Yes! The Polar Plunge is a popular Antarctic tradition and is offered on most expeditions, included in your cruise cost. If you're willing to brave the icy waters for a few seconds, you'll create some amazing memories - and bragging rights for a lifetime!

Solo travel to the Arctic is very popular, but we know single supplements can be frustrating. Traditionally, most cruise operators develop their pricing based on two guests in one cabin, which is why pricing can be different for twin versus solo occupancy. However, Chimu Adventures is here to help. We know which Arctic vessels offer dedicated solo berths and can help you find an itinerary where you can have your own room, without the extra cost.

To get the best possible deal on Antarctic travel, book far in advance to take advantage of early-bird booking discounts offered by operators. Or, if you're flexible on when you go, you can try your luck on a last-minute discount. Shoulder season cruises, at the beginning or end of the season, are also offer more competitively priced than cruises in the peak season months of December or January, but still offer an incredible experience.

Solo travel to Antarctica is very popular, but we know single supplements can be frustrating. Traditionally, most cruise operators develop their pricing based on two guests in one cabin, which is why pricing can be different for twin versus solo occupancy. However, Chimu Adventures is here to help. We know which Antarctic vessels offer dedicated solo berths and can help you find an itinerary where you can have your own room, without the extra cost.

Tourism in Antarctica is governed by IAATO, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. For the safety of travellers, the environment, and the wildlife, Antarctica ships follow strict IAATO guidelines. These include maintaining safe distances from all wildlife (distances vary for different species), following biosecurity protocols, and abiding by the 'Leave No Trace' policy. Before your first shore landing, your expedition crew will provide a comprehensive briefing on IAATO guidelines, ensuring you're ready to go!

Safety is always the number on priority in Antarctica. Your expedition team has access to world-class weather tracking systems to understand the wind speed, temperature, and forecast for each potential landing site. If your expedition leader deems it unsafe, a landing might be cancelled or ended earlier than planned. Or, the ship may reposition to another nearby landing site where there is less wind, for example, making it safer to land. While most ships aim for two landings per day, this is always subject to weather and sea conditions. 

It's said that the best camera is the one you have on you, and this is very true for Antarctica! Whether you use a mirrorless, a DSLR, or an iPhone, you'll be able to create magical photos and videos of your trip. However, if you have plenty of time to learn how to use it and want to invest in new gear before your trip, mirrorless cameras are generally lighter in weight and smaller, making them more convenient for travelling. 

Your Antarctic expedition cruise fare includes everything you need for an immersive experience, including your cabin, all meals, twice-daily excursions, citizen science programs, and the support of your experienced expedition team. Some ships also include alcoholic beverages with dinner and may also include a jacket that’s yours to keep. 

Most travellers will first fly to the South American city of Ushuaia, where most Antarctic cruises depart from. However, there are a select number of cruises that depart each year from New Zealand and travel to the region of East Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic Islands.