Paddling in Antarctica and Arctic: A Sea Kayak Odyssey

Imagine the swish of water is it passes your hull, or the clack of brash ice against your paddle blade. Sea kayaking in Antarctica and the Arctic allows you to experience another side of this magnificent destination.

Even the smallest piece of brash ice requires a navigation decision that you as skipper of your own little boat will be required to make. Bumping through the ice, gliding across a glassy bay with the mountains and glaciers reflected in the water, or close encounters with wildlife are experiences shared by sea kayakers.

Our highly experienced guides spend more time paddling in cold water then they do in warm waters. With a combined role of safety and interpretation, they will guide and introduce you to a slower paced, quieter environment.

Our kayak excursions will be offered in conjunction with the Zodiac excursions whenever weather conditions permit. Our Kayak Guides and Adventure Concierges will help to explain the choices of activities at each landing site and provide some suggestions on what to participate in, based on your own interests.

Who can do it?
Our sea kayaking program is directed at any passenger with an adventurous spirit and a basic paddling ability. Our guides are experienced instructors and will help you with any additional skills that you might require. In addition, they will tailor sea kayak excursions to your skill level and recommend when you should and shouldn't be paddling. The sea kayaking option should be added at the time of booking and, due to its great popularity, is generally not available for booking onboard the vessel.

What is provided?
We provide industry leading equipment, including full Gore-Tex drysuits, kayak specific PFD's, neoprene booties, a waterproof deck bag, pogies and many other vital paddling accessories.

What you need to bring?
Sunglasses, sunscreen and appropriate layers to wear under your drysuit are your main requirements. Appropriate layering consists of a layer of thermal underwear (top and bottom) as well as a heavier (200 weight) fleece or wool insulating layer to wear over the thermals (top and bottom). A warm hat is a great idea although we do provide neoprene skull caps.

Note: There is an extra charge for this optional activity.

For more information regarding our overnight sea kayak excursion on our 'Antarctica off the Beaten Track' please inquire.