Ways to See Antarctica

Antarctica is the last section of landmass on Earth that has barely been explored, so maybe it’s time you check it out. Its long been thought that Antarctica is just a massive ice sheet but researchers are making exciting discoveries and uncovering the awesomeness of the seventh continent. The area’s extreme climate, rugged coastlines and violent surrounding seas, make this destination one of the most dangerous. If you have Antarctica on your bucket list, we found the best ways for you to get on the mostly inaccessible continent. Prepare for a voyage you won’t soon forget.

Cruise

The easiest way to get on or near the island is by taking one of the luxury cruises that goes to the seventh continent. Most ships leave out of Ushuaia, Argentina and are a little less luxury than you may be accustomed to. These ships are generally smaller than your average massive cruise ship since larger ships can’t dock in Antarctica.

The route that these ships will take to get to Antarctica is full of rough waters and various amounts of danger. If you aren’t prepared for the ride, you may be in over your head, adventure awaits but the journey is a struggle.

Work at a research Station

The most affordable way to check out the seventh continent is by simply getting a job in one of the research stations. You could become a scientist, but if years of school are not in the cards, maybe you can be a part of the growing support staff. There are nearly 70 research stations on Antarctica and all of them have staff and needs. With the continents ice shelf melting at incredible rates, it’s more important now than ever to research the region.

These research stations need chefs, firefighters, handymen, plumbers, hairstylists, you name it, and they most likely need it. Find your niche and fit in so you can explore and get paid to do so.

Getting there will be different for you as you will likely be transported in a military cargo plane, so kiss luxury goodbye and prepare to rough it.

Run a marathon

Lastly and possibly the oddest way to see Antarctica, is to run a marathon or an extreme cross-country ski event. The continent hosts many events like these each year, but be warned, they are not cheap in the slightest. The average cost of entry is around $12,000 USD, but this price includes everything, from transportation, accommodations and food.

These races are the most extreme races in the world, so if you are not an experienced racer, this potion may not be for you.

Whatever you decide is your best option; you first must contact the International Association of Antarctic Tour operations, which is the organization that is in charge of all visitors to the continent.

I hope you find the adventure you are looking for and that I was a little bit of help in crossing this off your bucket list.