Glide through iceberg-studded waters in a rigid inflatable Zodiac, drifting within metres of humpback whales, leopard seals, and Adélie penguin colonies. The raw, unfiltered silence of Antarctica from sea level is one of Earth's last genuinely profound experiences.
What to expect
You board rigid-hull inflatable Zodiacs directly from the expedition ship and motor through a cathedral of ice, with naturalist guides narrating the geology and ecology around you. The silence between iceberg walls is extraordinary — occasionally broken only by a whale's exhale or the crack of a calving glacier. Landings on snow-dusted shores let you step onto the Antarctic continent itself, boots crunching on ancient ice. Guides position the Zodiac for frame-perfect wildlife encounters at a respectful distance that still feels impossibly close.
Good to know
Weather-dependent — departures are confirmed morning of. Dress in full expedition-weight layers; waterproof trousers and rubber boots are essential (usually provided). Pre-book the optional Zodiac Walks Ashore add-on if you want continental landings as well as open-water cruising.