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In November, you’ll be among the first visitors to Antarctica as it emerges from winter. With untouched sea ice, majestic ice floes, and fresh snow all bathed in the legendary Antarctic light, November is a landscape photographer’s dream.

The winter ice undergoes a breathtaking transformation, evolving into stunning icebergs and intricate sculptures. Landing sites remain pristine, offering crisp snow and ice perfect for hikes, snowshoeing, and skiing. Walking on pack ice presents a rare opportunity to explore surreal frozen landscapes unlike anywhere else on Earth. November also presents fantastic photo opportunities, to capture mesmerising sunsets painting the sky and the possibility of capturing the ethereal beauty of noctilucent clouds.  

As summer approaches and mating season begins, wildlife activity picks up. Penguin rookeries buzz with activity as the residents engage in nest-building and courting rituals, providing a delightful glimpse into their lives. Seals and seabirds also partake in courtship display. 

With longer daylight hours, you’ll have plenty of time for exploration. Nearly 24 hours of sunlight and milder temperatures make accessing landing sites easier, allowing for more extensive adventures as the ice starts to break up.

In December, wildlife becomes more abundant. Seals are active during their mating season, and penguin rookeries bustle with chicks hatching from mid-December onwards. Humpback whales also arrive in December, completing their long migration from the tropics to feed on krill and plankton. It's common to see pods of whales, often close to shore, as they feast.

January is the peak of summer in Antarctica, making it a popular time to visit. With extended daylight hours, there’s more time to explore each day.

Warmer, stable weather melts sea ice, creating more landing sites and opportunities for activities like polar plunges and kayaking. However, as temperatures rise, glaciers become less common, and the landscape transitions from snowy to rockier terrain. The melting ice also allows the first Polar Circle voyages to reach 66 degrees south.
 
Wildlife encounters abound, with adorable fluffy penguin chicks chasing their parents across the ice when they return from the sea with their beaks full of food. Humpback whales and minke whales are seen regularly in January with more and more arriving from the tropics in search of krill. Orcas are also spotted frequently, and you may be lucky enough to see a hunt. 

By February, the sea ice has retreated to its maximum level which opens up all itineraries across Antarctica including the Ross Sea, Crossing the Antarctic Circle and East Antarctica voyages. With receding sea ice, more landing sites become accessible, if weather conditions permit.  

February is prime for whale-watching, as migrating whale pods have reached Antarctica. During Zodiac tours, keep an eye out for whales and feeding leopard seals. Penguin chicks are bigger and noisier than ever, making their first dives into the Antarctic waters. 

March marks the end of the summer season in Antarctica, offering the final chance to experience the White Continent before it becomes ice-locked and wrapped in darkness once again. Fading daylight hours foster the return of sunrises and sunsets, casting the skies in a breathtaking array of colours - an irresistible draw for photographers seeking stunning shots.  

Whales continue to feast in Antarctic waters through March before heading north, offering one of the best periods for whale encounters with playful displays and breaching. Encounters with these gentle giants are guaranteed, and the quieter atmosphere, with fewer ships, enhances the tranquillity of the experience. Penguin chicks are older and more curious, and begin to show interest in the visitors on their shore. 

At the southernmost tip of the Earth, Antarctica is one of the most remote and challenging destinations to reach, but this is one reason a trip there is so special.

Cruise or Fly?

Most travellers start their journey from Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile. The traditional sea route involves crossing the Drake Passage, known for its unpredictable and rough conditions. About 30% of voyages encounter challenging weather, while others find the passage surprisingly calm.

An increasingly popular alternative is to fly from Punta Arenas to the Antarctic Peninsula, reducing travel time from two days at sea to just two hours in the air. This option is quicker and more comfortable, appealing to those with limited time or wishing to avoid seasickness. However, flights are subject to weather conditions and can be delayed due to the rapidly changing Antarctic climate.

The two main cruise categories in Antarctica are Expedition Ships and Luxury Ships. 

Whether you’re eager to explore with a team of biologists or geologists, get up close to icebergs, wildlife, and hard-to-reach places by kayaks, be one of the few to hike or ski otherworldly frozen landscapes, observe a range of penguin and whale species, as well as seals and seabirds, and photograph them alongside a photography expert, there’s a voyage to suit all preferences.  

Luxury ships provide an unparalleled level of comfort and elegance. These larger vessels typically accommodate more than 150 passengers and boast spacious interiors with multiple lounges, observation decks, bars, and restaurants. Some luxury ships even feature additional amenities like fitness centres, heated swimming pools, and theatres. Despite their lavish onboard facilities, luxury cruise ships still prioritise daily landings, ensuring passengers have ample opportunities to explore.
 
Expedition ships embody a spirit of adventure and exploration. Often former research vessels, they navigate remote environments and offer active itineraries with hiking, kayaking, and other activities led by specialist guides. While expedition ships may lack the opulent amenities of luxury vessels, they compensate with a focus on the "luxury of experience," prioritising immersive encounters with Antarctica's natural wonders.  

For the ultimate exclusivity, yacht charters offer a luxurious and personalised way to explore Antarctica. With the freedom to roam secluded areas at your own pace, these charters provide an intimate and exclusive experience. Whether you're travelling solo, with a partner, or in a group, there are options available for yachts accommodating up to 12 people, where you can reserve a cabin or even charter the entire yacht privately, ensuring a truly bespoke Antarctic expedition. 

A classic Antarctic trip is great for first-timers, offering stunning landscapes and wildlife of the Antarctic Peninsula. For a more adventurous journey, crossing the Polar Circle takes you further south and into remote areas rarely visited by tourists. 

Look for ships with various excursions like zodiac cruises, hiking, and kayaking. Also, consider whether the vessel provides specialised activities or programs such as photography workshops, informative lectures, skiing, or even diving. Base Camp itineraries offer deeper polar experiences, including camping under the Antarctic sky. For the ultimate expedition, consider a Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctica voyage, combining the best of the sub-Antarctic region with Antarctica's pristine landscapes. 

With so many choices, planning can be overwhelming with ship sizes, cabins, facilities, and activities to consider. We’re here to help you find the perfect vessel and departure tailored to your interests.

Contact us today to start planning!