Antarctica
Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctica
Antarctica
An 11-day marine biology expedition co-developed by the Friedlaender Lab to maximize whale and seal observations. Guests actively participate in citizen science (Happywhale, hydrophones) while exploring the Antarctic Peninsula's prime feeding grounds and the rugged South Shetland Islands.
Duration: 11 days / 10 nights
Starts: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Ends: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Language: English speaking voyage
Includes a pre-expedition hotel night in Buenos Aires and round-trip private charter flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia
The itinerary is specifically designed for marine mammal research, featuring the deployment of hydrophones and workshops with scientists from the Friedlaender Lab and Happywhale.
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Car Rental More info about this activity
Itineraries created for Road Trip lovers, so you can enjoy all this amazing destinations have to offer.
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.
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.
Our 11-day Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales & Seals is a truly unique expedition that transforms guests into active citizen scientists. Co-developed by renowned marine mammal expert Ari Friedlaender, the itinerary is designed to maximize observations of migratory whales—minke, humpback, and fin—as they intensely feed in the nutrient-rich waters of the Antarctic Peninsula. Guests will engage directly with scientists from the Friedlaender Lab and a research associate from Happywhale, participating in hands-on workshops to identify individual whales for global conservation projects.
The voyage centers on key marine mammal habitats in the Gerlache Strait and inner glacial bays, and includes the deployment of hydrophones (underwater microphones) during Zodiac and paddling programs to monitor and record whale vocalizations in real time. Beyond the scientific focus, the itinerary features the wonders of Antarctica: penguins, seals, immense glaciers, shore landings, the Polar Plunge, and exploration of the rugged South Shetland Islands, including the rarely visited Hannah Point. This immersive experience bridges the gap between scientific research and personal exploration, enabling guests to actively contribute to the protection of this pristine polar habitat.
Highlights:
Engage with globally-respected scientists from the Friedlaender Lab who are actively collecting data on Antarctic marine mammals.
Participate in hands-on marine mammal identification workshops and contribute photos to the Happywhale global conservation project.
Deploy hydrophones during Zodiac and paddling excursions to listen for and record whale vocalizations beneath the ocean surface.
Explore whale hotspots in the Gerlache Strait, with opportunities to spot humpback, minke, fin, and possibly killer whales.
Visit the South Shetland Islands, with a rare opportunity to access sites like Hannah Point late in the season.
Learn about Antarctic wildlife, history, geology and glaciology from onboard polar experts.
Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Arrival and Transfer to Pre-Expedition Hotel
Upon arriving in this fascinating South American city, you will independently transfer to your pre-expedition hotel night, included in the Charter Flight and Hotel Package.
Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
Charter Flight, City Exploration, and Beagle Channel Sailing
After an early breakfast, the group transfers to the airport to board our private charter flight to Ushuaia. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a central downtown location for free time to explore the quaint port town. Later, transfer to the designated meeting spot near the pier for embarkation. Sail along the historic Beagle Channel, commencing the journey to the remote Antarctic wilderness.
Day 3: At Sea: Drake Passage Southbound
Crossing the Drake Convergence and Scientist Introduction
Begin crossing the 800-km Drake Passage, a polar rite of passage. As we cross the Antarctic Convergence, where cold and warm waters mix, be on the lookout for whales and other marine mammals attracted by the nutrient-rich feeding grounds. The team of guest scientists, including Ari Friedlaender and a research associate from Happywhale, will be introduced, offering the first opportunity for guests to engage with marine mammal experts.
Day 4: At Sea: Sailing Toward Antarctica
Polar Presentations and Science Hub Engagement
The second day of the Drake Passage crossing is ideal for attending scheduled polar presentations that enhance your Antarctic experience. This is also an excellent time to visit the Science Hub on Deck 4, an instrumental part of your voyage, where you can engage with interactive displays and learn about data collection methods. Spend time on deck watching for whales, and remember to contribute photos to the Happywhale platform.
Days 5–7: Antarctic Peninsula
Whale Hotspots, Hydrophone Deployment, and Citizen Science
The timing of this voyage maximizes opportunities to observe various whale species (minke, humpback, fin, orca, and possibly Arnoux’s beaked whale) in key marine mammal habitats of the Gerlache Strait and remote inner glacial bays. We aim to explore whale hotspots such as Charlotte Bay, Portal Point, Graham Passage, and Andvord Bay. You will have unique opportunities to accompany scientists to deploy hydrophones to monitor and study whale vocalizations during Zodiac cruises and paddling programs. The itinerary also features classic Antarctic wonders: penguins, seals, immense glaciers, shore landings, and the Polar Plunge.
Day 8: South Shetlands
Elephant Seals and Historical Exploration
We focus on the rugged and fabled South Shetland Islands, aiming to witness southern elephant seals and hoping for sightings of fin whales. Shore landings are prioritized, offering further opportunities for wildlife sightings. Arriving in March allows the rare opportunity to potentially explore key excursion sites such as Hannah Point, deemed a Restricted Area earlier in the season, where massive populations of elephant seals and Southern Giant Petrels congregate.
Day 9: At Sea: Drake Passage Northbound
Continued Engagement with Scientists
The start of the journey back across the Drake Passage offers an excellent opportunity to spend more time engaging with the Friedlaender Lab scientists or attend one of the scheduled polar presentations.
Day 10: At Sea: Last Sailing Day
Final Citizen Science Contribution and Reflection
This is your last opportunity to visit the Quark Expeditions’ new Science Hub and contribute to citizen science that will support marine mammal conservation efforts. Reflect on the profound experiences and the importance of conservation, protected by the principle of protecting what you care about.
Day 11: Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires
Morning Arrival and Return Charter Flight
Arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. Guests will be transferred to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires, concluding the expedition.
Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Arrival and Transfer to Pre-Expedition Hotel
Upon arriving in this fascinating South American city, you will independently transfer to your pre-expedition hotel night, included in the Charter Flight and Hotel Package.
Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
Charter Flight, City Exploration, and Beagle Channel Sailing
After an early breakfast, the group transfers to the airport to board our private charter flight to Ushuaia. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a central downtown location for free time to explore the quaint port town. Later, transfer to the designated meeting spot near the pier for embarkation. Sail along the historic Beagle Channel, commencing the journey to the remote Antarctic wilderness.
Day 3: At Sea: Drake Passage Southbound
Crossing the Drake Convergence and Scientist Introduction
Begin crossing the 800-km Drake Passage, a polar rite of passage. As we cross the Antarctic Convergence, where cold and warm waters mix, be on the lookout for whales and other marine mammals attracted by the nutrient-rich feeding grounds. The team of guest scientists, including Ari Friedlaender and a research associate from Happywhale, will be introduced, offering the first opportunity for guests to engage with marine mammal experts.
Day 4: At Sea: Sailing Toward Antarctica
Polar Presentations and Science Hub Engagement
The second day of the Drake Passage crossing is ideal for attending scheduled polar presentations that enhance your Antarctic experience. This is also an excellent time to visit the Science Hub on Deck 4, an instrumental part of your voyage, where you can engage with interactive displays and learn about data collection methods. Spend time on deck watching for whales, and remember to contribute photos to the Happywhale platform.
Days 5–7: Antarctic Peninsula
Whale Hotspots, Hydrophone Deployment, and Citizen Science
The timing of this voyage maximizes opportunities to observe various whale species (minke, humpback, fin, orca, and possibly Arnoux’s beaked whale) in key marine mammal habitats of the Gerlache Strait and remote inner glacial bays. We aim to explore whale hotspots such as Charlotte Bay, Portal Point, Graham Passage, and Andvord Bay. You will have unique opportunities to accompany scientists to deploy hydrophones to monitor and study whale vocalizations during Zodiac cruises and paddling programs. The itinerary also features classic Antarctic wonders: penguins, seals, immense glaciers, shore landings, and the Polar Plunge.
Day 8: South Shetlands
Elephant Seals and Historical Exploration
We focus on the rugged and fabled South Shetland Islands, aiming to witness southern elephant seals and hoping for sightings of fin whales. Shore landings are prioritized, offering further opportunities for wildlife sightings. Arriving in March allows the rare opportunity to potentially explore key excursion sites such as Hannah Point, deemed a Restricted Area earlier in the season, where massive populations of elephant seals and Southern Giant Petrels congregate.
Day 9: At Sea: Drake Passage Northbound
Continued Engagement with Scientists
The start of the journey back across the Drake Passage offers an excellent opportunity to spend more time engaging with the Friedlaender Lab scientists or attend one of the scheduled polar presentations.
Day 10: At Sea: Last Sailing Day
Final Citizen Science Contribution and Reflection
This is your last opportunity to visit the Quark Expeditions’ new Science Hub and contribute to citizen science that will support marine mammal conservation efforts. Reflect on the profound experiences and the importance of conservation, protected by the principle of protecting what you care about.
Day 11: Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires
Morning Arrival and Return Charter Flight
Arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. Guests will be transferred to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires, concluding the expedition.
INCLUSIONS
Specialist Expedition Leaders
Our team is comprised of the most professional and passionate Expedition Leaders in the world, who bring a wide range of experience and expertise to every adventure.
Immersive Off-ship Activities
Itineraries are packed with adventure options designed to immerses travelers in the polar wilderness, enabling them to connect with the natural wonders of their surroundings.
On-Ship Experiences & Facilities
Designed for comfort and adventure, each ship accommodates no more than 200 guests. Facilities include comfortable cabins, exceptional dining options, wellness treatments, and breathtaking panoramic views of the polar landscape.
Food & Beverages
Premium dining, with a wide selection of options that accommodate a variety of dietary preferences.
Quark Expedition Perks
Complementary Wi-Fi, alcohol on all voyages, and the Official Quark Expeditions parka to take home.
Transfers
Select voyages include essential transportation and accommodation arrangements for guests, ensuring seamless travel to and from the expedition starting point.
World Voyager guests will receive a free 1GB data card for limited Wi-Fi access. (Additional data can be purchased on the ship.)
EXCLUSIONS
International airfare & visa expenses, travel insurance, mandatory expedition gear, on-ship expenses, adventure options and trip extensions are not included.
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.
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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