Location & Transportation
As cruise ships cannot dock directly at McMurdo Station, you will be tendered by inflatable zodiac boats. Access to the station is strictly by expedition charter, so every step of your journey is arranged with safety and adventure in mind.
Nearby Lodging
Accommodation is not like your typical hotel stay. Visitors usually sleep in dorm-style quarters arranged as part of their Antarctic expedition package, offering a simple, communal living experience.
Nearest Airport
There are no commercial airports on the continent. Instead, McMurdo is served by aircraft landings at Williams Field. Most travelers begin their Antarctic journey from Christchurch International Airport in New Zealand, connecting via specialized charter flights to reach the station.
Sightseeing
Passing through the soaring cliffs of the Neumayer Channel, you arrive at one of Antarctica’s most exciting anchorages: Port Lockroy. This historic site was originally established during World War II by the British to protect Southern Ocean interests—and it has been carefully restored to preserve its heritage. Nearby, you can explore a large gentoo rookery and spot blue-eyed shags along the rocky shores.
Also don’t miss the historic hut once occupied by British explorer Robert Scott and his team in the early 1900s. These sites offer a tangible connection to the challenges and triumphs of early Antarctic exploration.
Museums
- Port Lockroy Museum: Housed within the restored base, this small museum displays memorabilia and fascinating insights into Antarctic history and exploration.
Tours & Excursions
Excursions in Antarctica are unlike any other. Most tours start with a zodiac boat ride that safely ferries you from your vessel to the station and nearby attractions. Guided trips will often take you to:
- Port Lockroy and its museum for a dive into Antarctic history.
- The Scott Hut, where you can learn about early polar expeditions.
- Wildlife watching opportunities to see penguins, gentoo rookeries, and other native bird species.
Joining a guided excursion with experienced expedition staff is a must for both safety and enriching local insights.
Shopping
While McMurdo Station is not a shopping mecca, the on-site store offers a range of essentials and unique souvenirs. You can pick up practical items as well as memorabilia to remind you of your incredible Antarctic adventure.
Dining
Dining at McMurdo Station is a communal and hearty experience. The station’s cafeteria and mess hall serve warming meals designed to help you combat the extreme cold. Sit down with fellow adventurers to share stories and enjoy comfort food in one of the world’s most remote settings.
Culture & Local Events
- U.S. dollars are used for transactions at the station store, though most expenses are part of your pre-arranged expedition package.
- Communication here is via satellite, so expect limited and sometimes delayed internet access.
- During the Antarctic summer, facilities operate on extended hours to support a busy schedule; in the off-season, services are more limited.
- The community spirit is strong at McMurdo. In the summer months, you might join in on informal gatherings, movie nights, or themed events that celebrate the unique challenges and camaraderie of life on the frozen continent.
Safety & Awareness
Antarctica is an extraordinary yet extreme environment. Always be prepared for sudden weather changes, icy surfaces, and the potential hazards of crevasses. Follow all instructions from station personnel, wear the proper cold-weather gear, and stay alert while exploring this remote and beautiful landscape.