Embarking on an Antarctica expedition cruise with Seabourn, Viking, or other lines? Packing the right clothing and gear is crucial for staying warm, dry, and comfortable while exploring the frozen continent. Here's a detailed packing list and clothing guide based on our personal experience to help you prepare for your journey. We went early in the season, and in fact, we were on the second cruise of the year in November. In our opinion, it likely won't be any colder than we experienced!
Layering is Key
Antarctica’s weather is unpredictable, with strong winds, freezing temperatures, and occasional sunshine. Dressing in layers is crucial to adapt to these changes.
Base Layers
- Two sets of long underwear: This allows you to rotate and wash as needed. Affordable options like Costco or Amazon’s 32 Degrees Lightweight Base Layers worked perfectly for us.
- A lightweight, moisture-wicking base layer keeps you warm and dry.
Middle Layer
- Fleece or insulated layers: We relied on a fleece jacket for her on the top and found we didn't need any additional bottom layer other than our waterproof pants which you will see below. We did bring along a pair of fleece lined leggings for her, just in case an extra layer was needed but we found it wasn't. However, these were nice to wear around the ship or to dinner. Fleece jacket for him
Outer Layer
- Helly Hansen expedition jacket: Many expedition cruises provide these durable, windproof, and waterproof jackets. Ours came with a thermal zip-in jacket for added warmth.
- Waterproof pants: Essential for Zodiac landings and excursions.
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Footwear Matters
Keeping your feet warm and dry is essential for enjoying your trip.
- Provided Muck Boots: These boots were incredibly warm and waterproof, perfect for wet landings and trekking.
- Casual shoes for ship use: For her Ugg boots work well, and for him, sneakers, to walk down to the landing zone, then changed into Muck Boots. Regardless they should be something that you can slip in and out of easily. It gets hard to change shoes to leave the ship when you are decked out in lots of layers and a personal floatation device.
Accessories for Extreme Weather
- Gloves: One of us used touchscreen-compatible waterproof gloves for convenience, while the other preferred heavier waterproof gloves (Helly Hansen All Mountain gloves). After one colder day he bought merino wool glove liners. While these can be bought before you travel, they did have them in the Seabourn Venture boutique for both men and women.
- Hat: A provided Helly Hansen cap kept us warm.
- Eyewear:
- Ski goggles: We found these to be ideal for windy Zodiac tours.
- Sunglasses: Perfect for trekking under the bright Antarctic sun. Polarized lenses reduce glare from ice and snow. Wrap around styles can function as both goggles and sunglasses.
- Socks: Double up! We wore two pairs of socks for warmth. Don't worry the cruise line will size your boots accordingly and you have the chance to change the size if your first choice doesn't work for you.
- Neck gaiter: Although we packed Turtle Fur neck gaiters, we didn’t find it necessary. The fleece jackets and zipped neck on the provided coat was more than enough. Also, the hood is a big help to keep your neck and chin warm during zodiac outings.
Skincare Essentials
The Antarctic sun and wind can be harsh on your skin. Don’t forget:
- Sunscreen: A high-SPF, broad-spectrum formula is essential. We prefer Blue Lizard brand.
- Lip Balm: Protect your lips from drying and cracking.
- Antarctica’s cold, dry air and the climate-controlled ship can be tough on your skin. We recommend bringing a hydrating moisturizer like Eucerin Advanced Repair for Sensitive Skin. It's gentle and effective for your face, neck, and even your nose if it gets irritated from the cold. We packed about 2 ounces in a travel-sized silicone jar for easy use on board—it’s also great for dry, cracked fingers after being outdoors. Here's the exact one we used: Amazon link.
Packing Tips for Zodiac Excursions
Zodiac landings are a highlight of any Antarctic expedition, but they come with challenges like wind and sea spray. Here’s what we wore:
- Base layer, fleece-lined pants, fleece, thermal jacket, Helly Hansen outer jacket.
- Two pairs of socks, Muck Boots, gloves, and ski goggles.
- Our cruise line provided one for us to keep, but you may want a backpack dry bag for any special gear like camera gear.
For trekking on land, we swapped the goggles for sunglasses but kept everything else the same.
Additional Notes
- Plan for onboard comfort: Bring casual, comfortable clothing and shoes to wear inside the ship both day and night. There was no particular dress code on board. Most persons were in casual winter wear and we saw an occasional dress or sport coat in the evenings. The ship was warm enough for lightweight clothing day and night, but if you decide to go outside for viewing landscapes, sunsets or wildlife, you may want to have something with you.
- Laundry options: With just two sets of base layers, we were able to wash and rotate them without issue.
- A suction cup magnifying mirror was wonderful. There is a magnifying table top mirror provided in the room but for putting on makeup comfortably and being able to look out the window at the scenery this was wonderful. Not only did it provide good light, but it could be put at face level for comfort.
- We only had two USB-C outlets in our room -- one on each side of the bed. If you need multiple USB-C outlets, we suggest bringing a universal adapter with multiple USB outlets which is helpful for your hotel stay, or USB-A to USB-C cords.
Packing for an Antarctica expedition doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Stick to tried-and-true layers and accessories, and you’ll stay warm, dry, and ready for adventure. Have you been on an Antarctic cruise? What are your must-haves? Let us know in the comments!
Safe travels!
