Your Guide to the Antarctic Polar Plunge

The Polar Plunge is a longstanding tradition in Antarctic and Arctic expedition cruising. It’s something many travellers can’t wait to try…or are keen to avoid! On Polar expedition cruises, jumping into the freezing, icy water is a rite of passage and adrenaline rush like no other.

If you’re planning an expedition cruise to the Polar regions, or are simply curious, here’s everything you need to know about taking the Polar Plunge!

What is the Polar Plunge in Antarctica or the Arctic?

Humans have long been drawn to cold weather bathing and swimming, especially in the Nordic regions, with immersion in cold water associated with numerous wellbeing and cultural benefits.

In the early 1900s, social clubs like New York’s Coney Island Polar Bear Club began organising New Year’s Day swims in the Atlantic Ocean, both as an exciting way to start a new year and to fundraise for charities.

Over time, this cold water plunge became not just an important fundraising opportunity, but also a rite of passage in cold water and the Polar regions. 

Today, the Antarctic Polar Plunge is a time-honoured tradition where travellers jump off a platform on their ship, or off a zodiac, into the icy Antarctica waters! You then hop back out, so you’re only submerged for mere seconds, but it’s sure to be something you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Many of our favourite Polar vessels offer the chance to take the Polar Plunge, including the Ocean Albatros, the MS Seaventure, and the Ocean Nova. 

Safety and the Antarctic Polar Plunge

When it comes to the Polar Plunge in Antarctica, safety is always the number one priority. Your expedition crew, and onboard medical staff, follow strict protocols to ensure the wellbeing of every participant.

This includes safety ropes, which are tethered to each person’s waist before they jump, rescue zodiacs stationed just outside the jump area, and the ship’s doctor will always be waiting nearby.

However, the instant adrenaline rush of the cold water can be intense. If you have medical conditions, such as cardiac or other health issues, the Polar Plunge may not be right for you. If you have a pre-existing health condition, it’s best to talk to your trusted GP before the voyage and ask if it’s right for you.

How to do Antarctica’s Polar Plunge

Before the Polar Plunge, most travellers change into their swimsuits and don their bathrobe, provided in each cabin. Each traveller will be secured via a tether around their waist and then have the opportunity to jump, from the water level, into the ocean.

A photographer will be positioned to capture the moment, and a fellow crew member or traveller can also take videos on your own phone.

First thing’s first- don’t overthink it! Whether you want to dive, backflip, or simply close your eyes and get it over with quickly, it’s best to just have fun and embrace the experience, rather than risk psyching yourself out.

During the Polar Plunge, the atmosphere and energy onboard is vibrant and contagious, often with crew playing music and everyone getting excited about their turn to jump.

If you’d rather watch, that’s ok too! Grab a prime position on deck and cheer on your fellow cruise mates as they have a go.

What does it feel like to do the Polar Plunge?

The Antarctic Polar Plunge is an adrenaline rush like no other! Immersing yourself in the icy, frigid waters of Antarctica is a shock to the system, but also completely invigorating and exciting!

As you exit the water, you’re sure to have a huge smile on your face and a wonderful feeling of accomplishment. Not only do you have a great story to tell your friends, but you’ve pushed yourself out of your comfort zone and made the most of your Polar Plunge experience!

You might enjoy a stiff drink to warm you back up, or pop into the ship’s sauna or hot tub for a few minutes of relaxation.

Can I do the Polar Plunge for charity?

Some voyages arrange charitable partnerships around the Polar Plunge, allowing participants to fundraise before their cruise to raise money for a chosen charity.

Or, you’re welcome to contact your preferred charity to ask them about registering as a fundraiser, then setting up a partnership to receive donations. It’s a great way to give back to a good cause on your Antarctic adventure.

Whether you can’t wait to take the plunge or you’re eager to look on as a spectator, we hope you make the most of your Antarctic cruise! If you have questions about Antarctic travel planning, our friendly team of experts is always here to help.