Antarctica offers so many extraordinary things to see and do, and traveling with Quark Expeditions offers multiple options to personalize your experience. We’ve designed this guide to help you identify what interests you most, so that you can start planning your version of the perfect expedition to the 7th Continent.
If this is your first visit, our classic Antarctic Explorer voyage gives you the best of the stunning Antarctic Peninsula. Conquer the famed Drake Passage in your choice of stabilized, polar-class vessels; explore majestic natural environments by Zodiac, kayak or on foot; get excellent views of penguins, whales and other wildlife; and enjoy talks on history, biology and glaciology by onboard polar experts. You can personalize your adventure with options that suit your interests, and cross the 7th Continent off the list—your way.
Antarctica has been inspiring explorers for centuries and our voyages—led by the best expedition teams in the industry— offer the chance for you to discover why. We’re excited to host you on your unforgettable adventure! Feel free to reach out to our team of Polar Travel Advisers who can answer your questions and provide assistance at any time.
Explore highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula
Travel safely and comfortably aboard any Quark Expeditions ice-strengthened vessel
Enjoy presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology & geology by our onboard polar experts
Experience abundant wildlife, such as penguins, seals and whales
Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic, with an optional paddling excursion
You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port town at the tip of South
America. This Argentine town is an ideal gateway for you to explore the southern extent of
Patagonia while preparing for your adventure ahead. Enjoy the mountains or sample
handcrafted chocolate at a café in town.
Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the
historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south
of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you see land,
youʼll be on the worldʼs most southern continent!
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.
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 and enduring 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 that your expedition will be unlike any other̶creating 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 consorting with 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.
The journey back across the Drake Passage provides final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air Spend time on the deck, watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team and celebrate the experiences shared exploring Antarctica.
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, which allows for you to continue your adventure onward or catch your flights home.
