Antarctica
Ordering coffee in Antarctica isn't like popping into your local high street cafe. The continent is primarily home to scientific research stations and very limited tourism (cruise ships with strict environmental protocols). Therefore, "ways to order coffee" largely depend on where you are – a major research station, a small field camp, or on a tourist vessel.
The common thread is that coffee is a vital morale booster in such an isolated and extreme environment!
Here's a breakdown of how coffee is typically obtained and consumed in Antarctica:
Major Research Stations (e.g., McMurdo Station, Scott Base, Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station)
These are the closest you'll get to a "coffee shop" experience.
Galley/Cafeteria Coffee:
What's in it: Standard brewed drip coffee. The quality can vary, often described as "okay-ish" or "cafeteria grade." It's usually available 24/7 during the summer season. Milk (often reconstituted powdered milk or long-life/shelf-stable milk) and sugar are available for self-service.
How to order: You generally don't "order" it beyond pouring yourself a cup from large dispensers. It's part of the standard meal service.
Variations: Some people add a "Frosty Joe" by putting soft-serve ice cream (if available from the galley's machine) into their coffee for a creamy, sweet treat.
Station Coffee Houses/Bars (Volunteer-Run):
What's in it: At larger stations like McMurdo, there might be a dedicated "Coffee House" or "Southern" (a social hub) where volunteers operate an espresso machine. This is where you can get more "cafe-style" drinks.
Espresso: Concentrated coffee shot.
Americano: Espresso with hot water.
Cappuccino: Espresso with steamed milk and foam.
Latte: Espresso with more steamed milk and a thin foam.
Hot Cocoa with coffee: Sometimes available.
Spiked Coffee: It's common for people to add a shot of alcohol to their coffee, especially after a long, cold day.
Milk: While fresh milk might occasionally arrive via supply planes from New Zealand, powdered or long-life milk is the staple.
How to order: You would order these much like you would in a regular coffee shop, though the availability depends on volunteer baristas and supplies.
Work Center Coffee:
What's in it: Many work centers or offices within the stations will have their own coffee makers (drip, French press, or even espresso machines if individuals bring them).
How to order: This is self-service or made communally. People often bring their own favorite beans from home or purchase them on their way through gateway cities like Christchurch, New Zealand. Grinders are often available.
Field Camps and Remote Locations
In the vast majority of Antarctica, away from the main stations, coffee preparation is much more basic and focused on practicality.
Instant Coffee:
What's in it: Powdered instant coffee mixed with hot water. This is the simplest and most common method in the field due to ease of transport, storage, and preparation.
How to order: You don't "order" it; it's part of the provided supplies, and you prepare it yourself.
French Press / Pour Over:
What's in it: Ground coffee (either pre-ground or ground from beans brought by individuals) steeped in hot water. More dedicated coffee drinkers might bring a small travel French press or pour-over cone.
How to order: Self-prepared from personal or communal supplies.
Turkish/Cypriot-style Coffee (boiled):
What's in it: Finely ground coffee boiled directly with water. This can be done over a camp stove. It's simple and effective for strong coffee.
How to order: Self-prepared.
Tourist Vessels (Expedition Ships)
Cruise ships operating in Antarctica will have typical onboard coffee service.
Drip Coffee: Often available in the dining areas or lounges.
Espresso-based Drinks: Many ships will have baristas or self-service machines offering espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, etc., often included in the fare or at an extra cost.
Specialty Coffees: Some ships might offer spiked coffees as part of their bar service.
Key Considerations for Coffee in Antarctica:
Water Source: Water for coffee often comes from melted snow or desalinated seawater, which can affect the taste. Some niche places even claim to use "hand-drilled Antarctic ice" for purity.
Storage: Coffee beans might be stored at extremely low temperatures, which proponents claim can preserve freshness.
Supply Chain: Everything has to be shipped in, meaning fresh ingredients (like fresh milk) are rare and precious. Dried or shelf-stable alternatives are standard.
Morale: Coffee (and hot beverages in general) is incredibly important for warmth, comfort, and routine in the harsh environment.
In summary, while you might get a "latte" at a major station, the most prevalent ways to have coffee in Antarctica are functional: hot brewed coffee (from a pot or instant) to keep warm and energized.
*The content in this document was generated using artificial intelligence, drawing from various online sources, and subsequently refined for accuracy and conciseness in 2025. Users are advised to consult multiple sources to corroborate information and should not rely solely on this document for comprehensive research.