Episode 88 – Exploring Antarctica: What It’s Really Like on an HX Expeditions Cruise
In episode 88 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy shares her firsthand experience visiting Antarctica on a recent HX Expeditions cruise.
Joined by fellow travellers from the same voyage, Tracy offers an honest look at what it is really like to visit the White Continent, blending inspiration with practical information for anyone curious about planning their own Antarctic adventure.
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Episode 88 – What you’ll learn in this episode
- What it is really like to visit Antarctica on an expedition cruise
- How to plan and manage the journey to Antarctica via South America
- What to expect when crossing the Drake Passage and how to prepare
- How expedition cruising works, from landings and wildlife encounters to onboard life
- Practical tips travellers wish they had known before visiting Antarctica
Places, foods and words/concepts mentioned
Places
- Ushuaia >> The southernmost city in the world and the main starting and ending point for most Antarctica expedition cruises.
- Brisbane & Sydney (Australia) >> Departure points for long-haul flights to South America when travelling to Antarctica from Australia.
- Santiago (Chile) >> A common transit city when travelling to South America en route to Antarctica.
- Buenos Aires (Argentina) >> A major international gateway and frequent stop before flying on to Ushuaia.
- Lemaire Channel (Kodak Channel) >> A narrow, dramatic passage along the Antarctic Peninsula, famous for its towering ice cliffs and wildlife sightings.
- Brown Station >> An Argentine research station on the Antarctic mainland, visited during expedition landings.
- Falkland Islands (Stanley) >> A self-governing British overseas territory and port stop on the itinerary, known for birdlife, history, and unique island culture.
Words and concepts
- HX Expeditions >> The expedition cruise company operating the Antarctica voyage, known for purpose-built ships and polar expertise.
- MS Roald Amundsen >> HX Expeditions’ hybrid-powered expedition ship designed specifically for polar travel.
- Drake Passage >> The stretch of ocean between South America and Antarctica, famous for its changeable sea conditions.
- Zodiac landings >> Small inflatable boat transfers used to reach Antarctic shores from the ship.
- Biosecurity briefings >> Mandatory procedures to protect Antarctica’s fragile environment, including cleaning clothing and equipment.
- MUK boots >> Expedition boots provided to passengers for safe, biosecure landings.
- Penguin highways >> Designated penguin pathways that visitors must avoid to allow wildlife to move freely.
- Science centre talks >> Expert-led onboard presentations covering wildlife, climate, and Antarctic history.
- Polar plunge >> An optional icy swim in Antarctic waters for those wanting an extra challenge.
Links
Podcasts (South America)
- Episode #86 – Around the World in 2025: Global Travel Planning’s Year in Review
- Episode #81 – Stamped: Sinead: Trains, Travels, and Family Adventures Across 80 Countries
- Episode #41 – Tips for first time visitors to Peru with Ariana Svenson
Articles
