By: randosteve|Posted on: August 27, 2009|Posted in: Antartica | 2 comments

the-late-hans-saari-wishing-there-was-more-time-still-unskied-mt-shackleton-in-the-distance
The late Hans Sarri, wishing there was more time while admiring the unskied, Mount Shackleton.

I’m still on the fence and trying to make a decision about joining Doug Stoup and company on this amazing opportunity to visit and ski on Antarctica in November. The last I talked to Doug, there were less that 15 berths still available on IceAxe.TV’s Antarctic Ski Cruise, and considering there were about 24 berths open when we last talked about this trip (here’s the post), it’s looking like it might sell out!

stephen-koch-checking-to-see-if-the-water-is-as-cold-as-it-looks
Stephen Koch checking to see if the water is as cold as it looks.

In my quest to find out as much as possible about skiing in Antarctica, I’ve been in touch with a few people who have been down there and done some skiing, and they all rave about the whole experience. Sailing the Drake Passage, skiing amongst unbelievable scenery and enjoying watching whales and penguins do what they do. Truly a trip of a lifetime and one to remember.

hans-saari-and-rick-armstrong-find-the-way-just-like-everyday
Hans Sarri and Rick Armstrong find the way, just like everyday.

Kris Erickson has been lucky enough to have been down there twice to ski and had this to add when quizzing him about the experience. Thanks for the photos Kris!

Hey Steve,

Just saw your post on Doug Stoup’s Antarctic Ski trip. For anyone one interested in the skiing opportunities on the Peninsula, this trip should be regarded as the trip of lifetime. There are only a few places in the world that you can truly ski to the ocean but no others that combine penguins, whales, Icebergs and seals into each days experience. To make it even sweeter the boat has a fully stocked bar and sauna. I couldn’t resist the opportunity to send along a few shots of the local Jackson gang from trips we did together with Doug back in 2000 and 2001. Since we all know the skiing experience is incredible I thought I would instead show a few from the back story that most don’t typically see. Skiing is really only half the fun!

Kristoffer Erickson

rick-hunt-and-crew-suffering-through-a-rainy-approach-to-start-the-day
Rick Hunt and company suffering through a rainy approach to start the day.

From what I’ve heard, the biggest thing that could really put the kabash on this adventure is the wind. Traveling to the coast via an inflatable zodiac while ocean spray gets blown in your face isn’t the best way to start a ski tour. Luckily, the trip is planned for mid November, springtime in Antarctica, so the weather should be starting to calm down and allow for some great skiing.

griber-ripping-up-mt-demaria
John Griber on Mount Demaria.

Anyway, I’m hoping to be able to make my own decision about joining this trip within the next couple weeks and I sure hope there is some space left if I decide to pull the trigger. If your thinking about going too, I would suggest not waiting too long to sign up…and tell Doug TetonAT sent you!

douglas-and-john-griber-following-up-the-final-exposed-ridge-of-mt-scott
Doug Stoup on the final exposed ridge of Mount Scott.