Antarctica
Fly and Cruise Antarctica
Antarctica
Antarctica
Enjoy a unique 10-day air-cruise expedition from Buenos Aires to the Antarctic Peninsula. Cross the mythical Drake Passage by ship and fly back from King George Island to Punta Arenas, combining polar presentations, Zodiac landings, and the comfort of an included Wi-Fi data card.
Duration: 10 days / 7 nights on board
Starts: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Ends: Punta Arenas, Chile
Language: English speaking voyage
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. The Captain and/or Expedition Leader will make necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
Charter Flights More info about this activity
In departures with charter flights, part of the air transport segment is covered by the operation of the trip as part of the itinerary.
Check in the inclusions and exclusions of the program which air sections are included in your itinerary.
Polar Plunge More info about this activity
The ultimate icy challenge! The Polar Plunge is a classic rite of passage for every explorer, it is a heart-pumping experience that earns you a badge of courage and unforgettable memories.
Ship Cruise More info about this activity
Not only we travel from one point to another and find our shelter on board the ship we chose. We also enjoy from incredible scenery, landscapes and interactions that only our noble vessel can provide.
Everyday the Bridge Team navigates the ship to position ourselves on the best posible spots, looking for unique opportunities.
Many times, this includes sainig through narrow passages, on the vicinity of glaciers or entering bays and fjords only approachable from the ship.
Enjoy this incredible places from the comfort of the common areas on board, open decks or your own private balcony!
Shore Excursion More info about this activity
Shore excursions are the backbone of almost all itineraries, with most ships making landfall at least once every day once they reach their destination. The weather plays a huge role in your daily itinerary, although given the sheer array of fantastic landing sites all over there are plenty of options your Captain and Expedition Leader can choose from. On-shore excursions allow you to visit scientific research stations, communities, prominent wildlife colonies and take hikes to elevated viewing points for fantastic photography.
Photo Workshop More info about this activity
The photography workshops are composed of onboard lectures and practical activities led by dedicated expedition guide. Each session is meant to give you additional skills you can put into immediate practice out in nature.
You'll become more familiar with your own camera equipment while also learning best practices for taking pictures of moving wildlife and wide-open terrain in typical polar conditions, such as dim lighting and falling snow.
Zodiac cruising More info about this activity
On board the Zodiac you will discover a world of possibilities; accessing the most exclusive landing sites, cruising the coast in search of wildlife or simply enjoying a tour in the calm of the polar regions in search of marine wildlife or bird colonies.
The blue ice an its intimate presence is experienced at its best on zodiac tours.
It is not uncommon to meet curious seals, or humpback whales feeding.
Enrichment Program More info about this activity
Expedition cruising must be one of the most incredible ways of travelling. Not only for the amazing places you visit and the unforgetable wildlife but for the wildlife, the sensory overload and the unimaginable memories.
But all of this needs a context in order to understand where you are and what you are experiencing.
On board your expedition vessell you will find a group of experts, naturalists, zodiac drivers and guides that that will translate the language of nature for you, telling you the stories of the places you are visiting, reviewing the historical, biological, ecological and geological aspects of your trips.
You will experience first hand what surrounds you and arrive back home wiser and loaded with new knowledge.
Citizen Science More info about this activity
There’s important work being done every day, at some of the most renowned climate research facilities around the world, to record and study the incredible changes happening in remote places like Antarctica and th Arctic. As you might imagine, gathering critical on-site data on a regular basis would be a virtually impossible task for these groups. So we do it for them, in partnership with different research facilities.
If you’d like to get a first-hand look at how climate change is impacting our birds, sea life, glaciers, oceans, and weather patterns, and help scientists better understand our evolving planet, you’re welcome to join our Citizen Science program. And don’t let the word “science” scare you. We make it informative, interactive, and fun.
Hiking More info about this activity
Hiking options include very easy beach hikes (good for photographers who need time for photography), easier short hikes, medium-difficulty extended hikes, and more challenging long hikes.
Kayaking More info about this activity
The experience of sea kayaking in the humbling wilderness of Antarctica or the Arctic is guaranteed to stir your soul.
Sea kayaking is one of the highlights for any Polar Traveller, providing ice and weather conditions are assessed as safe by your Expedition Team.
This activity requires previous kayaking experience.
Paddling More info about this activity
Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you'll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.
Standup Paddleboarding More info about this activity
SUPing combines the immersive experience of kayaking but in a standing position. Participants, if they prefer, can kneel, sit or even lie down and stare up at the azure Antarctic sky. Because of their wide base and tail fins, SUP boards are quite stable, enabling participants – after a bit of practice – to stop staring at their feet and admire the surrounding scenery. Imagine seeing Gentoo penguins gliding below you, or making eye contact with a Weddell seal lying on a piece of ice as you paddle by.
Guests receive on-ship and on-water instruction from a qualified SUP guide. In addition, a safety driver (in a Zodiac) stays within range to offer assistance.
Embark on an extraordinary Antarctic voyage that combines classic sailing with the efficiency of a return polar flight. The journey begins in Buenos Aires, from where you will fly on a private charter flight to Ushuaia to embark. You will sail through the Beagle Channel and into the legendary Drake Passage, an ocean crossing where the Expedition Team will deliver a comprehensive programme of talks on wildlife, geology and polar history whilst crossing the Antarctic Convergence at 60° south.
Once in the South Shetland Islands and on the Antarctic Peninsula, you will explore bays and majestic glacial channels by Zodiac dinghy. Guided landings will allow you to walk through pristine landscapes, visit scientific research stations and observe colonies of Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins at close quarters, as well as look out for whales and leopard seals. The highlight of this programme takes place on Day 9, when you will disembark on King George Island to board an exclusive flight across the Drake Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, avoiding the return voyage by sea. Passengers will be provided with a complimentary 1GB data card on board to maintain basic connectivity.
Highlights:
Efficient combined itinerary: Avoid the return crossing of the Drake Passage by taking a direct flight from King George Island to Chile.
1GB Wi-Fi data card included per device for basic messaging and limited browsing in polar regions.
Daily excursions and Zodiac boat trips to explore the channels and glacial bays of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Close-up sightings of polar wildlife, including multiple species of penguins, humpback whales and the elusive leopard seal.
Post-expedition hotel stay with breakfast included in Punta Arenas upon completion of the Antarctic flight.
Day 1: Arrival in Buenos Aires and overnight stay at a hotel
Overnight stay at a hotel included
On arrival in Buenos Aires, please make your way to the designated group hotel, which is included in your Hotel and Charter Flight Package. A briefing room will be open from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for luggage weighing and labelling. A Quark Expeditions representative will be on hand to answer your questions and provide information about the following day’s flight and boarding the ship.
Day 2: Arrival in Ushuaia and boarding
Cruise through the Beagle Channel
After an early breakfast at the hotel, your group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. Your package includes some free time to explore this picturesque harbour town on your own before the group transfer to the ship for embarkation at around 4.00 pm. We’ll set sail along the historic Beagle Channel, heading for Antarctica.
Days 3–4: Crossing the Drake Passage
Lectures and life on board
Legendary for its strong winds and rough seas, you may be lucky enough to enjoy surprisingly calm waters as we cross the Drake Passage. Spend your time in the lounge or chatting with your fellow travellers. As you get used to the motion of the sea during the crossing, our Expedition Team will begin their series of presentations to help you prepare for your upcoming Zodiac excursions and shore landings. You’ll officially enter Antarctica when your ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence at 60° South.
Days 5–8: South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula
Exploring the Seventh Continent
The most common reaction upon arriving at the Seventh Continent is a sense of awe and wonder. Each day you’ll take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore glacial bays, channels and landing sites. Your Expedition Team will look after you on every landing, whether you’re walking through the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or watching chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins. Keep an eye out for Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals, as well as curious minke whales or orcas. Amidst the serene silence of Antarctica, bursts of noise – such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles or the roar of a calving glacier – become unforgettable memories.
Day 9: Disembarkation and flight to Punta Arenas
Charter flight over the Drake Passage
With only the Drake Passage ahead, you will disembark on King George Island before boarding your charter flight to Punta Arenas, Chile. Once in Punta Arenas, we will transfer you from the airport to your included hotel, where you will have the afternoon free to explore and enjoy a farewell dinner at your own expense.
Day 10: Departure from Punta Arenas
End of itinerary
After breakfast at the hotel, you are free to continue with your own travel plans or head to Punta Arenas airport to catch your flights home.
Day 1: Arrival in Buenos Aires and overnight stay at a hotel
Overnight stay at a hotel included
On arrival in Buenos Aires, please make your way to the designated group hotel, which is included in your Hotel and Charter Flight Package. A briefing room will be open from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for luggage weighing and labelling. A Quark Expeditions representative will be on hand to answer your questions and provide information about the following day’s flight and boarding the ship.
Day 2: Arrival in Ushuaia and boarding
Cruise through the Beagle Channel
After an early breakfast at the hotel, your group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. Your package includes some free time to explore this picturesque harbour town on your own before the group transfer to the ship for embarkation at around 4.00 pm. We’ll set sail along the historic Beagle Channel, heading for Antarctica.
Days 3–4: Crossing the Drake Passage
Lectures and life on board
Legendary for its strong winds and rough seas, you may be lucky enough to enjoy surprisingly calm waters as we cross the Drake Passage. Spend your time in the lounge or chatting with your fellow travellers. As you get used to the motion of the sea during the crossing, our Expedition Team will begin their series of presentations to help you prepare for your upcoming Zodiac excursions and shore landings. You’ll officially enter Antarctica when your ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence at 60° South.
Days 5–8: South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula
Exploring the Seventh Continent
The most common reaction upon arriving at the Seventh Continent is a sense of awe and wonder. Each day you’ll take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore glacial bays, channels and landing sites. Your Expedition Team will look after you on every landing, whether you’re walking through the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or watching chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins. Keep an eye out for Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals, as well as curious minke whales or orcas. Amidst the serene silence of Antarctica, bursts of noise – such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles or the roar of a calving glacier – become unforgettable memories.
Day 9: Disembarkation and flight to Punta Arenas
Charter flight over the Drake Passage
With only the Drake Passage ahead, you will disembark on King George Island before boarding your charter flight to Punta Arenas, Chile. Once in Punta Arenas, we will transfer you from the airport to your included hotel, where you will have the afternoon free to explore and enjoy a farewell dinner at your own expense.
Day 10: Departure from Punta Arenas
End of itinerary
After breakfast at the hotel, you are free to continue with your own travel plans or head to Punta Arenas airport to catch your flights home.
INCLUSIONS
An official Quark Expeditions parka to keep
Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Team, including shore landings and other activities
All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program
All shore landings as per the daily program
Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage.
Complimentary select beer, wines and select cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
Complimentary coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
A photographic journal documenting your expedition
A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
All luggage handling aboard the ship
World Voyager guests will receive a free 1GB data card for limited Wi-Fi access for use on one device, permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Additional data can be purchased on ship.)
Flight from King George Island to Punta Arenas
A post-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas from the airport to the hotel
One night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas with breakfast.
EXCLUSIONS
International airfare
Passport and applicable visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned
Meals unless otherwise specified
Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landing and cruising excursions, or any other gear not mentioned
Laundry, spa services and other personal charges, unless specified
Phone charges may vary by location
Our basic complimentary Wi-Fi service does not include Premium packages which enable more data-intensive applications
Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and shipboard crew
Additional overnight accommodation
Arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated
Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities.
Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass Juliet balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.
Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.
Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.
Located on Deck 5, and approximately 345 sq. ft. (32 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.
Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 365 sq. ft. (34 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.
* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.
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