Antarctica
Polar Expeditions to the White Continent
In Antarctica, everything is extreme. It is the most remote and least-known continent on earth. You'll see icebergs larger than Luxembourg, spectacular mountains of rock 140 million years old and wildlife thriving in some of the most severe conditions on earth. Exploring here with Adventure Associates, you'll see why Antarctica holds a special place in our imagination. It's a transforming experience.
Exploring Firsthand
Since the early 1990's we have pioneered the use of icebreakers and ice-strengthened ships to carry travellers deep into the Antarctic in safety and comfort. Bringing together international specialists on everything from polar exploration to Antarctic birds and marine life, we provide the context and hands-on leadership you need to fully appreciate the Far South. Whether you're exploring a remote shore where no one may have walked before, sighting a whale from a Zodiac or watching your powerful ship plow through pack ice, you'll discover the Antarctic not as a passing vista, but as an immediate, vital, constantly changing environment - a place where the indescribable mystery of raw nature can still be experienced firsthand.
Choosing Your Adventure of a Lifetime
We offer three distinct ways to experience Antarctica. Choose the one that best suits your style and sense of adventure.
- Icebreaker Adventures. Join the select few who have experienced the far reaches of Antarctica aboard our renowned polar-class icebreaker Kapitan Khlebnikov. This is ultimate Antarctica. Your journey features helicopter excursions, carrying you to many of the continent's secluded wildlife and landscapes. Helicopters are only available on our icebreaker expeditions.
- Adventure Ships. Travelling with a small group of like-minded adventurers, our Adventure Ships can reach the hidden gems larger ships cannot. There are frequent Zodiac landings plus many adventure options, including polar camping, kayaking, and mountaineering. Ideal for active Travellers.
- Expedition Ships. Our Expedition Ships provide the complete Antarctic experience, offering both comfort and adventure. Zodiac landings, exceptional cuisine and service, plus in-depth education programs are also included.
Photographic tips for Polar travel
Whilst in Antarctica and the Arctic there will be many opportunities for photographing the stunning scenery and the incredible abundance of wildlife. To help you get the best out of your photographs, we suggest the following:
• Check that your camera is working well, before you leave home.
• If you are using a digital camera bring plenty of memory cards.
• If using a film based camera we recommend using 50 ASA or 100 ASA for slides and 100 ASA or 200 ASA for prints in Antarctica (100 for very bright days when the sun reflects off the snow harshly, and 200/400 for overcast days)
• Bring twice the amount of film you think you will be using.
• If your camera uses batteries, don’t forget to take spares with you, since cold temperatures reduce their life span considerably.
• It is best to have two cameras and lenses from 28 mm to 200 mm telephoto, or, if you have one, a 500 mm lens for close ups.
• Good lenses are: 20-35 mm, 35-70 mm, and 80-200 mm.
• Don’t forget a wide-angle lens to capture the real expanse of this unique continent.
• The use of a polarising filter is not recommended. It takes the sparkle away from the ice and snow, which is what brings it to life. Also a polariser tends to make the skies too dark.
· If you are serious about getting excellent shots, a tripod gives you more potential but it certainly is not mandatory.
Always respect the MINIMUM DISTANCE of 5 METERS, and get close only via a zoom lens. Telephoto is the best way to capture wildlife.
· When photographing, do not approach wildlife to the point where it becomes frightened, or in ways that causes them to alter their behaviour.
• Be aware that polar conditions can be very harsh on camera equipment. Carry plenty of protection for your camera against salt spray, snow, or rain. Please bring sealable cases, waterproof day packs or ‘dry bags’ but DO NOT bring lightweight plastic or rubbish bags as these can be easily blown away and are contrary to our environmental obligation.
• Please be aware of other passengers who may wish to capture the same shot as you.
And most importantly…
… forget your camera from time to time and just enjoy the spectacular scenery and wildlife!
