5 Reasons to Visit Antarctica in February

  1. The penguin chicks are now very active and curious, chasing both parents for food as soon as they return from fishing trips
  2. It's peak whale spotting season as all migrating pods have now made it down to Antarctica's rich waters
  3. February is the perfect month to reach the Antarctic Circle, now that the sea ice has receded to its summer minimum.
  4. The moulting stage begins for the adult penguins, while the chicks are fledging and learning to swim in the shallows
  5. The focus of the Humpback whales now changes, becoming more inquisitive now they’ve sated their appetite
Swoop Says background image

Swoop says

We love February for the frenzy of wildlife activity - crecheing chicks, predating leopard seals & copious whales - before the onset of winter. It's also arguably the best time to try to reach the Polar Circle.

Our Top Trips in February

Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.

Original Fly & Cruise Expedition Cruise

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 68-passenger expedition ship…

  • 8 Days
  • $11,495
Highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula

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, Relais & Chateaux cuisine and 24/7 butler service to the beautifully appointed…

  • 11-14 Days
  • $13,837
66 Degrees South Fly Cruise

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 73 people…

  • 10 Days
  • $15,995
South Georgia, Falklands and Antarctica In-Depth

Devised by a team with 50 years of polar expedition experience, from the balance of the time exploring each location, to the wealth of onboard expertise and thoughtfully designed expedition ships, this trip has a real ‘pedigree’. Explore with the…

  • 22 Days
  • $28,020
Customer review background image

What our customers think of Antarctica in February

Nothing is ever guaranteed when it comes to wildlife and when it comes to trips like this, it's hard to tick everything off the 'must see' list. With this in mind, I decided that I'd just be happy with whatever we came across. It just so happened that we got really lucky in seeing the rare Ross seal (so rare that none of the staff or crew had ever seen one before!), orcas, humpback whales leopard, crabeater, Wendell, elephant seals and 3 different species of penguins. Couldn't have asked for more! Read the full review

Travelled: February 2020

Kirstin Jen - Thailand

We were lucky to have 11 excursions and all were wonderful. My favourite was my personal encounter with a Minke Whale, who spent 30 minutes among our zodiacs and came up close enough for me to see eye to eye! A baby penguin biting my boot was fun as well. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2019

Deborah Merickel - United States Of America

It was an incredible and awe-inspiring place. The place met my expectations and the encounters there exceeded my expectations.

Travelled: March 2018

Kushal - UAE

The Antarctic is more magical south of the circle in February and March. Definitely worth it. Our ship [The Expedition] was the first to get through 'The Gullet', a narrow short cut with lots of sea ice, in seven years.

Travelled: March 2018

Sandra & Keith - UK

Customer Image

The experience was fantastic, all and more than we had hoped for!! The highlight was the enormity of the scale of the peninsular and the pristine, untouched solitude of the environment. The landscape was overwhelming and all encompassing, with a grandeur that we had not expected.

Travelled: February 2018

Sue - Australia

It was incredible and exceeded all of my expectations! The highlight was being able to experience wildlife up close, i.e. a humpback whale under our zodiac. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2017

Kira Day - United States Of America

Customer Image

I wasn't sure which month to visit Antarctica, in the end I picked February and I know I made the right choice. It was late in their summer so we had better access for the many excursions on land and the overall weather was excellent. Between the whale sightings, penguin chicks still in their nests and the incredible landscape, February easily is the best time to go.

Travelled: February 2017

Jeff - Arizona

Review:

Know which year you want to travel?

If you know when you want to explore the White Continent you can find your perfect trip on our specially dedicated year pages:

Alternatively you can browse the February trips for each year in the carousels below.

Antarctica Cruises in February 2024

Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.

Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Adventure

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…

  • 19-22 Days
  • $14,750
Original Fly & Cruise Expedition Cruise

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 68-passenger expedition ship…

  • 8 Days
  • $11,495
Highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula

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, Relais & Chateaux cuisine and 24/7 butler service to the beautifully appointed…

  • 11-14 Days
  • $13,837
Onto the Antarctic Ice

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…

  • 10-13 Days
  • $7,900
Antarctic Fly & Sail Combination

A rare and popular voyage which flies one way and sails the other, maximising both expediency and experience. Spend 5-7 days exploring Antarctica on a small, newly-built expedition ship, with kayaking & snorkelling available. January - March…

  • 9-14 Days
  • $11,695
Antarctic Explorer in Style

For those travellers prioritising real comfort and ease of travel logistics, this is a great option. Travel 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…

  • 11-12 Days
  • $10,795
Ross Sea Discovery: In Scott & Shackleton's Footsteps

Embark on this 28-day epic voyage to The Ross Sea, the 'Heart of Antarctica', experiencing the immensity of the Ross Ice Shelf and remoteness of this little-visited region. Includes privileged visits to Scott's and Shackleton's historic huts and research bases…

  • 28 Days
  • $29,450
Original Fly & Cruise Luxury Adventure

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.​…

  • 8 Days
  • $12,995
Cruise to The Antarctic Peninsula

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…

  • 11-12 Days
  • $8,895
Traversing the Antarctic Circle

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…

  • 15 Days
  • $13,135
Antarctic Peninsula in Focus

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…

  • 10 Days
  • $12,099
Quest for the Antarctic Circle

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…

  • 14 Days
  • $9,399
South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Voyage

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…

  • 9-12 Days
  • $6,990
Elegant Antarctic Peninsula

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…

  • 12 Days
  • $10,304
Ross Sea in Luxury

Travelling onboard a modern 5* expedition ship for only 21 days, this trip makes Antarctica’s remote Ross Sea so much more accessible. While the vessel's all-inclusive creature comforts and speed make sailing days pass by comfortably, the remoteness, wildlife and…

  • 21 Days
  • $23,990
Luxury South Georgia & Antarctica Fly & Cruise

Combine the spellbinding wildlife spectacle of South Georgia with the jaw-dropping landscapes of Antarctica on this luxurious time-saving expedition. Cut out two days at sea by flying between Antarctica and South America in just two hours.…

  • 16 Days
  • $28,700
Antarctic Basecamp Adventure

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’. Great value for money backed…

  • 13 Days
  • $8,400
66 Degrees South Fly Cruise

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 73 people…

  • 10 Days
  • $15,495
Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands In Style

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…

  • 20 Days
  • $17,895
Fly & Cruise the Antarctic Peninsula

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…

  • 12 Days
  • $14,795
Antarctic Peninsula Classic

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…

  • 12-13 Days
  • $9,895
Elegant Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

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*…

  • 21 Days
  • $16,199
South Georgia, Falklands and Antarctica In-Depth

Devised by a team with 50 years of polar expedition experience, from the balance of the time exploring each location, to the wealth of onboard expertise and thoughtfully designed expedition ships, this trip has a real ‘pedigree’. Explore with the…

  • 22 Days
  • $27,200
Falklands, South Georgia & The Polar Circle

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…

  • 23 Days
  • $15,700
South of the Antarctic Circle

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…

  • 12, 13 or 14 Days
  • $7,550
Antarctic Fly & Cruise Safari

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…

  • 8 Days
  • $11,995
Crossing the Antarctic Circle

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. With an average of just 132 passengers with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology…

  • 12-15 Days
  • $16,195
South Georgia & The Falklands In-Depth

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…

  • 17 Days
  • $23,090
Explore Antarctica, South Georgia and Falklands

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…

  • 17-23 Days
  • $13,595
Ultimate Luxury Antarctic Fly & Cruise

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…

  • 7 Days
  • $20,370
Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands Revealed

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…

  • 19 Days
  • $11,990
Voyage Beyond the Antarctic Circle with the Friends of SPRI

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,…

  • 15 Days
  • $17,005

Antarctica Cruises in February 2025

Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.

Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Adventure

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…

  • 19-22 Days
  • $14,750
  • 1-Feb-2025
Original Fly & Cruise Expedition Cruise

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 68-passenger expedition ship…

  • 8 Days
  • $11,495
Ross Sea Discovery: In Scott & Shackleton's Footsteps

Embark on this 28-day epic voyage to The Ross Sea, the 'Heart of Antarctica', experiencing the immensity of the Ross Ice Shelf and remoteness of this little-visited region. Includes privileged visits to Scott's and Shackleton's historic huts and research bases…

  • 28 Days
  • $29,450
  • 2-Feb-2025
Onto the Antarctic Ice

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…

  • 10-13 Days
  • $7,900
Antarctic Express Sail & Fly

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…

  • 10 Days
  • $9,950
  • 3-Feb-2025
Antarctic Circle Odyssey

Sail south to the iconic Polar Circle for 7 full days exploring the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula as part of an epic 14-day adventure. Pre-voyage hotel night in Ushuaia and a 3-in-1 parka jacket are included. An optional one-off…

  • 14 Days
  • $13,495
  • 4-Feb-2025
Antarctic Peninsula in Focus

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…

  • 10 Days
  • $12,099
Original Fly & Cruise Luxury Adventure

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.​…

  • 8 Days
  • $12,995
Ultimate Luxury Antarctic Fly & Cruise

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…

  • 7 Days
  • $20,370
Antarctic Peninsula Classic

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…

  • 12-13 Days
  • $9,895
Cruise to The Antarctic Peninsula

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…

  • 11-12 Days
  • $8,895
Highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula

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, Relais & Chateaux cuisine and 24/7 butler service to the beautifully appointed…

  • 11-14 Days
  • $13,837
South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Voyage

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…

  • 9-12 Days
  • $6,990
Crossing the Circle in Style

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…

  • 14 Days
  • $18,990
  • 7-Feb-2025
Quest for the Antarctic Circle

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…

  • 14 Days
  • $9,399
Encounter the Antarctic Circle

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…

  • 12 Days
  • $9,290
Antarctic Explorer Refined

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…

  • 11 Days
  • $7,178
Elegant Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

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*…

  • 21 Days
  • $16,199
  • 10-Feb-2025
Antarctic Express Fly & Cruise

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…

  • 8 Days
  • $9,975
Antarctic Fly & Sail Combination

A rare and popular voyage which flies one way and sails the other, maximising both expediency and experience. Spend 5-7 days exploring Antarctica on a small, newly-built expedition ship, with kayaking & snorkelling available. January - March…

  • 9-14 Days
  • $11,695
Antarctic Basecamp Adventure

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’. Great value for money backed…

  • 13 Days
  • $8,400
Elegant Antarctic Peninsula

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…

  • 12 Days
  • $10,304
  • 13-Feb-2025
66 Degrees South Fly Cruise

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 73 people…

  • 10 Days
  • $15,495
  • 16-Feb-2025
Ross Sea in Luxury

Travelling onboard a modern 5* expedition ship for only 21 days, this trip makes Antarctica’s remote Ross Sea so much more accessible. While the vessel's all-inclusive creature comforts and speed make sailing days pass by comfortably, the remoteness, wildlife and…

  • 21 Days
  • $23,990
  • 16-Feb-2025
Express South Georgia & Antarctica Wildlife Safari

The most time-efficient trip for those wanting to combine the top highlights of the Southern Ocean: the dramatic Antarctic Peninsula and the wildlife mecca of South Georgia. Travelling on a comfortable, ice-strengthened expedition ship you'll experience everything from king penguin…

  • 18 Days
  • -
  • 16-Feb-2025
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula

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…

  • 12 Days
  • $15,380
Antarctic Explorer in Style

For those travellers prioritising real comfort and ease of travel logistics, this is a great option. Travel 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…

  • 11-12 Days
  • $10,795
  • 19-Feb-2025
South Georgia, Falklands and Antarctica In-Depth

Devised by a team with 50 years of polar expedition experience, from the balance of the time exploring each location, to the wealth of onboard expertise and thoughtfully designed expedition ships, this trip has a real ‘pedigree’. Explore with the…

  • 22 Days
  • $27,200
  • 20-Feb-2025
Falklands, South Georgia & The Polar Circle

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…

  • 23 Days
  • $15,700
  • 20-Feb-2025
Luxury Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

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…

  • 19 Days
  • $19,986
  • 22-Feb-2025
Crossing the Antarctic Circle

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. With an average of just 132 passengers with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology…

  • 12-15 Days
  • $16,195
  • 23-Feb-2025
South Georgia, Antarctica and Falklands Explorer

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…

  • 21 Days
  • $19,795
  • 26-Feb-2025
Explore Antarctica, South Georgia and Falklands

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…

  • 17-23 Days
  • $13,595
  • 26-Feb-2025
South Georgia & The Falklands In-Depth

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…

  • 17 Days
  • $23,090
  • 28-Feb-2025

Antarctic Travel in February: FAQs

  • What's the weather like in Antarctica in February?

    Temperatures are still warm in February and the weather pretty stable, making travel pleasant.

    Average temperatures:

  • Is February the best month for seeing wildlife in Antarctica?

    February is Antarctica's most active wildlife month - in the rookeries, the penguin chicks are growing up fast making strong demands on their parents for food.

    As they become larger and more resistant to the predations of greedy skuas, the urgency on the part of their parents to provide enough food will mean they are left on their own while both parents go out to sea to fish. This steady stream of dutiful parent penguins entering and exiting the water means leopard seals are often seen predating along the ice edge.

    From late February, young penguin chicks start fledging and learning to swim in the shallows. February and March are also the best months for whale sightings in Antarctica, in particular humpback, minke and orca. The humpback whales tend to be very focused on feeding at this stage.

    On South Georgia, the main bulk of the king penguins will start laying their eggs in February/March, which means that there is the maximum number of birds in the rookeries at this time.

  • Is it cheaper to visit Antarctica in February?

    February, like late December and January, is technically classed as 'high season' which carries a premium over the lower shoulder season pricing in November and March. However in our opinion the better wildlife encounters and more stable weather during this period is well worth the extra investment.

  • Can I fly to Antarctica in February?

    Flights to Antarctica only operate through to mid-February, after which the airfield at Frei Base on King Georgia Island (South Shetland Islands) closes due to the onset of winter and won't re-open until 1st December.

  • What additional activities are available?

    With the arrival of high summer, the opening up of the ice allows kayakers to cover more ground, while +21 hours of daylight a day provides an interesting experience for overnight campers out on the ice.

Still unsure about when to travel?

Antarctica in November

Viewing Antarctica from the expedition ship's bow

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 …

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Antarctica in December

Viewing humpback whales off the Melchior Islands, Antarctica

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 …

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Antarctica in January

Emperor penguin & chick, South Georgia - Antarctica trip cost

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,…

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Antarctica in March

Taking a Zodiac ride to Pleneau Bay, Antarctica, in March

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 …

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Undecided on When to Travel?

Read Swoop's guide on choosing the best month and year for you, with advice on how to plan your perfect Antarctic voyage.

Help me choose when to travel

Ready to plan your Antarctic adventure?

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Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.

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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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