Having done Antarctica on Seabourn, I would NEVER settle for just sailing by Antarctica. Being on the ice is the closest thing to being on another planet. In other words, out of this world. Loved all the penguins and seals—and even a whole day of whales entertaining us, BUT the highlight was the daily time on the ice. I think every person who has gotten to get off the ship, has taken the rubber rafts by the ice bergs, around the icebergs, and finally stepping onto the ice, would agree. IMHO, it’s like a partial Panama Canal transit vs a complete one—only 100 times more impactful. Hope this helps.