| Month | Temperature (°C) |
| January | -2°C |
| February | -3°C |
| March | -12°C |
| April | -20°C |
| May | -30°C |
| June | -40°C |
| July | -45°C |
| August | -50°C |
| September | -40°C |
| October | -25°C |
| November | -10°C |
| December | -5°C |
Unlike the traditional four-season cycle most are familiar with, Antarctica simplifies things with just two: summer and winter. As you can see from the list above – it’s way too cold to visit Antarctica in the southern winter.
The winter, spanning April to October, is the exclusive domain of scientists in Antarctica. With weeks of ceaseless darkness and temperatures averaging a bone-chilling -45°C (-50°F), it’s an adventure best admired from afar. No commercial Antarctic cruise operates during this period.
In contrast, Antarctic summer transforms the continent into a wonderland; genuinely worth the time and effort to see.
From November to March, receding sea ice paves the way for the adventurous, inviting them to explore its awe-inspiring landscapes, encounter diverse wildlife, and navigate a glorious coastline.
Icebergs in summer
November (sometimes late October) marks the start of the Antarctic cruise season.
The continent emerges from its winter cocoon, with fast ice providing unique walking experiences and landscapes draped in pristine white powder—ideal settings for walking in land for penguin discovery and photography.
December ushers in longer days with 24-hour daylight, facilitating extended exploration. As temperatures hover around 0°C (32°F), thawing ice revitalizes Antarctic wildlife. Thee first penguin chicks are hatching and humpback whales return from the north to nourish in the waters.
Expect mostly blue skies and sunny days during December, but don’t rule out the occasional blizzard. But of course you still need to be prepared with warm clothing.
If you are on an Antarctic cruise during the festive season; you’re guaranteed a white Christmas!
January emerges as the crowd favourite. Its peak season in Antarctica and, to be blunt, the pricing tends to reflect the demand.
January offers stable weather and temperatures averaging 6°C . This bustling month showcases a flurry of wildlife activity—from playful and fluffy penguin chicks to majestic breaching whales—providing a vibrant snapshot of Antarctic life.
February is also a great month to cruise Antarctica. By now the penguin chicks are almost as big as their parents and learning to swim.
This month is popular for trips that aim to cross the Antarctic Circle at 66 degrees south—a feat promising adventure and perhaps more importantly (!) impressive bragging rights. With temperatures around 1°C (34°F), the landscape unveils rockier terrains, while wildlife flourishes in the milder conditions.
March bids adieu to the summer season, offering a final glimpse of Antarctica’s wonders before winter takes over. With temperatures averaging -5°C (23°F) and decreasing daylight, March focuses on memorable wildlife encounters, especially whale watching, as humpbacks and orcas grace the waters.
January and February are the optimal months to visit this amazing continent. These months offer the most stable weather and therefore the most reliable experience.
December comes close behind as a great time as well.
But those three months – December, January and February do come with a price tag and not just for the cruise itself. Flights from Australia and New Zealand tend to be at a premium during these months. Similarly hotel costs in Buenos Aires, Igaussu and so on are also higher during the peak summer season.
Travelling at the very start of the seas in November or at the end of the season, in March is a very good compromise. You will see the ‘must sees’ of Antarctic cruising but generally you’ll pay a little less.
Understanding Antarctic weather nuances is vital:
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Originally from the United Kingdom, Simon has worked in the travel industry for over thirty-five years. Widely travelled, he is passionate about genuine expedition style travel — cruises and rail journeys.
Expedition Partners (formerly Flower Travel) specialise in expedition style travel by small ship cruise and private rail journeys.
PH: 1300 654 861
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