There’s no predicting what may happen and even the itinerary is flexible per nature’s whims. A change of weather may leave you with a sky clear enough to see the stars or a storm that delays a landing. You have to relinquish all sense of control and trust that Antarctica is going to allow you to see her beauty—on her terms.

Your vessel, the G Expedition, has multiple large communal areas for relaxing during sea crossings and between landings such as the Penguin Library, The Lounge, and out on the decks with dedicated spaces for wildlife and nature viewing. Each cabin features an en suite bathroom and sweeping views of Antarctica. Defrost after landings at the sauna and keep up with your fitness at the gym. Enjoy international cuisine at the Albatross Dining Room before having an after-dinner cocktail at the Polar Bear Pub.

A G Adventures favorite is the extraordinary Antarctica Classic sailing which takes passengers on an 11-night expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula. The adventure begins with passing through the Beagle Channel where Darwin once conducted research as you make your way to the Drake Passage. Don’t fret, the G Expedition will get you through the passage safely.

Another top voyage is the Antarctica Classic in Depth—a 13-night expedition through the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Six of the days will be spent experiencing the southernmost ecosystem in the world. With a bit more of a relaxed schedule, you may be more likely to encounter leopard seals lazing on ice floes, but don’t be misled, these seals are a predator of penguins. Spend time with immense rookeries of Gentoo, Chinstrap, and Adélie penguins and take a polar plunge into the icy Southern Ocean.

Both small-ship adventures visit the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. With two daily excursions, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to explore Antarctica on foot during landings where you’ll zip to shore on Zodiacs and be greeted by colonies of penguins. The G Expedition team is made up of experts in geology, marine biology, and polar history. While at sea, tune into the lectures to learn about Antarctica’s flora, fauna, and landscapes.

For those feeling extra adventurous and looking for a memorable experience to immerse themselves in the elements of Antarctica, add on an Antarctic kayaking adventure where you’ll have the chance to paddle through the polar environment on a low-slung kayak. Or, if you’re feeling daring, earn the right to say you’ve slept on all seven continents by camping in Antarctica. Ice camping is a thrill you’re not soon to forget—going to sleep in utter silence and hearing glaciers calve in the distance as humpback whales spout in the bay is otherworldly.