Christmas Season in Antarctica (Ocean Victory)

Spend the festive season venturing through glacial landscapes on this 11-day trip to the Antarctic Peninsula. Starting in the southernmost city in the world, you’ll board the Ocean Victory and traverse the famed Drake Passage, then hop into Zodiac boats and cruise around the South Shetland Islands. Celebrate Christmas Day surrounded by penguins, seals, whales and rare seabirds with a group of like-minded adventurers and a knowledgeable Expedition Team by your side. Contribute to vital research of the region’s ecosystems and learn how they’re being impacted by climate change by helping to collect data through the Citizen Science program. Make this holiday season one that's filled with expeditions, epic photo ops and rare wildlife encounters.

The Ocean Victory is an ice-strengthened ship – large, sturdy and suited to the unpredictable Antarctic waters. Some people may experience seasickness in occasional rough seas. We have a doctor on board should you need assistance. Over-the-counter seasickness medication is usually an easy fix., Temperatures in the Antarctic can get very cold, but it can also get surprisingly warm when the sun comes out. We recommend dressing in layers when you journey outside. We’ll loan you a waterproof jacket and waterproof boots that are sturdy and warm. Please see the Essential Trip Information for a packing list., Depending on the weather, you’ll be travelling in a Zodiac boat quite regularly to explore the areas and search for wildlife. It can get cold and wet on the Zodiac, so make sure you dress appropriately and keep your camera safe and dry. A fair level of mobility is needed for wet and dry landings from the boat, as well as on steep terrain, snow and other uneven surfaces. Elevators may be closed in rough seas, requiring the use of stairs for meals, presentations and activities., The weather plays a pivotal part in this adventure and, although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially in an area as remote as the Antarctic. There are nearly 200 recognised sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands – the places mentioned in the itinerary may need to be changed to other locations, which are just as interesting and beautiful!, We may be confined to the ship during rough weather, but there are plenty of onboard resources and activities. The ship’s library and educational lectures are ideal ways to stay entertained, while the gym will keep you fresh for when the weather clears.