Rise in Number of Solo Travellers in Antarctica

Aurora Expeditions Report Rise in Number of Solo Travellers in Antarctica

Aurora Expeditions has reported a spike rise in the number of solo travellers making the trip of a lifetime to Antarctica. Figures from the last three years have shown a steady increase in the number of solo travellers booking on their small ship adventures, with early season voyages in 2013 showing as many as 29% of passengers travelling alone. For the full story and images, click here

Aurora Expeditions’ no single supplement option has been popular with solo travellers for years, however there has been a marked increase in solos on voyages offering additional activities including camping, polar snorkelling, photography and kayaking. Interestingly there has also been a significant rise in the number of ladies joining their small ship expeditions, with 65% of solo travellers being female over the last 12 months.

Fiona Twyford, Marketing Manager, believes the trend is indicative of the number of women who are choosing to travel without their partners. “Whilst a proportion of solo passengers are single, we are seeing a growing number of female travellers who, despite having partners at home, choose to travel alone or with girlfriends to experience the destinations that appeal to them. The big trip does not always appeal to their partners, so instead of missing out they go alone."

Aurora offers a cabin-sharing service to keep the cost down for would-be solo travellers. The company will find a same-sex cabin partner for those travelling alone and if a suitable partner cannot be found, guests only pay the standard single occupancy rate; allowing solo travellers to keep the cost down whilst taking part in the ultimate small group adventure. Alternatively, if passengers prefer to be guaranteed a private cabin, they may book a cabin for sole occupancy at a discounted rate: 1.7 times the twin share rate.

Past passenger Gill Hetherington said ‘For me, joining a small ship expedition was the perfect way to fulfil my lifetime dream of travelling to Antarctica. I have to admit to being terrified at the thought of travelling alone, but the voyage provided instant peace of mind and I quickly relinquished fears of facing the dining room alone. Whether I chose to join the guided shore walks, take part in photography workshops, or camp on the ice overnight, there were always plenty of like-minded people with whom I could share the experience.”

Carrying a maximum of 54 passengers, Aurora Expeditions' ice-strengthened vessel Polar Pioneer is ideally suited for small groups. Led by a team of Polar Experts, voyages lend themselves to an informal style of travel, complete with open bridge policy, guided excursions, enriching lecture programme and a diverse range of activity options.

Visit www.auroraexpeditions.com.au/solotravellers for more information on avoiding single supplements and great tips about experiencing Antarctica.

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