In pictures: Antarctica
EYOS Expeditions focuses on leading superyachts on epic voyages to the world’s most remote and wild regions. Ben Lyons, the company’s CEO, talks through some of the highlights from a recent trip to Antarctica, on board Hanse Explorer.
Photo: Reeve Jolliffe/EYOS Expeditions
Photo: Reeve Jolliffe/EYOS Expeditions
“Antarctica has an ability to bring out the kid in you. Maybe it’s just the thrill of being somewhere totally foreign to anywhere you’ve ever been, or perhaps it’s the innocent interactions with the animals. Whatever it is, you may find yourself rediscovering your inner child; having impromptu snowball fights between Zodiacs or taking the opportunity to slide gleefully down a glacier on your back.”
Photo: Andrew Peacock
Photo: Andrew Peacock
“There is a majesty and grandeur to Antarctica, but to really know the continent, you need to experience it on an intimate level. Take to kayaks and paddle around icebergs, watching as penguins waddle nearby. Even with no previous kayaking experience, you’ll be comfortable on the water, able to take in the profound stillness.”
Photo: Reeve Jolliffe/EYOS Expeditions
Photo: Reeve Jolliffe/EYOS Expeditions
“Everyone comes to Antarctica wanting to see a penguin; nobody comes away disappointed. On some landings, you’ll be joined by tens of thousands of raucous birds, flapping and waddling away, as they walk right by you without a care in the world.”
Photo: Reeve Jolliffe/EYOS Expeditions
Photo: Reeve Jolliffe/EYOS Expeditions
“Expeditions are naturally convivial— as real camaraderie and spirits form around the group. Meals dissolve into laughing fits, and out on deck, a shared appreciation for these unique moments bonds everyone in a way that a more conventional itinerary can’t.”
Photo: Reeve Jolliffe/EYOS Expeditions
Photo: Reeve Jolliffe/EYOS Expeditions
“Most come away from Antarctica in awe of the ice they encounter. Towering blocks that stretch for miles, or jagged spires that spring from the sea, the ice comes in an astounding, and mesmerising mix of colours, shapes and textures.”
Photo: Justin Hoffman/EYOS Expeditions
Photo: Justin Hoffman/EYOS Expeditions
“Humpback whales thrive in Antarctica and memorable encounters are virtually guaranteed. A private yacht allows the opportunity to spontaneously jump into a Zodiac and witness these 40 tonne animals up close.”
Photo: Justin Hoffman/EYOS Expeditions
Photo: Justin Hoffman/EYOS Expeditions
“A never-ending reel of staggering scenery sails past; the bow of your yacht becomes a natural congregating point to soak in the sun and watch the ice slide past. Sunny days in Antarctica are surprisingly warm.”
Photo: Justin Hoffman/EYOS Expeditions
Photo: Justin Hoffman/EYOS Expeditions
“With its lingering days and short evenings, sunsets can stretch for hours and produce an astonishing spectrum of colours. On a soft, still night, a certain stillness takes hold and the snowy mountains reflect the shifting colours of the sun.”
Photo: Justin Hoffman/EYOS Expeditions
Photo: Justin Hoffman/EYOS Expeditions
“The humble Zodiac will be your vessel of choice when going ashore in the Antarctica. Virtually indestructible, it will run you up onto the shore for landings or push through ice as you look for hauled out seals.”