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Antarctica’s travel season runs November through March, when expedition ships can safely navigate its waters, with early summer bringing pristine snow and penguin mating activity, January ushers in 21+ hours of daylight and newly hatched chicks, while late-season months reveal increased whale sightings as migratory patterns shift.
All landings follow environmental protocols, with travelers arriving by Zodiac under the guidance of expedition leaders to protect fragile habitats. Crossing the Drake Passage, a legendary stretch between South America and the White Continent, is an essential part of the experience. Summer temperatures along the peninsula are often near freezing but more manageable than expected, made comfortable with the provided waterproof boots and expedition parka for everything from calm shore landings to windy Zodiac rides.
Senior Tour Design Manager
For nearly a decade, Sam has been proudly working for Collette, where she currently serves as the Senior Tour Design Manager of the Americas and Antarctica. She’s passionate about creating immersive experiences, exposing people to new cultures, and delivering unforgettable journeys to travelers.
Want to learn about our Tour Managers?
Learn MoreFrom handpicked hotels, restaurants, and cultural experiences to thoughtfully integrated free time, our on-the-ground team in Antarctica crafts journeys they'd want to take themselves.
Travelers always tell us that Tour Managers make the journey. It's like traveling with a friend who's got the inside scoop. They live in the destination and share hidden gems that only the locals know.
Tour Rating:
Absolutely amazing experience. Very highly recommended and great appreciation for the crew and expedition team. Atlas Ocean voyages was the best.
Tour Rating:
The entire staff was wonderful and it was a memorable experience.
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4.7 out of 5 in the past year - backed by 27,994 lifetime reviews
Travel begins with international flights into Buenos Aires, followed by a charter flight to Ushuaia, where guests board the expedition ship. From there, the voyage spends 1.5–2 days crossing the Drake Passage before reaching the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. This seamless air to ship flow is coordinated by Collette and our expedition partner.
Yes. Antarctica expedition cruising is highly regulated, and Collette partners with expert expedition teams who manage landings, navigation, and safety protocols. The ship includes medical staff, briefings before every landing, and strict environmental rules that keep both travelers and wildlife safe. The Drake Passage, while unpredictable, is approached with professional guidance and preparation.
Wildlife encounters change by month, but travelers typically see penguins (gentoo, chinstrap, Adelie), seals (Weddell, leopard), whales, and abundant seabirds like albatrosses and petrels. Your daily Zodiac outings offer close yet respectful viewing, guided by naturalists who explain behavior, ecology, and seasonal wildlife patterns.
The expedition ship provides a waterproof expedition parka (yours to keep) and waterproof boots (borrowed). Travelers need only pack base layers, gloves, hats, and waterproof pants. This gear keeps guests warm and dry during Zodiac rides, landings, and time on deck.
This itinerary is rated an Activity Level 4, best for active travelers comfortable with uneven terrain, climbing in and out of Zodiacs, and walking on snow or rocky surfaces. Landings can involve wet or dry conditions depending on the site, and days can be full and adventurous.
The Drake Passage is the stretch of sea between South America and Antarctica and is a core part of our Antarctica journey. Conditions vary from calm to more animated swells, but expedition crews provide safety guidance, seasickness support, and detailed briefings. Many travelers consider the crossing a meaningful milestone in the experience.
No — and that’s intentional. Once onboard, travelers are guided by a specialist expedition team, including naturalists, marine biologists, and experienced guides who lead landings and lectures. Collette manages all logistics before and after the cruise, including flights, transfers, and customer support.
Yes. Daily Zodiac outings, landings, wildlife viewing, lectures, and educational programming are included. Optional add‑ons like kayaking or camping on the ice may be available for an additional fee onboard.
The small expedition ships have a capacity of about 198 guests. Expect spacious staterooms (most with balconies), gourmet dining, included beverages, and lecture spaces designed for immersive learning — not cruise‑style entertainment.
Yes. All onboard gratuities for the expedition crew and ship staff are included in your tour package. Travelers may choose to tip extra for exceptional service but are not required to do so.
Dining is gourmet and fully included, with à la carte dinners, buffet options, and menus inspired by regional cuisine. Meals are designed for comfort and quality, and wine and beer are included. Lunch in Ushuaia is also part of the itinerary before boarding the ship.
