We are not "cruise" people. Lindblad/Nat Geo call this and expedition and we found out why. Expeditions will take you to the places they mention but where exactly is determined by the weather, the sea, and the animal life which all can be tricky. What people don't tell you is how essential the expedition leader is. We had a seasoned leader by the name of Russ Evans. Russ was so good that we would try to find him on other cruises just to have him lead our travel. Russ made sure that each and everyday was special and working with the Captain Aaron and the Asst. Leader for launches and the extensive team of seasoned naturalists - our trip was a total WOW. While we were about 140 guests - we never missed our on any landing having both Zodiac and shore cruises going on at the same time. Oh and doing the three locations is the best - each location is so different - I know a lot of people can't give 24 days for a trip like this - but going just to the Antarctica penninsula - you miss a lot. We were very happy to the spring - very beautiful and less smelly I think than fall (e.g. Feb.). Yes - this one is a bit pricey - but absolutely worth it and the crew of the Explorer goes all out for lodging, meals, and the expedition. We would go with Lindblad/Nat Geo again.