marsham

We are planning a cruise in Jan '09 and those ships that visit the Antarctic Sound & Shetland Islands are about $1500 p/p more than the ones that visit every other port, less Antarctica.

I know we'll see penguins & a lot if ice but is that it?

Thanks

Marsha

cat_lover

I too am interested in a trip to Antarctica. If those who reply to this message could give info about the company they used and reviews (good and bad) it would be very valued information.
Thanks!
hef

eenusa

In one word - yes! Antarctica is worth every penny ... but this comes from someone who did a small ship expedition with 2-3 landings daily. There are few places that would give a wildlife and nature enthusiast more pleasure than Antarctica.

There are plenty of discussions on the big ship cruises on the South America and Antarctica boards at CruiseCritic.com if you have not already checked that site.

cat_lover - we went with Quark on a 48-pax ship. If that is what you're interested in, you can find my detailed report at http://www.fodors.com/forums/pgMessa...en_name=eenusa.

Jed

Antarctica is an unforgettable and remarkable experience. Being at the end of the earth, crossing the Drake passage, seeing the majesty of nature, was well worth it for us.

Having the privilege to go where a small number of people on this planet have ever been was most exciting for us.

marsham

Thanks for the reply. I guess my real question is: Do the ships get close enough to appreciate the beauty? This Holland America ship approaches Antarctica but we do not get onto land.

Jed

We went on a small ship and went on land twice a day for 4 days. That was a great part of it. Yes, Anarctica is beautiful from a ship, but I'm not sure that you will get the full thrill without setting foot on land. It would be like seeing a feast without tasting the food.

But, if that is your <i>only</i> option, it might be better than not seeing it.

sevendown

Just saw this post.

If you are still considering, the answer is absolutely yes, yes, yes, YESSSSSSS ! It is worth the money if you do it right. But you have to get off the ship.

I spent two weeks on a trip there and back, and I can't wait to return. I have been everywhere else in the world and Antarctica is at the top of my list. You truly feel like you are on another planet.

But take a ship with less than 100 passengers that lets you get off. (100 passengers is the limit for shore landings. More than that and you have to go in groups, which means less time on shore).