A journey to the end of the earth calls for a sense of adventure, a can-do attitude, and a dash of courage. This February, armed with these traits and the confidence that comes from traveling with Inspirato, members and their guests traveled to the southernmost continent for a once-in-a-lifetime Antarctica Expedition.
Southern Hemisphere Wildlife
The trip took place toward the end of the Southern Hemisphere’s summer season, which meant longer days and milder (all things considered) temperatures. “The trip was extraordinary in all respects, from countless wildlife sightings—penguins, seals, whales, birds, and more—to scenic hikes and kayak/Zodiac trips,” shared Eric Grosse, former CEO of Inspirato. “On board, the accommodations and cuisine were first rate, and our members had constant access to a world-class group of scientists, explorers, and photographers from National Geographic.”
They even saw a lone emperor penguin, the tallest and heaviest of all existing penguin species. It’s rare to spot an emperor penguin while cruising Antarctica, as these birds typically stay farther inland and live in more remote locations. This unique sighting was one of the many highlights of their Antarctica expedition. “It was very exciting for us to see an emperor penguin. He was very friendly and curious,” said Kelley Dingens, Manager, Inspirato Only experiences. And because they were on the National Geographic Resolution, the ship parked right on the ice so that members could get out and see the penguin up close and personal.
Unexpected Delights
The unique icebreaker design of the ship also allowed for an unscheduled trip to the Weddell Sea on the eastern side of the Antarctic peninsula. The Weddell Sea’s ice floes and icebergs can be dangerous, and the region is best known as the location where explorer Ernest Shackleton’s ship became trapped in ice and sank in 1915. But the Resolution is designed for polar exploration, making the excursion not only safe, but luxurious.
There are many memorable moments from this incredible Antarctica expedition, but highlights include access to a full team of National Geographic experts who were available to explain everything from how to take great pictures to the continent’s unique geology and wildlife; sipping hot chocolate on a Zodiac excursion; taking a true polar plunge into the icy waters; and seeing the many beautiful shapes of ice as they floated by.
“You’d expect to get tired of looking at icebergs day after day,” Kelley laughed. “Guests actually mentioned getting used to seeing penguins but being constantly amazed by the beauty and depth of the ice.”
