Antarctica: Planning the Ultimate Expedition – Part One

When most people hear "holiday," they think of lounging by the pool, sipping cocktails, and taking it easy. Me? I prefer expeditions, the kind of trips that involve a mission, a bit of risk, and a whole lot of adrenaline. Think jumping out of planes, cliff diving, or trekking somewhere that requires an actual survival plan.

For your average travel company, I’m probably their worst nightmare. But if you live for travel, the kind that pushes limits and makes for epic stories, then I’m your guy.

I have always been drawn to the world's most unique and unexplored destinations... places that are off the beaten path, where few have ventured, and where adventure takes precedence over comfort. After this trip in December 2025, my travels would have taken me to every continent on the planet, from the clifftops of South America to the safaris of Africa, the bustling metropolises of Asia and now to the frozen tundras of the Arctic. This review is for those Middle East travelers (and others) who want to push the boundaries when it comes to travel.

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Why Antarctica, are you crazy Shyam?

Unlike any other place on Earth, Antarctica remains one of the least visited and most extreme travel destinations, with only 50,000 – 60,000 visitors per year a fraction of the millions who visit more mainstream destinations like Paris, New York, or even the Galápagos. The sheer remoteness and inaccessibility make it an adventure like no other, requiring meticulous planning, endurance, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

However, Antarctica isn’t just about its exclusivity; it is a place of raw, untouched beauty, where nature dominates and humanity is merely a visitor. The journey to reach it is one of the most dangerous in modern travel. Drake Passage, the infamous body of water between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula, is known as one of the roughest seas in the world (You’ve probably seen those videos on Instagram of ships swallowed by 100-foot waves… Yes, that’s likely the Drakes Passage)

The passage, spanning about 800 km (500 miles), takes around two days to cross and has been described as either the Drake Lake (calm seas) or the Drake Shake (brutal storms with waves over 10 meters (33 feet) high).

For centuries, only the most hardened explorers and researchers ventured to Antarctica, facing extreme cold, hurricane-force winds, and isolation from the rest of the world. Today, modern expedition ships make the journey more accessible, but it is still not for the faint-hearted. The unpredictability of the weather, the constant risk of being stranded due to changing conditions, and the fact that you are thousands of miles away from any major civilization make it an adventure in the truest sense.

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Choosing the right ship

A trip to Antarctica isn’t something you book on a whim. It requires months of research, preparation, and careful evaluation of all available options. My journey started by diving deep into YouTube, Reddit, and travel forums, where I could read real-life accounts from those who had already embarked on this journey. I reached out to travelers, spoke to people who had done it before, and gathered as much firsthand knowledge as possible before making my decision.

A major part of the planning process was evaluating different expedition ships. Given that there are a variety of vessels catering to different travel styles, I created a detailed spreadsheet (love a good spreadsheet) comparing key factors: ship amenities, cost, comfort levels, luxury offerings, and overall value for money. My goal was to find the perfect balance between adventure and comfort.

After careful comparison, I ultimately chose Atlas World Traveller. The ship stood out for several reasons:

• Comfort: While not the most expensive option, Atlas World Traveller offers a high level of luxury with modern amenities e.g. spa’s, swimming pools, spacious cabins, and a focus on guest experience.
• Limited Passenger Count: With fewer than 200 passengers, the ship provides an intimate and exclusive experience. This works better for on-island tours since there's a limit of 100 people at a time.
• Itinerary & Routes: The ship operates in both Antarctica and the Arctic, meaning it is specifically built for extreme environments.
• State-of-the-Art Technology: Atlas World Traveller features advanced stabilizers to help with rough seas, which was a key consideration given the Drake Passage's infamous turbulence.
• Expertise: Scientists and Antarctic experts are onboard to guide you through every step of your journey, providing you with in-depth knowledge and fascinating insights about the region.

When choosing an expedition cruise, the main differences come down to itinerary, ship size, and experience type. Some ships explore the Antarctic Peninsula, while others venture to the Falklands, South Georgia, or even beyond the Arctic Circle. Ship sizes range from intimate 50-passenger vessels to larger 250+ capacity ships, each offering varying levels of luxury and adventure. Expedition-focused options like G-Adventures and Hertha Groton prioritise exploration, while Seabourn and Silversea offer high-end luxury. Science-driven trips, like those by Lindblad and National Geographic, cater to those seeking deeper insights. These factors also influence pricing, making it essential to choose based on your priorities.

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How to Get There from Dubai to Ushuaia (Docking point)

Getting to Antarctica is an adventure in itself. The journey starts from Dubai and let me tell you, it’s a long one! L

1. Dubai to Rio de Janeiro – This is the first leg, around 15 hours with a quick stop for refuelling. (Emirates Airlines)

2. Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires – A short 3-hour flight, giving me a taste of South America before heading to the edge of the world. (Emirates Airlines)

3. Buenos Aires to Ushuaia – The cruise company books one night in Buenos Aires before flying passengers via a private charter to Ushuaia, the southernmost city on Earth. (covered by operator)

4. Boarding the Ship – From Ushuaia, it’s a direct transfer to the port, where the real adventure begins.

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Ushuaia: The Edge of the World

Ushuaia is often called the Gateway to Antarctica, but it’s much more than that. It’s the southernmost city in the world, nestled between the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel. Originally established as a penal colony, it’s now a hub for adventurers heading to the White Continent.

Fun facts about Ushuaia:

• It’s home to Tierra del Fuego National Park, filled with hiking trails and stunning landscapes. (definitely going to go hiking after)
• The city’s weather is unpredictable—I’ve heard four seasons in a day are common!
• The Beagle Channel, named after Charles Darwin’s HMS Beagle, is where many ships pass through before heading into the open waters of the Southern Ocean.

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I Travel for Food: The Edge of the World

Let’s be honest, I’m a passionate foodie. I know that securing a table at Argentina’s top restaurants isn’t something you leave to chance. With the country’s culinary scene thriving, planning is essential. Whether it’s indulging in the finest Patagonian king crab in Ushuaia, savouring perfectly aged steak in Buenos Aires, or diving into world-class tasting menus, booking in advance is a must.

Many of Argentina’s most sought-after restaurants, especially Michelin-starred spots or those with limited seating, fill up months ahead. To guarantee I don’t miss out on the best gastronomic experiences, I make reservations at least six months in advance, ensuring I get the full taste of Argentina’s vibrant and diverse food culture.

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Preparing for the Trip: What You Need to Consider

In November, Antarctica warms up to -2°C to -10°C (28°F to 14°F), but during winter (June–August), temperatures drop to -20°C to -30°C (-4°F to -22°F), turning it into one of the harshest places on Earth.

Before booking an Antarctica expedition, there are a few things to think about:

1. Cost – Prices range from $8,000 to $30,000, depending on the ship and itinerary.

2. Health & Climatisation – Going from Dubai (sea level) to Ushuaia (altitude 0-200m), then sailing through Drake Passage, is a shock to the system. Staying hydrated and allowing time to adjust is key.

3. Gear & Equipment – Most ships provide essential polar gear, including waterproof boots and parkas (Plus my Canada Goose), so you don’t have to splurge on unnecessary shopping.

4. Seasickness – The Drake Passage is no joke! If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring medication and be prepared for rough seas.

5. Travel insurance: Insurance for Antarctica is essential due to the extreme conditions and remote location. Standard policies won’t cover trips to Antarctica, so you’ll need specialised adventure or expedition insurance.

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Conclusion

Antarctica is one of the most extraordinary travel destinations on Earth, offering unparalleled natural beauty and wildlife encounters. Getting there is part of the adventure, requiring detailed planning, multiple flights, and an open mind for the unpredictable journey ahead.

Stay tuned for Part Two (Post December 2025), where I’ll share my personal experience aboard the expedition ship, including the highlights of the journey, my first impressions of Antarctica, and the breathtaking encounters I had along the way.

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