Antarctica
Weddell Sea
Antarctica
Antarctica
Participate in a momentous 12-day air-cruise expedition aboard the Ultramarine to the Weddell Sea. Maximize your exploration through a superior aerial program featuring an included heli-landing on Antarctic soil and two scenic flights, complemented by Zodiac cruises, geological hikes, and complimentary select bar service.
Duration: 12 days / 11 nights
Starts: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Ends: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Language: English speaking voyage
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.
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.
Helicopter Tours More info about this activity
To access certain colonies, especially Emperor penguin, this type of transport is essential. Enjoy also scenic flights, watching the majestic ice barriers or the tabular icebergs from the air. A unique experience only available with few operators and exceptional itineraries.
Helicopter operations can be influenced by a lot of factors, such as but not limited to weather, sea and sea-ice conditions, flying time/distance restrictions and visibility.
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.
Experience the ultimate in polar exploration aboard the technologically advanced Ultramarine. After setting off from Buenos Aires and connecting via a private charter flight to Ushuaia, you will cross the mystical and unpredictable waters of the Drake Passage. What sets this season apart is its impressive aerial programme: the itinerary formally includes one (1) helicopter landing to reach remote locations inaccessible by sea, plus two (2) full-day scenic flights to view glaciers and mountain ranges from the sky.
The route ventures deep into the Antarctic Channel and the Weddell Sea, visiting the gigantic volcanic cliffs of Brown Bluff and the colossal Adélie penguin colonies on Paulet Island. Zodiac boats will navigate around tabular icebergs of monumental proportions, whilst on land, geological walks will be undertaken to discover ancient fossils and wind-polished stones on James Ross Island. The return journey across the Drake Passage invites you to switch off completely in the saunas with panoramic views at the Tundra Spa. Onboard amenities have been modernised, with the ban on kosher meals lifted and a Wi-Fi policy introduced that includes realistic provisions regarding satellite stability at the poles.
Highlights:
Superior air programme: Includes one (1) guided helicopter landing on Antarctic soil and two (2) scenic helicopter flights.
Enhanced bar service with a fine selection of beers, wines and complimentary signature cocktails during bar hours and dinner.
Advanced Zodiac excursions and shore landings in the most remote corners of the Weddell Sea and the South Shetland Islands.
Geological walks and exploration of historical remains from polar rescue expeditions on James Ross Island and Vega Island.
Fully optimised on-board kitchens, free from strict restrictions regarding Kosher menus or special dietary requirements.
Satellite connectivity tailored to the vessel, with transparent terms regarding polar weather conditions.
Day 1: Arriving in Buenos Aires and hotel night
Hotel night included
Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, make your way to the included group hotel, which is part of your Charter Flight and Hotel Package. A presentation room will be open from 12 pm to 8 pm for luggage weighing and tagging. A Quark Expeditions representative will be available to answer your questions and give information about the next day’s flight and ship embarkation.
Day 2: Arrive in Ushuaia and Embarkation
Sailing the Beagle Channel
After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, you will be transferred from the airport to a central downtown location to enjoy some time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the pier. After a late afternoon embarkation, you will sail along the historic Beagle Channel. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you see land, you’ll be in the remote Antarctic wilderness.
Day 3: Crossing the Drake: A Polar Rite of Passage
Ocean transit and seabird watching
Crossing the legendary 800-km stretch of water is a must-do for many travelers. Prepare yourself for dramatic seascapes as you stand on the deck of Ultramarine and gaze at the water stretching beyond the distant horizon. Be on the lookout for dolphins, whales, and seabirds, especially albatrosses, petrels and skuas as they glide over the waters.
Day 4: At Sea With Polar Experts
Biological Antarctic boundary crossing
Today we cross the Antarctic Convergence, moving into the biological Antarctic, where the warmer waters of the sub-Antarctic meet the cold Antarctic. Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team on photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history. In between presentations, spend time on deck looking for wildlife or chatting over a select drink at the bar.
Day 5-9: Explore the Weddell Sea by water, land, and air
Heli-landing and dual flightseeing excursions
Helicopter operations in Antarctica are acutely weather-dependent. This itinerary is specifically designed to maximize our superior aerial program featuring one included heli-landing and two flightseeing excursions. Together, Antarctic Sound, Erebus and Terror Gulf, northwestern Weddell Sea are the theater of this venture. We plan to sail into Antarctic Sound to visit Madder Cliffs on Joinville Island, and the 678-meter (2,225-foot) volcanic cliffs at Brown Bluff to visit large Adélie penguin colonies by Zodiac, pivoting to embark on our first flightseeing experience to gaze over the vastness with the perspective of a snow petrel. Continuing into Erebus and Terror Gulf, Ultramarine will position for both helicopter and Zodiac excursions. Explore the James Ross Island group to visit historically relevant sites from the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04, hiking to summits to view grounded icebergs, fossil finds, and ancient ventifacts polished smooth over time by wind erosion. When not flying, we’ll Zodiac cruise to Devil Island on Vega Island or head to renowned Paulet Island, home to one of the largest Adélie penguin rookeries and the historic 1901-04 stone hut. Expect a dramatic finale with a heli-flightseeing excursion to Livingston Island to view the spectacular Tangra Mountains and Mount Friesland (1,700 metres/ 5,578 feet). Another landing option is Deception Island to view nesting penguins alongside rusting whaling outposts on dark volcanic sand beaches.
Day 10: At Sea Day: Rejuvenate and relax on Ultramarine
Tundra Spa and relaxation
Take some time, as we journey back across the 800-kilometer (500 mile) Drake Passage, to relax after your off-ship adventures. Ultramarine is home to Tundra Spa, where you can book a soothing facial treatment or massage, or relax in the sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows that keep you connected to the polar seas.
Day 11: At Sea Day
Advanced LED screen wall presentations
Join our on-board experts as they continue to share their vast polar expertise through scheduled presentations in our Ambassador Theater. The state-of-the-art, high-resolution LED screen wall ensures high-definition viewing from any angle. This is an excellent opportunity to ask any lingering questions about your Antarctic experiences.
Day 12: Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires
End of itinerary
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. Your Charter Flight and Hotel Package includes a transfer to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.
Day 1: Arriving in Buenos Aires and hotel night
Hotel night included
Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, make your way to the included group hotel, which is part of your Charter Flight and Hotel Package. A presentation room will be open from 12 pm to 8 pm for luggage weighing and tagging. A Quark Expeditions representative will be available to answer your questions and give information about the next day’s flight and ship embarkation.
Day 2: Arrive in Ushuaia and Embarkation
Sailing the Beagle Channel
After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Upon arrival, you will be transferred from the airport to a central downtown location to enjoy some time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the pier. After a late afternoon embarkation, you will sail along the historic Beagle Channel. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you see land, you’ll be in the remote Antarctic wilderness.
Day 3: Crossing the Drake: A Polar Rite of Passage
Ocean transit and seabird watching
Crossing the legendary 800-km stretch of water is a must-do for many travelers. Prepare yourself for dramatic seascapes as you stand on the deck of Ultramarine and gaze at the water stretching beyond the distant horizon. Be on the lookout for dolphins, whales, and seabirds, especially albatrosses, petrels and skuas as they glide over the waters.
Day 4: At Sea With Polar Experts
Biological Antarctic boundary crossing
Today we cross the Antarctic Convergence, moving into the biological Antarctic, where the warmer waters of the sub-Antarctic meet the cold Antarctic. Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team on photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history. In between presentations, spend time on deck looking for wildlife or chatting over a select drink at the bar.
Day 5-9: Explore the Weddell Sea by water, land, and air
Heli-landing and dual flightseeing excursions
Helicopter operations in Antarctica are acutely weather-dependent. This itinerary is specifically designed to maximize our superior aerial program featuring one included heli-landing and two flightseeing excursions. Together, Antarctic Sound, Erebus and Terror Gulf, northwestern Weddell Sea are the theater of this venture. We plan to sail into Antarctic Sound to visit Madder Cliffs on Joinville Island, and the 678-meter (2,225-foot) volcanic cliffs at Brown Bluff to visit large Adélie penguin colonies by Zodiac, pivoting to embark on our first flightseeing experience to gaze over the vastness with the perspective of a snow petrel. Continuing into Erebus and Terror Gulf, Ultramarine will position for both helicopter and Zodiac excursions. Explore the James Ross Island group to visit historically relevant sites from the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04, hiking to summits to view grounded icebergs, fossil finds, and ancient ventifacts polished smooth over time by wind erosion. When not flying, we’ll Zodiac cruise to Devil Island on Vega Island or head to renowned Paulet Island, home to one of the largest Adélie penguin rookeries and the historic 1901-04 stone hut. Expect a dramatic finale with a heli-flightseeing excursion to Livingston Island to view the spectacular Tangra Mountains and Mount Friesland (1,700 metres/ 5,578 feet). Another landing option is Deception Island to view nesting penguins alongside rusting whaling outposts on dark volcanic sand beaches.
Day 10: At Sea Day: Rejuvenate and relax on Ultramarine
Tundra Spa and relaxation
Take some time, as we journey back across the 800-kilometer (500 mile) Drake Passage, to relax after your off-ship adventures. Ultramarine is home to Tundra Spa, where you can book a soothing facial treatment or massage, or relax in the sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows that keep you connected to the polar seas.
Day 11: At Sea Day
Advanced LED screen wall presentations
Join our on-board experts as they continue to share their vast polar expertise through scheduled presentations in our Ambassador Theater. The state-of-the-art, high-resolution LED screen wall ensures high-definition viewing from any angle. This is an excellent opportunity to ask any lingering questions about your Antarctic experiences.
Day 12: Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires
End of itinerary
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. Your Charter Flight and Hotel Package includes a transfer to the airport for the return group charter flight to Buenos Aires.
INCLUSIONS
One (1) heli landing
Two (2) flightseeing excursions
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 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
Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.) Note: Internet access in the polar regions is subject to geography, climate, and other factors beyond our control.
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
All luggage handling aboard the ship
EXCLUSIONS
Charter Flight & Hotel Package
International airfare
Passport and applicable visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned
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, bar, 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 Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). This suite is perfect for guests traveling solo who want to share their experience with other like-minded travelers of the same gender, or for groups of three traveling together. Featuring three separate single beds, and amenities for each of the three guests.
Features: three single beds (two of which can be combined into a double bed), sitting area, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). These suites are perfect for people traveling together or solo guests looking to share with like-minded individuals. This suite maximizes interior living space while still offering guests the opportunity to stay connected to the outdoors. Our entry-level twin suites are the largest available on a ship of this class.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 m2) of indoor living space, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 m2) balcony, this entry-level balcony suite is one of the largest available on a ship of this class. This suite is perfect for guests who are looking for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. There are four connecting suites in this category, making this an excellent option for families or groups wanting to stay connected to each other during their expedition.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Located on Deck 6, and approximately 132 sq. ft. (12.3 m2). This suite is perfect for solo guests who appreciate privacy and want to wake up to sweeping views from the comfort of their bed. These are the only solo suites with floor-to-ceiling windows available onboard any ship in its class.
Features: single bed, floor-to-ceiling window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 299 sq. ft. (27.8 m2) of indoor living space, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting a larger living space, full bathroom, and a substantial balcony. Deluxe Balcony Suites are the first suite type to offer additional privacy in the bathroom with an enclosed toilet, a full bath and shower to make it easier for guests to get ready together in the morning.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 350 sq. ft. (32.5 m2) of indoor living space, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting generous interiors with a wide layout and the largest balconies on the ship. Centrally located on Deck 6, guests will enjoy minimal movement and motion from the comfort of these suites.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private extra-wide balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
The only suite category to be located on Deck 7, with approximately 369 sq. ft. (34.3 m2) of indoor living space, and a 67 sq. ft. (6.2 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting to wake up to unobstructed polar views from the warmth and comfort of their bed onboard the ship. These suites offer the best of everything—views, spacious interiors, full bathrooms and generous balcony sizes—as well as easy access to the wellness centre.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 446 sq. ft. (41.4 m2) of indoor living space and a 46.3 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want it all. A large, luxurious suite featuring a private bedroom, full bathroom, powder room, and two separate living spaces. This suite is perfect for families or couples who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship.
Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 563 sq. ft. (52.3m2) of interior living space, and a 46 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want to travel without compromise. Our largest and most luxurious suite features the most sleeping, entertainment and storage space onboard the ship. It is perfect for families or travelers who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship.
Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room
* 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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Tel: +1 (786) 321-5654
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Email:
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