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A Look Into the International Research Stations of Antarctica

There are currently 70 permanent research stations scattered across the continent of Antarctica, which represent 29 countries from every continent on Earth. Together, these countries, or ‘signatories’ of the Antarctic Treaty, must ensure the preservation and wellbeing of the natural land, and to cooperate with their fellow explorers.

12 photo tips to make better pictures on your Antarctica cruise

In this article you get 12 photo tips from Oceanwide Expeditions to make better pictures on your trip.

Ski mountaineering: a new activity onboard m/v Ortelius in Antarctica

Ski mountaineers climb high snow-covered and glaciated peaks and viewpoints, mostly roped up in small groups. It’s a thrilling experienced for those skiers experienced enough to ski downhill individually and master sometimes steep, and potentially dangerous alpine environment.

The Small Mammals of the Arctic and Antarctica

There may not be any naturally occurring land mammals living in Antarctica right now, but this does not mean that the icy area was always like this. In fact, a research team from America discovered the continent’s first land mammal fossil back in 1982.

11 Seals You May See in Antarctica or the Arctic

There are 18 species in the family of True Seals (Phocidae) currently alive throughout the world, and a total of 10 of them can be found between the Arctic and Antarctica. Out of this list, four are found in Antarctica, and they are also among the most populated seal species on earth

Six Facts About the Crabeater Seals of Antarctica

As many as 75 million individual crabeater seals live in Antarctica, making them the most abundant seal in the world.

Deep Sea Dwellers: 10 Facts about The Antarctic Giant Isopod

Two thousand feet below the surface of the Southern Ocean, in the benthic zone, dwells an ancient-looking creature with four antennae, two pairs of jaws, plates on its back, and several pairs of spiny legs. It’s an intimidating sight, but Giant Antarctic Isopods are relatively harmless animals that are far more interested in finding their next meal than anything.

The Plants of Antarctica

It seems an almost impossible feat for a plant to survive in Antarctica. Despite the odds, there are still plants that have evolved specifically to live in these conditions, and have thrived where no others have dared to go.

Diving in Antarctica: The Ultimate Underwater Experience

If you love scuba diving and enjoy a truly unique adventure, polar diving (specifically Antarctic diving) may be your next favorite thing.

Bouvet Island: The Most Remote Island in the World

On January 1, 1739, an amazing discovery was made by French Commander Jean-Baptiste Charles Bouvet de Lozier: a volcanic island that is so remote that it is necessary to travel 2,600 km (1,600 miles) to find land that is inhabited on a full-time basis.

Going Green in Antarctica

Antarctica truly is the world’s last wild, untouched land. Aside from the international research stations that dot the continent, Antarctica is a barren landscape, devoid of human presence and interference. With an increase in melting sea ice, rising ocean levels, and rising ocean temperatures, now more than ever is an important time to think about environmental impact in this fragile ecosystem.

Large and in Charge: Antarctica’s Southern Elephant Seals

Southern elephant seals are the largest species of seal on the planet and a highlight among Antarctica cruise wildlife.

Fierce and Feathered: the Skuas of Antarctica

At first glance, the skuas of Antarctica appear to be merely darker-feathered seagulls. But looks can be deceiving.

The Evolving Shipboard Eco-traveler

Bored with the common place, usual hum-drum of daily life? Shopping for another reality? Well, look no further! Most of us live and play on terra firma. We rarely go swimming, though we embrace an aqueous 71.5% liquid composition.

Meet Will Gilbertson, one of Oceanwide Expeditions’ field experts

Meet some of our ‘experts’, qualified expedition leaders and guides. Our friendly expedition staff, most of whom have been with the company for many years, will be anxious to share their enthusiasm and knowledge with their guests. They will share their knowledge in lectures on board during sea days and during field excursions; our guides come from all over the world and speak several languages.

The Eight Great Penguin Species of Antarctica

There are 17 penguin species on the planet, but the eight most iconic reside in Antarctica, its nearby islands, and the sub-Antarctic archipelagos of South Georgia and the Falklands.

The A to Z Guide to Cruising the Antarctic

Like many of life’s most rewarding experiences, an exploration of the South Pole takes some preparation and knowledge. You’ll be sailing into one of the most hostile environments on the planet, and it’s not an undertaking that should be lightly taken.

Humpback Whales Sing for Food, Not Entertainment

The normal call of a humpback whale can be heard from miles away, and they often make noises that sound similar to crying, howling and moaning. This sticks out even more because their songs will often last for hours. In other words, people who join an Arctic or Antarctic expedition have a solid chance of hearing one of these songs, and it is an extremely memorable experience.

No Patches, Pills, or Tablets: Seven Natural Seasickness Remedies

Just because you're embarking on polar sea travel doesn't mean you need to spend the whole voyage leaning over the rail. If you're anticipating rough waters, here are some steps you can take to alleviate or even eliminate your symptoms.

Life in the Polar Regions

Polar bears in the Arctic, penguins in Antarctica. That's all there is to it, right? Well, actually, no. There's a lot more to it. Though there appears to be less life in the polar regions than, say, anywhere else you can think of or imagine, there are in fact highly complex ecosystems within both the Arctic and Antarctica.