The Drake Shake

As many of you know, co-host Nikki was a guest onboard the M/V Hondius during the voyage that had the Hantavirus outbreak. At the time of recording this episode, Nikki had just arrived at the quarantine facility in Nebraska and we will discuss her time onboard. This episode is meant to clear up some false information and rumors, as well as see how Nikki is doing. 

Next up on the Polar Planning Roadmap - how to choose the right company! It's a factor that needs to be taken into consideration... but may not be as important as you think. In this episode, we talk about ways to help you decide which company may be right for you.

Without a doubt, the most overwhelming stage in planning your Antarctic adventure is choosing the right itinerary. While it may seem overly complicated...it's actually much less confusing than it appears! In this episode we break down the different itineraries and simplify them for you.  

When you're planning your trip to Antarctica, you're probably wondering if you should book with a travel agent, or book directly with the company. In this episode we explain the differences and the benefits to both, and explore some myths about travel agents.

Are you in the planning stages of booking your trip to Antarctica, and not sure if it's worth hopping on a deal now, or waiting until last minute? Don't worry, we will break down the advantages and disadvantages to both. We're joined by Sarah Scott with Freestyle Adventure Travel to discuss which may be best for you!

One of the biggest decisions when planning a trip to Antarctica is whether to include South Georgia in your itinerary. It adds time, increases cost, and turns a standard expedition into a much bigger commitment, which leaves many travelers asking the same question - is it actually worth it?

In this episode, we break down the real differences between Antarctica-only trips and those that include South Georgia. We cover cost, trip length, wildlife, and overall experience so you can decide what makes the most sense for you.

By the end, you’ll have a clear answer to the question: Is South Georgia worth it?

Are you planning a trip to Antarctica, and not sure when to go? This episode of the Drake Shake brings on guest Phil Hunter, and we will break down each part of the Antarctica season, which runs from November to March. You'll find out all the differences in wildlife viewings, what to expect with the weather, changes in landscape, and so much more! We'll also clear up some misconceptions and myths that we hear day after day that simply aren't true. 

The Drake Shake Podcast will go live Thursday, March 12th, 2026. If you're interested in polar travel, but not sure where yo start, make sure to tune in. Be Sure to hit subscribe - available wherever you get your podcasts!