Kayaking in Antarctica is a spectacular way to get active and take in the sights of these pristine wilderness areas close to the water. Participants may have the chance to paddle along side small icebergs, through the sea ice or get an up close view of wildlife. Being on the water without an engine around provides an excellent chance to experience the sounds of the ice popping, glaciers calving & any nearby wildlife.

In most cases, Kayaking on our website refers to a full kayaking program with the chance to paddle multiple times throughout the voyage (conditions permitting). Typically the kayaking guide will hold a briefing prior to each paddle to explain the plan for the outing. At that point you can decide whether to go kayaking or on the regular shore landing or zodiac cruise with the rest of the passengers. The price for the kayaking program is the same regardless of how many times you end up paddling. Kayaking spots cannot be shared amongst passengers.

Joining a full kayaking program does require previous kayaking experience. All kayaking gear is provided onboard the ship. Full Kayaking programs use true sea kayaks with spray skirts.

The Kayaking option on the Basecamp Antarctica voyages aboard the ships Hondius, Plancius & Ortelius is a one-time kayaking (conditions permitting).

On the ships Magellan Explorer & Ocean Nova, there are 2 separate groups of kayakers with each group going out on a rotating basis. Participants have the chance to kayak every other time it is offered and not every time.