Peter I Island Antarctica (Norway)

Peter I Island is an uninhabited volcanic isle in Bellingshausen Sea, located approx 450 km (280 mi) from mainland Antarctica. It is claimed as Norway's dependency and along with Bouvet Island and Queen Maud Land comprises one of the 3 Norwegian Antarctic territories.

The Island has length of 6,8 x 11,8 mi (11 x 19 km) and total area 60 mi2 (156 km2), slightly bigger than Staten Island (NYC New York). Its highest elevation point (Lars Christensen Peak) is 5380 ft (1640 m).

The island was discovered in January 1821 by Fabian Gottlieb Thaddeus von Bellingshausen (aka Faddey Faddeyevich Bellinsgauzen, 1778-1852, a Russian / Imperial Russian Navy officer, cartographer and explorer). It was named after Peter I (aka Peter the Great, 1672-1725, Emperor of All Russia).

Since 1987, there has been a meteorological station (automated) on the isle.

Almost the whole isle is covered by a glacier. Most of the year it is surrounded by pack ice, making it inaccessible nearly the whole year-round. The island has little life, apart from seals and seabirds.

Peter I Island Antarctica cruise terminal