I hesitated about participating in the polar plunge in Antarctica. I searched for every excuse before and during our voyage, trying to justify not taking part in this thrilling experience.

The thought nagged at me throughout the trip until they finally announced over the intercom that it was time for the Polar Plunge.

Fear of the Polar Plunge Antarctica

After an invigorating morning of kayaking, we were informed that we would soon be jumping into water that was a chilling -0.5 degrees Celsius in Antarctica.

Immediately, panic washed over me. I informed Dave that I would rather film the plunge than participate. “No problem,” he said. “You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do.”

My Mood Shifted

Antarctica had provided us with the most incredible experiences of our lives. The unique landscape and memorable moments were unmatched in our travels.

We were riding high each day, yet at that moment, I resented the very idea of the polar plunge. I felt inadequate and disappointed in myself for not wanting to do it.

Dave donned his robe and swimsuit, and we made our way to the embarkation deck to join the line. It turned out that 40 out of the 107 passengers were participating.

As I stood in line, listening to the others, I began to feel further disheartened. I inquired about their reasons for taking the plunge and whether they were apprehensive. The excitement in the air and the joy on people’s faces as they emerged from the water inspired me, pushing me to make a last-minute decision to go for it.

In a rush, I raced back to our cabin, changed into my bathing suit, and questioned myself, “What the hell are you doing?”

Facing Your Fear

When the moment arrived, I was filled with terror.

As Solan and Val, our kayaking guides, secured the tether around my waist, I felt numb. The water was freezing, and it posed real dangers.

Spending just a couple of minutes in such cold water without assistance could be lethal. Therefore, Quark Expeditions was careful to ensure we were tethered to the boat for safety.

My mind raced with thoughts. Had anyone experienced a heart attack from this? Would I be able to swim? What if I jumped in and immediately froze? I had no prior experience with such cold water, yet my instincts screamed at me, “Don’t jump.”

I stepped onto the zodiac, preparing to jump, when Jamie, our photographer, called out for me to wait a moment to adjust his camera.

Panic surged within me. I needed to jump right then.

After a brief moment of chaos, Duncan, another member of the expedition team, cheerfully assured me, “I’ve never had anyone die from doing the polar plunge.” Those words compelled me to take the leap.

Without waiting for Jamie’s signal, I jumped into the icy waters before he could capture the moment properly. It was now or never.

What it Feels Like Jumping into Freezing Water

Upon hitting the frigid water, I instantly gasped for air, panic gripping me as it felt like my lungs were being crushed.

While others surfaced and swam toward Jamie, I emerged and paddled frantically back to the deck of the boat, consumed with panic.

“Get me out of here!” was all that raced through my mind.

My ears felt blocked, my muscles tensed, and my lungs constricted painfully.

I climbed out of that water so quickly it was almost a blur.

Dave caught the aftermath on film, and my immediate reaction was, “I didn’t like it! I didn’t like it!” When he asked about the experience, I responded vehemently, “Terrible!”

Elation of Doing the Polar Plunge

Despite the initial shock, I felt exhilarated and joyful. I would have regretted not taking the plunge for the rest of my life, and I was thrilled I seized the moment.

Next, it was Dave’s turn. He exuded confidence, stepping out to the “plank,” shouting to the camera, and leaping into the icy waters with effortless flair.

Upon re-surfacing, he swam gracefully toward Jamie, posing for more photos, and returned with a strong, vigorous stroke.

I overheard the guides commenting on how confident and strong he appeared.

Reward for Jumping into Icy Waters

After our daring jump, both of us radiated happiness. We ascended to the Lido Deck to bask in the hot tub, exchanging tales of our exhilaration with fellow Polar Plungers.

Everyone was buzzing with energy after their plunge, making it a recommendable adventure.

People of all ages took the plunge, and the consensus among participants was unanimous—they all loved the experience!

Grateful to Dave for his patience and support, we hold onto the certificate that commemorated our Antarctic adventure.

We immersed ourselves in the Antarctic waters and took part in the Polar Plunge!

For more information, look into Quark Expeditions to begin planning your own Antarctic expedition.