A sabbatical at the edge of the world: Antarctica
Original post: Another World Adventures
This blog is part of the Another World Adventures Signature Sabbaticals series, which focuses on unusual and inspired tailormade sabbatical trips whether you’re planning solo, en famille or just the two of you. These trips have been meticulously planned with serious attention to detail, so you can enjoy the ultimate luxury of time to do something uniquely different.
If you are looking for something completely different for your sabbatical, then look no further. We can’t think of a destination that is much further from the beaten track than Antarctica – can you?
The Great White Continent of Antarctica offers one of the most remote and extraordinary travel experiences on the planet. Experience the magic of a wilderness region first discovered by Adrien de Gerlache’s Belgian expedition at the end of the 19th century. Pass icebergs the size of a small country and visit Emperor Penguin colonies which are endemic to Antarctica.
This particular sabbatical is best suited to those who love winter climes, have strong sea legs and have adventurous souls. Accommodation can range from traditional icebreakers and expedition vessels to superyachts, as well as on-shore private retreats.
The best time to visit Antarctica is during the summer months of the Southern Hemisphere between October and March. Late December to early February is peak travel season. Temperature range: between 4°C (39°F) and 8°C (46°F).
Off The Beaten Path
This sabbatical starts in Argentina with the opportunity to explore this South American location for a few days before you embark on your Antarctica expedition. Take a tour of Buenos Aires, explore hidden neighbourhoods and underground bars, before taking a change of pace on a visit to Comodoro Rivadavia – a coastal area rich in wildlife.
Your choice of expedition may also include a navigation through South Georgia, the South Shetland Islands and the Falkland Isles (Malvinas). Explore remote outposts dotted throughout the Peninsula and partake in activities ranging from gentle treks to ice-climbing and cross-country skiing. For a deeper understanding of the White Continent, visit one of the scientific research centres and learn about their work.
Antarctica Experiences you shouldn’t miss
In November, witness the mating rituals among seabirds and penguins. In December and January, observe penguin colonies feeding their new-born chicks. Whale-watching is at its best during February and March. A micro-dip in Antarctica waters – for the bravest! Kayaking between glaciers for an eye level view of penguins, seals and whales. Overnight camping on the ice and wake up to the call of penguins. Cross-country skiing and stand-up paddleboarding.
An Opportunity to Contribute to Scientific Research
Get involved in a Citizen Science programme onboard a Polar Latitudes cruise – offered to all guests as an optional activity. Learn how climate change is impacting the birdlife, sealife, ocean temperatures and weather patterns. Activities may include penguin surveys, measuring ocean salinity, photographing and identifying whales.
Draft Itinerary
Day 1
Fly to Argentina
Day 2
Arrival in Buenos Aires Flaat del Polo
Day 3
Buenos Aires City Insider Excursion Flaat del Polo
Day 4
Visit the Hidden Neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires and enjoy a traditional BBQ Flaat del Polo
Day 5
Buenos Aires – Day at leisure. Evening speakeasies and traditional tango milongas Flaat del Polo
Day 6
Fly Buenos Aires to Comodoro Rivadavia and transfer to Bahia Bustamante Bahia Bustamante
Day 7-9
Bahia Bustamante Activities – wildlife, nature, walking and coastal exploring Bahia Bustamante
Day 10
Road transfer to Puerto Madryn via the Welsh settlements of Dolovan & Gaiman Hotel in Puerto Madryn
Day 11
Embarkation on Antarctica Expedition MS Seaventure
Day 12-13
Cruise the Southern Ocean MS Seaventure
Day 14
Cruise to West Falklands (Malvinas) MS Seaventure
Day 15
Cruise to Stanley, East Falkland (Malvinas) MS Seaventure
Day 16-17
Cruise the Southern Ocean MS Seaventure
Day 18-21
Visit South Georgia MS Seaventure
Day 22-23
Cruise the Scotia Sea MS Seaventure
Day 24-27
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula MS Seaventure
Day 28-29
Cruise the Drake Passage MS Seaventure
Day 30
Disembarkation in Ushuaia and overnight stay Arakur Hotel
Day 31
Fly Ushuaia to El Calafate and transfer to a private lodge in Patagonia’s wilderness Eolo Patagonia
Day 32
Visit the Perito Moreno glacier and spend the day ice-trekking Eolo Patagonia
Day 33-34
Days at Leisure at Eolo Patagonia Eolo Patagonia
Day 35
Fly El Calafate to Buenos Aires and connect with your onward departure
Contact us to start designing your own bespoke Signature Sabbatical or you can choose one of our many adventures as part of your sabbatical journey.
Hi I’m Larissa, Founder of Another World Adventures. Welcome! If you’re planning an adventure you’re in the right place. Get ready to discover epic travel inspo and a collection of hand-picked trips from my trusted network of experienced adventure experts. Think unusual destinations, expeditions, slow, solo and sustainable travel and epic journeys on land and at sea! Ever got a question? Just get in touch, I answer every enquiry myself. Enjoy!