Not your average cruise: Citizen science in Antarctica with Intrepid

Ever wondered what it would be like to explore Antarctica? Picture huddles of penguins clambering across glaciers, mighty whales rising out of icy waters and soul-stirring snowcovered landscapes that stretch far into the distance.

Antarctic travel is more than just a holiday. It’s a one-of-kind adventure at sea that goes beyond your typical cruise experience. With Intrepid, you can witness spectacular scenery onboard one of their Antarctic expeditions, while also learning from experts and scientists working to understand and protect one of the most pristine and important ecosystems on earth. The best part? Travellers can play a part in making a difference too by participating in Citizen Science programs.

What is citizen science?

Citizen science taps into the power of travellers to assist researchers worldwide – recording data, making observations and reporting on natural phenomena. It’s beneficial in places that are remote and expensive to get to, like Antarctica.

“When we’re down in Antarctica, I think we have an ethical obligation to enrich people’s experience and make that connection”, says Will Abbott, Intrepid’s Head of Operations in

Antarctica. “The trip isn’t just about tourism. It’s not about an extractive experience; it’s about giving something back to the continent, often in ways you never thought possible.”

Ready to see Antarctica like never before? Find your next expert-led expedition with Intrepid.

Why is citizen science important?

Antarctica and the Southern Ocean play a critical role in regulating the Earth’s climate, making Antarctica ground zero in climate change. What happens here affects the entire planet. Scientists need to know the ins and outs of the environment, but it can be expensive for researchers to monitor year-round. With the help of citizen scientists, they can continue to collect data from the front line.

How can you get involved?

Intrepid runs citizen science programs on all Antarctic expeditions. Travellers record data under the supervision of Intrepid’s Citizen Science Coordinator, and that data is fed back to scientists all over the world. It might be conducting a survey of migrating seabirds out at sea or from the shore, measuring phytoplankton, or even taking photos of whales’ flukes (underside of the tail) from the Ocean Endeavour’s viewing deck.

Through partnerships with NASA, Oxford University, Happy Whale and other research organisations, travellers can join several optional programs to contribute to the future of Antarctica. You can join leading scientists from the World Wildlife Fund – Australia (WWF-Australia) on two unique expeditions throughout the season.

“It’s funny,” Will says, “because although citizen science may not initially attract people to Antarctica, once they’re down there and they experience it, get involved in the projects, you can see it on their faces. They’re engaged in the wilderness. They love it.”