A cruise to Antarctica may not sound like your typical wellness vacation. There is not a sprawling spa, IV drips, or an    on-site fitness analysis. But hear me out: Antarctica can be the epitome of wellness, if you have the right mindset. From an icy plunge to educational immersion, my recent trip to the White Continent was spectacular for both my body and my soul. 

Outdoors, But Nearly All Alone

The average American today spends nearly 90 percent of their time indoors, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Antarctica offers an antidote to a lifestyle where we tether ourselves to technology (no wifi when you step on the continent), and instead, allows visitors to immerse themselves into the snowy landscape that’s void of humans. Research has shown that we’re least likely to feel lonely and more likely to feel spiritually connected when we’re alone in nature, as opposed to being at home by ourselves or alone in a public place. Plus, there’s an abundance of penguins, soaring albatross, fur seals, and whale sightings to keep you company. 

Educational Immersion

I traveled with Abercrombie & Kent, a luxury outfitter that has set the standard for expedition travel. Their group of experts sailed with us aboard Ponant’s Le Lyrial vessel and educated guests about the adventure and responsibility of stepping on the continent of Antarctica. From mammal experts to historians to leaders who lived on the continent for years at a time, the team from A&K could be found at any turn to identify wildlife or answer any and all questions about the journey. Add to that, a multitude of fascinating lectures on everything from rugged survivalism in Antarctica to environmental responsibilities and what guests can glean from the trip to help better the continent in our everyday life. 

Workouts on the Waves (or in the Snow)

Ponant’s Le Lyrial ship is outfitted with a small, but serviceable gym containing a weight training system and treadmills and bikes that face into the vast ocean and bobbing waves. Additionally, there are guided yoga classes on most days at sea. Once on land, the hikes can be as challenging as you’d like or as leisurely as you please. I appreciated that guests (strictly limited by IAATO to no more than 100 people on land at one site at a time) have the choice of walking with an A&K guide or trekking solo for introspection and self exploration. 

A Soothing Spa

Located near the fitness center, the spa is small, but provides a full menu of treatments in partnership with SOTHYS, including massages, facials, and scrubs. I had one of the best massages of my life, where my sore muscles felt kneaded to malleable clay as I drifted in and out of sleep on the soothing waves. Additionally, there’s an on-site salon that offers Kerastase hair treatments, cuts, blowouts, manicures, pedicures, and waxing; the spa’s hammam can be used by all guests during spa hours. 

The Ultimate Cold Plunge

Cold plunges are having a mental health moment. Research suggests that cold temperatures can improve mood and well-being, and the physiological effect of icy waters have seen promising results. A 2020 study conducted in Britain found that people who took a 10-week course to learn to swim in cold seawater experienced greater improvements in mood and well-being than their friends and family members who watched them from shore. A 2023 study showed that after cold-water immersion, swimmers reported elevated positive emotions and a decreased negative emotional state. These days, cold plunges are often found in the form of a New Year’s day dip, a freezing plunge pool at the spa or an at-home barrel contraption. I got to experience what felt like the ultimate cold plunge, where tethered guests can jump or dive from the back of the boat into the icy Antarctic waters. A fluffy bathrobe and warm beverage awaits–along with that promised sense of well-being.