Making the most of Deception Island
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
As ships cannot dock here, inflatable zodiac boats provide the tender service.
Sightseeing
Part of the South Shetland Island chain, Deception Island formed from a volcanic crater. When a section collapsed, sea water flooded the caldera to form one of the world’s largest natural harbours, about 10 miles across, which is sheltered from passing icebergs.
Scientists, geologists, environmentalists and volcanologists visit for its other natural features; tourists come to bathe in Antarctica at Pendulum Cove, where an active volcano heats the water.
This is less swimming than a dip in a narrow, shallow strip beside the beach, shifting between blisteringly hot and frigid water: Deception Island’s hot tub.