While you probably won’t get looked at this year, there is no sense in being timid. Go ahead and apply over the web, call, and if anyone will listen to you, let them know you can quit your present job and be in Antarctica on a moments notice.
Palmer station is much smaller than pole or McM, but they are year round so mayber there will be a position opening there.
Yes, you will have a body cavity search. As the others said. They want no surprises.
mike