In this edition of Our Routes, we follow Cruise Consultant Kasey Green on her first journey to Antarctica and Chile, travelling aboard Silver Endeavour with Silversea Expeditions. From her first sight of the Antarctic Peninsula to time spent out on the water among the ice, Kasey shares a few of the moments that stayed with her – along with some honest reflections for anyone considering their own Antarctica expedition cruise.
Kasey all smiles with the Silversea’s Silver Endeavour behind her
Which destinations did you visit?
Antarctica and Chile.
Views from the special flight to Antarctica
How did you get there?
I travelled on a fly-cruise itinerary, flying from Punta Arenas to King George Island before joining the ship.
The return didn’t quite go to plan. Fog prevented our flight back, so instead we crossed the Drake Passage by sea. It wasn’t expected, but in many ways it added to the overall experience.
Silver Endeavour in the sea fog
First time or repeat trip?
It was my first time visiting both Antarctica and Chile.
It’s one of those places you hear a lot about, but being there in person is a completely different experience.
Favourite location?
Pléneau Bay stands out.
We explored the Iceberg Graveyard by Zodiac, moving slowly between vast, sculpted ice formations. Later, kayaking at Petermann Island offered a completely different perspective – quieter, closer, and more immersive.
Kayaks floating near the icebergs
Most memorable moment?
There wasn’t just one.
Making my first landing at Orne Harbour was a real moment – that initial sense of stepping onto the continent. Sailing through the Lemaire Channel was equally memorable, as was Zodiac cruising through the Iceberg Graveyard.
I also took part in a Polar Plunge, which felt like something that had to be done.
Best excursion or experience?
The expedition outings as a whole.
Being able to kayak at Petermann Island was a highlight. It gave a different sense of scale and stillness, and it’s something included on every Silver Endeavour Antarctica cruise, which makes it all the more worthwhile.
Iceberg from a zodiac by Kasey
What do you most recommend packing or prepping for?
More than anything, it’s about mindset.
Expedition cruising doesn’t follow a fixed plan. Conditions change, and the itinerary adapts with them. The best approach is to stay flexible and take each day as it comes.
Zodiac tour under rocks
Favourite food and drink on trip?
Dining on board was varied, with several restaurants to choose from.
La Dame stood out – a more refined, French-inspired experience with a tasting menu and wine pairing. The onboard sommeliers were excellent, and it added another layer to the overall experience without ever feeling overdone.
Dining area on board the Silver Endeavour
Favourite photo or video you took?
One of me which captures the feeling of being there.
It’s difficult to describe, but there’s a sense of scale and atmosphere in Antarctica that a good photograph can come close to reflecting.
Kasey enjoying making landfall on the seventh continent
Sum up your trip in three words
Mind-blowing, surreal and majestic.
Thinking about experiencing Antarctica for yourself?
Speak to one of our cruise consultants and start shaping a journey that’s right for you.
