Iceberg in Sunset

When is the best time to travel to Antarctica or the Arctic?
Antarctic Season: Late October to March

October to Early December – Pristine Landscapes and Sea Ice
This period showcases Antarctica at its most untouched, with widespread snow and significant sea ice. Penguins arrive to nest, and other seabirds begin courtship. Seals are often seen resting on ice. Whale sightings are less common as they are still migrating.

December to February – Peak of the Summer Season
Long days, with some areas experiencing 24 hours of daylight, characterize the height of austral summer. Snow melts, revealing rocky landing sites. Penguin chicks hatch from late December to early January, and whale sightings increase significantly. Sea ice continues to recede, improving navigation, though ice conditions can always be unpredictable.

Mid-February to March – Whale Highlights and Penguin Farewells
Days shorten, but this is a prime time for whale watching as they feed. Seals haul out on beaches, adult penguins molt, and chicks grow juvenile feathers. Adélie penguins depart first, followed by chinstraps, with gentoo penguins staying longest. "Red snow," caused by algae, is a unique and photogenic phenomenon, marking a peaceful and wildlife-rich end to the season.

Arctic Season: June to September

June to Mid-July – The Realm of Ice
Ideal for experiencing ice, snow, and Arctic wildlife along the sea ice edge. The ice hasn’t completely melted yet, which creates good opportunities to spot polar bears and walruses. Migratory birds arrive for breeding.

Mid-July to Mid-August – Peak Exploration Season
By now, sea ice has retreated enough, allowing for smoother navigation, especially around areas like Spitsbergen. Tundra flowers bloom, creating colorful landscapes, and wildlife is active on land and at sea.

Mid-August to September – Golden Light and Northern Skies
Days shorten and weather becomes more variable. However, reduced sea ice allows access to more remote areas. The sun's angle creates stunning photographic light, particularly at sunrise and sunset. This is also an excellent time for viewing the northern lights (aurora borealis) as skies darken.

So, when is the best time?
There’s no single “best” moment — every period has its own magic. Whether it’s untouched icy landscapes and newborn penguin chicks in Antarctica, or polar bears and blooming tundra in the Arctic, each expedition is unique.
At The Polar Travel Company, we help you choose the trip and timing that best match your interests and goals.

How big are the ships that go to Antarctica? How many landings can I expect per day?

Ship Hondius in Svalbard

The number of landings or off-ship activities you can enjoy per day mainly depends on three factors: the polar operator’s expedition style (how they organise landings and activities), the size of the ship, and the international regulations that govern tourism in polar regions like Antarctica and the Arctic. And of course, weather conditions play a major role.

Since no more than 100 visitors are allowed ashore at the same time per landing site (in Antarctica, and in some parts of the Arctic, even fewer), landings are done in shifts.

In Antarctica, ships are divided into three categories. Ships with more than 500 passengers are in Category 3, with many restrictions — the most important being that they are not allowed to make landings.
Ships with 200 to 500 passengers are in Category 2 and still have some landing restrictions (there are places they cannot visit) and limitations on the amount of time visitors can spend on land, since landings are divided into several groups and are relatively brief. These ships do not usually manage two landings per day, at least not several days in a row.
Ships with fewer than 200 passengers fall into Category 1 and have fewer restrictions. Some vessels in this category aim to do two activities per day, which may include landings, Zodiac cruises — plus optional adventure activities like kayaking, snowshoeing, or camping.
There are operators that, while one group is on land, take the other group on a Zodiac cruise, allowing everyone to spend more time off the ship enjoying these incredible places. Other operators simply alternate groups, with one group doing the activity while the other remains on the ship, reducing time spent ashore.
In ships with fewer than 100 passengers, logistics are much simpler, since everyone can participate in the activity at the same time, allowing more time off the ship.

🚢 Category 3 (Large Ships – over 500 passengers): These ships cannot make landings. They offer panoramic cruises without going ashore and face strict operational restrictions in sensitive areas.

🚢 Category 2 (Mid-sized Ships – 200 to 500 passengers): Can land at certain sites but with limitations. Activities are divided into large groups, resulting in shorter time ashore per person. These ships typically do not manage two landings daily. This is an intermediate experience, but less flexible than smaller ships.

🚢 Category 1 (Small Ships – under 200 passengers): Offer greater freedom to land at various sites. Many operators aim for two activities per day, which may include landings, Zodiac cruises, or optional adventure activities. Some operators rotate groups to maximize time off the ship, while others alternate time between land and ship. This is the most popular choice, as most ships carry between 100 and 200 passengers.

🚢 Ships with Fewer Than 100 Passengers: Logistics are simpler as all guests can go ashore simultaneously, allowing for extended time on land and a more immersive experience. Ideal for those seeking maximum off-ship time.

At The Polar Travel Company, we work with a selection of operators who prioritise guest experience and environmental respect, so every day in the polar regions is unforgettable.

What makes a polar cruise cheaper or more expensive?

World Vogayer in Greenland

Polar expeditions are costly due to their remote nature and complex logistics (fuel, crew, supplies). Expedition prices can vary greatly: from USD 5,000 to over USD 50,000 per person. So what factors affect the final cost? Here are the main ones:

• Travel dates / season: Trips early or late in the season tend to be slightly cheaper than during the peak season.
• Trip duration: Longer voyages imply higher operational costs.
• Adventure activities: If activities like kayaking, camping, or mountaineering are included, it may raise the total price.
• Type of ship: More luxurious ships with included amenities usually cost more.
• Ship size: Smaller vessels divide costs among fewer guests, which increases the price per person.
• Cabin category: The cabin class also impacts the cost of the trip.
• Fly-cruises: These tend to cost 20% to 30% more than full ship-based expeditions, since they include the cost of charter flights.

Do I need to be in good physical shape to go on an Antarctica cruise?

Hiking in Greenland

While there are no specific physical requirements to travel to Antarctica (we always say you don’t need to be an athlete), it’s important to have a good general level of physical condition to fully enjoy the experience.
Walking on uneven terrain, getting in and out of Zodiacs during landings, or moving around the ship in rough seas can be a bit physically demanding.
Being in good overall health, having strength, and the ability to move freely are key factors to consider before booking an expedition.
That said, Antarctic and Arctic cruises are not particularly strenuous, except for some optional adventure activities that may require more effort. Travellers with an average (or above) fitness level are perfectly capable of enjoying a polar journey.

Is it very cold? What clothes should I bring?

Zodiac Cruise in Svalbard

Despite traveling to polar regions, extreme cold is not constant, especially during the summer season. Layering is key to staying warm, as the wind can be more impactful than the cold itself. It´s better to wear several light layers than one thick one. A waterproof outer layer (top and bottom) is essential, along with good boots, gloves, a hat, and sunglasses.
Don’t forget personal care items and lots of sunscreen. The sun reflecting off the water can be intense, so it’s better to stay protected.

• In Antarctica, temperatures between November and March generally range from 5°C to -5°C.

• In the Arctic, it’s quite similar, although in some specific areas summer temperatures can be slightly warmer, averaging between 10°C and -5°C.