Cruising to Antarctica can be wonderful, but concerns have been raised in recent years about the potential for environmental damage from the ships.
Kensington Tours is offering an alternative with Kensington Antarctica, a luxury eco-camp experience. The camp is accessible only by private jet from Cape Town, South Africa, so guests don’t need to worry about possible cruise ship restrictions. The campsite itself is perched atop a 200-foot icefall. The big tents are heated and include all modern conveniences. The main living area is made of two large dome tents (which use both traditional materials and modern technology) with a dining room, library, kitchen and communications area. The camp has only six sleeping tents, each shared by two guests, as well as personalized service from five polar explorers/guides. Naturally, gourmet meals are included.
At their leisure, visitors can go kite-skiing, rock- and ice-climbing, abseiling into crevasses, or go on excursions to the coastal ice barrier, one of the science bases or even the South Pole. Visitors also have access to a 12,000-strong colony of Emperor Penguins and their hatchlings. Kensington can also arrange private and custom departures.
Note: The Antarctica season runs from late November through January, when temperatures average a balmy 23 degrees Fahrenheit. Luxury travel advisors can contact Director of Industry Relations Kymberly Milroy ([email protected]).
