The Long Way cruise: from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia

The Antarctic cruise season runs from November to March, during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer. Each month offers a unique experience:

• November – Early Season: Pristine landscapes, fresh snowfall, and active penguin courtship.

• December & January – Peak Season: Warmer temperatures, 24-hour daylight, and hatching penguin chicks.

• February & March – Late Season: Best whale watching opportunities and more ice-free waters for deeper exploration.

Antarctica is home to incredible wildlife, including:

• Penguins: Emperor, Adélie, Chinstrap, Gentoo, and more.

• Whales: Humpback, Minke, Orca (Killer Whales), and Blue Whales.

• Seals: Weddell, Leopard, Elephant, and Crabeater Seals.

• Birds: Albatross, Petrels, Skuas, and more.

No visa is required for Antarctica itself, but depending on your nationality, you may need visas for Argentina or Chile, where most cruises depart from. Swan Hellenic will provide all necessary permits for landing in Antarctica as part of the IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) guidelines.

Despite being a frozen continent, temperatures during the cruise season are warmer than many expect, ranging from:

• Early Season (Nov - Dec): -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)

• Peak Season (Jan - Feb): 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F)

• Late Season (Feb - Mar): -2°C to 6°C (28°F to 43°F)
  Wind and weather conditions can change rapidly, so layering is key.

• Your passport and a copy of it!

• Cash in the applicable currency. Please check your travel documents for information about card payments on board

• Regular indoor shoes

• Sun protection

• A good pair of binoculars (ask the Cruise Norway team if they are included in your cabin)

• A small waterproof backpack

• Sunglasses with UV filter lenses

• Lip balm with UV protection

• Moisturizer

• Enough medication and other essentials to last through unforeseen delays

• Extra memory cards

• Extra batteries. Battery life can be reduced in cold climates

• Chargers

• Electrical adapters and converters if needed, please check your travel documents for information

• Sea sickness medication

• Sleeping mask

Clothing:
Layering clothes helps to keep you warm and dry. We recommend layering with wool, silk or synthetic fabrics rather than cotton. Dress code on board is casual (expedition style). Clothing should be comfortable and informal, including shoes. Dressing up for meals is not required.

• Summer clothing to wear in Buenos Aires

• Comfortable shoes for exploring South America

• Warm winter jacket

• Wind and water-resistant trousers or ski pants (some cruises require waterproof pants for landings and zodiac cruises, do not wear jeans or similar)

• Long thermal base layer

• Warm hat or headband

• Scarf or fleece tube

• Warm wool jumper and fleece jacket

• Gloves and mittens, fleece and wool

• Warm socks

Swan Hellenic’s Antarctica cruises offer daily landings and Zodiac excursions, depending on weather conditions. Activities may include:

• Wildlife Watching: Close encounters with penguins, whales, and seals.

• Zodiac Cruising: Exploring icebergs, glaciers, and remote shorelines.

• Guided Hikes: Walks led by expert expedition guides.

• Photography Workshops: Capture Antarctica’s stunning scenery.

• Scientific Lectures: Learn from onboard experts about Antarctic history, geology, and wildlife.

Some cruises may offer optional activities such as kayaking and camping (availability varies).

Crossing the Drake Passage (between South America and Antarctica) can be rough or calm, depending on weather conditions. While some travelers experience motion sickness, Swan Hellenic’s advanced stabilized ships and onboard medical assistance help make the journey more comfortable. Those prone to seasickness may consider bringing medication or using natural remedies like ginger or acupressure bands.

For a smoother journey, some cruises offer a fly-cruise option, bypassing the Drake Passage by flying to King George Island before embarking on the ship.

Wi-Fi is available onboard but can be limited due to satellite connectivity. Internet speeds are slower than standard land-based connections, and usage may be restricted to email and basic browsing. There is no mobile phone service in Antarctica, but satellite phones are available for emergencies.