A recent voyage to Antarctica turned into a dramatic adventure for passengers aboard a cruise ship, as video footage shared by a travel journalist captured the chaos caused by massive waves battering the vessel. Lesley Anne Murphy posted several clips on Instagram on March 26, showcasing the tumultuous conditions faced during the journey. In the clips, the ship can be seen rocking violently, with one alarming moment depicting a woman sliding across the floor as the vessel lurched and a television crashing against the wall. At times, the view from the windows was dominated by towering walls of water, creating a breathtaking yet unnerving spectacle.

The passengers aboard the ship, which was navigating the notorious Drake Passage—a waterway known for its unpredictable and often violent weather conditions—witnessed waves reaching heights of up to 35 feet. Murphy described the experience as both exhilarating and terrifying, stating, “Yes, we were safe, and it was insane … and at times, even fun?” She emphasized the importance of the adventure, declaring it “1000% worth it for this trip of a lifetime!”

Murphy, who has gained fame as a travel journalist and as a participant on the reality television show “The Bachelor,” was traveling on the Ocean Explorer, operated by Quark Expeditions. This company prides itself on its extensive experience in navigating polar waters, boasting over 30 years in the field and a fleet specifically designed for ice-class voyages. A spokesperson for Quark Expeditions reassured the public in an emailed statement to USA TODAY, emphasizing that safety remains their highest priority. “We ensure guests are well cared for in all conditions. The ship, crew, and passengers completed their polar voyage safely and without incident,” they noted.

As Murphy’s story gained traction, it highlighted a common aspect of Antarctic cruises: the challenging crossing of the Drake Passage, typically taking about two days. Passengers can either experience the notorious “Drake shake,” as Murphy did, or enjoy a smoother ride, referred to as the “Drake lake.” Murphy herself noted that her trip included two significant “Drake shakes,” adding to the intensity of the experience.

For those planning similar journeys, some cruise operators offer alternative itineraries that include flights over the Drake Passage. However, Kristin Winkaffe, a luxury travel designer and founder of Winkaffe Global Travel, cautioned that these options are not only “exponentially more expensive” but also less reliable due to the unpredictable weather conditions in the region. This uncertainty can add an extra layer of complexity to any travel plans.

Nathan Diller, the consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, covered this thrilling adventure, illustrating the dramatic encounters travelers can face in the wild and unpredictable waters of Antarctica. For those seeking a unique travel experience, the challenges of the Drake Passage can certainly add a memorable twist to the journey.

For further information or to share your own experiences, readers are encouraged to reach out to Nathan Diller at ndiller@usatoday.com.