During autumn and winter much of Antarctica's coastline is impenetrable due to thick ice and temperatures that can drop to -60 degrees. The best time to cruise to Antarctica is during the Antarctic summer from November to March, when you'll see Antarctica's wildlife at its busiest and benefit from up to 24 hours of daylight.
Due to strong demand and the relatively modest number of ships, particularly during High Season, to be confident of securing your first choice we would strongly urge that you begin planning at least 12 months in advance. For the most popular Fly & Cruise trips or those incorporating South Georgia, 18 months ahead isn't too early.
Early season Antarctic sunset
Sea kayaking
Hungry Adelie penguin chick in February
Spy hopping Orcas in February
Cruising among icebergs in February
Zodiac to Pleneau Bay in March
Mountaineering above Paradise Bay in November
Setting up camp in November
Tidal pools in December
Nesting chinstraps, Baily Head, South Shetland Islands
I spent eleven summer seasons in Antarctica and I genuinely don't have a favourite time - it's a place of such variety, constant wonder and excitement.
Swoop Expert
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
4.6 out of 5
Looking for an Antarctic adventure without compromising on comfort and service? This stylish 139-passenger ship, with its cavernous suites, fine dining and compelling itinerary, offers a polished Southern Ocean adventure at a fair…
4.8 out of 5
Travel with the pioneers of fly & cruise Antarctic voyages, flying in both directions and bypassing a 2-day sail on the Drake Passage. Regular departure dates (Dec - Feb) to choose from. Explore Antarctica aboard a trusty 67 passenger expedition…
4.7 out of 5
Fly over the Drake Passage in just 2 hours, both to and from Antarctica. Ideal for those wanting a high comfort level, but who have limited time or are anxious sailors. An outstanding program, successfully operated for over 15 seasons.…
4.5 out of 5
The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 7 days kayaking, hiking, camping, mountaineering and snowshoeing, all included in the price. A medium-sized expedition ship acts as your floating ‘basecamp’. An excellent deal backed up…
4.7 out of 5
Travelling on board this extremely comfortable ship, explore the highlights of the peninsula with a top class expedition team. Spacious cabins, delicious cuisine and optional adventure activities all help create this ideal marriage of comfort and…
4.6 out of 5
Explore the White Continent aboard one of the polar fleet's newest additions, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. As well as being limited to only 130 passengers, there’s a wide range of optional activities on this classic Antarctic…
4.3 out of 5
Spend 6 full days exploring Antarctica with the Polar Circle at 66 degrees south as your most southerly objective, on board one of the most exciting new vessels. A maximum of just 130 passengers, with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology and…
Swoop has catered for travellers of every group size. Whether you’re adventuring solo or bringing a group of over 100. We can help.
The best month to go to Antarctica will depend on what you hope to get out of your trip. Whether you hope to go sea kayaking, snowshoeing or photographing fluffy penguin chicks will affect your decision of when to go.
In November Antarctica opens its arms to the season's first visitors. You'll not only enjoy the excitement of walking on virgin snow, but you'll also appreciate its beauty as you discover the Peninsula aboard one of the few early visitors.
It's mating season for penguins, who will treat you to courtship displays and their nest-building. Seals of all kinds are also beginning to mate.
It's arguably the best time to travel to Antarctica for landscape photographers who will love the distinctive outlines of the giant icebergs cut against the sea and sky.
The summer sun bathes the continent in 20-24 hours of daylight in December, making it a popular time to visit. It's also a busy time for the penguin rookeries as the chicks begin to hatch from mid-December onwards.
The Christmas holiday period adds to the popularity, and prices tend to reflect this.
However you'll be treated to seals abound as they seek suitable mates and landscape photographers are treated to the still-crisp edges of great icebergs.
January is the peak of the Antarctic summer, so you'll enjoy magical 20+ hours of sunlight each day.
These extra daylight hours gives you more time each day to explore, making them very popular as you get to see a bit more of the Peninsula in the same number of days.
The slightly higher prices for early January reflect this popularity. In January you'll also see lots of penguin chicks having fun as they learn to run away from their mothers, while various species of seals abound.
February's the time for sailing all the way to the Polar Circle, the Sun's rays through December and January having weakened the pack ice significantly enough to allow for exploring the Peninsula so far south.
Photographers will appreciate the great light conditions, whilst wildlife enthusiasts will love the "penguin creches" formed by the growing penguin chicks and the return of whales to Antarctic waters.
March marks the end of the travel season to Antarctica. You'll be able to enjoy the mesmerising colours of blooming green and pink algae against the water and ice, as well as penguin chicks at their strongest, bravest and most inquisitive of visitors.
March is the best time to travel to Antarctica for cetaceans. Whales continue to feast through March in Antarctic waters before moving further north.
As Autumn dawns once more you'll have shorter days in which to explore, but also enjoy considerable savings compared with peak season.
If you know when you want to explore the White Continent you can find your perfect trip on our year pages
It's never too early to plan your Antarctic adventure. In fact, forward planning is vital to secure your first choice of expedition itinerary on the best suited ship for your trip …
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Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime and visit Antarctica in 2025. Forward planning is key for securing your first choice of expedition itinerary.
Discover MoreThe best month to go to Antarctica will depend on what you're hoping to get from your trip. Whilst November is great for photography and snowshoeing, December to February have more favourable weather and clearer ice conditions which make Polar Circle voyages possible. March is the best time to see whales in Antarctica, although the weather also becomes more unpredictable and daylight hours drop.
Our wildlife guides can help you decide the best time to travel to Antarctica to see whales, penguins and other wildlife. November is the time of mating penguins and other birdlife, whilst December sees chicks beginning to hatch. January is a popular time for seal sightings and fluffy penguin chicks, and February and March is the best time for whale watching and spotting fur seals.
Our team has visited Antarctica over 150 times and has 100 collective years of polar experience, so from which trip is right for you to what shoes to bring - there’s no question we can’t answer.
Choosing the right voyage is complicated, Swoop makes it easy. We offer no-nonsense advice on 1500 voyages across 30 ships to find you the right trip, cabin, price - and we don’t charge a fee.
We want to protect Antarctica for future generations - which is why we became a certified B Corp and set up our own conservation fund. So your adventures can be a force for good.
We leave nothing to chance in delivering your perfect trip and have over 6500 happy travellers to show for it. With a dedicated Antarctic co-ordinator & support throughout - you’re in safe hands.
Polar operators typically release their forthcoming departure dates and prices at least 18 months or so in advance, some even earlier. This is great news for travellers who like to plan ahead and get their cabin reserved early on, particularly if you can take advantage of an early booking incentive.
Given that there is only a finite number of places available on each departure, it really is a case of the early bird gets the worm – or, in this case, the best dates and the widest choice of cabins – so early booking is strongly recommended.
Trips that include time-saving flights to Antarctica, avoiding the Drake Passage, are incredibly popular and are the earliest of all voyages to become booked up.
Due to strong demand and the relatively modest number of ships, particularly during high season, we would strongly urge that you begin planning at least 12 months in advance to be confident of securing your first choice. December and January are particularly busy times and, typically, can be fully booked up 10 months ahead.
For the most popular Fly & Cruise trips or those incorporating South Georgia, 18 months ahead isn't too early.
Yes it's true, the shoulder season months of November and March tend to be priced approx. 10-15% less than during the high season (December to the end of February) and, as a result, are a good place to look for the budget-conscious or bargain-hunter.
The reason for this is partly the less predictable weather and slightly lower wildlife numbers, but it's also simply the case that many who live in Northern Hemisphere countries like to holiday during their worst winter months.
In our opinion, a great time to travel is in early December when it's still shoulder season pricing but you get all of the benefits of high season.
There certainly are: as well as securing your first choice, with many of the ships offering really quite generous early booking incentives of up to $1,500 per person, getting organised can pay dividends.
Given the strong demand for Antarctic cruises, boat operators rarely need to resort to offering any late availability discounts – particularly on the more popular ships and voyages – as cabins are normally all booked months in advance.
Any remaining unsold cabins tend to be left on the shelf for a reason, and choice will be poor at best, so it's not an approach we advocate.
However, if you're flexible on dates and don't mind paying a last-minute premium for your flights, there are normally odd cabins available.
Absolutely no glitches and lots of pleasant surprises including aircraft carrier sized icebergs, Zodiac trips through ice fields, climbing the volcano on Deception Island, and up-close-and-personals with penguins, seals, and humpback whales. The continent is ineffable: words fail.
Travelled: December 2017
Marc - Florida
Review:
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
4.7 out of 5
By offering time saving flights, extended time in Antarctica and the chance to reach the Polar Circle, this 10-day voyage maximises the polar experience. Minimum travel time and maximum exploring time and all the benefits of only 76 people…
4.3 out of 5
Travelling aboard this modern 134-passenger ship with its 200-degree observation lounge and spacious cabins, spend 4 full days exploring Antarctica’s extraordinary icebergs and wildlife. Optional camping and kayaking, while Ushuaia hotel accommodation and a parka jacket are included in the…
4.5 out of 5
With a good choice of departure dates through the season across three medium-sized ships, this 19-22 day trip stands out for its value for money and the broad range of cabin categories available, including Quads, which are…
4.6 out of 5
A classic 10-day voyage to the White Continent. Perfect for those wanting great value and comfortable accommodation. Sail aboard a purpose-built X-bow expedition ship with an average of 175…
Sail to the White Continent aboard one of the most luxurious ships currently available. Unsurpassed comfort and true 5* service are this operator’s hallmarks. From the discreetly attentive service and French-inspired cuisine to the beautifully appointed public areas, this is…
4.2 out of 5
On a long voyage with so many days at sea, the journey is made more enjoyable aboard this comfortable, well appointed 4* ship with its capacious cabins and dedicated staff. Choice of 17-23 day departures per season, with optional kayaking…
4.6 out of 5
Explore the White Continent aboard one of the polar fleet's newest additions, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. As well as being limited to only 130 passengers, there’s a wide range of optional activities on this classic Antarctic…
4.6 out of 5
If you’re keen to fly to Antarctica instead of sailing, this 8-day trip is ideal, with a choice of dates in December and January. Travel on outstanding modern expedition ships with a maximum of 140 passengers. Active adventurers can enjoy…
For those travellers looking for seamless travel on a trip that is hassle-free and all-inclusive, this is the perfect option. Skip over the notorious Drake Passage on a comfortable two hour flight to Antarctica, then travel onboard a state-of-the-art mega…
4.9 out of 5
Join this classic Southern Ocean voyage, with a choice of two 21-day departures in the season. Travel aboard a generously proportioned 134-passenger expeditionary ship, undertake daily landings, with camping and kayaking for the…
An epic 23-day voyage which packs in an astonishing 7 days in Antarctica, 4 days in wildlife-rich South Georgia and the Antarctic Circle at 66 degrees south. It's very rare to find a trip combining all three places. Limited departure…
4.7 out of 5
Fly over the Drake Passage in just 2 hours, both to and from Antarctica. Ideal for those wanting a high comfort level, but who have limited time or are anxious sailors. An outstanding program, successfully operated for over 15 seasons.…
4.5 out of 5
For an unparalleled Polar Circle experience spending 8 full days in Antarctica, choose this trip. Head south when penguin and whale activity is at its peak, accompanied by a highly experienced team. This elegant 139-passenger ship combines true comfort and…
4.5 out of 5
This voyage stands out by visiting the Antarctic Peninsula first and keeping the wonders of South Georgia for the second half. You’ll travel on board one of the most exciting new polar ships with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology and optional…
4.8 out of 5
Travel with the pioneers of fly & cruise Antarctic voyages, flying in both directions and bypassing a 2-day sail on the Drake Passage. Regular departure dates (Dec - Feb) to choose from. Explore Antarctica aboard a trusty 67 passenger expedition…
Soak up the Antarctic Peninsula's spectacular wildlife and landscapes from the ultra comfort of a modern, luxury ship. Balance time exploring ashore with sumptuous relaxation on board, where the highly trained onboard team caters to your every need. With the…
4.9 out of 5
For adventurers prioritising real comfort and ease of travel, this is a great option. Journey in style aboard a state-of-the-art expedition ship, with heli-sightseeing available on select departures for a unique bird's-eye view of Antarctica. Plus, the comprehensive transfer package…
4.8 out of 5
With three medium-sized expedition ships to pick from and regular departure dates throughout the season, this well-priced voyage is a popular option. Across striking landscapes and icy seas, your company includes penguins, seals, whales and skuas. For the adventurous, optional…
4.5 out of 5
Purpose-built to tackle polar waters, an eco-minded vessel makes the ocean crossing between Antarctica and the wildlife Eden of South Georgia as comfortable as possible. Traverse the breathtaking Antarctic Sound where huge tabular icebergs dwarf the ship and immerse yourself…
Travelling in January, at the height of the Austral summer, when weather and wildlife are arguably at their optimum, spend 15 days aboard a comfortable 114-passenger expedition ship as you make your way south to bisect the intangible Polar…
4.7 out of 5
Travelling on board this extremely comfortable ship, explore the highlights of the peninsula with a top class expedition team. Spacious cabins, delicious cuisine and optional adventure activities all help create this ideal marriage of comfort and…
Combine the spellbinding wildlife spectacle of South Georgia with the White Continent's jaw-dropping landscapes on this luxurious time-saving expedition. Cut out two days at sea by flying between Antarctica and South America in just two hours. If you're seeking seamless…
4.6 out of 5
Travelling aboard a state-of-the-art small ship and accompanied by unparalleled onboard expertise, expeditionary cruising doesn’t get much better. Regular departures throughout the season and a choice of three outstanding ships renowned for their comfort, enhanced safety features and spirit of…
4.3 out of 5
A rare and popular voyage which flies to Antarctica in just two hours, then sails back across the Drake Passage, maximising both expediency and experience. Spend 5 to 7 days exploring Antarctica on a small, purpose-built expedition ship, with kayaking…
4.1 out of 5
This classic Peninsula trip stands out for its generously proportioned cabins, value for money and stylish 114-passenger ship. Spend 4-5 days experiencing Antarctica’s highlights, with optional camping and kayaking. Complimentary hotel stay in Ushuaia and a parka jacket are nice…
4.8 out of 5
For those seeking a high level of onboard comfort without formality or stuffiness, the relaxed atmosphere on this expedition is an ideal match. Smooth logistics with chartered domestic flights makes for a stress-free journey to and from Antarctica. The calming…
4.6 out of 5
Aboard a very capable and spacious 134-passenger vessel, spend 7 days exploring the Peninsula with the planned highlight being reaching the Polar Circle. This 14-day trip benefits from spacious cabins and outer decks, and the option to camp out or…
Voyage south in Shackleton’s footsteps, exploring the Southern Ocean's highlights as part of this expansive 20-day adventure. A well-balanced itinerary gives plenty of time in each jaw-dropping location. Explore from the comfort of your sleek purpose-built expedition ship, accompanied by…
4.3 out of 5
For maximum time in Antarctica with flights both ways, this trip really stands out. An extended fly & cruise voyage spending eight full days actually in Antarctica onboard a small, state-of-the-art expedition ship. Optional kayaking & polar…
This is the ideal voyage if you're looking to explore the spectacular wildlife of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia without compromising on time in Antarctica. Off-ship adventures are perfectly balanced with relaxation time on board your comfortably appointed 5*…
This voyage was devised by a team with 50 years of polar expedition experience. From the balance of time exploring each location to the wealth of onboard expertise, the trip has real pedigree. Explore aboard a thoughtfully designed expedition vessel…
4.5 out of 5
Visit one of the last untamed areas on Earth. Explore ruggedly beautiful landscapes and amazingly varied wildlife on board an elegant and modern 4* vessel. Optional activities include photo and video workshops with experts, as well as polar…
4.6 out of 5
By including optional kayaking and diving, these late season voyages offer the chance to maximise your polar crossing experience by exploring Antarctica both on and under the water. Travelling at that time provides excellent photographic and whale watching conditions, alongside…
4.3 out of 5
Spend 6 full days exploring Antarctica with the Polar Circle at 66 degrees south as your most southerly objective, on board one of the most exciting new vessels. A maximum of just 130 passengers, with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology and…
Uniquely focused on extensive exploration of South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, without heading further south to Antarctica. Spend 8 full days exploring these bountiful sub-Antarctic Islands, brimming with both wildlife and history. Limited to spring and late summer…
A unique voyage to the Circle. Designed especially for the Friends of SPRI, you will plunge far south to cross the little-visited Antarctic Circle. You will be accompanied by an exclusive set of guest speakers including Dr John Shears,…
Journey beyond the Antarctic Circle in real comfort aboard a state-of-the-art expedition ship. Spend an extended period of 7 action-packed days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Attractive comprehensive transfer package from Buenos Aires available on select departures. Wide choice of optional…
4.7 out of 5
This impressive voyage combines all the comfort and speed of flying in both directions with extended time in Antarctica (7 full days), allowing you to head south towards the remote Antarctic Circle. Explore from the comfort of your outstanding purpose-built…
4.5 out of 5
The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 7 days kayaking, hiking, camping, mountaineering and snowshoeing, all included in the price. A medium-sized expedition ship acts as your floating ‘basecamp’. An excellent deal backed up…
With 8 full days exploring the wildlife meccas of South Georgia and the Falklands, this trip particularly appeals to wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Travelling aboard a small custom-designed 100 guest expedition ship ensures extended time ashore each day. Further benefits…
Setting sail early in the season, be aboard one of the first ships to head south as the Southern Ocean reopens for business. It's a special time in South Georgia as the beaches are packed with breeding elephant seals, while…
Setting sail from Montevideo, Uruguay in late October, be aboard the first ship south for the season. It's a special time in South Georgia with the beaches packed with breeding Elephant Seals, while Antarctica lies pristine and untouched, awaiting the…
For a truly 5 star Southern Ocean experience, this is the voyage to consider. Cosseted aboard the most luxurious, all-inclusive expedition ships currently in Antarctica, enjoy outstanding cuisine, impeccable service and daily guided…
4.6 out of 5
Looking for an Antarctic adventure without compromising on comfort and service? This stylish 139-passenger ship, with its cavernous suites, fine dining and compelling itinerary, offers a polished Southern Ocean adventure at a fair…
With a wide range of departure dates and a great choice of optional adventure activities to choose from, this itinerary offers flexibility and variety. Spend 4 full days exploring Antarctica with your experienced team of naturalist guides from the comfort…
Encounter a diverse blend of history, landscapes and epic wildlife with an impressive 12 days of off-ship exploring the Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica. A pre-voyage Santiago hotel stay and domestic charter flights are included for maximum convenience and value.…
Few other voyages offer 6 full days on the Peninsula. You'll have time to really absorb the incredible glacial landscapes, unique wildlife & the history; whilst options for kayaking & camping offer another perspective. The large & stable vessel softens…
Sailing on one of the smallest Antarctic expedition ships, this trip offers an intimate experience of the White Continent and maximises your time exploring on land. Trips run in November and March, with four full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.…
Experience Antarctica from a hybrid diesel-electric ship with reduced fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions and quieter sailing. Off-ship exploration, including optional kayaking and camping, is complemented by educational lectures, citizen science workshops, and crafts sessions. Relax in outdoor jacuzzis while…
With complimentary kayaking, camping and snowshoeing included, this trip will appeal to adventurous travellers keen to take in the best of the Antarctic Peninsula. A comfortable ship, high calibre guiding and great value for money to…
Enjoy the best of both worlds by sailing south, experiencing the journey across the Drake Passage and the elation of spotting your first iceberg, then expedite your return to civilisation by plane at the end. In between, spend four days…
4.8 out of 5
The great strength of this trip is choice – a wide selection of departure dates and optional adventure activities available on a sleek purpose-built 138 passenger expedition ship. Spend four full days exploring Antarctica. Enjoy daily shore landings and zodiac…
Focusing only on Antarctica and South Georgia, missing out the Falklands, this voyage is both rare and attractive. Sail first to Antarctica and then on to South Georgia at a time when the king penguins are in their greatest numbers.…
Fast-tracking your arrival into Antarctica by flying and skipping the Drake Passage means a compressed journey of only 2 hours before embarking on your spacious and well-appointed 148 guest expeditionary ship. Touches other travellers have appreciated include the onboard National…
4.6 out of 5
A cost-effective Antarctic adventure. This itinerary is also ideal for those with limited time wanting to combine Antarctica with time exploring Patagonia. Sailing one way and flying back, you get to combine two iconic places: Antarctica and Cape Horn. Note,…
An extended voyage to the peninsula with 6 full days exploring the White Continent. Your comfortable 175 passenger ship will sail towards 66 degrees south in pursuit of the remote Antarctic Circle. An ice-strengthened PC6 hull allows your vessel to…
Travelling on board a modern, state-of-the-art 5* ship with only 200 people, this voyage combines the best of both traditional and expedition cruising. Spend 5 days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula in comfort. All-inclusive pricing means luxury at an affordable…
A chic Scandi-style vessel with an informal onboard atmosphere is your launchpad for this wildlife-rich expedition covering the dramatic trifecta of the Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica. Smooth domestic travel logistics in Argentina are woven into the inclusive itinerary for…
A streamlined wildlife-rich itinerary with a luxury focus. Sail straight to jaw-dropping South Georgia before continuing on to pristine Antarctica. Explore in comfort, indulging in exceptional cuisine and one-to-one service. Complimentary kayaking session and a hassle-free journey with return domestic…
More helpful insights when researching your perfect Antarctic adventure.
Whether you’re visiting the Antarctic Peninsula or heading for the South Pole, discover the different routes by sea and air to visit the Seventh Continent.
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Month of travel, length of trip, whether you fly or sail, and the level of comfort will have an influence on the end price. Let Swoop's deep knowledge guide you.
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From stepping foot on polar shores to zodiac cruises, and wildlife encounters to adventure activities, here’s what you can expect from an Antarctic cruise.
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We've teamed up with some of the best cruise operators so that you can choose from over 80 cruise itineraries based on your dates, budget and appetite for adventure.
Discover MoreWe'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.
With over 100 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.
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