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The highlights of an Antarctica adventure holiday

Friday, 20 January 2012 12:16 PM

For family activity holidays with a difference, look no further than Antarctica.

With amazing wildlife and stunning scenery that you would otherwise only get to see on the TV, a trip to this part of the world makes for the break of a lifetime.

Families who prefer holidays to be full of adventure, rather than lying on a beach and playing in the sea, will find endless activities await them on a getaway to Antarctica.

The first highlight of an icy break will no doubt be the beautiful and awe-inspiring wildlife you can see.

During adventure holidays in the Antarctic, you could be lucky enough to spot penguins, seals, whales and some of the more than 100 species of fish that call the world's coldest continent home.

One of the most breathtaking things you can experience here is seeing a majestic whale splash about in the ocean, with its huge and mighty body thumping down hard on the waves, which makes for the perfect picture.

Children and adults alike will no doubt love challenging one another to be the first to catch a glimpse of whales swimming around the ship.

If you visit the continent in spring, there is a good chance you will spot seals breeding on the ice. Fur and elephant seals mate in dense colonies, so you might not know where to look first should you come across these creatures.

Another animal that is delightful to watch is the penguin, which is often a favourite with youngsters. The main species that call Antarctica home are Emperor and Adelie penguins.

In fact, millions of these animals can be found here, so your family will be sure to get a chance of taking some wonderful photos of them. The former breed are known for towering above their smaller counterparts, although all species of penguin make for a great sight whether in the water or on land.

Another highlight of great active family holidays in the Antarctic is the stunning white and dazzling landscape that stretches for mile upon mile.

The combination of bright blue skies, icebergs and glaciers rising up out of the ocean makes for an unforgettable sight and a holiday here affords families the chance to get up close and personal with the landscape.

Hop on to a smaller vessel for an excursion to the glaciers and marvel at just how large these ice structures are. You might even find friendly dolphins leap out of the water close to your boat, something yourself and your brood are unlikely to forget in a hurry!

If a visit to Deception Island is on your itinerary, get ready for a beach excursion with a difference.

The island is a flooded volcano cone and if you dig a hole in the black sand, steaming volcanic water will soon flood into the gap, allowing you to lie back and relax in your own free and personal spa pool!

To truly appreciate the heat, why not take a dip in the freezing sea before dashing back to shore and climbing into the hot volcanic springs?

As you can see, families that like to embark on adventure holidays will find a variety of highlights to be enjoyed in the Antarctic, from spotting amazing wildlife to exploring vast expanses of icy landscape in your own magical winter wonderland. 

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