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Antarctica: The Ultimate Expedition Adventure You’ll Never Forget

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There is something humbling about stepping onto the seventh continent for the first time. As the M/V World Explorer departed Ushuaia, the anticipation was electric. I was about to experience a land of unparalleled beauty, a place where nature reigns supreme, and humans are only visitors.



Crossing the Drake Passage: The Rite of Passage

The adventure began with the notorious Drake Passage, a stretch of ocean infamous for its temperamental seas. Luckily, we had one of the smoothest crossings of the season. But for someone like me, who can feel queasy sipping water, it was still a challenge. Armed with doctor-prescribed patches, I navigated the Drake better than expected, though one of the required briefings in the ship’s front auditorium pushed my limits. Thankfully, the crew’s kindness and quick assistance turned a potentially overwhelming moment into a minor hiccup.

Waking up to calm seas and crisp air on our second morning, I felt rejuvenated. The first iceberg appeared like a sentinel, hinting at the wonders to come. With our smooth transit, we arrived early enough for an impromptu zodiac excursion and landing —a delightful bonus on what would have been a day of pure travel.


Ship on stormy sea

First Landfall: Aitcho Islands

Our first landing was at the Aitcho Islands, part of the South Shetland Archipelago. The scene was magical: Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins bustled about, gathering rocks for their nests amidst snowy landscapes. Watching their antics—the stealing of stones, the squabbles, and the waddling—was mesmerizing.

Before leaving the ship, we underwent rigorous checks to ensure no foreign materials or pathogens, like avian flu, would disrupt this fragile ecosystem. Back on board, a warm towel and a cup of peach tea were waiting—small luxuries that made every return feel like a homecoming.





Portal Point: A Glacial Wonderland

Walking on the continent itself at Portal Point was surreal. Surrounded by pristine snow and the crackling sounds of glaciers, I felt both awe-struck and deeply connected to the planet. My daughter and I chose a zodiac cruise followed by a landing, while others ventured out on kayaks and paddleboards. Here, free from penguin colonies, we made snow angels and played—a rare treat for Texans used to subtropical winters.

That afternoon, a zodiac cruise through Foyn Harbour provided a chance to marvel at historic shipwrecks and calving icebergs. Back on board, the Observation Lounge became the perfect spot to share stories over hot chocolate, comparing notes on the day’s discoveries.



Hiking in Antarctica

Adventures on the Water

The next two days were a blur of activity: zodiac cruising among icebergs, spotting seals lounging on floes, and dashing to the deck as a pod of forty orcas greeted us during breakfast. Hearing their breaths and watching mothers guide their calves felt intimate and profound. Penguins darted through the water, porpoising with grace, while their calls and distinct aroma filled the air onshore. The skies teemed with birdlife—Cape Petrels, Snowy Sheathbills, and majestic Albatrosses soaring effortlessly above.


On one particularly memorable zodiac excursion, we navigated among towering icebergs. Their colors—brilliant whites, deep blues—shifted in the changing light. As a few rolled gently in the water, their scale and power left us speechless.





The Polar Plunge: A Brave Leap

The polar plunge was equal parts adrenaline and absurdity. Standing on the platform, I hesitated for only a moment before leaping into the icy water. The shock stole my breath, but the exhilaration—and the cheers from my fellow travelers—was worth it. Back on deck, I clutched my newly earned patch and warmed up in the hot tub, grinning ear to ear.



Polar Plunge in Antarctica


Wildlife Encounters: Antarctica’s Residents

Each day brought unforgettable encounters with Antarctica’s wildlife. Weddell and Crabeater seals basked on ice floes, while penguins entertained with their endless energy. Watching them navigate their “penguin highways” was both amusing and endearing. The skies were alive with the calls of petrels and the grace of soaring Albatrosses. It felt like living inside a nature documentary.



Orcas visiting at breakfast time

seal with red markings on chest sleeping on the ice in Antarctica

Seal sleeping on ice in Antarctica

Penguins on snow in Antarctica with rocky foreground


The Lemaire Channel: Extravagant Scenery

Sailing through the Lemaire Channel was a visual feast. Towering peaks mirrored in glassy waters, icebergs floated serenely, and the ever-changing light created a kaleidoscope of colors. I made countless trips outside to soak it all in, savoring the stillness and surreal beauty.



The Lemaire Channel with a pointy iceberg and bright blue coloring below water line

Cruise ship deck with walking track as ship sails the Lemaire Channel

Iceberg with reflection in water


Cierva Cove and Mikkelsen Harbour: A Sweet Finale

This day was extra special as it marked my daughter’s sixteenth birthday. Finally meeting the age requirement for adventure activities, she spent the morning paddleboarding and the afternoon on a paddle excursion. Celebrating her milestone amid such extraordinary surroundings felt like the perfect culmination of our journey.



A birthday zodiac ride

Two women paddleboarding in the icy waters of Antarctica.

paddling excursion in Antarctica with 3 tandem inflatable kayaks and 1 single kayak with guide


Saying Goodbye to Our Ultimate Expedition Adventure

As we crossed the Drake Passage back to Ushuaia, memories of Antarctica played through my mind. This wasn’t just a trip—it was transformative. I pushed past personal limits, from surviving the Drake to embracing the polar plunge. More importantly, I witnessed firsthand the fragility and resilience of this pristine wilderness.


The whales, the icebergs, the silence—all left an indelible mark. Antarctica isn’t just a destination; it’s a reminder of the planet’s extraordinary beauty and our responsibility to protect it. I hope sharing this adventure inspires you to seek out moments of awe and connection in your own travels.


Make Antarctica your Ultimate Expedition Adventure!

Schedule a discovery call with Milestones & Mondays Travel to get started.








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At Milestones & Mondays Travel, I transform wanderlust into adventures & unforgettable experiences for active travelers looking to get away from the crowds and deeper into the destination with expedition cruises, small ship cruising, small group active vacations and solo travels for those seeking experiences beyond the ordinary.


When clients turn their travel planning over to me, they receive a custom itinerary for their trip based on their travel style, desires and budget as well as a trusted advocate in their corner. I help them navigate the vast options and challenges in planning trips that are off the beaten track, with unique and immersive experiences, and I am there to provide support as needed before, during and after travel.


Along with my premium travel planning services, many of my clients receive additional amenities and benefits when booking with me and my preferred luxury travel suppliers.


I invite you to browse my website (MilestonesMondays.com) and encourage you to subscribe to my email list to receive travel inspiration and the latest travel opportunities delivered to your inbox each week.


Milestones & Mondays LLC is an independent affiliate of PTN Travel, a Virtuoso® Member.

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