Antarctic Peninsula

Background

From Captain Cook's first crossing of the Antarctic Circle to Amundsen and Scott's race to the South Pole, Antarctica has been the ultimate stage of human exploration, and the Antarctic Peninsula is the part most visited by travellers today. The rusting boilers and oil tanks of the whaling station on Deception Island record the frenzy and end of industrial whaling in the early 20th century. Today research stations from many countries dot the coast, and the Antarctic Treaty has made the continent a symbol of peace and science.

Local customs

Landings follow strict environmental etiquette: disinfect your boots, keep at least 5 m from penguins and leave nothing behind. Expedition staff and scientists see themselves as an 'Antarctic family', and stations of different countries often visit one another.

Religion & beliefs

• There are no Indigenous people or established religions
• early explorers left crosses as memorials at the Pole, many modern research stations have a small chapel or meditation room, and the polar landscape itself becomes a spiritual experience.

Travel tips

• Expedition cruises run only from November to March, the southern summer, mostly from Ushuaia in Argentina
• costs are high, so check itineraries and prices on cruise companies' official websites. Seasickness medication and windproof, waterproof gear are essential.