Open Air Camping in the Antarctic
Would you like to experience the ultimate Antarctic expedition adventure, like the original explorers did? Then join us for a night under the open skies on the actual Antarctic Peninsula!
Cuddled up in a warm, snug and weatherproof sleeping bag, listening to the sounds of distant whale blows, penguins’ squeaks and shifting icebergs, Antarctic Open Air Camping with Albatros Expeditions is truly a memorable experience.
After dinner onboard the ship, our expedition team will take you to shore, where you will be a part of preparing your camp for the night. Once you decide on the location within the set perimeter, you will level out your own spot in the snow, fix the base cover, insulated pad, and warm sleeping bag - and get ready for a night like no other.
Camping in Antarctica is limited to 30 participants, who all need to participate in the briefing prior to the camp activity. Albatros Expeditions provides all the special camping and bivouac gear for this outing, allowing you to stay warm, dry, and protected for all weather types while you enjoy the beauty of the Antarctic wilderness. For the ultimate camping experience, we use a wind and waterproof yet still breathable bivy bag, offering you the possibility to watch the amazing Antarctic night skies.
Our experienced expedition guides stay in constant radio contact with the ship and ensure that you have a safe and unforgettable night.
Please note - Open Air Camping is not offered during our South Georgia Voyages (any itinerary that has South Georgia included). Camping can only be offered whilst snow covers the ground, in effect this means we can only offer camping on regular Antarctic departures from October- 15. December, and select longer itineraries from 16. December - 31. January.
Facts about Open Air Camping in the Antarctic
Booking
Open Air Camping can be pre-booked and bought on board. However, due to limited availability, it is advised you secure your spot in advance.
Duration
Normally we sail ashore ca. 21:00 and return ca. 6:00 the next morning. We offer near-shore camping on the continent or nearby islands depending on the itinerary, weather, and ice conditions. Camping groups stay a maximum of 10 hours on shore.
Weather conditions
The expedition leader will do their best to ensure the camping activity takes place. But if local circumstances prevent us from camping on shore, we may attempt to camp on the open decks of the ship.
Around the coasts of Antarctica, temperatures are generally close to freezing in the summer (December – February). At night slightly below, and at day some degrees above (-5 to +5°C). Warm clothing, a flexible attitude, and a sense of adventure are the best ways to overcome these sometimes-harsh conditions.
Gear that we are providing
Bivy sack with large hood for clothing, Mummy-style expedition sleeping bag, comfortable until -20°C, Sleeping bag inner liner, Insulated sleeping pad, Waterproof base tarpaulin, Portable field toilet (one per group)
Gear that you should bring
Parka (can double as a pillow), Thermal base layer and mid-layer clothing, Warm socks, hat, and gloves, Scarf or neck gaiter, Hand and foot warmers, Backpack, Camera and accessories, Eye mask if you need complete darkness, Essential medication, UV-protectant sunglasses, sun cream, Flashlight or lightweight headlamp, Water bottle
Experience level
Prior camping experience is not necessary. There are no physical requirements except helping the guides set up and clean the campsite. Please note, however, that we are not camping in a campground: There can be rocks, snow, mud, and frozen surfaces. We expect our campers to help, prepare the campsite and break camp the next morning. All equipment must be cleaned thoroughly after use. The weather can sometimes make these tasks difficult.
Food
As per the Antarctic Treaty and IAATO regulations, eating food and snacks on shore is not allowed. This is to prevent the spread of outside plants or contaminants.
Sleeping in tents
Sleeping in your warm bivy bag makes you feel like a true Antarctic explorer. It makes you experience and sense Antarctica the optimal way, and wake-up with one of most incredible views you have ever seen. We don’t believe staying in a closed tiny tight tent would give you anything close to this incredible experience.
Toilet
Toilet visits should be avoided on land, as per the Antarctic Treaty and IAATO regulations, and campers are encouraged to use toilet facilities on board prior to camping. In case of urgency during the stay in camp, a portable toilet will be available on shore and all waste must be returned to the ship. Note also that it is not possible to brush teeth ashore. This should be done on board prior to camping or when coming back the next morning.
Expeditions with this excursion
Prime Season Antarctica
Storied and sought for centuries, the great White Continent beckons intrepid modern-day explorers from all over the world. Experience incredible wildlife, stunning scenery and gigantic icebergs on this one-of-a-kind voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula in the peak of the southern summer!
The Antarctic Adrenaline Adventure
Looking for excitement? A true Antarctic adventure? Join this unique adventure voyage with an included kayak excursion for all guests, extended stays onshore and extra camping options. This unique voyage has NO SET ITINERARY, and we will allow the rhythms of the ice, sea and weather to lead us to adventure.
Explorers Cruise: Antarctic Peninsula and the Extreme Weddell Sea
Join us for a once in a lifetime expedition voyage to the Weddell Sea and the Seventh Continent. Experience the incredible wildlife of these icy waters, witness stunning mountain scenery and wonder at gigantic icebergs during 11 action-packed days.
South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Storied and sought for centuries, the great White Continent beckons intrepid modern-day explorers from all over the world. Experience incredible wildlife, stunning scenery and gigantic icebergs in action-packed days on the Last Continent on our classic 10-day voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula.