Hi. My husband and I are trying to decide between cruise options for a Winter 2024 cruise that includes the southernmost ports of South America with or without Antarctica. Based on the itinerary we have drilled down to either 20 days on Oceania/Marina including Antarctica from Feb-Mar or 15 nights in January on Azamara/Quest excluding Antarctica. We prefer ships that carry fewer than 2,000 passengers. We prefer to DIY shore excursions. We are familiar with the Marina and the "old" Oceania. Know nothing about Azamara first-hand or about the "newer" Oceania.
So basically asking two questions: What would we be missing if we excluded Antarctica since neither cruise actually permits setting foot on land. How different would the onboard experience of Azamara be compared to Oceania? I am cross-posting this on the Azamara page as well.
Thanks very much in advance!