Antarctica - Basecamp

Snowshoeing in the Arctic and Antarctica

There really is no better way to take in a new place than by exploring it on foot. With that in mind Oceanwide Expeditions offers you the chance to explore your way inland from the Polar shorelines with a wide variety of snowshoeing expeditions built for everyone. From the casual explorer to the hard-core snowshoe-er.

Do I need to be experienced? How physically fit do I need to be?

For the basic walks you just need to be in reasonably good shape and health. The snowshoe activities last usually somewhere between 2 and 6 hours. Keep in mind that there are no paths and that you will be travelling over fairly rugged terrain and will be taking on some hills.

There are usually 1 to 3 different types of walks offered per landing ranging from a casual stroll to a challenging hike. In the Antarctic the longest hike takes about 2 hours while in the Arctic the longest hike can last a full day (we send you off with a packed lunch).

We do reserve the right to suggest that a passenger try another activity if it seems like they will not be able to enjoy a particular hike. This is done partly for the enjoyment of the other passengers and partly for safety concerns – if there is a health incident there is no help beyond basic first aid in the vicinity.

Our experienced guides will be able to recommend a particular hike to you based on your fitness level. If you have any questions at all about your health or skills please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us, we’d be more than happy to help you sort out your concerns.

Do I need to bring snowshoes?

Not at all. We’ll provide you with MSR lightweight snowshoes that easily attach to rubber boots or sturdy hiking boots. If you join us on our ships Plancius, Ortelius or Hondius we also provide the rubber boots at no extra cost.

However, you do want to bring clothing that is suitable for the changeable weather of the Polar Regions. Layers are your friend – you’re going to get hot as you work your way around the tundra and you’ll want to be able to shed a layer or two without losing a big percentage of your elemental protection. With that in mind we suggest:

• Hiking/walking poles.

• Rubber boots that are high enough to get you from the Zodiac to the shore and have a good gripping sole for the shore landings and walks. (Boots are provided on Plancius, Ortelius and Hondius).

• A waterproof bag (especially for cameras) – you’re likely to get splashed during the Zodiac ride from the ship to the shore.

• Straps for tying snowshoes onto your back or backpack.

• Ankle-high sturdy hiking boots for the actual treks and for wearing snowshoes.

• Sunblock.

• You might want gaiters (knee-high waterproof protection) to keep your lower legs dry while hiking.

• Sunglasses.

• A backpack (25 litres is a good size).

• Thin under-socks (to stop blistering) and thick over-socks. (Bring some dry spares as well.)

• A 1-litre water-bottle.

• Thermal under-gloves (fleece finger gloves) and warm outer-gloves or mittens (you might want a spare set of these as well).

• A turtle-neck or neck gaiter.

• A urine-collection bottle (regulations forbid leaving human waste behind in the Antarctic). Try looking for something like a wide-opening Nalgene bottle (they sell specialised versions for ladies at outdoor shops).

• Thermal underwear.

• A fleece jacket or vest.

• A down jacket or spare fleece jacket.

• A breathable (e.g. Gore-Tex) jacket and trousers.

• Trekking trousers.

• A warm fleece hat.

• You might also want to bring along binoculars, and a Thermos bottle.

Don’t bring regular cotton clothing like t-shirts or jeans if you can avoid it because if it gets wet (either from outside moisture or sweat) it will stay wet – not a good thing in a cold environment.

Do the hiking and snowshoe activities cost more?

No, they are covered in the cost of your cruise with us.

Are the hikes safe?

Generally speaking, the hikes are as safe as hikes anywhere else that involves rugged terrain and hills. You will, however, be facing the cold of the Polar Regions.

Every hike group is accompanied by a specialist guide. In the Arctic, especially around Svalbard, your group’s guide will be carrying a rifle due to the possible threat of polar bears.

All of the walks are in areas that are outside of glaciated terrain. Treks inside these glaciated areas bring people into contact with crevasses and are therefore considered mountaineering. These mountaineering trips are always accompanied by at least one UIAGM-certified mountain guide.

Hiking in the Antarctic

We should make a special note regarding the Antarctic hikes in that the hiking options are more limited than the Arctic thanks to the terrain. There are however plenty of hiking opportunities on the nearby islands in the Weddell Sea, on the South Shetland Islands, and on South Georgia Island. On South Georgia one has the chance to trace the final section of the explorer Shackleton’s famous walk.

Camping in the Antarctic wilderness

For those craving a truly immersive polar adventure, our open-air camping activity gives you the chance to experience the Antarctic wilderness as few travelers have.

We provide the necessary camping gear, including breathable bivouac bags that are wind and waterproof and a lightweight alternative to tents. And our polar sleeping bags will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable during the enchanting Antarctic night.

All campers will be assisted and supervised by experienced expedition guides.

General information on our camping activity

• Camping is available based on weather, site conditions, and environmental regulations.

• Everyone can participate, no previous experience required.

• This activity is only offered on select Hondius, Plancius and Ortelius voyages.

• The maximum number of participants is limited to 30 per night.

• All camping activities are supervised by expert field guides.

• Basic equipment is provided by OEX (bivouac bags, mats, boots).

• One camp night must be booked prior to your trip, but extra nights may be arranged on board (no waitlist).
  Our Cruise Experts can provide details on booking this activity.

Details of the Antarctic camping experience

We aim for at least one night of camping on each designated trip, but the expedition team will offer more if possible. Additional nights are determined by weather and local conditions and can only be offered when it is a possible for the vessel to stay close to shore. If the vessel has to relocate during the night, camping is not possible.

According to Antarctic Treaty and IAATO regulations, we are not allowed to take stoves, fuel, or food on shore with the exception of emergency rations, survival gear, water, and medical supplies.

The camping group will be taken to shore after dinner, and then returned to the ship before breakfast. Our camps will always be made in a place where wildlife will not be disturbed.

All campers will be equipped with a personal waterproof bag containing a sleeping mattress, synthetic sleeping bag with inner liner, and a breathable bivouac bag. Besides these personal items, other gear will also be taken to shore.

While campers are on shore, our staff will be in full radio contact with the ship at all times. Guides will also stay on shore to assist and supervise the campers. Upon departure, the campsite must be cleaned and everything returned to the ship.

Clothes to bring for camping

Please pack for the worst weather, as conditions in Antarctica can change rapidly. Below is a list of important items you must bring yourself:

• Thermal underwear, fleece vest or jacket, and down jacket that is breathable (e.g., Gore-Tex)

• Warm hat and turtleneck or neck gaiter

• Thermal under-gloves, fleece finger gloves, or warm mittens

• Thick socks with spares

• Good UV-protectant sunglasses

• Sun cream or sunblock

• Flashlight or lightweight headlamp for departures in February – March

Gear we provide for camping

• Insulated waterproof rubber boots

• Bivouac bag (one per person) and mattress

• Waterproof sleeping bag with cotton inner liner

• Portable field toilet (one per group)

Special note:
Cotton clothing, such as normal T-shirts and jeans, are not advisable. Cotton tends to get wet and stay wet while moving in a cold environment. We recommend thermal underwear.

Weather conditions

Exploring remote and wild regions like Antarctica requires a sensible and flexible approach. Although there can be clear skies with bright sunshine, the weather is unpredictable. Katabatic winds caused by the icecaps and glaciers can pick up suddenly and are a fierce opponent for polar travelers. Such conditions might also lead to the cancelation of planned camp nights. If local circumstances prevent us from camping on shore, we may attempt to camp on the open decks of the ship.

In order for the camping activity to take place, we must have at least 10 passengers who intend to camp. Only 30 passengers can camp at any one time, and we always assign one expedition guide per every 20 campers to assist and supervise operations.

Lastly, we do not use tents as part of our camping equipment. Tents are greatly affected by wind in Antarctica, and using them greatly reduces the weather in which we can camp.

Instead, we have found that bivouac sleeping bags offer us the best odds of being able to follow through with our camping activity. They also provide an unparalleled experience by allowing you to see and hear all that is happening around you, from the noise of penguin calls to the sound of whale blows. They also offer the best view of the beautiful Antarctic skies.

Camping FAQ

Is it possible to take food?

Eating food and snacks on shore is not allowed, per the Antarctic Treaty and IAATO regulations, in order to prevent the spread of outside plants or contaminants.

Can I go to the toilet?

Toilet visits should be avoided on land, per the Antarctic Treaty and IAATO regulations. Campers are encouraged to instead use toilet facilities on board prior to camping. A portable toilet will be available on shore, however, and all solid waste must be returned to the ship. It is advisable that campers bring a “pee bottle” (e.g., wide-opening Nalgene bottle) for their comfort.

Where and how long do we stay on shore?

We offer near-shore camping on the continent and / or nearby islands depending on the itinerary, weather, and regulations. Camping groups stay a maximum of 10 hours on shore.

What if local weather and ice conditions are unsafe for camping?

The expedition leader will do their best to ensure the camping activity takes place. But if local circumstances prevent us from camping on shore, we may attempt to camp on the open decks of the ship.

Is prior experience required?

Everyone can participate in this activity without previous experience. There are no physical requirements except helping the guides put up and clean the campsite. Please note, however, that we are not camping in a campground: There can be rocks, snow, mud, and frozen surfaces. We expect our campers to help prepare the campsite and break camp the next morning. All equipment must be cleaned thoroughly after use. The weather can sometimes make these tasks difficult.

What are the weather conditions?

Around the coasts of Antarctica, temperatures are generally close to freezing in the summer (December – February) or slightly above freezing in the northern part of the Antarctic Peninsula. The temperatures in Antarctica vary between about -5 to 8°C (23 to 46°F). In strong wind, these temperatures can feel sub-zero. Warm clothing, a flexible attitude, and a sense of adventure are the best ways to overcome these sometimes-harsh conditions.

Join our expert-led photography workshops

It is impossible to fully describe the experience of visiting the polar regions. Fortunately, our photography workshops will help you add incredible photos to your poetic descriptions. On select voyages, our professional photographers will help you get the best pictures out of your personal camera equipment with our free photo workshop activity.

The two-part process of our photography workshops

One part of our photo workshop takes place on the vessel, the other takes place in the field. The onboard segment takes the form of engaging lectures that will further familiarize you with your camera equipment and the basics of photography. The in-field segment takes place during excursions, when our guide-photographers will help you practice your photo skills in real polar conditions.

Do I have to bring photo equipment?

Yes, you have to bring your own camera gear. Choices in photography equipment are largely matters of personal preference, so there’s no way we can accommodate everyone.

You can bring more than just a basic camera if you choose, but keep in mind you may have to carry your gear over long distances. Photo equipment also has to fit safely on our Zodiacs. For detailed packing tips, check out our photography packing blog and photography packing video, made in cooperation with one of our veteran guide-photographers.

Are photography workshops included in the price of the cruise or are they supplemental?

There is no extra charge for participating in our photography workshops, but please book your spot well in advance - preferably three months prior to your departure. Our photographers are in high demand, so we need to recruit them early.

Zodiac cruising in the Polar Regions

​Our voyages are primarily defined as explorations and we spend as much time ashore as possible. We can be flexible, taking advantage of wildlife opportunities by using our zodiacs for both landings and cruises. Our knowledgeable guides assist on these outings, providing detailed information. This is supplemented by lectures on board which covers topics such as wildlife, nature and history.

Zodiac cruising instructions

The proper handling and usage of Zodiac landing craft, is crucial for exploratory voyages. These rubber boats are ideal for our operations. They have shallow drafts, and contain six air-filled compartments which give them impressive floatation and weight carrying abilities. The compartments are connected by valves, which allow the internal air pressure to be regulated, and they will still float even if one (or several) compartments become deflated. With these safe, durable and dependable boats we can land in many, normally inaccessible sites; Such as, beaches, shallow river banks, rocky outcrops, coral reef flats, ice floes, etc., as well as more conventional places; such as, docks, sea walls and jetties.

Passengers, however, must be aware of certain regulations involving the Zodiacs in order to assure adequate safety in our landing operations.

• The Zodiac driver is in charge of the boat and its operations. Please follow his or her instructions at all times.

• Always wear the provided zodiac safety vests when travelling in the Zodiacs. This is for your safety, and is required at all times while in the Zodiacs regardless of weather or sea conditions.

• Always accept the helping hand of crew-members and Zodiac drivers when stepping into or out of the Zodiacs at the ship’s gangway or ashore. Keep both hands free for this operation, and use the preferred ‘sailor’s grip’; i.e., grip each other by the wrist, because this gives a much stronger grip than just holding hands.

• Minimize the number of separate articles taken along with you when using the zodiacs. Backpacks are ideal for consolidating such diverse objects as cameras, binoculars, rain gear, extra shoes, etc. Carryon items may be handed to the boat handlers before embarking or disembarking. Keep both hands free.

• Never smoke in the Zodiacs. This is hazardous because there are exposed fuel tanks connected to the outboard engines. Lit cigarettes are also hazardous to the rubber construction of the boats.

• All landing conditions will be announced beforehand; i.e., ‘wet’ landings (these may require getting your feet wet by wading ashore), ‘dry’ landings (these make use of a dock or other object with which one can step ashore directly), and expected weather conditions.

• Never disembark or embark the Zodiac over the wooden transom (stern) when the boat is backed onto a beach. Oncoming waves may suddenly push the boat higher onto the beach, knocking the careless passenger with the uplifted engine and propeller, or crushing an exposed foot with the very heavy transom. During ‘wet’ landings one may safely get in or out of the boat by first sitting on the rubber pontoon and then swinging one’s leg over the side. Always wait for instructions from the driver during landings.

• One should always use a weatherproof bag (or bring along a small plastic bag) to protect non-waterproof items; such as, cameras and binoculars, from sea spray (or rain) when in the Zodiacs.

Explore the Antarctic highlands

If you’re looking to push yourself a little further on your polar voyage, mountaineering could be just what you’re after. This exhilarating activity lets you venture beyond the shorelines and into Antarctica’s higher ground, gaining vistas and viewpoints unavailable anywhere else.

Do I have to be in great physical shape for mountaineering?

You must be fit and have stamina enough to walk three or more hours over sometimes rugged terrain, both uphill and downhill.

What’s the difference between mountaineering and snowshoe hikes?

Mountaineering hikes may take you into glaciated areas that can expose you to crevasses, requiring more caution than on non-glaciated ground. You can also expect to make ascents and descents that might be challenging.

Is your mountaineering activity scaled to passenger ability?

We offer two types of mountaineering based on ability:

• Basic mountaineering is for guests of all experience levels, and we provide all the equipment needed.

• Technical mountaineering requires previous experience and special footwear you must provide yourself.

How many mountaineering hikes will I go on?

On our Basecamp voyages, each guest will participate in every activity once as long as local conditions allow. Make sure you request mountaineering when booking this trip.

Do I have to bring any mountaineering equipment?

Some gear we provide, some you must bring yourself.

We supply the following:

• snowshoes

• muck boots

• crampons

• helmets

• harnesses

• ice axes

• screw-gate carabiners

• snap links

• mountaineering ropes

• tape slings

• prussic loops

• snow shovels

• bivouac bags

• biodegradable human waste bags (it is illegal to leave waste behind)

You must bring:

Feet

• gaiters (if bringing your own boots)

• thin synthetic under-socks to prevent blisters

• synthetic / woolen thin / thick long socks

Outer layer clothing

• down jacket

• wind and waterproof breathable jacket with hood

• wind and waterproof pants/salopettes (ski pants)

Thermal layer

• synthetic / wool fleece / pile jacket / pull-on

• synthetic/ wool fleece / pile pants / salopettes

• fleece jacket or vest

Base layer (underwear)

• synthetic / wool thin top (long/short sleeves / zipped)

• synthetic / wool thin pants / long johns

• synthetic / wool balaclava and hat

• windproof cap with peak/ear protectors

• sun hat, headband, face mask, neck gaiter / scarf

Hands

• ski / mountain gloves

• windproof over mitts

• synthetic / wool thermal mitts/finger gloves

• down mitts

• thin (base layer) synthetic / wool mitts / gloves

• mitts/gloves support (around neck)

Eyes

• facial protection

• sun glasses / glacier glasses with sides

• spare glasses / lenses

Skin

• sun block, sun screen, fatty lip salve (no water)

Hygiene

• toilet / hygiene kit : pee bottle (for camping and mountaineering), e.g. wide opening Nalgene bottle (there are special adaptor for ladies in outdoor shops available)

Miscellaneous

• personal medication

• 25 liter rucksack

• 1 liter water bottle

• waterproof bag (for camera equipment)

• straps to tie snowshoes on backpack

• film and memory cards

• hiking / walking poles

• binoculars

• head torch (flashlight)

Do not bring cotton clothing like T-shirts or jeans. Once they get wet, they will stay wet. This can increase the chance of hypothermia in sub-zero weather.

You must bring your own boots for technical mountaineering, but you can also use your own boots for basic mountaineering if you do not want to use our muck boots.

Explore the Arctic and Antarctic coastline in a kayak

One of the best things about a polar voyage is that you’re never done exploring. Even if you think you have walked every shore, climbed every mountain, and spotted every penguin (or polar bear), there is still a whole other world to explore on the water.

Polar kayaking is a great way to tour the blue-and-white beauty of the polar seas up close, visiting stunning ice formations and waterways too small for our ships to enter.

Do I need to be an experienced kayaker?

The amount of experience we require depends on the cruise you choose. If you have no experience at all, we suggest one of our Basecamp voyages, where we will happily introduce even the most inexperienced kayakers to this wonderful outdoor sport.

The toughest part of kayaking in gentle waters is usually getting into the kayak itself. After that, you just have to keep a steady rhythm with your paddles.

Some of our cruises require that you have more kayaking experience because they involve longer kayak excursions. These excursions expose you to water that might not be as gentle as a sheltered bay, and you stand more of a chance of encountering rougher weather conditions.

You will not need to be able to do a kayak roll, but you should be able to demonstrate that you’re comfortable in a sea kayak. On these non-Basecamp excursions, our guides reserve the right to refuse you access to a kayak if it is clear you don’t have the necessary experience. This is for your safety as well as theirs.

How physically fit do I need to be?

You will want to be in decent physical shape and possess a good sense of balance. Kayaking can be demanding on your core and arm muscles.

Our kayaking equipment is available in a range of sizes but for larger stature please consider the suitability of this activity. Guests above the maximum weight for our kayaks will not be allowed to participate.

If you’re not sure if you are quite ready for kayaking, please do not hesitate to check out our kayaking simply contact us. We would be happy to explain more about the activity and help you with any additional questions you might have.

How many times can I go kayaking?

On basecamp trips, we aim for each guest to kayak once. On regular voyages, we aim for four to six excursions per passenger who has booked the supplement. Our kayaking activity is always determined by weather and water conditions, since your safety is our primary concern.

Is polar kayaking safe?

All of our kayaking outings are led by certified and experienced guides, but you must always take caution when kayaking in the polar regions.

We will provide you with suitable outer clothing for kayaking. Kayak excursions are limited to 14 passengers per kayak guide. This number lets our guides keep track of everyone and make sure our guests are having a good time.

One guide stays with the group in a support kayak, while a safety boat follows in case of emergencies. All guides will try to scale excursions to the skill level of the group.

Do I have to bring my own kayaking equipment?

We will provide the following items:

• Seven double-seat sea kayaks on Plancius & Ortelius

• 14 double-seat sea kayaks on Hondius

• Paddles with anti-drip rings

• Basic (4 mm neoprene) wetsuits in different sizes

• Kayak spray cover

• Waterproof lightweight jacket (cagoule)

• Life jacket / kayak vest

• Neoprene boots

Please bring the following gear:

• thermal underwear, bottom and top (for under the wetsuit)

• fleece jacket or vest to wear over your thermal underwear

• gloves (insulated ski or snowboard gloves with grip or neoprene watersport gloves)

• waterproof bag (if you are bringing a camera or binoculars)

• fleece hat

• turtleneck or neck gaiter

• thick socks

• sunglasses

• sunblock

Avoid bringing cloth clothing like T-shirts or jeans. Once it gets wet (from water or sweat), it will stay wet for a long time – not a comfortable experience in polar weather!

What will I see while kayaking?

You’ll see rugged shorelines sloping up into snow-capped mountains, pristine beaches, and icebergs that turn the water beneath you a brilliant blue. You may also see some local wildlife, which the peaceful nature of kayaking makes even better.

Alternative kayaking options

In addition to our standard kayaking activity, we also offer two other kayaking experiences:

Kayak Skills Progression Camp (KSPC)

This course focuses on daily kayak skills progression and is available for four to ten participants. You'll use TRAK single-seater kayaks and learn key kayaking skills led by expert guides in some of the world's most stunning Arctic environments.

This kayaking course is aimed at guests with previous kayaking experience and good physical fitness.

One-off kayak experience

You can test the waters in this beginner kayaking experience, providing you with a taste of what kayaking in the polar regions entails. In either a morning or evening session, you'll join up to ten other kayakers and learn the ropes of what polar kayaking is all about.