5 Reasons to Visit Antarctica in March

  1. You are guaranteed great whale encounters - February and March are the best months for whale watching
  2. The penguin chicks are very curious towards visitors and are often drawn to the colour yellow in particular
  3. It's a popular month for photographers, with the sun now lower in the sky and wonderful sunsets/rises
  4. March can be a magical time as there are fewer ships around and it feels like you have Antarctica to yourself
  5. On South Georgia, the King penguin rookeries are at their most impressive and Macaroni’s are in their greatest numbers
Swoop Says background image

Swoop says

Early March is well worth considering, particularly for spectacular whale sightings. The lower Shoulder Season pricing can really make a difference. Do note that conditions can markedly deteriorate from mid March.

Our Top Trips in March

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

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
  • $10,050
Discover South Georgia, Antarctica and Falklands

This voyage stands out by visiting the Antarctic Peninsula first and keeping the wonders of South Georgia for the second half. Plus you’ll be travelling on board one of the most exciting new Polar ships with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology…

  • 19-25 Days
  • $22,595
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
  • $10,000
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
  • $10,199
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What our customers think of Antarctica in March

Take a look at what animals and scenery you might see in different months because it can truly vary from October to March – if you want whales, go in March and you will not regret it. Read the full review

Travelled: March 2023

Duncan Stewart - UK

The first sunrise in Antarctica is engraved in my mind and started a ripple effect of memorable moments. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2023

Nicole Kmiotek - USA

Best encounter with penguins was the final day. If you sat down, some of the more curious youngsters would come up to you and check you out. Made for some memorable pictures. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2022

Tom Hoster - USA

The temperatures were more moderate than expected and the wildlife was awesome. The highlight was the zodiac cruises to see the icebergs and sea life. The most magical moment was seeing the full moon rise over the mountain top. Read the full review

Travelled: March 2019

Charles Loflin - United States Of America

It's expensive but I don't regret a penny.

Travelled: March 2018

John & Lesley - UK

If you are going late in February or March I would highly recommend a circle crossing. The feel and look of Antarctica certainly changes down there. Spectacular. Otherworldly. Impossible to convey what it's like to some one who hasn't been there.

Travelled: February 2018

Sandra & Keith - UK

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Penguins were definitely the highlight. I could have watched them for hours. Lemaire Channel was spectacular though we had to turn around at the end due to iceberg blocking the way. We saw many whales - fin, humpback and orca. Read the full review

Travelled: March 2017

Nathalie Lemaire - United States Of America

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 March trips for each year in the carousels below.

Antarctica Cruises in March 2024

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

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
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
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
Classic Peninsula Voyage

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…

  • 11 Days
  • $7,399
Fly & Cruise Polar Circle

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…

  • 10 Days
  • $14,295
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
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
  • $20,509
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
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
  • 21-Mar-2024
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
Discover South Georgia, Antarctica and Falklands

This voyage stands out by visiting the Antarctic Peninsula first and keeping the wonders of South Georgia for the second half. Plus you’ll be travelling on board one of the most exciting new Polar ships with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology…

  • 19-25 Days
  • $23,595
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
Antarctic Peninsula Explorer

Explore the White Continent aboard one of the newest additions to the polar fleet, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. As well as being limited to only 132 passengers, there’s also a wide range of optional adventure activities…

  • 12-15 Days
  • $12,395
  • 24-Mar-2024

Antarctica Cruises March 2025

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

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
  • 1-Mar-2025
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
  • 2-Mar-2025
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
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-Mar-2025
Classic Peninsula Voyage

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…

  • 11 Days
  • $7,399
Antarctic Peninsula Explorer

Explore the White Continent aboard one of the newest additions to the polar fleet, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel combining adventure with comfort. As well as being limited to only 132 passengers, there’s also a wide range of optional adventure activities…

  • 12-15 Days
  • $12,395
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
  • 6-Mar-2025
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 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
  • 11-Mar-2025
Southern Atlantic Odyssey

This must be one of the world’s last great sea voyages - sailing from Antarctica up through the South Atlantic Ocean, visiting remote islands en route. Departing mid-March, it’s a 33 or 42 day long voyage depending on whether you…

  • 23-37 Days
  • $13,250
  • 14-Mar-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
  • 14-Mar-2025
Discover South Georgia, Antarctica and Falklands

This voyage stands out by visiting the Antarctic Peninsula first and keeping the wonders of South Georgia for the second half. Plus you’ll be travelling on board one of the most exciting new Polar ships with spacious cabins, state-of-the-art technology…

  • 19-25 Days
  • $23,595
  • 16-Mar-2025

Antarctic Travel in March: FAQs

  • What is the weather like in Antarctica in March?

    March is a time of change for Antarctica as the early onset of winter begins to be felt. From around mid March the weather becomes increasingly colder and less predictable, and the number of ships markedly thins out as the season draws to a close. It can be a tricky time of year to visit Antarctica and can feel very different, depending on whether you are there at the beginning or end of the month.

    Temperatures tend to be around -5 to 0 degrees Celsius (20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit), it can get colder, and of course, on a sunny day, it can feel a lot warmer. Wind chill may at times play a factor. Dress appropriately and you are unlikely to feel cold. Inside all the vessels you can expect standard room temperature and quite often each cabin will have its own temperature control thermostat.

    Things change quite quickly in March, for example, each day that passes there are around 15 minutes less daylight, so the sun is literally setting on the season.

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

    By early March in Antarctica, penguin colonies are still large and chicks are learning to swim and feed themselves. While the penguin populations in March will be smaller (although you'll still see thousands), it's prime time for whale watching, particularly in well-known hang-outs like Wilhelmina Bay. Humpbacks by March can now become more curious, particularly the juveniles.

    Towards the end of March things start to change: once the adult penguins have moulted, they start to desert the rookeries and head back to sea where they will spend the polar winter, not returning again to land until November. Whales are also fully fed and thinking about heading back north to their breeding grounds.

    For those doing the longer voyages including South Georgia, it's an exceptional time to be visiting. The King penguins are in their greatest numbers at this time making for great photography, there are lots of playful fur seals and Macaroni penguins, and the Wandering Albatrosses on Prion Island have small chicks.

    To read more on Antarctic wildlife, visit our dedicated page.

  • Is it cheaper to visit Antarctica in March?

    March is a shoulder season month to travel to Antarctica, like November, when the prices are lower than high season and trips offering good value can be found. Early March trips are definitely worth considering, however the savings made by taking a later March departure may well be eroded by the colder, less predictable weather and the fewer wildlife, so choose carefully.

  • Can I fly to Antarctica in March?

    Flights are limited this late in the season but there are still a few around. Get in touch with our Polar Specialists to find out the latest availability. 

  • What additional activities are available?

    March is still a very good month for kayaking. With the nights drawing in ever earlier as the month progresses, camping isn't always possible.

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 February

Majestic iceberg in the Crystal Sound, Polar Circle, Antarctica

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 …

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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.

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Ready to plan your Antarctic adventure?

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With over 150 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.

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