With the start of the Antarctic season just a month away now, chances are that your thoughts are slowly turning to the dreaded Drake Passage, arguably the roughest stretch of water in the world. The Drake Passage is located between the most common point of embarkation for Antarctic voyages in South America (Ushuaia) and the white continent itself. I won't lie - it IS generally very rough (although sometimes can be surprisingly calm - it's the luck of the draw) - so prepare for the worst and anything else is a bonus! It's usually a max. of four days out of your life (two days there, two days back), for a lifetime of memories.... so pluck up the courage, and take heed of some handy tips we'd like to share:
Gingernut biscuits - or indeed any kind of ginger (tea, sweets, crystalised variety). Ginger is great for settling a queasy stomach, and good for sharing with fellow passengers who don't have them in their own country - an great icebreaker (excuse the pun) and conversation-starter!
Get to bed in good time. Chances are that you'll be high on adrenaline, but if you can be asleep for when you hit the Drake then it's amazing how the body adjusts (without you knowing it!). Most passengers do tend to get their sealegs after the first 24 hours.
Sit up on the bridge, and keep your eye on the horizon - this helps combat sickness.
Stay hydrated and do eat (even though you may not feel like it) - you'll feel better with something in your stomach.
Visit your doctor/GP before you leave - they may have access to stronger medication than across the counter (which incidentally made me very sleepy and groggy - not ideal but if you suffer from seasickness.....). Your doctor onboard will also be able to offer other medication.
Mind you, what's at the end is ultimately worth it, and I promise you that you won't regret it! Any other handy tips/hints from those proud to have survived the Drake are most welcome....!
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