Antarctica
Antarctic Polar Circle
Antarctica
Antarctica
An 11-day expedition designed to maximize time in the Antarctic by flying round-trip over the Drake Passage (Fly/Fly). Cross the Antarctic Circle, explore the Peninsula, and enjoy bucket-list experiences like sea kayaking and up-close encounters with seals and three penguin species.
Duration: 11 days / 10 nights
Starts: Punta Arenas, Chile
Ends: Punta Arenas, Chile
Language: English speaking voyage
Includes a pre-voyage hotel night in Punta Arenas with a welcome dinner and mandatory pre-flight briefing.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The 11-day Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle voyage is designed for adventurers seeking to check off the polar milestone of crossing the Antarctic Circle (66°33′ South) while maximizing their time on the White Continent. By taking a convenient two-hour charter flight to and from King George Island, you entirely skip the notorious Drake Passage sailing, giving you nine full days dedicated to Antarctic exploration. The journey is led by the best expedition team in the industry, ensuring safety and an unparalleled experience.
The cruise focuses on the stunning Antarctic Peninsula, pushing farther south to the famed latitude of the Circle, a region known as the home of the midnight sun, Weddell seals, and vast expanses of sea ice. Daily Zodiac excursions and landings bring you up close to incredible wildlife, allowing you to walk among Adélie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap penguins, and search for apex predators like leopard seals and orcas. Beyond the classic experiences, you can add bucket-list activities like sea kayaking through iceberg-dotted channels, all while enjoying in-depth presentations from our expert education team on glaciology, history, and wildlife.
Highlights:
Fly over the Drake Passage and experience the fastest, most direct way to Antarctica (Fly/Fly).
Witness iconic Antarctic wildlife, such as penguins (Adélie, Gentoo, Chinstrap), seals, and whales.
Marvel at Antarctic Peninsula highlights, including achieving the milestone of crossing the Antarctic Circle (66°33′ S).
Celebrate crossing the Antarctic Circle with a toast, joining an exclusive group of travelers.
Enjoy presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology & geology by our onboard polar experts.
Day 1: Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile
Arrival, Briefing, and Welcome Dinner
Your adventure begins in Punta Arenas, Chile. By early afternoon, a Quark Expeditions representative will meet you at the official starting point hotel, where you’ll enjoy a welcome dinner and be briefed on preparations for your embarkation day. Arriving early allows time to explore this populated city in southern Patagonia.
Day 2: Fly to King George Island and Embark
Charter Flight Over the Drake Passage and Ship Boarding
Transfer to Punta Arenas airport for your two-hour charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica, crossing the legendary Drake Passage from a unique aerial perspective. After landing in the South Shetland Islands, you will be transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula.
Days 3–5: Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands
Zodiac Landings, Wildlife Encounters, and Glacial Views
The Antarctic Continent is an indescribable experience. Your days will be filled with land excursions and Zodiac cruises. Your first Zodiac landing, setting foot on a beach inhabited by thousands of penguins (Adélie, Gentoo, Chinstrap), is an unforgettable way to experience the unique wildlife. Excursions, dependent on weather, may include Zodiac cruises in search of whales and icebergs or a hike to a penguin rookery. Be alert for calving glaciers and apex predators like leopard seals and orcas. The Expedition Team will ensure safety and provide insights, while the expert education team offers in-depth explanations of the region's glaciology, history, and wildlife.
Days 6–7: Antarctic Circle
Crossing the Polar Milestone and Raw Antarctica
This phase is dedicated to crossing the Antarctic Circle (66°33´ S), an impressive achievement few travelers reach. If conditions allow, we’ll toast the first explorers who ventured here. This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun, Weddell seals, and your best chances of encountering sea ice, the foundation of the marine ecosystem.
Days 8–9: Northbound Along the Peninsula
Continued Exploration and Final Sightings
You will continue to explore by Zodiac or on land as you travel north along the western Antarctic Peninsula. Your Expedition Team will always be on the lookout for species of seabirds, seals, and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south, ensuring you are fully satisfied with wildlife and icebergs before returning.
Day 10: Disembark and fly to Punta Arenas
Farewell Antarctica and Return Charter Flight
After a week of exploration, you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and disembark at King George Island. Your two-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, brings your adventure to an end. After your group transfer to the hotel, you are free to explore the city or relax and reminisce.
Day 11: Depart Punta Arenas
Departure and Onward Travel
After breakfast, you are welcome to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.
Day 1: Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile
Arrival, Briefing, and Welcome Dinner
Your adventure begins in Punta Arenas, Chile. By early afternoon, a Quark Expeditions representative will meet you at the official starting point hotel, where you’ll enjoy a welcome dinner and be briefed on preparations for your embarkation day. Arriving early allows time to explore this populated city in southern Patagonia.
Day 2: Fly to King George Island and Embark
Charter Flight Over the Drake Passage and Ship Boarding
Transfer to Punta Arenas airport for your two-hour charter flight to King George Island, Antarctica, crossing the legendary Drake Passage from a unique aerial perspective. After landing in the South Shetland Islands, you will be transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula.
Days 3–5: Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands
Zodiac Landings, Wildlife Encounters, and Glacial Views
The Antarctic Continent is an indescribable experience. Your days will be filled with land excursions and Zodiac cruises. Your first Zodiac landing, setting foot on a beach inhabited by thousands of penguins (Adélie, Gentoo, Chinstrap), is an unforgettable way to experience the unique wildlife. Excursions, dependent on weather, may include Zodiac cruises in search of whales and icebergs or a hike to a penguin rookery. Be alert for calving glaciers and apex predators like leopard seals and orcas. The Expedition Team will ensure safety and provide insights, while the expert education team offers in-depth explanations of the region's glaciology, history, and wildlife.
Days 6–7: Antarctic Circle
Crossing the Polar Milestone and Raw Antarctica
This phase is dedicated to crossing the Antarctic Circle (66°33´ S), an impressive achievement few travelers reach. If conditions allow, we’ll toast the first explorers who ventured here. This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun, Weddell seals, and your best chances of encountering sea ice, the foundation of the marine ecosystem.
Days 8–9: Northbound Along the Peninsula
Continued Exploration and Final Sightings
You will continue to explore by Zodiac or on land as you travel north along the western Antarctic Peninsula. Your Expedition Team will always be on the lookout for species of seabirds, seals, and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south, ensuring you are fully satisfied with wildlife and icebergs before returning.
Day 10: Disembark and fly to Punta Arenas
Farewell Antarctica and Return Charter Flight
After a week of exploration, you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and disembark at King George Island. Your two-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, brings your adventure to an end. After your group transfer to the hotel, you are free to explore the city or relax and reminisce.
Day 11: Depart Punta Arenas
Departure and Onward Travel
After breakfast, you are welcome to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.
INCLUSIONS
An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep
Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, 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 (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible.)
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 the 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
A group arrival transfer in Punta Arenas from airport to pre-expedition hotel on Day 1
One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas with breakfast. (Note: The number of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available.)
A briefing dinner on Day 1 in Punta Arenas
A pre-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas from the hotel to the airport
Flights to and from King George Island
A post-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas from the airport to the hotel
One night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation (with breakfast) in Punta Arenas, as well as luggage storage.
EXCLUSIONS
Charter Flight & Hotel Package* (when applicable – please review trip-specific details below)
International airfare
Arrival and departure transfers
Passport and visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above
Meals ashore 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 cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
Laundry, bar, spa and other personal charges unless specified
Phone charges may vary by location
Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew
Additional overnight accommodation
Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities
Size: 296 – 299
Occupancy: 1 to 3 guests
Bed Configuration: Three twin beds
Class: Standard
Location: Deck 6
Enjoy privacy and elegance at the front of the ship where guests are treated to sweeping views from their private veranda.
Size (sqf): 168-195
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: One double bed made up of two twin berths
Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art infotainment system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.
Size (sqf): 173-272
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class: Standard
Location: Deck 4, 6, 7,
Near the center of the ship on Deck 6, this stateroom offers easy access to the lounge, dining room and a private veranda.
Size (sqf): 200-205
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: One double bed made up of two twin berths plus fold out sofa bed
Class: Standard
Location: Deck 4, 6
Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\"infotainment\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\" system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor..
Size (sqf): 177
Occupancy: 1
Bed Config: One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class: Standard
Location: Deck 3
The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive.
Size (sqf): 296-299
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class: Premium
Location: Deck 6
This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TVs, state of the art infotainment system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.
Size (sqf): 269
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class: Premium
Location: Deck 7
Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'infotainment\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Size (sqf): 238
Occupancy: 1
Bed Config: One twin single
Class: Premium
Location: Deck 7
This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities.
Size (sqf): 443
Occupancy: 1-2
Bed Config: Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class: Premium
Location: Deck 7
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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