Exploring Antarctica: What It’s Really Like on an HX Expeditions Cruise
Wed Jan 28 2026
Ever wondered what it actually takes to reach Antarctica and what it feels like when your boots hit the ice? We open up the journey, from long-haul hops to Ushuaia and life aboard a small HX Expeditions hybrid ship to the reality of the Drake Passage, then unpack how strict biosecurity and expert-led briefings make this fragile place accessible without losing what makes it special.
From the first glide through the Lemaire Channel to five unforgettable landings, we share practical detail on zodiacs, group rotations, and why “penguin highways” must be respected. Expect honest gear talk, thermals, waterproof trousers and sunblock over bulky ski wear, plus notes on seasickness, balcony cabins, and how the science centre turns downtime into discovery. We also get real about cost, value, and choosing a responsible operator that prioritises smaller groups and environmental impact.
Guest travellers Karen and David add vivid moments, whales surfacing beside a silent ship, the shock of a polar plunge, and stepping onto the mainland at an Argentine base. We compare Antarctica with the Falkland Islands, weigh when to go, and highlight wildlife spotted from deck. If you’re planning your first polar cruise or simply curious about the White Continent, this is a grounded guide to going prepared and coming home with more than photos.
📝 Show Notes - Episode 88
🎧 Listen to next
Episode #86 - Around the World in 2025: Global Travel Planning’s Year in ReviewEpisode #81 - Stamped: Sinead: Trains, Travels, and Family Adventures Across 80 CountriesEpisode #41 – Tips for first time visitors to Peru with Ariana Svenson✈️ Want to learn how to plan an unforgettable trip to Europe without breaking the bank? Join the D.I.Y. Trip Summit online this January—completely FREE!
Get tips from seasoned travellers and start planning the trip of your dreams.
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Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!
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Ever wondered what it actually takes to reach Antarctica and what it feels like when your boots hit the ice? We open up the journey, from long-haul hops to Ushuaia and life aboard a small HX Expeditions hybrid ship to the reality of the Drake Passage, then unpack how strict biosecurity and expert-led briefings make this fragile place accessible without losing what makes it special. From the first glide through the Lemaire Channel to five unforgettable landings, we share practical detail on zodiacs, group rotations, and why “penguin highways” must be respected. Expect honest gear talk, thermals, waterproof trousers and sunblock over bulky ski wear, plus notes on seasickness, balcony cabins, and how the science centre turns downtime into discovery. We also get real about cost, value, and choosing a responsible operator that prioritises smaller groups and environmental impact. Guest travellers Karen and David add vivid moments, whales surfacing beside a silent ship, the shock of a polar plunge, and stepping onto the mainland at an Argentine base. We compare Antarctica with the Falkland Islands, weigh when to go, and highlight wildlife spotted from deck. If you’re planning your first polar cruise or simply curious about the White Continent, this is a grounded guide to going prepared and coming home with more than photos. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 88 🎧 Listen to next Episode #86 - Around the World in 2025: Global Travel Planning’s Year in ReviewEpisode #81 - Stamped: Sinead: Trains, Travels, and Family Adventures Across 80 CountriesEpisode #41 – Tips for first time visitors to Peru with Ariana Svenson✈️ Want to learn how to plan an unforgettable trip to Europe without breaking the bank? Join the D.I.Y. Trip Summit online this January—completely FREE! Get tips from seasoned travellers and start planning the trip of your dreams. 👉 Register here Support the show 🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe 🗺 Global Travel Planning Website - globaltravelplanning.com Instagram - Global Travel Planning YouTube - Global Travel Planning 🇬🇧UK Travel Planning Website - UKTravelPlanning.com Instagram - UK Travel Planning YouTube - UK Travel Planning 📍London Travel Planning Website - LondonTravelPlanning.com Work With Us - Contact tracy@globaltravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Thank you ❤️ Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!