Please, please someone comment on this because I am driving myself crazy going back and forth on this decision. (I saw there was another post similar to this one, but I really want some more opinions) I have never been to Antarctica - I have an opportunity to go on a March 11 expedition on an ice breaker for two weeks. I am concerned, though, that since it is shoulder season it might not be a great experience. (And in fact, one of the travel agents said I maybe should skip it if I can only go in March - I am always suspicious when the tours are cheaper). This will likely be my only chance ever to go and I am DYING to go. But at the same time, I would hate to go and have it be totally disappointing (frankly I'd rather keep my dream of what I think it is, like all the unbelievable photos on this site).

I am a wildlife FREAK and would love to see the penguins as babies, but I understand they will be nearly fully grown in mid-March. I could live with that. But I am afraid they (and the rest of the animals) may already have all headed out to sea by then - can anyone tell me if this is true? I could handle it being colder, and maybe a bit dirtier (I hear there's more guano) but if there are no (or few) animals, it might not be worthwhile for me. Also, will the scenery still be amazing? I am afraid (and maybe I'm making this up being overly pessimistic) that it will be overcast the whole time and the ice dingy and the whole thing just not fantastic. On the other hand, I think, how could it possibly not be amazing? Especially since I really have no frame of reference - I'm thinking, even Antarctica on its worst day would still be the most amazing thing I've ever experienced. Help - I'm dying here!

Thoughts? Please?