Antarctica Temperature: What to Expect
Antarctica is famous for being super cold, but if you are hitting it up in the summer (from November to March) , you might get a surprise. From November to March, a lot of the coast warms up enough that it’s easier to get around and, you know, not freeze.
The temps can rise just enough for comfortable trips ashore, awesome animal sightings, and fun exploring. Just be ready for anything.
Antarctic Summer: The Details
The summer runs from late October/early November to March, which is when most expedition cruises happen. You get tons of daylight, sometimes even 24 hours of sun.
Hello, Midnight Sun!
In December and January, it barely gets dark. The sun just hangs out in the sky all night, especially the closer you get to the South Pole.
All that sunlight makes things a tad warmer, melts some snow, and means more time for checking things out.
How Warm Does It Get in Antarctica?
Coastal Areas
Cruises usually stick to spots like the Antarctic Peninsula. There, summer temps are usually between -2°C and 8°C (28°F to 46°F). On sunny days, it can actually feel okay, especially if you’re wearing the right stuff.
Inland Temps
The middle of Antarctica stays seriously cold, even in summer. But you probably won’t go there on a cruise. It can be below -20°C (-4°F) – unless you are with a team of science nerds.
Antarctica Temperature Differences by Month
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) | Avg Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| November | -2 to 3 | 28 to 37 |
| December | 0 to 5 | 32 to 41 |
| January | 1 to 7 | 34 to 45 |
| February | 0 to 5 | 32 to 41 |
| March | -1 to 2 | 30 to 36 |
Watch Out for Wind Chill
Even if the air seems okay, the wind can make it feel way colder. Strong winds are normal there, especially out on the water or ice.
If it’s 0°C (32°F) with a 20 km/h wind, it might feel like -10°C (14°F). That’s why you need windproof clothes for the summer.
Antarctica temperature vs. Arctic vs. Alaska
Lots of people mix up the Arctic and Antarctica. Antarctica is usually colder because it’s higher up and has big ice sheets on land.
| Region | Summer Temp Range (°C) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Antarctica | -2 to 8 | Dry, high winds |
| Arctic | 0 to 10 | Wetter, lower elevation |
| Alaska | 5 to 15 | Milder, more vegetation |
You can get by with just a jacket in Alaska, but even in summer, Antarctica needs proper cold-weather stuff. Lots of cruises let you rent gear or give you the basics, so don’t stress.
Why choose Antarctica over Alaska?
Antarctica offers more extreme nature, fewer tourists, and a true expedition feel.
- No towns, no roads — just ice, wildlife, and silence
- Penguins instead of bears
- Daily Zodiac landings instead of sightseeing from a distance
- Only 100 people per landing, compared to thousands on big Alaska cruises!
If you’re looking for real adventure, Antarctica wins.
What to Wear
Layering is key to staying warm:
- Base Layer: Wool or synthetic underwear
- Mid Layer: Fleece or down
- Outer Layer: Waterproof jacket and pants
- Accessories: Hat, gloves, scarf
Gear Checklist:
- Waterproof, insulated jacket (sometimes given by your cruise)
- Warm base and mid-layers
- Waterproof gloves with liners
- Wool socks and warm underwear
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (yep, really)
- Tough, waterproof boots
Don’t Bring:
- Cotton clothes (they get cold when wet)
- Fancy shoes
- Umbrellas (wind says no)
- Short sleeves without a layering plan
Warmest Spots in Antarctica
Where You’ll Probably Go – Antarctic Peninsula
The Antarctic Peninsula is the warmest and most popular place. You’ll find moss, penguins, and icebergs for kayaking. Some bays can even hit 8°C (46°F) on a sunny day.
Record Highs
The record is 18.3°C (64.9°F) at Esperanza Base in February 2020.
It’s rare, but proof that summer can surprise you.
📍 South Georgia Temperature
How Cold Is South Georgia During Cruise Season?
- Summer temperatures in South Georgia range from 5°C to 8°C (41°F to 46°F)
- Milder than Antarctica, but still cold and windy
- Expect rain, strong gusts, and sudden shifts in weather
- Wildlife-packed landings can last hours, so warm waterproof layers are still needed
Does It Get Above Freezing?
Daytime Temps
Yep! Sometimes it goes above 0°C (32°F), especially around Deception Island and Paradise Bay.
Melting Snow
When it warms up, some snow melts. That’s why those boots are useful. Most ice stays solid, though, because summer is short, and the wind is chilly.
How Cold is the Water?
Ocean Temps
The sea is around -1°C (30°F)—super cold but still liquid because of the salt.
Landing Safety
- Wear the boots they give you.
- Use the handrails and listen to the staff when getting off boats.
- Don’t touch the water, it’s crazy cold!
Climate Change in Antarctica
Warming Up
Antarctica, mostly the Peninsula, is getting warmer. Some spots have warmed by 3°C (5.4°F) in 50 years.
What it Means
- Some penguins have moved.
- Glaciers are shrinking.
- More rain, less snow in some places.
Weather Forecasts – Apps to Use
- Windy
- YR.no
- AccuWeather (limited data)
How Cruises Track Weather
Ships use satellites and their own weather people to decide if landings are safe. They will give you updates every day.
Antarctica Weather Myths
It’s Always Freezing
Nope. Summer temps are often around or above freezing on the coast.
You’ll Freeze Instantly
Nah. With the right gear and some sun, it’s often not as cold as people think.
What It’s Actually Like
Real Cruise Guest Quotes:
- I was shocked! It felt like spring skiing.
- Layering was a game-changer. I was never cold.
Biggest Surprises:
- How sunny it was
- How fast the weather changed
- How big a deal wind chill is
Staying Warm Tips
- Dry = Warm. Always wear waterproof stuff.
- Hot drinks and heated spaces on the boat will feel great.
Common Questions
- Is it always freezing? Coastal temps often go above 0°C in summer.
- How to handle the wind? Windproof jackets and covered skin.
- Coldest it gets on a cruise? Maybe -10°C (14°F) with wind chill.
- Can I get sunburned? Yes! Strong UV rays, use sunscreen.
- Winter boots and gloves needed? Yep. Waterproof, insulated gear is essential.
- Weather can cancel landings? Yep. High winds or ice can mess things up.
Be Prepared, Have Fun
Don’t worry too much about the cold. Antarctica in summer is okay, especially if you bring the right things and have a good attitude. Temps hang around freezing, and the wind can be annoying, but your cruise will help you get ready.
So, get ready to see icebergs, penguins, and crazy landscapes – comfortably and confidently!
Still not sure? Use our Cruise Finder
Antarctica Temperature FAQs
What is the average temperature in Antarctica during summer?
n summer (November to March), temperatures in the Antarctic Peninsula range from -2°C to +2°C (28°F to 36°F), with wind chill making it feel colder.
Does it snow in Antarctica during the cruise season?
Yes, snow is still possible during summer, especially during early and late season months. You may also get sunshine, wind, and light rain.
Is Antarctica colder than I expect on a cruise?
Many travelers are surprised by how manageable the cold feels. Sunlight, proper gear, and physical activity during landings help keep you warm.
What should I wear on an Antarctica expedition cruise?
You should wear waterproof outer layers, thermal base layers, insulated gloves, hat, neck warmer, and warm socks. Most cruise operators provide a waterproof parka and boots.
Can I get frostbite in Antarctica during summer?
Frostbite is unlikely during the summer cruise season if you wear proper clothing. However, wind chill can still make exposed skin uncomfortable.
How cold is South Georgia during a summer cruise?
South Georgia is milder than Antarctica, with average temperatures between 5°C and 8°C (41°F to 46°F). Rain and wind are common.
What kind of weather should I expect in South Georgia?
You can expect cold, wet, and windy conditions. Weather can change fast, so layers and waterproof clothing are essential.
Is the weather better in South Georgia than Antarctica?
Yes, generally milder but still unpredictable. You’ll feel warmer during hikes and landings but should still dress for wind and rain.
Do I need different clothing for South Georgia and Antarctica?
No, the same gear works for both. Just be ready to adjust your layers depending on daily conditions.
