Antarctica: The Enduring Allure of the Frozen Continent

On our voyage, we intend to explore not only the Antarctic Peninsula, but further south too, crossing the Antarctic Circle into a hauntingly beautiful, wild and remote white world of (almost) midnight sun and frozen seas, the likes of which few people have been lucky enough to venture.

Like Shackleton, Scott and Amundsen before us, we set off with a true sense of adventure. Unlike them, however, we travel in style! Our 130 capacity vessel, the Greg Mortimer, is a purpose-built expedition ship boasting all mod cons and an expertly selected group of naturalists, scientists, geologists and historians, all there to enhance our knowledge and understanding of this frozen wilderness. Onboard, floor-to-ceiling windows, ample deck space and state-of-the-art hydraulic viewing platforms provide unobstructed views. Even the gym, sauna and hot tub are outside facing, ensuring that we never miss a thing!

Two dedicated Zodiacs are at our disposal throughout the voyage, across which our group is split. Emma Healey will be on hand in one Zodiac to provide photographic tips from the best possible positions, whilst Helen Bryon’s group focuses on observing and appreciating wildlife, revelling in the simply spectacular surrounds. Landings immerse us further in this frosted realm, and we explore as much of it as we possibly can. Between excursions and during days at sea, Emma is available for photographic tuition and workshops that cover image processing, and more.

We’ve timed our departure intentionally as February is mid-summer in these nutrient-rich waters, and cetaceans are gorging themselves in readiness to migrate north to their warmer breeding grounds. With their focus on feeding, we hope for close encounters with humpbacks, minkes and the giants of the deep, blue and fin whales. With luck, orca may make an appearance too.

The antics of dusky dolphins and wide-eyed Weddell seals delight against a backdrop of soaring jagged peaks and spectacular sculpted icebergs, reflecting a thousand shades of blue.

Albatross and a plethora of pelagic birds fly with us, and rookeries are bursting at the seams with inquisitive penguin chicks, which are the undoubted stars of the show. Utter fluff balls of the chinstrap, gentoo and Adelie variety surround us, their curiosity overcoming their fear - we’re likely to melt at their cheeky, charming and intoxicatingly endearing antics. Make no mistake though as leopard seals, skuas and petrels loiter close by, menacingly and patiently biding their time until their next meal.

This untamed, distant land is ours to explore, and it leaves an indelible impression. Our adventures may be life-changing, remembered for years to come, and we’ll come to understand why there’s life before, and life after, a visit to astonishing and awe-inspiring Antarctica.

If you'd like to join us on this unforgettable journey, find out more about our Antarctic Circle Penguin & Whale Safari today, or contact our expert team. For more Polar inspiration, you can discover all of our Antarctic trips & voyages on our Antarctica destination page.