Five Best Ways to Prepare for Cruising the Drake Passage to Antarctica
Here is a scene from my first time crossing the Drake Passage. We gathered outside on Ponant’s Le Lyrial to enjoy the fresh air during a stretch of calm sailing, keeping a lookout for seabirds. (Photo by John Roberts)
Autumn has arrived, and the leaves are falling in full force at my home in Colorado. This means I’ll be raking them up over the next couple of weeks.
The change of colors and cooler temps up here in the northern hemisphere also means that it’s springtime down south of the equator, and many travelers are looking forward to their first cruise to Antarctica.
I’m eagerly anticipating my fourth sailing to the White Continent. This time, I’ll be going back with Atlas Ocean Voyages on an early December trip. Antarctica is one of my favorite destinations because it is such a serene place that offers travelers special encounters with an incredibly diverse range of wildlife and landscapes. Atlas Ocean Voyages is a great option to go there, too, because the line features luxury expedition yachts with expert expedition leaders, comfy amenities, great food and a program full of fun activities, such as hikes, sea kayaking and polar plunges.
Also read Our Guide to the Cruise Lines and Types of Ships that Cruise to Antarctica.
The cruise season in Antarctica runs from November to March, with the high season is during December and January. These two months are popular because they represent the peak of the austral summer, offering cruisers the most pleasant temperatures and the most daylight, with nearly 24 hours of sun during the summer solstice in late December. These conditions allow for more comfortable travel, and there is increased wildlife activity. You’ll see penguin chicks and newborn seals, while having greater access to more of the continent as sea ice recedes.
However, to get there (you’ll probably be cruising from Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile) ships pass through the notorious Drake Passage. This probably is the main topic of concern that comes up when people consider a cruise to Antarctica.
The Drake Passage, named for 16th century English sailor and privateer Sir Francis Drake, is located off the southern tip of Argentina and down to the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica. It’s one of the world’s most treacherous waterways, with waves regularly reaching 40 feet high.
I’ve crossed the passage six times on my first three cruises to Antarctica, and yes, it can be quite rough (known as the Drake Shake). But you’re just as likely to see conditions that are fairly calm (then, it’s affectionately called the Drake Lake). It’s those extra-rough seas that frighten cruisers, though, especially those who suffer seasickness or fear that they will.
Seasickness is miserable, for sure. So, how can you decide whether an Antarctic cruise is worth a couple days’ worth of tossing and turning on the high seas of the Southern Ocean?
Because I’ve been a few times, I wanted to share some of the techniques that I’ve learned and tell you about my experiences. Here are my top five tips and tricks to prepare for the Drake Passage for your cruise to Antarctica.
1. Mentally Prepare for the Crossing, But Don’t Get Psyched Out
You know by reputation that the crossing can be rough. But more often than not it’s going to be “kind of wavy” or pretty mild rocking instead of a wild ride. Don't let the fear of it ruin the experience before you even start.
Stay positive about it and focus on the adventure of the voyage and the amazing sights you might see. A positive mindset can help you cope with motion sickness.
It’s important to spend time outside on deck whenever possible. Enjoy conversations with new friends that you meet on the cruise -- looking to the horizon to help steady your body and mind -- and keep on the lookout for wildlife, such as the petrels and variety of albatrosses that you will see soaring near your ship on the way.
2. Bring Seasickness Prevention Meds
Consult your doctor and ask what you can use to best handle your motion sickness if you know you’re prone. You can discuss prescription options, such as scopolamine patches, and ensure they are suitable for you.
You also might bring over-the-counter remedies to take just in case. Pack medications that are known to be effective, such as Dramamine. This is recommended by some expedition companies.
You also can use natural options, such as eating ginger candies and drinking ginger ale. These are known to ease nausea. Note that they will not be as effective as medication for severe cases, though.
Consider wristbands: While the effectiveness varies, some people find acupressure wristbands helpful.
3. Stay Hydrated and Eat the Right Foods
It is highly effective to eat light and regular meals. You want to avoid an empty stomach, which can worsen seasickness. Choose bland, starchy foods like crackers or potatoes for your meals as you start the voyage across the Drake Passage, which can last from a day and a half to two days, typically.
Drink plenty of water, ginger ale and electrolyte-heavy drinks throughout the trip to stay hydrated. This will keep you feeling energetic and do wonders in fending off any motion sickness.
Avoid alcohol, though. Drinking beer, wine and cocktails can cause dehydration and might exacerbate any queasiness you’ll feel.
4. Pick the Best Stateroom Location and Stay Active
The Drake Passage is just as likely to be calm as turbulent during your cruise. (Photo by John Roberts)
If possible, choose a cabin that’s situated lower in the ship and more toward the middle area. These cabins experience less motion than those at the front or back of the ship.
Stay active and gain your “sea legs” by walking around the ship. The fresh air and brisk activity can help for a variety of reasons. You gain a feel for the ship movement, which gives you the confidence that you can handle it like a sailor (you might find out you enjoy a little mild movement); it also helps you keep your mind off getting sick if you move around and engage with the guides, fellow cruisers and other crew while on the ship.
Avoid overexerting yourself, though.
Lie down if needed. If you feel queasy, lie down flat in your bed with your eyes closed. This is often more effective than trying to sit up.
5. Bring Entertainment and Photography Options for the Ride
We had some good waves on the way back north in the Drake Passage and had to ride it out for a couple days onboard. (Photo by John Roberts)
Pack e-readers, downloaded shows, books or games for the downtime onboard. The expedition ships also typically will have books and games available onboard for cruisers to enjoy during their trip.
You'll want to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife, so pack your camera and any necessary accessories, such as extra batteries and chargers; the cold can drain them quickly when you’re outside looking for whales and marine birds while at sea.
I hope this list of tips and best practices helps you get ready to enjoy your epic adventures in Antarctica and a fun ride across the Drake Passage.
I know I’m excited to go again. I just have to pick up these final few piles of leaves, and I’ll get to packing for the trip.