Kayak
Kayaking Adventure in Antarctica – Start Planning Yours Today
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.
Find Your Perfect Antarctica Kayaking Trip
Kayaking in Antarctica offers an unparalleled way to explore the continent’s pristine waters, towering ice formations, and abundant wildlife. Paddling in near silence, without the hum of an engine, allows for a truly immersive experience—hear the ice crack and pop, glaciers calve into the sea, and wildlife move through their natural habitat. Whether gliding past small icebergs, through patches of sea ice, or near curious seals and penguins, kayaking in Antarctica is an unforgettable adventure.
Several of our Antarctic expeditions offer kayaking programs, ranging from full multi-day experiences to single-session excursions, providing options for both experienced paddlers and those looking to try it out.
Kayaking Options in Antarctica
All kayaking excursions require prior kayaking experience, and all essential gear is provided onboard the ship. Full kayaking programs use true sea kayaks with spray skirts, designed for navigating Antarctic waters safely and comfortably.
Full Kayaking Programs:
Available on select voyages, these programs allow participants to paddle multiple times throughout the expedition (conditions permitting). A briefing before each outing helps guests decide whether to kayak or join a shore landing or Zodiac cruise instead. The program is priced as a full experience, regardless of how many paddles are completed, and kayaking spots cannot be shared
Basecamp Antarctica Kayaking:
On Basecamp voyages aboard Hondius, Plancius, and Ortelius, guests can enjoy a one-time guided kayaking excursion, ideal for those who want to experience paddling in Antarctica without committing to a full program.
Rotating Kayaking Groups:
On Magellan Explorer and Ocean Nova, kayaking spots are divided into two rotating groups, meaning participants can kayak every other time it is offered, rather than on every excursion.
