Useful Info - Antarctica

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Voltage

Standard voltage onboard is 220V AC, 50 Hz. Sockets require European plug with a two round pins. You will need to pack a travel adaptor.

Health

There are no specific vaccination requirements for Antarctica. However, it is recommended that you be vaccinated for Hepatitis A, B, Tetanus and Polio, if you haven’t had a booster in the last ten years. Please contact your local healthcare provider for the most up to date recommendations.

Climate

The climate in Antarctica is very cold and very dry (less than 2 inches of rain a year). Temperatures in the Antarctic interior range from -70°C (-94°F) during the coldest month, and -35°C (-31°F) during the warmest month. On the Antarctic Peninsular, temperatures are warmer, averaging from 5°C (41°F) to -5°C (23°F) in the summer (December to March). Antarctica experiences some of the strongest winds on the planet: the katabatics can achieve velocities of up to 320kmph (199mph). Antarctic whiteouts and blizzards - can be dangerous and are common.

In Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, the weather is very changeable and Ushuaia can be cold, in the summer months temperatures rarely reach above 15°c and dropping as low as 2°c.

Time

Ushuaia is 3 hours behind GMT and does not observe daylight saving.

Antarctica does not observe official time zones.

Money

You should bring US dollars for use in Argentina and onboard the ship. We do not recommend travellers cheques as these are very difficult to exchange in Argentina. Onboard the ship you can use US dollars for tipping and payment of the bar bills etc can be made by visa or mastercard.

Food, glorious food

On our Antarctic Expeditions we provide three hearty meals a day whilst you are aboard the ship and often biscuits and cake throughout the day. Generally tea, coffee and water are free of charge but you will need to purchase any additional drinks. The food and drink provided does vary dependent upon which ship you are on. For specific information about the food and drink on each of our expeditions, please access the Expedition Ship information from the itinerary pages.

If you have any special dietary requirements please make us aware of them at the time of booking so that we can accommodate your needs as best we can.

Shopping

Ushuaia is a tax free zone so ideal for a spot of souvenir shopping before or after your Antarctic expedition. San Martin Street has lots of souvenir and traditional handicraft shops and there are several delicious chocolate shops around town for a little indulgence! If you are in need of some warm winter clothes for the expedition, it is possible to purchase some extra woollen layers in Ushuaia. Remember, if you do plan to shop in Ushuaia before or after your expedition ensure you allow time for it, perhaps book an extra night's pre or post tour accommodation.

Wildlife

Antarctica is home to many wonderful species of mammals and birdlife. Penguins epitomise the white continent and are certainly one of the most endearing Antarctic residents, with 17 different species including Emperor, Gentoo and Rockhopper. Other birdlife includes albatross, petrels, prions, fulmars and shearwaters. Marine mammals thrive in the icy waters of the Antarctic including the blue whale, killer whales and the incredibly energetic humpbacks, which can often be seen leaping completely out of the water. Seals are another common sight in Antarctica and the giants of the pinniped world are the elephant seal, which are bigger than walrus and can often be seen fighting on the shores. Other species of seal include the weddel seal and the leopard seal.