The latest edition of our popular polar travel series takes us through a classic Antarctic Peninsula voyage. Our senior polar specialist, Lidia Stranc, loved meeting Neko Harbour’s “adorable” penguins and having her dining accompanied by amazing whale sightings from the comfort of HX’s modern ship, the Fridtjof Nansen.
Lidia with the penguins on Neko Harbour
WHAT DESTINATIONS DID YOU VISIT?
The Antarctic Peninsula.
That 7th continent feeling!
HOW DID YOU GET THERE?
I flew from my home in the Azores to join the Hurtigruten flight from London Heathrow to Buenos Aires, and then the next day, we all joined a charter flight to Ushuaia. The same day we embarked the ship.
Lidia’s POV of the Antarctic scenery
FAVOURITE LOCATION?
Neko harbour. The Gentoo penguins hanging out along the shore are just adorable, and hearing the ice crack and break off the glaciers is something I won’t forget. The whole place feels so peaceful and untouched.
Lidia’s photo of the penguins in Neko Harbour
MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT?
Eating dinner with 3 whales swimming right next to my window at the restaurant and performing all sorts of tricks which meant that most diners abandoned their food to watch them for about 30 minutes.
Landing on Neko Harbour – the weather was just perfect; penguins were more than happy to accommodate us, and we didn’t want to leave due to the spectacular views alongside the penguins all around us.
WHAT DO YOU MOST RECOMMEND PACKING OR PREPPING FOR?
Good gloves – waterproof. Splashing water in the zodiac can make your hands very cold, even if the rest of you is covered in waterproof gear.
Lidia’s view of a zodiac making its way through the icebergs
FAVOURITE FOOD AND DRINK ON TRIP?
Breakfast: There was lots of choice at the main restaurant, which meant that I could alternate between continental, English, and super healthy if I wanted. Drink: Daily cocktails themed to where we were/what we were doing.
Lidia’s sea views on the Fridtjof Nansen over a glass of wine
FAVOURITE PHOTO OR VIDEO YOU TOOK?
A penguin falling over his feet walking down the penguin highway, because it was too chubby!
Lidia’s video of the gentoo penguin’s waddle belly rolling!
SUM UP YOUR TRIP IN THREE WORDS
Unforgettable, eye-opening, humbling.
Lidia and her new penguin friends
Ready to start planning your incredible Antarctica?Simply complete our enquiry form to get in touch, or call our Polar Specialists on 020 3666 1033.
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