South Shetland Islands

Largely cut off by Antarctic sea ice for half the year, the South Shetland Islands offer a unique glimpse of life on the very edge of a frozen continent. They rise about 120 km (75 mi) north of the Antarctic Peninsula and will be many travellers’ first taste of Antarctica. The South Shetlands are positioned about as far from the South Pole as the Faroe Islands are from the North, but have a much harsher climate due to their mainland proximity. With 16 research stations—some of which operate year-round—spread across them, the South Shetlands are a natural wonder playing a vital role in Antarctic research. 

Zodiac expeditions bring you in to explore their icy shores, and to get a closer look at the seal and penguin colonies that thrive here. Hiking isn’t the first activity that comes to mind when you think of Antarctica, but it’s a popular day out on Deception Island, the caldera of an active volcano that offers spectacular views of its impressive landscape. Half Moon Island steals the show as the archipelago’s wildlife hub, with chinstrap penguins, Weddell seals, and a wide variety of petrels, sheathbills, and skuas all nesting in its tundra. If you’re keen to get out on the water, it’s entirely possible to kayak the crystalline waters of the South Shetlands, weaving through ice formations, and keeping watch for the many whales and seals that call these chilly waters home. Whale watching is extremely popular among visitors to the South Shetlands, particularly around February and March. 

If the scientific side of the islands is calling your name, many Antarctica cruises will include a visit to a research station in the South Shetlands. Most are found on King George Island, the largest in the archipelago and another great hiking spot. But you might also visit Cámara Station on Half Moon Island or explore the ruins of an abandoned Chilean base and whaling station on Deception Island. Today, Chile operates four research bases—the most of any country—three of which operate year-round, including the world’s oldest still in operation. Which station you get to visit will depend on your expedition’s itinerary and the operational requirements of both your cruise and the station, but any visit to a working station offers an amazing insight into the wonders and challenges of life on these islands. 

Sea ice, rough conditions, and a lack of sunlight throughout the winter restrict cruises to the warmer months between November and March. While the South Shetlands are among the northernmost Antarctic islands, temperatures typically hover around freezing, and the confluence of oceans around the Drake Passage makes for unpredictable conditions. Pack warm layers, including waterproof jackets and pants, sturdy boots for exploring, and warm but light base and mid layers.