From Dream to Reality: Charukesi’s Journey to Antarctica with Antarctica21

For a long time, Antarctica was just a dream for Charukesi Ramadurai. One that came true in December 2025, when she embarked on a Classic Antarctica Air-Cruise on board Magellan Explorer.

Over the course of a week, the Indian travel writer and her husband had the unique opportunity to explore some of the most amazing destinations of the White Continent, including Neko Harbour, Lemaire Channel, and Petermann Island.

“Antarctica had been a dream for so long, and I’m able to say that it was beyond anything I had expected”, she said.

In this interview, “Charu” shares her experience aboard our boutique small ship, her highlights, and why she chose to travel with Antarctica21.

1) Why did you decide to go to Antarctica with Antarctica21?

One of the biggest advantages was the air-cruise option, which allowed me to fly directly to Antarctica. This meant saving two days at sea each way and, more importantly, avoiding sailing over the Drake Passage. My husband is particularly prone to seasickness, and so this was a no-brainer decision for us.

I was impressed by the company's commitment to responsible travel and the sustainability measures in place, and I also loved that the expedition team had as many women as men!

2) What did you like the most about this expedition with Antarctica21?

During my initial research, I realized that the expedition cruise ship is small, with a capacity of only 76 guests. I really loved the idea of a boutique ship with fewer travelers, rather than a massive one with hundreds of people. And this was definitely a game-changer in the way we experienced Antarctica. It never felt rushed or crowded, because there was ample space for everyone (on and off the ship) and enough time to enjoy every single outing.  

One major thing I need to address here is just how proactive and dynamic the entire expedition team was (shout out to Expedition Leader Rickard Berg!). They were on the job every minute of the day, tracking the weather, making and adjusting plans on the go, and ensuring we had the best excursions.

I loved going on the Citizen Science boat with Wendy Hare. It gave me a glimpse into the kind of scientific research being done in Antarctica, and it was great fun to participate in a bit of sample collection and, more importantly, learn more about the research from Wendy.

3) How did experiencing Antarctica change the way you think about the continent?

I had always had the impression that Antarctica was mostly white (snow and ice) and somewhat barren. I mean, it is definitely barren in the sense that there are no trees or vegetation. But there is still so much life, so much color there, which was totally unexpected.  

I had imagined that Antarctica would be a once-in-a-lifetime trip for me. But after visiting once, I know that it is a place I will want to keep going back to. ‍

4) Share a moment or image that you still think about now that you’re back home

I vividly remember the minute I stepped on Jougla Point near Port Lockroy. It felt like I was inside a National Geographic documentary, with the dramatic mountains, icebergs, seals, and penguins all around. It was a surreal moment and one that I will cherish forever.

Another favourite memory is the passage through the Lemaire Channel on a warm, sunny afternoon. The skies were bright blue, and the ice seemed to sparkle, and as the ship sailed through the narrow passage, we could hear the crunching of the ice beneath. So magical!

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If you are really into meeting the awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife of Antarctica, click here and start planning your adventure of a lifetime!