Questions and Answers

What's the weather like?

During the "height" of the summer season, the temperature is typically quite mild sometimes reaching the low 40s but usually in the mid 30s F. For most, a thermal layer plus a sweater is typically enough to wear under the expedition jacket provided to all passengers. Gore-tex pants are required for Zodiac trips—splashing is inevitable. Every passenger is also given a pair of expedition boots to wear during the voyage. The ship also offers a modest selection of items that can be purchased in its pop-up shop should anyone feel the need of an extra layer. Historically, everyone overpacks! A suggested packing list is provided.

What about seasickness?

The Drake Passage is known as the "Drake Lake" or the "Drake Shake."  More crossings are smooth than not.  The captain is constantly monitoring the weather systems and will advise people in plenty of time if rough seas are expected so those who need to take preventative medicine can do so. Once the ship is in the protected waters around the peninsula, the seas are often flat as glass.,  absolutely perfect for kayaking and cruising. 

If this is an expedition, what are the physical requirements?

Each person must be ambulatory, The amount of walking or hiking is at the sole discretion of the individual. There is a team of helpers to assist everyone (young and old) getting in and out of the Zodiacs. safely. Walking poles are provided at every landing . People in their eighties have navigated their way around Antarctica just fine—it's never too late to fulfill a life long dream