Laura Pattara | 31 March 2025
With credit to Tanya GurtinCamping is the ultimate adventure activity on Antarctica cruises, offering you the priceless chance to spend a night under the polar sky surrounded by pristine snowy landscapes and towering icebergs.
Just step off your expedition ship, set up your bivy sack on the frozen landscape, and experience the profound silence of the White Continent. It's an experience that few can claim, but when you travel on the right ship, at the right time of year, and with the right preparation, it promises to be the highlight of your Antarctic cruise.
Open-air camping is one of many exceptional activities you can enjoy on your Antarctica cruise.
> What is an Expedition Cruise to Antarctica?
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YES! But this isn’t your run-of-the-mill camping trip. It’s a one-off optional activity, for one night only, offered by a select few expedition ships that run Antarctica expeditions every year. As an optional activity, it costs extra, above and beyond your cruise ship price.
On this thrilling adventure, you’ll be camping in a supervised group, adhering to strict guidelines aimed at protecting you and the unspoilt environment. While a few operators pitch tents, most offer an immersive experience, so you will be literally “sleeping” under the stars in your bivvy-sack. The use of inverted commas is deliberate here—between the sheer excitement, and the cold, there’s not usually a lot of sleeping going on. If you do nod off, it’s fair to say you probably will not be enjoying the most restful sleep of your life. However, if you’re seeking a once-in-a-lifetime chance to camp out in nature, in the wildest place on earth, then trust that it will be exceptionally special.
Viva’s Destination Specialist, Tanya Gurtin, showing us around her priceless camp spot!
> Penguins of the World and Where to Find Them
The Antarctic cruise season aligns with the austral summer, typically from November to March. Generally, camping is on offer when snow is plentiful, so usually from November to January. During this period, temperatures are relatively milder, and there’s plenty of daylight, so you have plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the surreal environment.
Here’s what 10 pm looks like in summer in Antarctica!
Weather conditions in Antarctica can be unpredictable and the cold can be more than brutal (overnight). Camping outings are always subject to last-minute changes based on the ship crew’s safety assessments. Trust that Antarctica cruise ship teams are experts at assessing the conditions—they want to deliver a safe and rewarding experience. They’ll only give the go-ahead when the sky is clear, there’s no chance of snow storms, and you can enjoy an unforgettable spectacle out there.
Expedition ship captains look for idyllic conditions before sending you off to sleep on snow and ice - although conditions can quickly change.
Before setting off, you'll attend a briefing on your expedition ship. Your crew will go over important details, such as safety protocols, environmental guidelines, and how to use the camping equipment you'll use.
After dinner, you'll board a Zodiac (inflatable boat) that will ferry you to a predetermined campsite on the Antarctic mainland or a nearby island. You'll use a bivvy sack—a lightweight but waterproof and breathable cover for your sleeping bag—with a see-through sections that allows for a clear view of the Antarctic sky.
Once ashore, you'll grab a shovel and clear a flat area for sleeping, set up your bivvy sack or tent (depending on your cruise), settle in, and start soaking up the unparalleled serenity of the Antarctic night.
Like all activities offered on expedition cruises, camping in Antarctica is weather-dependent, and the final decision to camp is made by the expedition leaders based on current conditions. Clouds can roll in pretty swiftly.
Expedition operators typically supply all necessary camping gear, including:
You'll be responsible for bringing appropriate clothing, which is basically what you will pack for your Antarctica expedition. Dressing in layers is a great idea: don a thermal base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Don't forget warm accessories like hats, gloves, and neck gaiters. Oh, and if you do plan of getting a few hours of shut-eye, an eye mask will help.
It’s a really good idea to tuck your camera gear in your sleeping bag overnight, lest the batteries freeze to death!
> Pro Tips for Taking the Best Photos in Antarctica
Your cruise ship supplies the outer layers, including bulky snow boots, but you’ll need to take this outer layer off to get into your sleeping bag. Make sure to bring good-quality merino thermals, and we recommend wearing two pairs of merino socks. A head-lamp is also a great idea as you’ll need to take off your gloves to operate your phone’s flashlight.
To protect the incredibly fragile environment, you’ll only be allowed to bring water to shore—no food or other beverages allowed. The excursion sets off after dinner, so ensure you are well fed and hydrated and don’t forget a last-minute trip to the bathroom before leaving the ship.
Essentially, you’ll only need a daypack with extra warm layers if you fear you’ll be cold in your thermals and mid-layers, a water bottle and your camera gear. That’s it.
All waste, including human waste, is carried back to the ship—nowhere is the credo “leave only footprints behind” more apt than in Antarctica. But don’t worry, your guide will show you how everything works out there. Most ships nowadays provide a porta-loo and some still only a bucket and tarpaulin for #1s. Some others might ferry you back to the ship for more pressing business. It is always a good idea to have a light dinner before disembarking.
As can be expected, facilities are a little…basic!
Absolutely, but you’ll probably be asked to think long and hard about heading back if you’re just feeling uncomfortable for any reason. Naturally, any kind of emergency is swiftly dealt with—the crew is in direct contact with the ship and will have you on a Zodiac and back onboard in a jiffy. But this truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a bucket-list activity like no other, and if you do decide to head back, just know that you will not be allowed to return to land.
If you’re at all worried about being too cold, note that with the right thermals, this is never usually a problem. Your bivvy, plus ground mat, plus sleeping bag will ensure you’re warm and toastie for the night. Wear the appropriate clothing and you will be fine.
Several Antarctica cruise ships offer camping as an optional activity—of the two dozen or so ships we represent, about half of them do. The most important factor is the timing of your itinerary: camping is only offered early in the Antarctica cruising season so it’s more about departure dates, rather than specific ships.
The best way to find out which ships and departure dates offer camping as an optional activity is by asking our Antarctica Destination Specialists. Yearly changes to itineraries and optional activities offered means they can give you the most updated info.
Book Early: Due to there being just a handful of Antarctica cruise ships offering camping, slots are limited and in extremely high demand. Alongside kayaking and the polar plunge, this is by far the most coveted optional activity and spots sell out fast. To secure your spot, we suggest you book it when booking your cruise.
Stay Flexible: Antarctica's weather is unpredictable, even in summer, and camping spots are limited. Your camping night may be decided last minute, so be prepared for changes. If the crew cancels for safety reasons, please be understanding—it’s always the top priority.
Follow Guidelines: Adhere to the instructions provided by your expedition leaders to ensure safety and environmental preservation.
Stay Warm: Layering is key. Ensure you have appropriate clothing to stay warm throughout the night.
Embrace the Moment: Disconnect from devices, soak in the surroundings, and appreciate the unique opportunity to camp in one of the most remote places on Earth!
Dreaming of an epic adventure in Antarctica? Get in touch with Viva Expeditions' Destination Specialists and let us craft a camping experience you'll never forget. We’ll help you choose the perfect Antarctica cruise and itinerary that fits your budget and travel goals.
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