Exploring Antarctica with Viking: A Once‑in‑a‑Lifetime Journey
By Kiri Martin YOU Travel & Cruise Orewa & Melissa Landrebe YOU Travel & Cruise Ferrymead
There are some destinations that sit quietly on the bucket list — and then there’s Antarctica. Remote, pristine, powerful, and unlike anywhere else on Earth. Recently, two of our YOU Travel & Cruise team members had the incredible opportunity to experience Viking’s Antarctica Explorer itinerary firsthand. Their verdict? Life‑changing.
From the moment they touched down in Buenos Aires to the final Zodiac landing among sculpted icebergs and feeding whales, every day delivered something extraordinary. Here’s their story — and why this voyage is one we’re proud to recommend to our travellers dreaming of the world’s 7th continent.
Starting the Journey: Buenos Aires & Beyond
With limited direct flight options historically available between New Zealand and Buenos Aires, a stopover has often been a practical and even enjoyable part of the journey. Now, with the introduction of a new direct service from Auckland, travelling to South America is more straightforward than ever. Despite this added convenience, we still recommend planning a stopover — not only to break up the long journey, but to enhance the overall travel experience from the outset.
Their Biggest Tip? Arrive Early.
The strongest piece of advice from our team: plan to arrive at least a few days before embarkation. When one of their flights was unexpectedly cancelled, their three-night buffer in Buenos Aires meant the itinerary stayed intact. Instead of stress, they had flexibility — the breathing room to rebook and still enjoy the vibrant energy of the city.
Once in Argentina, Viking’s charter flight to Ushuaia made the transition seamless: smooth, organised, and right on schedule. From that moment on, the adventure was truly underway.
Life Onboard: Where Expedition Meets Effortless Comfort
Viking’s expedition ships balance refinement with rugged capability — and our team felt it the moment they stepped onboard.
Unforgettable Moments at Sea
- Standing at their cabin’s floor‑to‑ceiling glass, watching whales glide by in absolute silence
- Expert‑led lectures revealing the stories of Antarctica’s explorers and the evolving polar environment
- Exquisite dining and warm, intuitive service from Viking’s crew
- A ship that felt luxurious yet intimate — designed for adventure but refined in every detail
But the true stars, they said, were the Expedition Team. Marine biologists, naturalists, geologists, historians — all passionate, all eager to share their knowledge. They transformed every landing into something deeper, richer, and more meaningful.
Who You’ll Travel With
Antarctica attracts a unique kind of explorer.
On this voyage, guests ranged from their 40s through to their 80s, with multi‑generational families, couples, and solo travellers all sharing the adventure. It's an environment united by curiosity rather than age.
A reasonable level of mobility is required, especially for Zodiac landings and uneven terrain — but as our team noted, assistance is plentiful and the spirit onboard is incredibly supportive.
The Best Day: Wildlife, Icebergs & A Moment Straight Out of Attenborough
No two days in Antarctica are alike — but some feel almost unreal.
For one team member, it was the submarine descent:
200 metres below the surface, face‑to‑face with a 20‑metre giant phantom jellyfish — seen fewer than 100 times in a century.
A genuine David Attenborough moment.
For the other, it happened near the end of the journey. They found themselves surrounded by humpback whales bubble‑net feeding — a rare, perfectly choreographed behaviour. Icebergs drifted by like floating sculptures, penguins leapt through icy waters, and the entire scene felt like the very essence of Antarctica distilled into one magical moment.
And yet, they said, every single day delivered something extraordinary.
What to Pack: Keep It Simple
Viking provides:
- Waterproof expedition jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Polar boots
- Drying cabinet in every cabin
All you need are:
- Merino base layers
- Warm gloves
- A hat
- Thick socks
- A fleece or wool mid‑layer
No need to overpack — the drying cabinet alone is a game-changer.
How Fit Do You Need to Be?
You don’t need to be an athlete, but you do need:
- Reasonable mobility
- Good balance
- Confidence stepping into and out of Zodiacs
Walking poles are provided, and the crew are exceptional at helping guests of all ages.
Final Verdict: Should You Do This Trip?
“Yes — 100% yes.”
If the chance to visit Antarctica ever comes your way, take it. That was the overwhelming sentiment from our team.
Between Viking’s beautifully designed ships, thoughtful service, and strong commitment to sustainability and scientific research, this voyage felt like more than just a holiday — it felt purposeful.
Guests are invited to engage with ongoing scientific studies, from marine mammal research to wildlife observations. It’s inspiring to know that simply being there helps deepen global understanding of this fragile ecosystem.
In Their Words
“Once in a lifetime.”
“Nature at its most raw and breathtaking.”
“A rare balance of adventure and luxury.”
“Felt like being part of something bigger.”
Ready to Explore the 7th Continent?
Antarctica changes you — quietly, profoundly, forever.
If you’ve ever dreamed about the icy blue world at the bottom of the planet, now is the time to start planning. Our team has firsthand experience and would love to help you choose the perfect season, ship, and sailing.
Click here to find your local YOU Travel & Cruise Advisor. With 22 stores nationwide and a team of Cruise Master Consultants ready to assist, you're just a call away from expert advice and an unforgettable holiday.
Reach out to YOU Travel & Cruise — your Antarctica adventure starts right here.