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Cape Adare AntarcticaCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Cape Adare

Cape Adare is a unique destination in Antarctica, and it's important to note that cruise ships do not dock here. Instead, passengers are transferred to shore via inflatable zodiac boats. Landings can often be challenging due to the prevalence of heavy surf and strong offshore winds. This location is primarily known for its remarkable wildlife.

Getting Around from the Port

There are no local transportation options such as taxis, public transit, or car rentals available at Cape Adare. All access to the landing site is exclusively via the zodiac boats provided by your cruise ship. Once ashore, exploration is limited to designated, supervised areas for wildlife viewing.

Attractions and Activities

The main activity at Cape Adare is the opportunity to observe one of the largest Adelie penguin colonies in the Ross Sea. The approach to the landing site is typically via Robertson Bay, leading to a black, pebble-covered beach that serves as the rookery. During the breeding season, the beach hosts an astonishing number, with almost a quarter of a million nesting pairs inhabiting the area. Visitors can witness waves of penguins "porpoising" among the ice floes and traversing currents as they travel to and from the colony. All shore excursions are strictly regulated and guided by your cruise ship's expedition team to ensure environmental protection and passenger safety.

Dining & Shopping

Cape Adare is a remote Antarctic landing site with no commercial facilities whatsoever. There are no restaurants, cafes, shops, or markets available on shore. All food, beverages, and supplies must be provided by your cruise ship.

Weather

Cape Adare at the entrance to the Ross Sea has a polar climate with summer (December–February) temperatures typically around 14°F–32°F (-10°C to 0°C) and hosts the world's largest Adélie penguin rookery. This remote and historically significant cape (Borchgrevink's hut) experiences strong winds and rapidly changing conditions. Pack heavy thermal layers, completely waterproof and windproof outerwear, insulated waterproof boots, and UV protection.

Average Temperature (°F)
2712Jan259Feb20-5Mar10-20Apr6-25May4-30Jun4-28Jul6-29Aug5-26Sep12-19Oct24-7Nov2910Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
2.1Jan1.47Feb2.17Mar1.21Apr0.72May0.69Jun1.02Jul1.16Aug0.85Sep0.87Oct1.1Nov1.65Dec

Safety

Visitors to Cape Adare should be aware that landings can be difficult. The reference specifically mentions heavy surf and strong offshore winds as factors that can make zodiac transfers challenging. Always follow all instructions from your expedition staff regarding transfers and movements on shore, as the Antarctic environment is wild and unpredictable.

Currency and Language

There is no local currency, ATMs, or commercial establishments at Cape Adare. All needs are catered for by your cruise ship.

Top Attractions

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Borchgrevink's Hut
This historic hut, built in 1899 by Carsten Borchgrevink's Southern Cross Expedition, is recognized as the first building ever erected on the Antarctic continent. It offers a tangible link to the earliest human endeavors in this extreme environment.
Adélie Penguin Colony
Cape Adare hosts one of the largest Adélie penguin colonies in the world, with hundreds of thousands of birds nesting here during the breeding season. Visitors can observe their fascinating behaviors, from courtship rituals to chick rearing, in their natural habitat.
Northern Party Hut
This hut was built in 1911 by the Northern Party of Robert Falcon Scott's Terra Nova Expedition. It served as a base for scientific research and exploration, providing a stark reminder of the challenges faced by early Antarctic explorers.
Cape Adare
This prominent headland is a dramatic natural landmark known for its steep cliffs and historical significance as a gateway to the Ross Sea region. It offers breathtaking scenic views of the Antarctic landscape and surrounding waters.
Ross Sea
The Ross Sea, bordering Cape Adare, is one of the most pristine marine ecosystems on Earth, often called the 'Last Ocean.' It's a critical habitat for whales, seals, and penguins, and played a vital role in early Antarctic exploration.