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 on the ice near the station — wheeled flights use Phoenix Airfield on the Ross Ice Shelf, while ski-equipped aircraft use 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
McMurdo Station sits on the volcanic rock of Ross Island, the southernmost point of solid ground you can reach in Antarctica, in the shadow of the smoking summit of Mount Erebus. I find few places on Earth feel as remote or as dramatic — the frozen expanse of McMurdo Sound stretches out below and the Transantarctic Mountains rise across the water. Along the shore and pack ice, keep your eyes open for Adélie and emperor penguins, Weddell seals, and orca cruising the leads.
Don’t miss Scott’s Discovery Hut, perched at Hut Point just a short walk from the station. Built by British explorer Robert Falcon Scott during his Discovery Expedition of 1901–1904, it still stands preserved against the cold and offers a tangible connection to the challenges and triumphs of early Antarctic exploration.
Museums
- Scott’s Discovery Hut (Hut Point): This weathered wooden hut, cared for by the Antarctic Heritage Trust, is essentially an open-air museum of the “Heroic Age” — stacked crates, old supplies, and the stark reality of how the early explorers lived.
- Scott’s Terra Nova Hut (Cape Evans): A short expedition boat trip up the coast of Ross Island, this larger, remarkably intact hut was the base for Scott’s final 1910–1913 push toward the South Pole, its shelves still lined with period provisions.
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:
- Scott’s Discovery Hut at Hut Point for a dive into the “Heroic Age” of polar exploration.
- Cape Evans and the Terra Nova hut, where you can learn about early polar expeditions.
- Wildlife watching opportunities to see penguins, seals, and other native species along the sound.
Joining a guided excursion with experienced expedition staff is a must for both safety and enriching local insights.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
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.