When Beth Stolyar decided to travel to Antarctica, she wasn’t just ticking off a bucket list destination – she was inviting her daughter Canchela to share in a once-in-a-lifetime experience that would bring them closer in ways neither of them expected. "Antarctica was always on my bucket list," Beth says. “And an opportunity to travel on this trip for work came up. The timing was perfect due to my daughter’s school holiday, so we went for it!”
It wasn’t just about seeing the icebergs or spotting penguins though; the trip was about stepping into a place so far removed from everyday life that all distractions faded away. "There’s no outside world influence," explains Beth, Swan Hellenic’s Sales Director for Australia and New Zealand. "You get to learn from experts about Antarctica, and experience it together."
And that’s exactly what they did. On the very first morning, Beth and Canchela opened the balcony door to snow falling softly outside. “We were lost for words, and couldn’t believe how beautiful it was, and that we were sailing in Antarctic waters. We didn’t have to say much to each other as we stood in silence, enjoying the purest, fresh air."
For Canchela, the trip brought a deeper bond with her mum. “It was my first time traveling without my dad, and it really made me feel closer to my mum,” she says. “We spent almost every second of the day together, and we made some unforgettable memories along the way. The best part of having my mum as my travel buddy is that she knows me better than anyone, there’s no one else I’d rather travel with!”
Adventures that bond and build
In Antarctica, Beth and Canchela soon discovered every day offered something new – and unforgettable. Whether it was cruising through ice-filled waters or hiking across snow-covered hills, Beth and Canchela weren’t just witnessing wild beauty, they were living it. "When our expedition guide turned off the Zodiac engine, it was just us and Antarctica. Light snow fell on our faces, and we drank in the silence. It was one of many unforgettable moments," recalls Beth. These hushed experiences, surrounded by ice, sea, and wildlife, were powerful for both mother and daughter.
Naturally, the amazing landscapes and wildlife played a starring role in their journey. “We saw whales, seals, and of course lots of penguins. And we felt and smelled the natural wonder of this magnificent world,” smiles Beth. And the funniest moment? “Seeing a penguin lifting its behind in front of us and pooping. Canchela has a slow-mo video of this masterpiece if anyone wants a copy!” For Canchela, a standout moment was enjoying the landscape from the ship’s outdoor jacuzzi. "Swimming and laying outside looking at the mountains and scenery felt surreal – like a moment that only happens in the movies."
Learning, naturally
This wasn’t just a scenic cruise – there were plenty of opportunities to learn along the way. From wildlife behavior to glacier formations, every landing became a hands-on classroom. Beth was struck by how much Canchela absorbed on their voyage. "She learnt about things in a social way that she just wouldn’t have learned in a classroom. Things like the way wildlife behaves in nature, their life cycles, and the different types of icebergs and their names."
"I loved seeing the penguins," Canchela remembers, "watching them slipping and sliding about on land was really funny!" The two travelers also found humor in other creatures they came across. “I remember we talked about what a good life seals have – they get up every three days to get food, and then lie back down!” laughs Beth.
Beyond the laughs, seeing the wildlife stirred deeper concerns. "The trip made me think more about climate change and how maybe in a few decades these animals could be going extinct and there might be no more ice left," says Canchela. "It’s definitely made me more considerate of the environment."
The experience also brought unexpected insight. “Canchela’s appreciation of the natural world and how strong and fragile it can be was definitely affected,” Beth recalls. And the shift seemed almost immediate. “For the first time, she didn’t ask about internet access or social media," says Beth. "The magic of Antarctica stayed front and center in her mind throughout the whole cruise."
"This voyage showed me that being away from your daily routine and the influence of the outside world makes such a difference," admits Beth. "When it’s just you, your child and untouched nature, you really end up bonding!" Beth noticed how naturally Canchela fit into expedition life, even among adults. "She loved the intimacy of SH Diana’s small size, and communicated with children and adults alike. We both bonded with the other guests, and it really felt like one big family towards the end of the cruise."
What parents should know
Understandably, some parents wonder if a voyage to Antarctica is right for their children. Beth had the same thoughts. "My biggest concern was Canchela being bored," she explains. "So we chose a school holiday date to maximize the chances of having a few other kids onboard. I was never worried about safety though. I knew we were in safe hands because Swan Hellenic follows strict protocols to ensure the safety of everyone."
"I thought I might be bored too," admits Canchela. "I didn’t expect it to be so entertaining and for my day to be so busy – I thought we’d look at animals for an hour a day and then I’d be sitting around bored, but it wasn’t like that at all! My advice is to put yourself out there and to sign up and participate in as much as you can to really maximize your time on board!"
"I had a few other little worries before we left," Beth admits. "Like, what if Canchela got sick and we were in the middle of nowhere? And I wasn’t sure how she’d feel being on a ship with mostly adults – I thought she might feel out of place. But the ship had a doctor onboard, which really put my mind at ease. And Canchela loved the mix of adventure and downtime — and I think she liked having a bit of grown-up independence in such a safe environment."
Beth’s advice to other parents is simple and heartfelt. "It’s the best, most fun, science class you can give to your child," she smiles. "They will remember it for the rest of their life!" And the only thing she would change? "I’d go on a longer cruise, which goes to South Georgia."
Taking the (polar) plunge!
The trip was also full of unexpected moments that pushed the travelers out of their comfort zones – and brought them closer together.
“Canchela was pretty nervous about the polar plunge,” Beth recalls with a smile. “But she did it in the end, and loved it!” What started as a daunting challenge quickly turned into a shared triumph. “Practicing our pose for the plunge and building up the courage to actually do it was nerve-wracking,” Beth admits, “but it was so much fun!”
Canchela was equally surprised – but for a different reason. “I honestly didn’t think my mum would go through with it,” she laughs. “I thought the freezing water would totally put her off. So when she just went for it, I was shocked – and super proud. It was such a rush! And jumping into the jacuzzi right after made it even better. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so I’m glad we both did it!"
The trip also clarified what kind of travel they want more of as a family. “We understand the destination can be the main attraction and entertainment, rather than the ship. Canchela realized she doesn't need water slides, computer games, the internet or social media to have fun. Nature can exceed her expectations when she’s in the correct environment.”
A journey that lasts beyond the ice
As they stood on their balcony one final time, breathing in the Antarctic air, Beth knew she and Canchela were leaving with more than photos. They were leaving with a shared story – a chapter only they would truly understand. "One thing I’ll cherish about this trip forever, is the smell and view of Antarctica. It can’t be described – you have to experience it to know,” she says.
For Canchela, it was the snowy first day that stood out most. "We made snow angels, threw snow at each other, and I tried to do a cartwheel but slipped and fell! It was so magical with the snow and seeing Antarctica up close for the first time. Everything went way past my expectations... I would relive the first day again and again if I could."
One thing Beth hopes Canchela will remember about their cruise, is her relationship with the planet. "The world is big and fragile at the same time. How we live our lives affects the environment, and even the smallest change in our lifestyle can make a difference.”
So where to next for this adventuring pair? “West Africa, Amazon and Arctic," Beth says. "All these areas offer nature and culture at their best, untouched by civilization and in the purest form possible.”
Making the most of a family expedition cruise
Get the lowdown on family expedition cruising with Beth’s practical advice and top tips…
Are Antarctic cruises appropriate for families?
Definitely! Having your cabin as a home base makes everything easier – no constant packing and unpacking – while every day brings new adventures. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and discovery!
Do kids ever get bored?
Not in my experience. The days are full of activities, from Zodiac landings to wildlife encounters. The wonder of seeing thousand-year-old ice or a penguin colony up close is unforgettable.
What kinds of activities keep everyone engaged on board?
One of the highlights of our time on board was joining the Citizen Science program, which allows kids to take part in science in a practical way with hands on experience. On sea days, the heated infinity pool and spa were a welcome break, while the limited internet encouraged us to slow down and enjoy puzzles, cards, and board games – a refreshing change that brought us closer together. Mealtimes became their own adventure too, with a wide variety of dishes inviting us to try new flavors. And perhaps best of all, we found ourselves connecting with fellow travelers of all ages, turning the journey into a true shared experience.
Any other tips for planning a family expedition?
For families considering a trip, I’d recommend booking during school holidays if you’d like your kids to have the chance to meet others their age on board – it could make the experience even more fun and social. And don’t worry too much about the Drake Passage. We managed it just fine: Canchela felt a little unwell on the first day, but with some rest, room service, and a tablet, she soon felt better!