COVID-19 FAQ
Back to Antarctica at last!
We had a successful but challenging 2021 – 2022 Antarctica season, and it was amazing to get back down to our beloved White Continent! Ship operators, governments, local providers, and all stakeholders worked very hard to deliver safe and life-changing experiences in Antarctica in the face of the Omicron variant of COVID.
The upcoming 2022 – 2023 Antarctica is looking very different, as many rules and regulations have been relaxed at a national level, at the port level, and with the ship operators. This means we are hoping for a smooth season with less interruptions than last year.
We have the current regulations and some lessons learned from the previous season to share with you.
Current Regulations & Protocols:
- To enter Argentina, there are no longer any entry requirements related to COVID.
Lessons Learned & Recommendations for Travel
- Get boosted before you travel!
- Plan to minimize social engagements the week before you depart to ensure you can make the trip! Most travelers who tested positive brought COVID with them from home
- Book a comprehensive travel insurance plan for your time away from home
- Keep up to date on governments regulations and protocols
- Reserve flexible airline tickets if possible
Below are some of the most common questions we are getting, with honest and the most up-to-date answers we have.(Updated September 2022)
General FAQs
Will I be required to have a COVID vaccine?
Yes. To embark on any Antarctica voyage, you will need to show proof of full vaccination at least 14 days before your trip departs.
Will I need to be tested for COVID?
Some ship operators will do an COVID test before embarkation.
What happens if I can’t travel due to COVID restrictions?
At FreeStyle we work with more than 10 different ship operators who have different COVID policies. While the fine print varies, all have the same option: If you are unable to travel due to government restrictions, COVID-related medical reasons, or restrictions on the ship itself, the company will re-book you on a future Antarctic voyage within the next two years.
Wondering more about booking policies? Contact us!
How is the COVID situation in Ushuaia (the port of departure for most Antarctica trips)?
Ushuaia and the province of Tierra del Fuego have more than 92% of all adult residents are fully vaccinated. We have been receiving national tourists since December 2020 with clear protocols and managed the summer season very well.
Are masks required in Ushuaia?
Not in most places. Masks are still required on in pharmacies and medical facilities.
Will masks and social distancing be required on trips?
This will depend on each ship and operating company, however we assume there will be limits to the number of people in certain spaces onboard to reduce crowding. Travelers may have to wear masks inside the ship during briefings or times where there will be close contact with others.
Will Staff & Crew be vaccinated?
Yes. All staff and crew to be vaccinated onboard Antarctic vessels and will be tested regularly.
What happens if someone tests positive for COVID-19 during the trip?
During the 2021- 2022 season, there were positive cases onboard vessels, but fortunately most were asymptomatic or very mild. Travelers who test positive must do 5 days of quarantine with medical oversight and room service for meals.
Have more questions? Send us a message! We can’t guarantee we will have the answer, but we will work to get you a response as best we can!
Remember that the public health situation is changing all the time, so these answers will likely change before you travel. We will update you as we know more.
