Location & Transportation
Because Port Martin is so remote, cruise ships cannot dock directly. Instead, you’ll be tendered by inflatable zodiac boats—a thrilling and intimate way to approach this icy wonderland. I always make sure to dress warmly, follow the guide’s instructions closely, and take in the breathtaking scenery as we near the shore.
Sightseeing
Port Martin offers a one-of-a-kind experience. As you step onto this pristine landscape, you can:
- Explore the ruins of the abandoned French base—established in January 1950 and largely destroyed by fire in 1952—scattered with historical artifacts.
- Watch adorable Adelie penguins in their natural rookery and see nesting South Polar (McCormick’s) skuas.
- Gaze at the magnificent ice cliffs that serve as a dramatic backdrop, leading to a snow ramp up to the Antarctic Plateau.
Every view feels like stepping into a nature documentary, and you’ll find yourself captivated by the raw beauty of the environment.
Tours & Excursions
I highly recommend signing up for a zodiac boat excursion once you’re ashore. These guided tours let you get up close with the icy surroundings and local wildlife, offering plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and unforgettable moments. Check with your cruise line’s expedition team for timings and safety guidelines before you go.
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.
Culture & Local Events
Antarctica is unlike any other destination—there’s no bustling urban culture, local currency exchanges, or traditional restaurants. Instead, the unique “culture” here is all about nature and strict environmental preservation.
- There is no local currency exchange; onboard expenses are usually handled via credit card or onboard account.
- There aren’t any permanent residents or local events, but every moment in this untouched landscape feels like a celebration of nature.
- All activities emphasize safety and respect for the environment, so it’s important to follow guidelines closely.
Shopping
I’ll be honest with you: there is no shopping at Port Martin. This is an uninhabited, protected Antarctic site—an abandoned French base and a penguin rookery—so there are no shops, stalls, or souvenir stands of any kind, and nothing ashore is for sale or for the taking. Under the Antarctic Treaty’s environmental rules, you can’t even collect a pebble or a feather as a keepsake; you leave with photographs and memories, and nothing else. If you’re after a memento, do your browsing back on the ship—most expedition vessels have a small onboard boutique stocked with polar gear, books, and branded souvenirs—or save your shopping for a gateway port like Ushuaia or Hobart before or after the voyage.
Dining
Just as with shopping, you won’t find anywhere to eat or drink at Port Martin—there are no cafés, restaurants, or vendors on this frozen, uninhabited shore. Everything you enjoy here comes from your ship. I always tuck a thermos of something hot and a snack into my jacket for the zodiac landing, since the cold builds an appetite surprisingly fast. All your proper meals happen back aboard, where the galley keeps hearty, warming food on hand between excursions—there’s nothing quite like coming in from the ice to a bowl of hot soup and swapping penguin stories with fellow travelers.