Ross Sea
The Ross Sea is the most remote and historic region of Antarctica accessible by ship via New Zealand. It is the furthest south one can travel by ship and the closest coast to the geographic South Pole. The Ross Sea was the jumping off point for explorers during the heroic era of exploration and the race to the Pole. The region is home to historical sites including Shackleton’s, Scott’s & Mawson’s huts. The Ross Ice Shelf is the largest body of floating ice in the world with dramatic ice cliffs rising a hundred feet out of the water. It is also home to McMurdo and Scott Research stations. Guests may have the chance to see adelie and emperor penguins, whales and sea birds. Most trips to the Ross Sea also include a stop at the sub-Antarctic Islands of New Zealand, which are teaming with unique wildlife. The Ross Sea is very heavily iced so no specific itineraries or landing sites can be guaranteed in advance.
Explore the Remote and Historic Ross Sea
The Ross Sea, the southernmost navigable region of Antarctica, is one of the most remote, ice-covered, and historically significant areas accessible by ship. This extraordinary region offers a rare opportunity to follow in the footsteps of legendary explorers while experiencing breathtaking polar landscapes and diverse wildlife. Highlights of a Ross Sea expedition include:
- Sailing to the farthest south possible by ship, reaching Antarctica’s most isolated coastline
- Visiting historic sites, including the preserved huts of Shackleton, Scott, and Mawson, which played a crucial role in early Antarctic exploration
- Witnessing the towering Ross Ice Shelf, the largest floating ice mass in the world, with sheer ice cliffs rising over 100 feet from the sea
- Exploring the McMurdo and Scott Research Stations, key outposts for modern Antarctic science
- Spotting wildlife, including Adélie and emperor penguins, whales, and a variety of seabirds
- Stopping at New Zealand’s sub-Antarctic islands, which are teeming with unique wildlife and offer a rare glimpse into an untouched ecosystem
Embark on the Ultimate Antarctic Adventure With a Ross Sea Cruise
Join a Ross Sea expedition and travel to one of the most remote, historic, and ice-covered places on Earth. From legendary explorer huts to massive ice cliffs and thriving wildlife, this journey offers an unparalleled glimpse into Antarctica’s past and present.
Start Your Ross Sea Adventure Today!
Explore our Ross Sea cruises and set sail for one of the last truly wild frontiers on the planet.
Explore Expeditions to the Ross Sea
