Antarctica Travel Forum

Greetings fellow adventurers!

I am planning a trip to Antarctica during the 2008-2009 season, and I know that the tourist vessels only go there from November through March. I am wondering though, if there is any such thing as a calmer month to cross the Drake Passage. I will be on one of the smaller ice breakers traveling from Ushuaia to the Antarctic Peninsula. I realize that it will be a rocking trip on this type of vessel, and I must admit to some anxiety in anticipation of the rough crossing. I'm wondering if it's random in terms of when the seas and winds are the worst, or is there some seasonality to the conditions?

Thanks in advance for any advice!
Dyan

There is some seasonality - the southern hemisphere high pressure systems move further south during the southern summer - meaning there is a greater chance of calm weather than during the winter, when the westerly 'Roaring 40s' will be at their strongest. As you have noted though, all the tourist trips are in the summer months and within that period the weather you will encounter is entirely "luck of the draw" - typically the weather patterns run for several days, so it's entirely possible you'll have a smooth run in both directions.

Remember though, the trip across Drake Passage is only a couple of days. If you have a known problem with seasickness, my suggestion would be to start taking seasickness tablets before the ship sails and continue till you arrive. If you have not previously had seasickness, just keep a pack handy "in case" and chances are that you'll have no problems.

Hello Tiabunna,

Thank you very much for your response to my question. It's not really the sea sickness that worries me - it's the 'scare' factor of being in 30'-50' seas. I'm a seasoned sailor, but have never encountered seas like those found in the Drake Passage and, of course, all I can picture is the Poseidon Adventure! But your answer has given me some reassurance at least.

Many thanks,
Dyan