Antarctic Peninsula

This is the closest landfall on the Antarctic continent for expedition cruises from Argentina and the most coveted spot of all. The frigid sea canals of the Antarctic Peninsula are framed by icebergs and dotted with ice flows and icebergs. The shores and waters brim with exceptional wildlife and, in protected coves, secure landing sites are plentiful. The peninsula is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife: five species of seal including the Weddell seal, the predatory Leopard seal, and the Crabeater seal, massive penguin rookeries, a significant number of whale species and a wide variety of seabirds, including albatross, petrels, shearwaters and skuas.

Falkland Islands

Surprisingly biodiverse, given the human existence and relatively recent war, the rock-strewn beaches and rugged cliffs of the islands are teeming with bird and marine life, untroubled by curious crowds. Here you can witness colonies of four types of penguins, dolphins, Cobb’s wren and the Falkland’s flightless steamer duck.  The Black Browed Albatross are the real wildlife gem of The Falklands, and the islands boast more than 80% of the world’s nesting population.

ARCTICS

Antarctica

The short Antarctic cruise season runs from late October to March, and even within this narrow window there are considerable variations in what you’ll see. These are the only months of the year when temperatures are known to reach above 0 degrees Celsius during the day on the Antarctic Peninsula, and through the east tends to be colder, it is still more tolerable at this time of the year.

Arctic expedition cruises set off in June and sail all the way until September, covering the period from the start of the northern summer up to the beginning of autumn. The best time to visit can be highly subjective because it’ll depend on where in the Arctic you wish to travel and which of the many unique experiences you wish to have

Early season: October – November

The start of the season in Antarctica is the most adventurous time to travel. The early season means colder temperatures, shorter days and pristine snowy landscapes. You’ll encounter truly breath-taking icebergs emerging from their frozen hibernation. Another advantage of visiting at the beginning of the season is lower fares. The days start to lengthen in November, and penguin chicks start to hatch. This is the best time to see elephant seals courting in South Georgia, and it’s the beginning of the mating season for penguins in South Georgia and the Falklands.

Peak season: December – January

December and January are the most popular months to visit Antarctica. The weather is warmer, the days are longer, and wildlife is active everywhere. It’s also the most expensive time to visit. Wildlife highlights include migrating whales passing through, seal pups on South Georgia beaches, and the courting season for seabirds, making this a good time for birding enthusiasts. In early January you can expect to see adorably fluffy grey penguin chicks. It’s also a good month for spotting seals and whales.

Late season: February – March

Towards the end of the season, you’ll have more chance of seeing whales, especially Minke and Humpback whales who migrate to these waters to feed. The receding ice also allows for further exploration into the Antarctic and penguin colonies are very active with adults feeding their chicks.