Corinthian II in Antarctica
No travelers visit Antarctica during the winter when polar ice blocks ship traffic and temperatures plunge into the negative degrees, even along the relatively warmer coasts. Most vessels offer tours from November to March. November : The month of November (late Austral spring and early Austral summer) undoubtedly offers the most adventurous time to visit the Peninsula. This is the time to see Antarctica at its most undisturbed form. As the season goes on, the landing areas become impacted and muddy. Some operators tend to discourage November voyages as temperatures tend to be colder and polar ice is still breaking up so access to some areas may be limited. However, the cold temperatures also offer the most impressive icescapes, pristine snow and breathtaking scenery. Wildlife is not as plentiful as later in the season, but it is a good time to see the penguins mating. There are fascinating courtship displays in the penguin rookeries and travelers can see the penguins at work building their nests. December to Early February : December and January have the most sunlight (up to 20 hours a day), penguins begin hatching, and vessels are typically fully booked many months in advance. Wildlife, especially penguin chicks, is most plentiful during this time typically. Mid-February and March : Late summer, February and early March is the best time to spot whales, though you are taking the risk that other wildlife may already be gone out to sea. Cruises tend to be less crowded so often there is less waiting time for Zodiacs and station tours. This time of year you are also likely to have better access to areas further south as polar ice melts.
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