2026 Antarctica Yacht Ski Expedition

Our Guides

Meet your guides.

Chris Davenport

Aspen, Colorado

Brian Babbitt

Salt Lake City, Utah

Per As

La Grave, France

Andrew Eisenstark

Tahoe City, California

Doug Stoup

Ice Axe Founder

Questions

Get ready for the journey.

What is the weather like?

The average temperatures on the Antarctic Peninsula during the summer months’ range from approximately 23º – 40º F. The weather in Antarctica is extremely unpredictable. Strong winds are relatively common, so it is important to pack accordingly. The weather in Ushuaia is a bit warmer but also has the wind and rain characteristics of the Antarctic weather systems.

How do I reserve my trip?

Book your Expedition through our website or call +1-530-582-1246

What happens if there are delays?

If any trip must be delayed due to bad weather, cancelled or delayed transportation, sickness or any other situation for which Ice Axe Expeditions cannot make provisions, all costs incurred during such delays must be borne by trip members.

Who are the guides?

We only use the best of the best because safety is our number one priority. To our knowledge, this is the only trip to bring together this many high caliber guides on one expedition. We keep a maximum Guide to Client ratio of 4:1, and most of the time you will be skiing in a group fewer than 8 people with 2 guides. Our guides have an astonishing list of accomplishments, from climbing & skiing Everest, to pioneering over 200 first descents on all 7 continents, and so much more. They love to share their experiences with you and be a part of your trip-of-a-lifetime. Our guides are our cornerstone, making sure clients are safe in the mountains and to show them the time of their lives. At the end of the day, we want our clients to say “that was the best day of my life,” and our guides live for those moments. Learn more about our Guide Team here.

What makes this trip different from the classic Antarctic Peninsula Ski Cruise option?

Built on the foundation of our classic Antarctic Peninsula expedition, this journey reimagines the experience for a smaller, more exclusive group. The ski objectives and wild landscapes remain the same, but the yacht setting transforms the rhythm of the trip—more space, more privacy, elevated service, and a seamless transition from remote mountain adventure to luxury hospitality each evening.

What if I need to cancel?

All requests for cancellations must be received in writing. Cancellations received by June 1, 2026 or prior are refunded less an administrative fee of $1,000 per person. Cancellations received between June 2, 2026 and July 31, 2026 will be subject to forfeit the deposit. If cancellation occurs after July 31, 2026 and full payment has not yet been received, the full penalty will still apply and unpaid monies are due immediately. If for any reason the voyage on the vessel is cancelled, passengers will not be entitled to make any further claim for compensation or damages, for any loss, consequential damage, expenses, loss of time or inconvenience which may result from such cancellation arising, whether or not such cancellation arises in whole or in part as a consequence of any act or omission of Ice Axe Expeditions or its servants or agents. For these and other reasons mentioned below, passengers are strongly encouraged to obtain trip cancellation insurance.

Do you accommodate for non-skiers?

Yes! We have zodiac cruises, snowshoe trekking and kayaking activities for non-skiers (included in the cabin pricing). This expedition is designed for active adventurers.

I am traveling solo, how does Ice Axe determine my roommate?

If traveling solo, you will be paired with another solo traveler of the same gender who has booked the same cabin type.

How many vertical feet can I expect to ski/board?

Skiing/Snowboarding in Antarctica is unlike anything you’ve ever done. Most zones ascend out of the water averaging 1000-1500 ft. (300-500m). Our guides aim to summit peaks for optimal viewing of the amazing landscapes and then ski back to the water to interact with penguins and seals. We concentrate on providing a flexible experience where you can ski as much or as little as you wish. We will ski in about 7 different locations ranging from the South Shetland Islands to the Gerlache Strait and through the Lemaire Channel to around 64 degrees South.

What type of wildlife will I see in Antarctica?

The krill and mineral-rich waters bring a wide variety of intriguing wildlife. Ten species of whales swim the Antarctic waters, including killer whales, minke and humpback, offering transformative water-level experiences to those exploring via kayak, or zodiac. Fur seals, crabeater seals, elephant seals, leopard seals, Ross seals, and Weddell seals are all a treat to see lounging along the shore or on ice floes. The birdlife that comes to feed on the fish drawn to the area are a variety of petrels and albatross among the terns, cormorants, and skuas; the skies are never boring. Often a rare bird can be seen far from land while crossing the famous Drake Passage. And of course penguins! 17 types of penguins live in Antarctica and the nearby islands. We frequently see Chinstrap, Gentoo, and Adelie.

How does the travel insurance work?

We require that you have at least $200,000 in medical evacuation insurance coverage. Your insurance policy should cover ski mountaineering/hazardous sports. We cannot confirm each client’s policy individually; it is your responsibility to make sure your policy will cover you while you participate in your activities of choice on the expedition. We recommend including TRIP CANCELLATION/INTERRUPTION coverage in addition to the mandatory medical evacuation coverage.

Is there internet on board?

Keep in mind, we will be cruising in a very remote region of the world. Where accessible, internet access is available. Occasional degradation or outages of services may occur. Personal communication services are not always guaranteed throughout your voyage. We encourage passengers to disconnect from digital life and reconnect with the natural world.

How is crossing the Drake Passage?

While crossing the Drake Passage it is possible to periodically encounter changing environments and climate patterns, including rough seas and large swells. If you are prone to motion sickness, consult with your doctor prior to departure to help ensure your comfort while traveling. Before you leave home please read the dosage instructions, because most preventive seasickness medicine must be ingested while you are still feeling well to be effective. There will be limited (over the counter) motion sickness medication available onboard.

What ski/snowboard mountaineering gear is required?

Skis/Splitboard (approximately 90-106mm under foot is recommended for skis)
Skins (trimmed to fit skis/board, YOU MUST HAVE A BRAND NEW PAIR OF SKINS FOR USE IN ANTARCTICA)
Alpine touring boots
Ski poles
Ski crampons (compatible with bindings)
Ski backpack (30-40 liters)
Harness (lightweight alpine)
Triple action carabiner
Avalanche Transceiver
Avalanche Probe
Avalanche Shovel

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