Antarctica
Falkland, South Georgia, Antarctica
Antarctica
Antarctica
Embark on an epic 20-day polar expedition from Ushuaia to the Falkland / Malvinas Islands, the wild shores of South Georgia, and the pristine landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula, discovering massive king penguin colonies and unparalleled marine wildlife.
Duration: 20 days
Starts: Ushuaia, Argentina
Ends: Ushuaia, 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.
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.
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.
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.
Embark on one of the most comprehensive and breath-taking polar adventures on the planet, setting sail from Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. The expedition initially heads toward the Falkland / Malvinas Islands, a sub-Antarctic archipelago of rugged beauty where Zodiac excursions and guided landings allow for the exploration of Magellanic, gentoo, and rockhopper penguin colonies, alongside the picturesque settlement of Stanley and its traditional British charm. After crossing the Antarctic Convergence, the vessel navigates toward South Georgia, widely considered one of the most fertile wildlife sanctuaries on Earth, where colossal beaches are completely blanketed by hundreds of thousands of king penguins and fur seals. There, you will visit Grytviken, an old whaling station hosting the historic grave of legendary explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.
The defining climax of the voyage is reached upon approaching the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, inspiring a profound sense of reverence before the untouched seventh continent. In this pristine frozen world, Zodiac boats navigate scenic channels and glaciated bays to get close to Adélie and chinstrap penguin colonies. Guests can hike the dramatic polar landscape, visit active research stations, and capture stunning photographs of leopard seals on ice floes and the majestic passing of humpback whales and orcas, before heading back to South America across the legendary waters of the Drake Passage.
Highlights:
In-depth exploration and shore landings across the Falkland / Malvinas Islands, including historic Stanley.
Navigating to the biological haven of South Georgia to observe massive breeding colonies of king penguins.
Historical visit to Grytviken, a former whaling outpost and resting place of Sir Ernest Shackleton.
Daily Zodiac cruising and landings among colossal icebergs and calving glaciers along the Antarctic Peninsula.
Spotting unique polar wildlife including leopard seals, elephant seals, humpback whales, and orcas.
Día 1: Arrival in Ushuaia
Hotel night included
You may arrive in Ushuaia at any time on Day 1. This southernmost city of South America is known for its beautiful mountainous surroundings, so we encourage you to consider arriving a day or two before your expedition. We will arrange a transfer from the airport to your hotel, both of which are included in the cost of your trip. An optional pre-departure briefing will be held in the lobby of your hotel at 6 p.m.
Día 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia
Sailing the Beagle Channel
Your luggage will be collected from the lobby of your hotel in the morning and transferred to the ship. Embarkation is usually around 4 p.m. Guests will meet at a designated location near the pier, and board the buses for transfer to the ship. Information about embarkation will be posted in your Ushuaia hotel and discussed during your optional pre-departure briefing on Day 1.
Día 3: At Sea
Lectures and shipboard life
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 with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.
Día 4-5: Falkland / Malvinas Islands
Penguin colonies and historic Stanley outpost
Upon your arrival in the Falkland / Malvinas Islands, your camera will get its first real workout capturing the abundant wildlife and rugged feel of this sub-Antarctic region. The archipelago contains two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, which you will explore during daily Zodiac excursions and landings. Stanley, also known as Port Stanley, is a favorite landing site, as the town offers a unique British outpost feel, complete with eclectic charm. You’ll be free to explore, grab a pint at the local pub, or visit the numerous churches and museums. The archipelago is rich in wildlife, especially birds, and home to Magellanic, gentoo and southern rockhopper penguins. If you’re lucky, you may even spot king penguins here, as well. Chances are good that you’ll see black-browed albatross, plus two endemic bird species—the flightless Falkland / Malvinas steamer duck and the elusive Cobb’s wren. Your team of polar experts will enrich your understanding of the local flora and fauna, helping you make the most of your time in the archipelago.
Día 6-7: At Sea
Crossing the Antarctic Convergence line
Sailing southeast to South Georgia, you’ll officially enter Antarctic waters once you cross the Antarctic Convergence, an invisible biological boundary encircling the continent. This meeting of oceans, where the cold Antarctic waters mix with the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic oceans, helps nourish the abundance of krill that attracts whales, seals, and birdlife to this part of the world. Your Expedition Team will notify you when you cross this invisible yet important line, and will also help you look out for the seabirds and marine life that frequent this nutrient-rich area.
Día 8-11: South Georgia
Massive king penguin havens & Grytviken outpost
After enjoying South Georgia from a distance, we’ll head toward its numerous beaches to find a bay for your first excursion. Landing sites are varied, largely determined by the weather conditions. The sites you visit will provide you with wildlife sightings unrivaled anywhere else on Earth. South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches blanketed with penguins and seals. It won’t take you long to realize that you are in a birder’s paradise, as burrowing seabirds, albatross and petrels can be seen in abundance. You’ll find that South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also scattered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries gone by. Your Expedition Team will help bring those days to life while you visit old whaling stations and enjoy presentations on the South Georgia of then and now. One of the most significant sites you will visit on the island is Grytviken. This settlement is one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Grytviken possesses a special appeal largely because it’s the site of the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.
Día 12-13: At Sea
Heading towards the white continent
Say goodbye to the king penguins, as your next destination is Antarctica. Your days at sea are filled with presentations, workshops, and social activities led by your Expedition Team.
Día 14-17: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Exploring the untouched seventh continent
The most common reaction upon reaching the 7th Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every time we visit Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience. Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore glaciated bays, channels and landing sites. Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each landing, whether you are hiking the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or observing chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins, all of which can be found here. Keep an eye out for Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals, as well as curious whales, such as humpbacks, minkes, or perhaps orcas while on a Zodiac cruise. Each excursion will present a new array of creatures to fascinate you and keep your camera busy. Amid the serene silence of Antarctica, noisy interludes become indelible memories, such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, or the boom and crack of a calving glacier. Every day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your Expedition Team to inspire and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.
Día 18-19: Crossing the Drake Passage
Polar rite of passage northbound
After more than two weeks of endless wildlife sightings, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage, completing your Antarctic adventure. Enjoy your final moments celebrating with your fellow shipmates and savor the silence of the sea as long as you can.
Día 20: Disembark in Ushuaia
End of itinerary
Your ship is scheduled to arrive in Ushuaia between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Once the ship has docked, you will bid farewell to your Expedition Team and shipmates before completing your disembarkation. You are then free to continue your onward journey.
Día 1: Arrival in Ushuaia
Hotel night included
You may arrive in Ushuaia at any time on Day 1. This southernmost city of South America is known for its beautiful mountainous surroundings, so we encourage you to consider arriving a day or two before your expedition. We will arrange a transfer from the airport to your hotel, both of which are included in the cost of your trip. An optional pre-departure briefing will be held in the lobby of your hotel at 6 p.m.
Día 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia
Sailing the Beagle Channel
Your luggage will be collected from the lobby of your hotel in the morning and transferred to the ship. Embarkation is usually around 4 p.m. Guests will meet at a designated location near the pier, and board the buses for transfer to the ship. Information about embarkation will be posted in your Ushuaia hotel and discussed during your optional pre-departure briefing on Day 1.
Día 3: At Sea
Lectures and shipboard life
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 with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.
Día 4-5: Falkland / Malvinas Islands
Penguin colonies and historic Stanley outpost
Upon your arrival in the Falkland / Malvinas Islands, your camera will get its first real workout capturing the abundant wildlife and rugged feel of this sub-Antarctic region. The archipelago contains two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, which you will explore during daily Zodiac excursions and landings. Stanley, also known as Port Stanley, is a favorite landing site, as the town offers a unique British outpost feel, complete with eclectic charm. You’ll be free to explore, grab a pint at the local pub, or visit the numerous churches and museums. The archipelago is rich in wildlife, especially birds, and home to Magellanic, gentoo and southern rockhopper penguins. If you’re lucky, you may even spot king penguins here, as well. Chances are good that you’ll see black-browed albatross, plus two endemic bird species—the flightless Falkland / Malvinas steamer duck and the elusive Cobb’s wren. Your team of polar experts will enrich your understanding of the local flora and fauna, helping you make the most of your time in the archipelago.
Día 6-7: At Sea
Crossing the Antarctic Convergence line
Sailing southeast to South Georgia, you’ll officially enter Antarctic waters once you cross the Antarctic Convergence, an invisible biological boundary encircling the continent. This meeting of oceans, where the cold Antarctic waters mix with the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic oceans, helps nourish the abundance of krill that attracts whales, seals, and birdlife to this part of the world. Your Expedition Team will notify you when you cross this invisible yet important line, and will also help you look out for the seabirds and marine life that frequent this nutrient-rich area.
Día 8-11: South Georgia
Massive king penguin havens & Grytviken outpost
After enjoying South Georgia from a distance, we’ll head toward its numerous beaches to find a bay for your first excursion. Landing sites are varied, largely determined by the weather conditions. The sites you visit will provide you with wildlife sightings unrivaled anywhere else on Earth. South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches blanketed with penguins and seals. It won’t take you long to realize that you are in a birder’s paradise, as burrowing seabirds, albatross and petrels can be seen in abundance. You’ll find that South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also scattered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries gone by. Your Expedition Team will help bring those days to life while you visit old whaling stations and enjoy presentations on the South Georgia of then and now. One of the most significant sites you will visit on the island is Grytviken. This settlement is one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Grytviken possesses a special appeal largely because it’s the site of the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.
Día 12-13: At Sea
Heading towards the white continent
Say goodbye to the king penguins, as your next destination is Antarctica. Your days at sea are filled with presentations, workshops, and social activities led by your Expedition Team.
Día 14-17: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Exploring the untouched seventh continent
The most common reaction upon reaching the 7th Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every time we visit Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience. Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore glaciated bays, channels and landing sites. Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each landing, whether you are hiking the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or observing chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins, all of which can be found here. Keep an eye out for Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals, as well as curious whales, such as humpbacks, minkes, or perhaps orcas while on a Zodiac cruise. Each excursion will present a new array of creatures to fascinate you and keep your camera busy. Amid the serene silence of Antarctica, noisy interludes become indelible memories, such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, or the boom and crack of a calving glacier. Every day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your Expedition Team to inspire and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.
Día 18-19: Crossing the Drake Passage
Polar rite of passage northbound
After more than two weeks of endless wildlife sightings, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage, completing your Antarctic adventure. Enjoy your final moments celebrating with your fellow shipmates and savor the silence of the sea as long as you can.
Día 20: Disembark in Ushuaia
End of itinerary
Your ship is scheduled to arrive in Ushuaia between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Once the ship has docked, you will bid farewell to your Expedition Team and shipmates before completing your disembarkation. You are then free to continue your onward journey.
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
Group arrival transfer in Ushuaia from airport to pre-expedition hotel on Day 1
One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia 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.)
Group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day
Group departure transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from ship to local airport or to luggage.
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
* 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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