My Dream Trip to the White Continent

The Dream and the Departure

For two long years, I had been dreaming of this. A journey to my seventh and final continent: Antarctica. The pandemic may have delayed my plans, but it never diminished the dream. With the expert help of Mr. John Ambat from Kolkata and Mr. Tejus, my expedition of a lifetime finally began to take shape.

On November 23rd, 2022, I set off on a pretty long journey that would take me across the globe. My route was Chennai to Dubai, then to Rio, and finally to Buenos Aires.

After two full days of flying, I arrived in the vibrant capital of Argentina and checked into the beautiful Alveolar Icon Hotel, ready to rest before the next leg of the adventure.

To the End of the World

The next morning, we took a four-hour chartered flight to Ushuaia. Known as "the end of the world," this is the southernmost city on the planet and the gateway to Antarctica.

In the afternoon, I laid my eyes on our home for the next ten days: the magnificent Swan Hellenic Vega cruise ship.

In the afternoon, I laid my eyes on our home for the next ten days: the magnificent Swan Hellenic Vega cruise ship.

Conquering the Drake Passage

On November 25th, our true test began as we entered the legendary Drake Passage. The ship was tossed around by massive waves and powerful currents—it was unlike anything I had ever experienced. It was a true test of mind and body, but our brand-new vessel handled the challenge beautifully. With some light food and good rest, I managed to get through the two tough days with no complaints.

First Encounters with Ice

After the rough passage, our reward was breathtaking. On November 27th, we arrived at Mikkelson Harbour, our first taste of the Antarctic landscape.

That afternoon, we hopped onto a Zodiac boat for a cruise through Curtiss Bay, getting us up close and personal with the towering icebergs and glaciers.

Kayaking in Paradise

The next day, November 28th, brought one of the most magical moments of the trip: kayaking in Neko Harbour.

Paddling through the serene water, surrounded by stunning ice formations, was incredible enough. But then, we were joined by some curious locals!

That afternoon, we made our official continental landing at Paradise Island. Setting foot on the Antarctic mainland was a moment I will never, ever forget.

Postcards from the Edge of the World

Our exploration continued on November 29th with a morning landing at Damoy Point.

In the afternoon, we visited a truly unique place: Port Lockroy, home to the last post office on Earth.

Of course, I couldn't miss the chance to send a message home from the most remote post office in the world.

Of course, I couldn't miss the chance to send a message home from the most remote post office in the world.

Glaciers, Islands, and Goodbyes

On November 30th, we were treated to a spectacular glacier cruise around Enterprise Island, followed by an afternoon visit to Hunt Island.

Our last full day of exploration, December 1st, was spent cruising through the scenic South Shetland Islands.

On December 2nd and 3rd, we sailed back across the Drake Passage. This time, we were treated to a view of the legendary Cape Horn, the dramatic point where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans collide.

That evening, the captain hosted a lovely farewell reception and a grand gala dinner to celebrate our incredible journey.

A Dream Fulfilled

On December 5th, we disembarked back in Ushuaia. I took one last morning walk through the town, reflecting on the incredible adventure.

On this trip, I not only saw a new world but also met wonderful people who became friends.

This journey to Antarctica marked the completion of a personal dream: I have now officially visited all seven continents.

Words cannot explain how happy and fulfilled I feel right now. Thank you to everyone who supported me and stood with me on this journey. 🙏🙏