Sea Kayaking Antarctica

Kayaking away from the Sea Spirit Antarctica

Sea Kayaking offers any keen kayakers the opportunity to experience the thrill of paddling in beautiful and unique environments in Antarctica and South Georgia.
Each kayak excursion will be escorted by very experienced kayak guides.  A support zodiac will keep a discreet distance so the kayakers can enjoy the calm and quiet of paddling in Antarctic waters.  Distances and difficulty will vary dependent upon the location and conditions – which can change quite quickly (hence the support zodiac).

Travelling quietly can realise amazing wildlife viewing opportunities; penguins seals and whales are often seen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I carry anything in the kayak?
Yes, you will be supplied with a drybag for extra clothing, binoculars and anything that needs to be kept dry. You should also carry a water bottle. You are also welcome to bring along your own 5-10 litre dry bag for personal items.

Can I bring my camera?
Yes.  We highly recommend a waterproof camera or phone, or a good quality waterproof case. Pelican cases are highly recommended for good cameras. The kayak hatches are not large and will not take a Pelican case larger than the 1400 model. A 1300 model is better suited if your camera and lens combination fit.

What if the weather changes during an outing?
For safety reasons it is necessary to keep relatively close to the ship.  The emphasis is on experiencing the destination rather than travelling long distances. Your guide will be in constant radio contact with your ship captain and expedition leader and if you need to return to the ship a Zodiac can be called.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance including emergency evacuation coverage, is mandatory on all Expeditions voyages. You will need to ensure that your insurance policy covers you for your activity and any related equipment. An additional policy or premium may be required to ensure you have adequate coverage.

Can I share my kayaking place?
No. Each kayaking place is for one person only. Passengers are unable to ‘share’ a kayaking place as the kayaks and dry suits are customised for each individual kayaker at the beginning of each voyage.

What if I decide I don’t want to paddle?
If on any given day you want to take a zodiac excursion or go ashore with other guests that is fine.  Outings are not mandatory and you are given the opportunity to join the sea kayaking activity as often as you like.

Please note that the activity fee is non-refundable and you will not get a refund if change your mind once on board.

Sea Kayaking Experience and Equipment

Generally you will need a moderate amount of kayaking experience, be active in the outdoors and have an adventurous spirit. For some destinations like Sough Georgia however, conditions are less sheltered and you are required to have a solid intermediate level of paddling experience in sea conditions.

You do not need to be an expert or know how to roll. However, you are required to be able to swim.

EQUIPMENT
Rudder and skeg kayaks • Werner or Aqua Bound kayak paddles • Safety equipment • Male and female PFDs • 15-litre dry bag • Neoprene boots (available sizes 4-14) • Male and female Gore-Tex dry suits with waterproof socks attached • Pogies (insulated mittens that attach to your paddle).
NOTE: gear supplied varies by ship/operator – we will provide details.

Antarctic Ships Offering Sea Kayaking

As you will see from the table below the immersive sea kayaking activity is limited on each ship; less than 20 participants on any given voyage.  As a result if you do want to enjoy sea kayaking you need to book early.  Whilst the ship may carry over 100 guests only quite a small number can enjoy this activity.

There is an additional cost to participate in the sea kayaking programme;  This covers the equipment (varies a little by ship), expert kayak guides, the additional zodiac that escorts (at a distance) the sea kayakers.  The cost varies according to the duration of the voyage as longer voyages will try to offer more excursions.

As you can imagine sea kayaking in Antarctica is dependent upon sea and weather conditions being suitable/safe for the activity to go ahead.  Sea Kayaking on South Georgia voyages can require more experience.

Please call one of the team and we’ll ensure you are provided all the information required to confidently book and enjoy this amazing experience.

Please click on the name of the ship to be taken to the dates and prices for that ship.

Kayakers often see and experience quite different things to those who either zodiac cruise or go ashore.  Occasionally coming across sleeping whales and enjoying amazing encounters less likely than from a zodiac.