Chasing Ice: An Iowa State Adventure in Antarctica

In the heart of January, while most students were nestled in their dorms, a group of adventurous souls from Iowa State University embarked on a journey unlike any other: a trip to Antarctica. This wasn't your typical winter break getaway; it was a J-Term expedition, organized for those hungry for exploration and ready to brave the icy unknown.

The journey began with a flight from Iowa to Houston, Texas. From there, they boarded a second flight, a ten-hour journey across the vast expanse of South America, bound for Buenos Aires, Argentina. Touching down in this vibrant metropolis, they transferred to another airport and took a shorter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina – a quaint city nestled at the southernmost tip of South America, aptly nicknamed the "End of the World."

After a couple of days exploring the rugged beauty of Ushuaia, the group's anticipation reached its peak as they boarded the Ortelius ship, their home for the next leg of the adventure. Setting sail, they embarked on a two-day voyage through the legendary Drake Passage. As the waves tossed and turned, motion sickness patches became their closest companions, earning the notorious moniker "the Drake Shake."

But the tumbling seas were merely a prelude to the breathtaking sights that awaited them in Antarctica. Finally reaching the Antarctic Peninsula and its surrounding islands, the students were greeted by a landscape straight out of a dream – vast expanses of ice, towering glaciers, and a symphony of wildlife.

Each day brought new adventures, with one to two landings on different islands, including a coveted continental landing on Antarctica itself. Among the highlights were encounters with the region's iconic inhabitants – penguins. From the playful antics of Gentoo to the distinctive waddle of Chinstrap and Adelie, the students were entranced by these charismatic creatures. One of the most memorable moments? Discovering "penguin highways," bustling thoroughfares where these flightless birds commute between their nests and the sea.

But the wildlife spectacle didn't end with penguins. The group also embarked on Zodiac cruises, gliding through icy waters teeming with humpback whales and seals. They even caught glimpses of orcas, the apex predators of the Antarctic seas.

Throughout their journey, the students were in good hands, with a dedicated team of 44 crew members, 8 guides, and 1 doctor aboard the Ortelius ship.  Together, they navigated the icy waters and shared their passion for this pristine wilderness with the eager travelers from Iowa State. The ship had enough room for a total of 108 passengers.

As the expedition drew to a close and the Ortelius set sail for home, the students returned to Iowa with hearts full of memories and a newfound appreciation for the majesty of the Antarctic. Though their journey had come to an end, the spirit of adventure ignited in the icy depths of the southern continent would stay with them forever.