Because of the expense involved and the fact that the Antarctic season is short because of the weather and icy conditions, you might be wondering when is the best time to go to maximize your time and investment. Antarctica is spectacular at any time of year, but each month brings unique weather and ice conditions, wildlife encounters, immersive activities and new and exciting landing sites as the polar world changes!
November is normally the start of the Antarctic season, and is a month full of new life. This is mating and brooding season for seals and penguins, and locations such as South Georgia are vibrant and dynamic. Varied weather and light conditions make November a dramatic start to the expedition calendar, and superb for photographers.
In December, temperatures rise, avenues for exploration open up, and wildlife becomes increasingly active. Bird colonies, penguin rookeries, and basking seals are just some of the highlights you can expect. More of the Peninsula opens up, bringing fresh activities - summer is here!
In December, temperatures rise, avenues for exploration open up, and wildlife becomes increasingly active. Bird colonies, penguin rookeries, and basking seals are just some of the highlights you can expect. More of the Peninsula opens up, bringing fresh activities - summer is here!
January is peak season in Antarctica. With long daylight hours, abundant wildlife, and spectacular landscapes, January bears witness to Antarctica's raw beauty and majesty in full bloom. You can expect penguins, penguins, and more penguins!
February is one of the most popular periods in the Antarctic cruise calendar, with long days and the slow return of darkness, loose sea ice, and seas full of vibrant marine life. Itineraries are varied and far-reaching, with some venturing below the Antarctic Circle where darkness brings glimpses of the spectacular southern night sky.
Closing out the Antarctica calendar is March, a month of spectacular sunsets, dark star-filled skies, and seas rich in marine life as the austral summer wanes. March is one of the best periods for whale-watching in Antarctica, with the giants of the seas gathering in large numbers. Some itineraries in March focus on whale-watching, and taking advantage of looser ice to venture farther south and into areas previously difficult to access. Fewer ships means fewer tourists, and a more elemental Antarctic experience.
Note that rates tend to be lower at the beginning and end of the season and that cruises to some areas are only during certain months. If you are planning on spending more time in Chile and/or Argentina before or after your cruise, you might also consider that some rates are cheaper at the beginning and end of the season there also.
See our great selection of Antarctic cruise options on small ships that allow each passenger to do all of the shore excursions, unlike on the larger cruise ships (no more than 100 passengers are allowed ashore at any one time in any one place, so passengers on larger ships are at a disadvantage.)
February is one of the most popular periods in the Antarctic cruise calendar, with long days and the slow return of darkness, loose sea ice, and seas full of vibrant marine life. Itineraries are varied and far-reaching, with some venturing below the Antarctic Circle where darkness brings glimpses of the spectacular southern night sky.
Closing out the Antarctica calendar is March, a month of spectacular sunsets, dark star-filled skies, and seas rich in marine life as the austral summer wanes. March is one of the best periods for whale-watching in Antarctica, with the giants of the seas gathering in large numbers. Some itineraries in March focus on whale-watching, and taking advantage of looser ice to venture farther south and into areas previously difficult to access. Fewer ships means fewer tourists, and a more elemental Antarctic experience.
Note that rates tend to be lower at the beginning and end of the season and that cruises to some areas are only during certain months. If you are planning on spending more time in Chile and/or Argentina before or after your cruise, you might also consider that some rates are cheaper at the beginning and end of the season there also.
See our great selection of Antarctic cruise options on small ships that allow each passenger to do all of the shore excursions, unlike on the larger cruise ships (no more than 100 passengers are allowed ashore at any one time in any one place, so passengers on larger ships are at a disadvantage.)
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