Polar Plunge Q&A: everything you need to know

The Polar Plunge is a fearsome rite of passage for visitors to Antarctica and the Arctic. Here, we share what you need to know so you can leap with ease

I still remember the moment I learnt about the Polar Plunge. I was at home in London on a typically gloomy day in the mid 2010s. I was wasting time online when I came across an article about Antarctica. Sadly, I can’t remember the writer’s name, but the photo of her was joyous: midway through the Polar Plunge, her body drawn into a starfish shape, a jubilant smile on her face. It was so pure and fun, and completely unselfconscious in a way that women are taught not to be. 

I decided that one day I too would take the Plunge. Fast forward seven years and I’ve done it in both Antarctica and the Arctic. To help you decide whether or not to take the leap, I’ve put together a comprehensive Q&A about the Polar Plunge. 

What is the Polar Plunge?

The Polar Plunge is a fearsome rite of passage for visitors to Antarctica and the Arctic (i.e. the Polar regions). It entails jumping into near-freezing water (1-2°C), usually off the ship, occasionally off a Zodiac and sometimes off the shore. Most operators that travel to these regions will run a Polar Plunge, but double check at the time of booking if you’re keen to do it. 

What happens during the Polar Plunge?

The type of plunge you do will depend on the weather, location and logistics. We plunged off the shore in Antarctica and off the ship in the Arctic. In both cases, we had to sign a waiver before we could participate. 

Off the shore

We did a shore plunge as part of our 10-day expedition to the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. This type of plunge takes relatively little preparation; you simply strip off on the coast and run into the water while a photographer in a nearby Zodiac takes pictures.

Once you come out, you can dry off with one of the supplied towels and change into dry clothes. Afterwards, you will be ferried back to the ship via a Zodiac. Note: There are no changing facilities so you will have to guard your modesty with a towel. 

Off the ship

We plunged off the ship as part of our 8-day expedition to Svalbard, the last stop before the North Pole. This type of plunge feels more like an occasion. 

You will be invited to the mudroom below deck where you will queue for your turn. The plunge takes around…