Oceanwide Expeditions: Antarctic Basecamp experience
Oceanwide Expeditions, a 30-year veteran of expedition cruises to the polar regions, is the pioneer of Basecamp Antarctica. It first began offering guests a specifically dynamic, polar activity-focused Antarctic experience in 2012, ahead of other expedition cruise operators, as an addition to its existing product offering in Antarctica and the Arctic.
Now, the Basecamp Antarctica concept has grown to become a firm favorite of Oceanwide Expeditions’ guests and is a regular fixture of each Antarctic season. But what exactly is the Basecamp Antarctica experience, and what can guests expect?
Antarctic kayaking – copyright Anjali Pande – Oceanwide Expeditions
Basecamp Antarctica in a nutshell
Put simply, the Antarctica Basecamp expedition cruise experience with Oceanwide Expeditions combines all of the activities that guests can experience on other expedition polar cruises into one all-inclusive, dynamic experience that offers an immersive, adventurous experience in one of the world’s last untouched frontiers. Basecamp trips transform the stunning Antarctic region into a giant playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of exciting activities that allow guests to truly engage with the icy landscapes.
An Antarctic experience unlike any other
Oceanwide Expeditions champions getting guests closer to the heart of nature and maximizing the time spent on land. They also promote operational flexibility and a 360 ° experience. Basecamp Antarctica embodies this approach both in concept and execution. On a Basecamp Antarctica expedition cruise, Oceanwide Expeditions’ vessels are positioned strategically throughout the Antarctic Peninsula, enabling guests to explore the icy world around them in greater depth, both by ship, kayak Zodiac, and onshore.
Throughout a Basecamp Antarctica trip, guests can participate in a range of activities, including mountaineering, kayaking, snowshoeing, photography workshops and camping. All of these activities are included in the cost of the expedition cruise, making this a unique experience in comparison to other cruise itineraries. On all Oceanwide Expeditions trips, guests can participate in activities such as hiking, shorewalking, and Zodiac cruises. Some specific activities may be offered at additional pricing. On a Basecamp Antarctica trip, everything is open to guests at no additional cost.
For true outdoor enthusiasts, a Basecamp Antarctica trip is the dream ticket to making the most of their time in this remote and stunning environment. For visitors to Antarctica, the thrill of challenging themselves in such an unforgettable and beautiful environment, led by expert guides, is often life-changing and creates extraordinary experiences and memories.
Camping – copyright Ignacio Marino-Oceanwide Expeditions
Passenger taking pictures at Damoy Island, Antarctica Copyright Max Draeger – Oceanwide Expeditions
Breathtaking wildlife and spectacular landscapes
Activities aside, Antarctica’s wildlife is another of the major highlights of the Basecamp cruise. Guests can expect to encounter vast colonies of penguins, including gentoo, chinstrap, and Adélie species. Seal species, such as Weddell, crabeater, and the elusive leopard seal, can often be spotted lounging on ice floes or along the shoreline. The waters surrounding the Antarctic Peninsula are rich with marine life, with whales being frequent visitors. While kayaking or relaxing on the ship, guests may spot humpback, minke, and blue whales, while pods of orcas often patrol the icy waters.
Above, a variety of bird life calls the Antarctic world home, with many species migrating to and from the frigid waters throughout the year. Despite the remote, far-flung, and beautifully desolate landscapes of the far south, it is a region teeming with life.
Beyond wildlife, Antarctica’s landscape is a stunning blend of towering, snow-covered mountains, immense glaciers, and labyrinths of icebergs that float silently through the glassy waters. Dramatic lighting can create conditions perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike, while the ethereal ambiance of Antarctica makes the silent moments between activities or relaxing on the deck of the ship incredibly immersive and truly unforgettable.
Antarctica, Mountaineering – copyright Dietmar Denger-Oceanwide Expeditions
Mountaineering, Kerr Point- copyright Rocio Siemens-Oceanwide Expeditions
Discover iconic Antarctic locations
Typically, Basecamp Antarctica trips focus on the Antarctic Peninsula, known for its dramatic scenery and diverse wildlife. The region’s varied landscapes offer spectacular surroundings for activities such as kayaking, polar diving, snowshoeing, and hiking. Camping beneath star-filled skies with the shadows of mountains against the surrounding darkness can be a life-changing experience for many.
Along the way, guests might visit iconic Antarctic sites such as Neko Harbour, Paradise Harbour, the Gerlache Strait, or Port Lockroy, each offering unique insights into Antarctic history and ecology. All sites are chosen to provide safe and accessible terrain for various outdoor activities and provide guests with an immersive glimpse into the world of the Antarctic.
For the latest opportunities to join a Basecamp Antarctica trip, check out Oceanwide Expeditions Antarctic program for 24-25 and 25-26. Get ready to explore the edges of the world and push your own limits.
Don’t miss more updates, news and reviews about Ocenwide Expeditions on Cruising Journal.
