5 reasons to go paddling in Antarctica

  • There’s a chance of seeing Antarctic wildlife up close, from seals snoozing on ice floes to penguins porpoising through the water
  • You can experience the profound calm of the White Continent without the chatter of people and the revving of zodiac engines
  • The gentle pace and unique water-level vantage point allows you to enjoy the astonishing colours and textures of the ice from a completely different angle
  • You'll hear the snap, crackle and pop of brash ice, and even the exhale of a distant surfacing whale, letting you experience Antarctica with all your senses
  • Booking a one-off paddling activity is an accessible way to see Antarctica from the water without committing to a more intensive daily kayaking package 
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Marta says

Paddling was a true highlight for me. It offered an incredible way to experience Antarctica in complete silence, far removed from the noise of the ship and zodiac engines. In fact, the only sounds came from chunks of brash ice hitting the kayak and the distant thundercrack of calving glaciers.

Marta Laver Antarctica Sales Specialist

How does paddling in Antarctica work?

If you want to try paddling in Antarctica just once rather than committing to several sessions as part of a full kayaking programme, some ships offer an alternative opportunity. This activity option is often known as "paddling."

Paddling is generally a one-off session for around 60 to 90 minutes, meaning you can make fantastic memories without kayaking being the focus of your voyage. 

On some – but not all – ships there may also be a difference in the kayaking equipment used. With paddling excursions, a handful use sit-on-top inflatable kayaks rather than sit-in sea kayaks.  

Three kayaks paddle among the ice in Antarctica

Paddling around Fish Islands, Antarctica

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What our customers loved about paddling in Antarctica

My best memories are of paddling in the serenity of a cove with penguins swimming nearby and beautiful icebergs around us. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2024

Cynthia Hauke - USA

Paddling was a wonderful experience. I had never kayaked before and I felt the expedition team provided good direction and, once again, ensured safety first. Paddling in this beautiful, unspoiled environment seemed almost surreal. It gave me a keen interest in kayaking once back at home. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2024

Annette Stanley - USA

Paddling was fun and not overwhelming for a newbie like me. The staff assisted as needed and were encouraging. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2024

Jeanette Burrell - USA

We loved the pace of the paddling excursions. Our guides Tim and Matt did a great job of finding amazing sites for us to see - from deep blue icebergs to penguins and seals swimming close to the boats and even whales (at a safe distance). Read the full review

Travelled: December 2023

Micah Myerscough - USA

Paddling was extremely enjoyable. Paddled through an ice field so we could hear the oxygen being released from glacier ice. The views from the kayaks were wonderful. Our guide was incredible. One of the top excursions of the week, and all of the excursions were wonderful. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2023

Scott Burbank - USA

Paddling was my favorite thing! We had a beautiful day to be out on the water. Our team leader was fun and friendly and did his best to show us all the wonders of Antarctica as we paddled around in the ocean. Such an awesome experience! I would definitely recommend this! Read the full review

Travelled: December 2023

Janalee Burbank - USA

LOVED IT! Each paddle was another memorable experience and the guides (Russell, Anula, and Tim) were all fantastic! They really went above and beyond to ensure we felt comfortable, safe and had a good time. They were very knowledgable about kayaking, but also about the environment and wildlife we were exploring. Would definitely recommend to other travelers. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2023

Michelle Leen - USA

I did the paddling and loved it. It requires little experience and offers a unique way to get up close and personal to Antarctica. I highly recommend it! Read the full review

Travelled: February 2023

Linda Buckley - USA

The kayaking was a definite highlight. Paddling amongst penguins, whales and icebergs was unforgettable and the guides always looked to our safety. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Lynn Quenemoen - USA

Review:

Who does paddling in Antarctica suit?

One-off paddling trips are often more suitable for less experienced kayakers as they run at a gentler pace and cover less ground. This can be a wonderful way to enjoy Antarctica’s icy ambience during a unique excursion. For the full kayaking packages, you’ll generally need a higher level of experience, fitness and confidence on the water, so they’re not a good match for everyone. 

We don’t recommend Antarctica as a place for first-time kayakers. Even the less demanding one-off paddling sessions will expect you to have a reasonable understanding of the basics, such as comfortably getting in and out of a kayak and using the paddle to propel yourself.

Paddling in Antarctica

Paddling in Antarctica

Is it safe to paddle in Antarctica? 

Paddling in Antarctic waters is a safe and strictly supervised activity. Guides will watch carefully as you take to the water, and a zodiac will be nearby to help you back into your kayak if you fall out. There's no danger, but the chilliness factor might give you a small shock!  

You'll attend a mandatory briefing on board the ship before you head out on the water. Guides will talk about how the session will work, give important safety advice, ask you about your experience and walk you through the kit you’ll wear in the kayak. It's the ideal time to ask any questions or chat about concerns. 

Kayaking in front of Ultramarine, Antarctic Vessel, Antarctica

Kayaking from the vessel

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Customer Tips

I would definitely recommend booking at least one kayak trip. You see Antarctica from a different vantage point and feel much more immersed.

Erin Wall Customer

What will you see while on an Antarctic paddling tour? 

You might kayak among melting chunks of brash ice or cruise across placid bays with their mirror-like surface reflecting the bright blue sky. Past paddlers also wax lyrical about how wonderful it feels to absorb the sheer silence and calm of Antarctica down at water level. 

Wildlife encounters aren't guaranteed, but some paddlers have been fortunate enough to see penguins whirling through the water and curious seals popping up to make eye contact. On rare occasions, kayakers have even spotted whales. 

Two gentoo penguins porpoising through the water

Gentoo penguins on the Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctic voyages with paddling

Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.

Antarctic Basecamp Adventure

The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 7 days kayaking, hiking, camping, mountaineering and snowshoeing, all included in the price. A medium-sized expedition ship acts as your floating ‘basecamp’. An excellent deal backed up…

  • 13 Days
  • $10,550
Active Antarctic Adventure

Ideal for active travellers with an adventurous spirit. The voyage cost includes the chance to kayak past sculptural icebergs and spend a night open-air camping in Antarctica. Dip below the surface with a unique snorkelling activity and snowshoe past waddling…

  • 15 Days
  • $16,995
Multi-activity Antarctic Peninsula

With complimentary kayaking, camping and snowshoeing included, this trip will appeal to adventurous travellers keen to take in the best of the Antarctic Peninsula. A comfortable ship, high calibre guiding and great value for money to…

  • 13 Days
  • $14,525
Luxury Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

For a truly 5 star Southern Ocean experience, this is the voyage to consider. Cosseted aboard the most luxurious, all-inclusive expedition ships currently in Antarctica, enjoy outstanding cuisine, impeccable service and daily guided…

  • 20 Days
  • $20,561
Antarctic Circle Odyssey

Sail south to the iconic Polar Circle for 7 full days exploring the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula as part of an epic 14-day adventure. Pre-voyage hotel night in Ushuaia and a 3-in-1 parka jacket are included. An optional one-off…

  • 14 Days
  • $20,995
South Georgia, Falklands and Antarctica In-Depth

This voyage was devised by a team with 50 years of polar expedition experience. From the balance of time exploring each location to the wealth of onboard expertise, the trip has real pedigree. Explore aboard a thoughtfully designed expedition vessel…

  • 22 Days
  • $28,020
Antarctic Peninsula Classic

Travelling on board this extremely comfortable ship, explore the highlights of the peninsula with a top class expedition team. Spacious cabins, delicious cuisine and optional adventure activities all help create this ideal marriage of comfort and…

  • 12-13 Days
  • $11,985
Antarctic Fly & Sail Combination

A rare and popular voyage which flies to Antarctica in just two hours, then sails back across the Drake Passage, maximising both expediency and experience. Spend 5 to 7 days exploring Antarctica on a small, purpose-built expedition ship, with kayaking…

  • 9-13 Days
  • $17,895
Antarctic Peninsula Explorer

Explore the White Continent aboard one of the polar fleet's newest additions, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. As well as being limited to only 130 passengers, there’s a wide range of optional activities on this classic Antarctic…

  • 12-15 Days
  • $12,795

Planning your Antarctic paddling tour

When to go paddling in Antarctica

You can go paddling throughout the entire Antarctic travel season (late October to early March).

Whatever time of year you visit, gliding through the water gives a wonderful contrast to your on-land experience of crunching through the snow. 

Paddling in Antarctica

How much does it cost to paddle in Antarctica?

Some ships include the cost of a one-off paddling session in the price of the trip. For those that do charge an extra fee, prices can vary from $200 to $640 per person. We think this is great value for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

Another brilliant option is to sample a taster of paddling alongside a wide range of other activities included in the voyage price of the following trips:

Kayaks being prepared for an excursion from the Ocean Victory at Brown Station on the Antarctica Peninsula

What to pack for paddling in Antarctica

Sunglasses, sunscreen, a warm hat and layers are must-pack items for your Antarctic paddling activity. Your main equipment will be provided on board the ship and will most likely include: 

  • A full dry suit
  • Neoprene boots
  • A waterproof dry bag
  • Pogies (insulated mittens that attach to your paddle)
  • A life vest 

A full packing list will be given to you before you board. 

Paddling in Antarctica

A humpback dives in front of a kayak

Swoop Says background image

Swoop says

When on the move in your kayak you may get warmer than you thought, so leave some extra clothes on the safety zodiac boat to wear once you get back onshore.

How to book Antarctic paddling

Depending on the ship, the paddle activity is sometimes available to pre-book at the time of confirming your cabin. Other ships only allow you to sign up once you’re on board. This can be heavily subscribed, and if so, generally places will be allocated in a lottery system. 

This means that all interested people will have their names put into a hat (couples/friends in the same kayak stay linked). Then the first bunch drawn will go in the first group, the second bunch will go at the next available paddling opportunity and so on, until they have worked through all those signed up. 

There’s a possibility that, if the weather isn’t calm enough, some may not get the chance to go out in a kayak. 

Kayakers spot penguins on a rocky surface while kayaking in Antarctica

Spot penguins while paddling

When to book Antarctic paddling

If you’re interested in one-off paddling on a ship that lets you pre-book a spot, we’d recommend signing up for the activity in advance when you book your Antarctic cruise.

Chat to one of our Swoop specialists – they will be able to give you advice on which ships and voyages will be the best fit. 

Kayaks are towed at Cuverville Island, Antarctica, in December

Towing kayaks at Cuverville Island

Paddling in Antarctica: FAQs

  • What’s the difference between kayaking and paddling in Antarctica?

    The main difference is that the full kayaking programme means you could be on the water up to twice a day, while paddling refers to a one-off kayaking excursion. Some ships offer both a full kayaking package plus an additional one-off paddling excursion. Other ships may only offer one activity or the other. 

  • Do I need experience to go paddling in Antarctica?

    Paddling in Antarctica by sea kayak is open to anyone with an adventurous spirit, basic skills and the ability to get yourself in and out of a kayak’s cockpit. You should have paddled at least a little before as this isn't a beginner's course.

  • Will this excursion be in single or double kayaks?

    Ships generally have double rather than single kayaks. If you're travelling solo, your guide will pair you with another paddler.

  • Can I paddle by sea kayak in South Georgia?

    If you’re travelling on a longer voyage to South Georgia, paddling is available but isn’t as widely offered as in Antarctica. The paddling here is also more challenging and the weather is more of a factor.

  • What happens if I fall in while paddling in Antarctica?

    Wearing a drysuit and a buoyancy aid, you’re in little danger. Usually, people get straight back into their kayak with a little help from the support zodiac.


  • What kit is provided for Antarctic paddling?

    You'll typically be given a dry suit, neoprene boots, a waterproof dry bag, insulated mittens that attach to your paddle and a life vest. 


  • What conditions are needed to paddle in Antarctica?

    Conditions in Antarctica can be hugely variable. Because many other people in your paddling session might have limited experience, the guides are looking for good, calm conditions. On ships with both full kayaking and paddling programmes, the more experienced full kayaking group might go out while the paddle session gets postponed. 

More Adventure Activities in Antarctica

Kayaking in Antarctica

Kayaking in Antarctica

Imagine the swish of water as it passes your hull or the clack of brash ice against your paddle blade. Skim past penguin rookeries and seals sleeping on passing ice floes.

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Ready to plan your Antarctic adventure?

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2
Match

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Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.

3
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We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.

With over 100 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.

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