Panache Cruises has revealed that demand for cruises to the Antarctic region is “booming” with travel bosses putting it down to ‘the Sir David Attenborough effect’.
The luxury cruise retailer said that demand “has never been higher” with many customers saying they hope to spot penguins after watching Sir David’s wildlife programmes on the BBC.
Now Panache Cruises has named its top seven penguin spotting cruise locations where multiple species of the famous flightless bird can be found in the wild.
There are 18 species of penguins found in different parts of the world – half of the species can be found on Antarctic coasts and sub-Antarctic islands.
One of the best ways to meet penguins is to go on an Antarctica cruise, as some of the most breathtaking places where they’re located are only accessible by sea.
James Cole, Founder and Managing Director of Panache Cruises said: “The experience of seeing penguins in zoos or national parks cannot compare to seeing them happily waddle around in the wild.
“The popularity of David Attenborough’s TV programmes has brought the wonders of penguins to our living rooms and now thousands of us want to see them in their natural habitats.
“Embarking on an expedition cruise to Antarctica is a great way for wildlife lovers to see nature in all its glory while enjoying a hassle-free organised tour.
“Instead of jetting off on a beach holiday this year, adventure-seeking travellers could opt for a luxurious voyage to some of the most far-flung destinations instead.”
Below are some of the best cruise destinations for seeing penguins in the wild:
Antarctic Peninsula
This northernmost region of the continent is home to the greatest variety of wildlife species and some of the most breathtaking scenery. The Peninsula is abundant with penguins, particularly the Gentoo penguin.
Antarctic Sound
Known as the “Iceberg Alley,” the Antarctic Sound is a channel lined with icebergs and is found at the northern tip of the Peninsula. It’s a great place to see the large Adélie and Emperor penguins, spot seals and hear the sound of whales cutting through the silence.
Penguin Island
A nesting and breeding place for Adelie and chinstrap penguins. On the highest point of the island, visitors can see the Deacon Peak inactive volcano. To avoid disturbing the wildlife, there is a 100-person limit on the shore. Visitors are not allowed to roam freely, although they are welcome to take guided excursions.
Elephant Island
Home to large Elephant seals, Gentoo penguins and nesting chinstrap penguins. Regarded as one of the most desolate locations in the entire world, it is a must-go for polar enthusiasts as they can find out more about the Endurance expedition crew who got stranded on the island for months.
Deception Island
The site to a former whaling station with hundreds of thousands of penguins waddling around. In the centre of the island is a massive crater formed by a gigantic volcanic eruption, with black-sand beaches holding hot steam under the surface where visitors can take a warm volcanic bath.
South Georgia
A wildlife oasis known as the “Gateway to Antarctica” where tourists can spot petrels, seals, penguins, whales and albatrosses. South Georgia has the highest concentration of marine life on the planet.
Drake Passage
An iconic part of the cruise journey to Antarctica with a vast variety of marine life, including dolphins, humpback whales, orcas, and penguins, by navigating the notoriously rough waters of the Passage.
To find out more about cruising to these penguin-friendly destinations please visit https://www.panachecruises.com/antarctica-cruises
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