Insider tips to selling Antarctica

Humpback whale in Antarctic waters with spectacular icebergs in the background
By Vanessa Bussoletti


Antarctica is one of the most remote and fascinating destinations on the planet, so we hit up travel insider Leanne Flanagan Smith, an Adventure Travel Consultant at Back Track Adventures, who specialises in Antarctica.

Recently returned from her own exploration of the icy destination, she’s shared her hottest tips to selling Antarctica.

Antarctic fur seal resting on the stone, with blue sky and icebergs in background, Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctic fur seal resting on the stone, with blue sky and icebergs in background, Antarctic Peninsula

Q: How did seeing Antarctica change the way you’ll sell it?

A: I have a more detailed understanding of the mechanics of how operators manage an expedition to one of the most remote places on earth, and can describe shipboard life and what landings are like, and what camping on the ice is like.

But the most impressive part of being in Antarctica actually can’t be described.  So what I’m talking to clients about now is how you really can’t describe or imagine what it’s like until you’ve been there.  It’s different for everyone, but the sheer scale and beauty of the environment that completely surrounds you can’t be put into words.

Q: Were your expectations met?

A: I was really nervous about the Drake Passage crossing – I was expecting to be violently ill, but we were blessed with a relatively calm crossing both ways and gorgeous weather which was amazing (not that I’d ever promise that to a client!).

We were aiming for the Lemaire Channel and didn’t make it due to ice conditions, but what we did instead was spectacular – we got to see emperor penguins which we never would have otherwise so that was an unexpected but sensational bonus.

It really reinforced how the itineraries are guidelines only and it doesn’t matter what you do instead, it will be amazing because it’s Antarctica.  The expedition team works really hard to make sure everyone has the best experience possible.

Q: Best insider insights?

Answer:

  • Polarised sunglasses are a must.
  • Take a good moisturiser – the combination of hard water on board the ship and sanitising your hands every five minutes dries your skin like you wouldn’t believe.
  • Make sure you’ve got a neck buff or something that can cover the bottom half of your face for wind protection when zodiac cruising.
  • If you’re travelling around South America in combination with Antarctica, do it beforehand if possible. You don’t want the rest of your trip to be an anti-climax.

 

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