When most people think of a vacation, they probably don’t think of Antarctica. The frigid temperatures, the lack of amenities, the frigid temperatures, the somewhat remote access, and did I mention the frigid temperatures?

Still, Antarctica is one of those breathtaking destinations that more and more people are adding to their bucket lists because it’s off the beaten path, and so unique. And, one of the best ways to explore this continent is in luxury, of course. By luxury, I’m talking about none other than a Lindblad Expedition aboard a National Geographic ship.

Cruises Are Booking Now for 2018 and 2019

Lindblad Expeditions are now booking for November and December 2018, as well as January, February, November and December 2019. The itinerary to explore The White Continent is 14 days long, and includes a day in Buenos Aires, Argentina before transferring to Ushuaia, Argentina. In Ushuaia, you’ll embark on either the National Geographic Explorer or the National Geographic Orion heading to Antarctica. From there, you’ll enjoy a full five days exploring Antarctica. With nearly 24 hours of daylight during these cruises, you can expect to have plenty of time and flexibility with your schedule to see all that this stunning location has to offer.

What to Expect

No matter when you go, you’ll want bring all the warm clothes. However, other than cold weather outdoors, what to expect varies based on when you will be sailing.

Guests traveling in November are considered the “first visitors of the season,” and will therefore enjoy the most pristine conditions, and “virgin snow.” This is a photographer’s dream offering such photo opportunities as icebergs, deep aquamarine colors, and ground as white as, well, snow!

November is also when the Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins come ashore to mate and build their nests, giving guests a rare glimpse of their amazing courtship rituals, sky pointing, and stone stealing.

During December the the gentoo, Adélie and chinstrap penguins are on eggs which will hatch around the end of that month. Then, in January all the penguin hatchlings will be screeching and running about.

December and January are also the best times to witness the elephant seals coming ashore to molt. This time of year is considered the height of wildlife sightings. December is when there are 24 full hours of daylight, giving you the rare chance to take photographs at midnight as well.

Guests traveling in March will get the opportunity to see the humpback whales which arrive to feed in the productive waters of the Antarctic. Marine mammal sightings at this time of year include orca and minke whales, and additional animals will be available to watch as the season goes on.

In February penguin colonies are still very busy, fetching krill and feeding chicks. Towards the end of the month, the adult penguins will fledge into the ocean. This month is also the best for capturing photos of the sunset, as the days will begin to shorten again.

Learn More About Expeditions of Antarctica

This post has barely scratched the surface of all that guests of the Lindblad Expeditions will enjoy on their Antarctic journeys. To learn more about what awaits you, or to book your exploration of The White Continent, call Ingenious Travel at 888.695.0321. We look forward to helping you create the Antarctic exploration of your dreams!

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