When to visit Antarctica & the Falkland Islands
While Antarctica’s strong climate guards its pristine landscapes for most of the year, Vantage enables travelers to discover its frozen wilds at their most beautiful. Not only is this the time of year when the majestic creatures of the south — such as Gentoo penguins, fur seals, and humpback whales — come out to breed, it’s but also when the unpredictable weather is at its most temperate. Experience it on an expedition cruise aboard our 5-star
Ocean Explorer, a luxury small ship that boasts a Polar Class 6 designation and a strengthened hull customized for navigating Antarctic waters.
November - December
This time of year is when the days begin to lengthen, and the penguins are out in full force for breeding season. Chicks begin to hatch, and, believe it or not, gorgeous flowers start to bloom on certain islands. Seabirds are plentiful and can be spotted taking wing over the Drake Passage, from albatrosses to cormorants. As the season reaches a point where the sun almost perpetually hangs in the sky, it’s easier to catch a glimpse of different whale species gliding past your ship. Discover it for yourself on
A White Continent Holiday: A Seasonal Expedition to South Georgia, the Falklands and Antarctica.
January - February (Antarctic summer!)
Set sail on our
Antarctic Grandeur: An Expedition from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires expedition during Antarctica’s peak season to witness the leopard seals mosey along the shores. Adolescent penguins make perfect playmates for the seals, giving their respective parents a break. The near 24-hour daylight makes this an optimal season for photographers to capture breathtaking stills of the strikingly snowy landscapes and icebergs. Fur seals are abundant in February, and albatross chicks are beginning to hatch.
Spotlight: The Falkland Islands
The Falkland Islands, situated just north of Antarctica, are accessible on our
Final Frontiers: Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falkland Islands Expedition and have their own specific seasonality. In a league of their own when it comes to biodiversity, the islands house an immense bird and penguin population.
- November & December: These are the best months to see gentoo, Magellanic, and rockhopper penguins rear their young — giving you more chances of catching a glimpse of their fluffy, gray chicks. In fact, December is when the majority of the wildlife here including sea lions, elephant seals and albatross will have new young and both the East and West islands teem with adorable creatures and unmatched photo opportunities
- January & February: This is peak season for the Falkland islands, so don’t miss out on the capital town of Port Stanley — bearing a unique mix of British and Argentinian culture — and the chance to meet other intrepid travelers in the quaint pubs and fish and chip shops here. King penguin chicks hatch in late January, and the warmer temperatures of February ensure that wildlife sightings are abundant and birdwatching is eventful.
