motorized boats) with only 10-12 guests. Onboard experts include a team of experienced scientists, expedition leaders and specialists who guide landings and offer guests the rare opportunity to observe plant and animal life up close. Both ships also have warm parkas and rubber boots for all passengers on-loan.

The Antarctica itineraries below offers guests a once in a lifetime experience to view the gigantic colonies of birds, particularly penguins as they gather for the start of their summer in Antarctica. In addition to observing the massive bird colonies, guests will also have the opportunity to hike on the Falkland Islands, explore South Georgia, bath in the hot waters on Deception Island and observe the gleaming icebergs and whales in the Antarctic Sound.

MS BREMEN: ANTARCTICA and the ANTARCTIC CIRCLE

(South Georgia, Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic Circle)

Dates: January 5 24, 2011 (19 Days)

Embarkation: Ushuaia/Argentina, Disembarkation: Ushuaia/Argentina

Rate: Starting at $11,710* per person based on double occupancy for an outside cabin, rate includes flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia.

MS HANSEATIC: ANTARCTICA

(South Georgia, South Orkney Islands, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula)

Dates: January 726, 2011 (19 Days)

Embarkation: Ushuaia/Argentina, Disembarkation: Ushuaia/Argentina

Rate: Starting at $13,640* per person based on double occupancy for an outside cabin, rate includes flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia.

For more information on other HANSEATIC AND BREMEN international cruises, visit www.hl-cruises.com.

Antarctica Tour Operators Group Predicts Tourism Decline

2010-05-25T01:00:00.000+10:00

The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) predicts that new fuel regulations will lead to a steep decline in the number of cruise ships sailing in Antarctica. An amendment passed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) that bans the use and carriage of heavy fuel oils in the Antarctic beginning in mid-2011 is projected to lead to a nearly 23 percent decline in cruise tourism to the region, IAATO said.

The ban goes into effect Aug. 1, 2011, and will mostly impact large cruise ships that carry more than 500 passengers and briefly pass through Antarctica waters, without disembarking passengers, while traveling from South America. Designed to minimize the potential for accidents involving heavy fuel oils, the ban will force larger ships to deplete any banned fuel onboard before traveling into the region.

As a result, it is expected that a number of these ships will alter their itineraries to avoid the area, which will result in a projected decline in tourism from a current annual estimate of 35,000 visitors for the 2010-11 season to roughly 27,000 the following season. “Our mission remains the advocacy of responsible tourism operations geared toward the safety of human life and the protection and preservation of the Antarctic environment,” said Steve Wellmeier, executive director of IATTO. “As a result, our members are receptive to those changes that help accomplish these objectives.”

Unaffected will be the majority of smaller, expedition-type cruise vessels -- those carrying 60 to 500 passengers -- which in recent years have relied on lighter distillate fuels such as marine gas oil and marine diesel oil. These fuels are not included in the ban.

IAATO is a member organization founded in 1991 to advocate, promote and practice safe and environmentally responsible private-sector travel to the Antarctic. IAATO currently has 110 members. IAATO members work together to develop, adopt and implement operational standards that mitigate potential environmental impacts. For more information, visit www.iaato.org.

Coming Antarctic Season 2010/11, the Last for Big Cruise Ships

2010-05-18T12:09:00.000+10:00

The Antarctica season beginning in November 2010 is likely to be the last one as it has been known. Proposed changes to the type of fuel ships are allowed to burn and carry in this fragile ecosystem have now become a reality, making the future of big cruise ships in Antarctica uncertain.

A rule was passed last year by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) banning the use and carriage of heavy fuel oils, the type of fuel commonly burned by big ships, in the Antarctic. The reasoning is that a spillage of this type of fuel is considered too much of a risk—and accidents do happen, as we witnessed in 2007, when Gap Adventures' M/S Explorer was holed by ice and sank.

Read full story (opens a new site)

Cruise Tourism in Polar Regions: Promoting Environmental and Social Sustainability?

2010-05-14T15:18:00.000+10:00

Cruises are the primary form of tourism in the Polar Regions and cruise ship tourism in both the Arctic and Antarctic is expanding rapidly. Yet little is known about the practices, implications and challenges of tourism in remote polar seas. Climate change is dramatically altering the impact and potential for such forms of tourism. Recent incidents, such as the sinking of one cruise ship and the grounding of two other cruise vessels in the Antarctic Peninsula in 2007, highlight the need for a critical examination of the implications of polar cruise tourism.

A specific critical study of polar cruise tourism is therefore timely. The industry has moved beyond its infancy, and is now entering a maturing phase with increased numbers and types of vessels, more demanding routes, and more regular and predictable patterns of activity. A range of factors is likely to support this maturing phase, including increasing tourist demand for travel to remote places, overall popularity of cruising worldwide, more sophisticated promotional activities by tour agencies, increasing awareness at the political and community levels about the benefits and costs of cruise tourism, and changing ice regimes in the polar regions. The increase in cruise activities, and the associated risks of accidents, as well as the potential and actual impacts of the large numbers of tourists in the polar regions bring with it management challenges for sustainable use of these regions. This book discusses critically the issues around environmental and social sustainability of the cruise industry in Polar Regions. Authors from Canada, USA, Europe, Australia and New Zealand are experts in their respective fields and take an innovative, critical and at times controversial approach to the subject.

In spite of bad weather 16 cruise vessels visit South Georgia during February

2010-03-17T12:45:00.001+11:00

“Minerva” one of the sixteen cruise vessels and six yachts that called in Grytviken

For South Georgia February was one of the busiest months in the 2009/10 tourist season with sixteen cruise ships and six yachts visiting the island.

According to the February edition of the South Georgia newsletter the 11th cruise was an especially busy day at Grytviken, with two vessels bringing the largest numbers of passengers in a day this season. “Delphin” with 355 passengers visited in the morning and “Minerva” with 300 in the afternoon.

Six yachts have been around the Island this month: three on private visits, two on charter to small tourist groups and one as support yacht to a kayak expedition.

Three yachts gathered at the north end of the Island awaiting better weather before launching back to the Falkland Islands. With the weather unrelenting the yachts were trapped long enough for passengers and crew to miss pre-booked flights.

One yacht that did head out had a very rough voyage and another 15-metre long yacht ended up having to be singled handed back by the skipper when its two crew members joined a cruise ship to get back for their flights.

Continued stormy weather and a wetter than average February disrupted schedules and prevented many landings as the ships sought out the more sheltered potential landing sites on the worst weather days.

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