Antarctic From 11 days From $12,492 USD

Antarctic Marine Mammals The World of Whales and Seals

Starting from

  • Buenos Aires, Argentina

Ships

  • World Voyager

Departures

2 Departures between March 2027 to March 2028
View all Departures

Expedition Overview

Our 11-day Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales & Seals itinerary offers guests the rare chance to actively engage in citizen science—while exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. Co-developed by Ari Friedlaender, founder of the renowned Friedlaender Lab, this hands-on itinerary is designed to maximize observations of migratory whales, such as minke, humpback, and fin. A research associate from Happywhale will guide guests in identifying individual whales for global conservation projects. At the onboard Science Hub, guests connect with experts, participate in meaningful research, and help protect this pristine polar habitat for whales, seals, and all marine life. 

Highlights

Engage with globally-respected scientists who are actively collecting data on Antarctic marine mammals, especially whales

Participate in hands-on marine mammal identification workshops

Explore highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula

Learn about Antarctic wildlife, history, geology and glaciology from onboard polar experts

In addition observing whales, witness penguins, seals and birds

Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic with an optional paddling excursion.

Science & Discovery

In addition to daily presentations by polar experts, this itinerary also features hands-on educational opportunities as part of our new Science & Discovery program.

Science & Discovery

A new initiative designed to foster community, curiosity and education. Beginning in 2026 on select World Voyager itineraries, Quark Expeditions is collaborating with leading scientists and researchers to enrich guest learning on- and off-ship.

Guest Engagement: Through researcher-led sessions, and interactive learning and field experiences with our expedition team, guests will gain a better understanding and appreciation of the polar wilderness.

This Science & Discovery program will enable guests to:

Interact and connect with scientists and researchers who are actively collecting data during expeditions.

Participate in citizen science programming to broaden their understanding and knowledge of the incredible polar ecosystem.

Work with our expedition team to help collect and record data, ranging from experiences such as conducting seabird surveys on deck to documenting whale sightings on Zodiac excursions or joining interactive sampling activities to measure water conditions.

SCIENCE IN THE FIELD
Quark Expeditions is supporting academic research through partnerships with institutions such as Penguin Watch at Oxford Brookes University, and Friedlaender Lab at University of California Santa Cruz to deepen our understanding through access to projects that are contributing to published research and projects of high importance.

CITIZEN SCIENCE
To support the work of Happywhale, the Polar Citizen Science Collective, and other citizen science projects, guests can engage in meaningful scientific data collection that supports targeted field research.

QUARK SCIENCE HUB

Gather with scientists, researchers and expedition guides to share findings and insights from the voyage.

Engage with interactive digital displays featuring multimedia content for self-guided discovery even when staff aren't present.

Learn how data collection methods, such as drones, wildlife tags, and biopsy and guano sampling, enable us to study the health, population, and migratory pathways of unique birds, whales, seals and other Antarctic marine mammals.

Review and discuss observations and explore samples collected during science Zodiac cruises with other participants.

Note:The Science Hub is open to guests for self-guided exploration when staff are otherwise occupied.

Marine Mammal Experts

Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals

Ari Friedlaender, Friedlaender Lab

Ari Friedlaender, founder of the Friedlaender Lab—the highly-respected marine mammal research group at the University of California—has been studying baleen whales in Antarctica since 1997. Friedlaender—who co-developed this itinerary—and his team of scientists utilize advanced biotelemetry technology, such as drones, suction-cup tags and biopsy equipment, to research whale movements, their health and feeding habits. Friedlaeder and his team are shaping the future of whale conservation. Throughout this voyage, these scientists will collect new data about local whale populations and share historical and live satellite data for tags deployed in previous seasons, while actively tracking whales in the region. This information will be shared through daily recaps, and made available at the Science Hub located on deck 4. Learn more about the Friedlaender Lab.

Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals

Research Associate, Happywhale

We will be joined by a research associate from Happywhale, a scientific web platform where users upload photographs of whale tails—which have unique markings—to identify individual whales and track their movements. Guests, with basic instruction from the Happywhale expert, will be able to contribute to the digital crowd sourced database, and learn how it contributes to a better understanding of whale migratory patterns. Feel free to register in advance of your expedition. Visit Happywhale.com

Find Your Ideal Itinerary

From Buenos Aires, Argentina, 11 days, on World Voyager

Duration
11 days
Departing from
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Ship
World Voyager
Learn more about the ship
Starting from
$12,758 USD per person
View Brochure
Upon arriving in this fascinating South American city, known for its vibrant Argentinian culture, European architecture and cosmopolitan vibe, you will independently transfer to your pre- expedition hotel night, included in the Charter Flight and Hotel Package.
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 time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the designated meeting spot near the pier, where you will be transferred to the ship for embarkation. After a late afternoon embarkation, we will sail along 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, you’ll be in the remote Antarctic wilderness.
Crossing the 800-km Drake is considered a rite of passage for many travelers. Traversing this legendary waterway means you’ll experience the Antarctic Convergence, where the cold, northward- flowing Antarctic waters meet the warmer, southward-flowing water of the sub-Antarctic. The mixing of cold and warm waters creates a nutrient-rich feeding ground, especially for whales and other marine mammals. Guests are encouraged to keep binoculars close at hand—and to be prepared for Expedition Team members to announce any whale sightings. The team of guest scientists will be introduced early in the voyage. Ari Friedlaender, who co-developed this itinerary, and members of his team from the Friedlaender Lab, are global authorities on the underwater behavior and ecology of marine mammals, particularly whales. Guests will also meet a research associate with the Happywhale platform, which enables citizens to upload their whale photos to help identify species and, possibly, individual whales. (See bios, page 13).
The second day of your Drake Passage crossing is an ideal time to attend scheduled polar presentations that will enhance your Antarctic experience. It’s also an excellent opportunity to visit the Science Hub on Deck 4 (see page 5), an instrumental part of your voyage. Spend time on deck watching for whales, which increase in number as we approach the Peninsula—and remember to upload your whale photos to the Happywhale platform.
The timing of this voyage maximizes opportunities to observe various whale species along the Antarctic Peninsula. After the ice recedes in October and November, the food chain begins to reestablish itself. Whales, seals and other marine mammals are drawn to these rich feeding grounds—especially for the krill. By February and March, these creatures, which have been intensely feeding, are satiated and relaxed, making them more easier to spot. In addition to the Zodiac and paddling excursions, we plan to spend a lot of time on the outer decks and other vantage points on the ship to spot—and photograph—wildlife. We’ll spend our days in key marine mammal habitats of the Gerlache Strait and remote inner glacial bays. Over the next three days, we aim to explore whale hotspots such as Charlotte Bay, Portal Point, Graham Passage, Errera Channel, Cuverville Island, Andvord Bay, Fournier Bay and Dallmann Bay. Past whale sightings in these areas have included minke, humpback, fin, orca and the elusive, deep-diving Arnoux’s beaked whale. Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales & Seals is our only itinerary during which we’ll deploy hydrophones— underwater microphones that detect and record sound below the surface. You will have opportunities—during Zodiac cruises and paddling programs—to accompany Friedlaender Lab scientists as they deploy hydrophones to monitor and study marine mammal behavior, such as the vocalizations of whales. Four scientists will accompany guests in Zodiacs, with one hydrophone shared between two groups. Speakers will enable participants to listen for and, hopefully, hear whale sounds beneath the ocean surface. Engaging with scientists who are actively collecting and collating data that can be shared in real time on the water, and, through digital visual aids, brings marine biology to life in a way that transcends the water line. This activity is also available to World Voyager guests who join the Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) program. In addition to the citizen science programming, this itinerary will also feature the wonders of Antarctica: penguins, seals, immense glaciers, snowcapped mountains, icebergs, shore landings, and the polar plunge.
Rounding out our marine mammal experiences, we hope to witness southern elephant seals in the rugged and fabled South Shetland Islands. We’ll also keep our fingers crossed for sightings of fin whales. We’ll explore this geological and historic archipelago while prioritizing shore landings, which offer further opportunities for wildlife sightings. Arriving in March allows us the rare opportunity to potentially explore key excursion sites such as Hannah Point, which is deemed a Restricted Area from early to mid-season. Massive populations of elephant seals and southern giant petrels make for awe-inspiring experiences. As with any expedition, shore landings along the coast are dependent on favorable weather.
Today is the start of the journey back across the Drake Passage. This is an excellent opportunity to spend more time engaging with the Friedlaender Lab scientists, or attend one of the scheduled polar presentations.
Today is your last opportunity to visit Quark Expeditions’ new Science Hub and contribute to citizen science that will support marine mammal conservation efforts. In the words of Sir David Attenborough: “No one will protect what they don’t care about. And no one will care about what they have never experienced.”
You will 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.

From Buenos Aires, Argentina, 11 days, on World Voyager

Duration
11 days
Departing from
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Ship
World Voyager
Learn more about the ship
Starting from
$12,492 USD per person
View Brochure
Upon arriving in this fascinating South American city, known for its vibrant Argentinian culture, European architecture and cosmopolitan vibe, you will independently transfer to your preexpedition hotel night, included in the Charter Flight and Hotel Package.
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 time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the designated meeting spot near the pier, where you will be transferred to the ship for embarkation. After a late afternoon embarkation, we will sail along 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, you’ll be in the remote Antarctic wilderness.
Crossing the 800-km Drake is considered a rite of passage for many travelers. Traversing this legendary waterway means you’ll experience the Antarctic Convergence, where the cold, northwardf lowing Antarctic waters meet the warmer, southward-flowing water of the subAntarctic. The mixing of cold and warm waters creates a nutrient-rich feeding ground, especially for whales and other marine mammals. Guests are encouraged to keep binoculars close at hand—and to be prepared for Expedition Team members to announce any whale sightings. The team of guest scientists will be introduced early in the voyage. Ari Friedlaender, who co-developed this itinerary, and members of his team from the Friedlaender Lab, are global authorities on the underwater behavior and ecology of marine mammals, particularly whales. Guests will also meet a research associate with the Happywhale platform, which enables citizens to upload their whale photos to help identify species and, possibly, individual whales. (See bios, page 13).  
The second day of your Drake Passage crossing is an ideal time to attend scheduled polar presentations that will enhance your Antarctic experience. It’s also an excellent opportunity to visit the Science Hub on Deck 4 (see page 5), an instrumental part of your voyage. Spend time on deck watching for whales, which increase in number as we approach the Peninsula—and remember to upload your whale photos to the Happywhale platform.
The timing of this voyage maximizes opportunities to observe various whale species along the Antarctic Peninsula. After the ice recedes in October and November, the food chain begins to reestablish itself. Whales, seals and other marine mammals are drawn to these rich feeding grounds—especially for the krill. By February and March, these creatures, which have been intensely feeding, are satiated and relaxed, making them more easier to spot. In addition to the Zodiac and paddling excursions, we plan to spend a lot of time on the outer decks and other vantage points on the ship to spot—and photograph—wildlife. We’ll spend our days in key marine mammal habitats of the Gerlache Strait and remote inner glacial bays. Over the next three days, we aim to explore whale hotspots such as Charlotte Bay, Portal Point, Graham Passage, Errera Channel, Cuverville Island, Andvord Bay, Fournier Bay and Dallmann Bay. Past whale sightings in these areas have included minke, humpback, fin, orca and the elusive, deep-diving Arnoux’s beaked whale. Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales & Seals is our only itinerary during which we’ll deploy hydrophones— underwater microphones that detect and record sound below the surface. You will have opportunities—during Zodiac cruises and paddling programs—to accompany Friedlaender Lab scientists as they deploy hydrophones to monitor and study marine mammal behavior, such as the vocalizations of whales. Four scientists will accompany guests in Zodiacs, with one hydrophone shared between two groups. Speakers will enable participants to listen for and, hopefully, hear whale sounds beneath the ocean surface. Engaging with scientists who are actively collecting and collating data that can be shared in real time on the water, and, through digital visual aids, brings marine biology to life in a way that transcends the water line. This activity is also available to World Voyager guests who join the Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) program. In addition to the citizen science programming, this itinerary will also feature the wonders of Antarctica: penguins, seals, immense glaciers, snowcapped mountains, icebergs, shore landings, and the polar plunge.
Rounding out our marine mammal experiences, we hope to witness southern elephant seals in the rugged and fabled South Shetland Islands. We’ll also keep our fingers crossed for sightings of fin whales. We’ll explore this geological and historic archipelago while prioritizing shore landings, which offer further opportunities for wildlife sightings. Arriving in March allows us the rare opportunity to potentially explore key excursion sites such as Hannah Point, which is deemed a Restricted Area from early to mid-season. Massive populations of elephant seals and southern giant petrels make for awe-inspiring experiences. As with any expedition, shore landings along the coast are dependent on favorable weather.
Today is the start of the journey back across the Drake Passage. This is an excellent opportunity to spend more time engaging with the Friedlaender Lab scientists, or attend one of the scheduled polar presentations.
Today is your last opportunity to visit Quark Expeditions’ new Science Hub and contribute to citizen science that will support marine mammal conservation efforts. In the words of Sir David Attenborough: “No one will protect what they don’t care about. And no one will care about what they have never experienced.”
You will 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.

Adventure Activities

Included Activities

Adventure Options

These can be booked in advance at an extra cost. Activities vary by itinerary, destination and are weather permitting.

World Voyager

A modern 168-passenger expedition ship built for science and discovery.

Ship Amenities

  • Ready Room
  • Sauna    
  • Spa
  • Polar Boutique
  • Lecture Theater
  • Dining Room
  • Observation Lounge
  • Gym
  • Pool & Jacuzzis

Ship Features

  • Science Hub
  • 2 Rolls Royce Engines
  • MAGS
  • Wraparound Deck

Deck Plans & Cabins

Deck 3

Public Spaces & Amenities

Deck 4

Public Spaces & Amenities

Deck 5

Cabin Options

Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals

Infinity Suite

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.

Size
270
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 5, Deck 6
Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals

Veranda Suite

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.

Size
215
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 5, Deck 6
Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals

Owner's Suite

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.

Size
365
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 5, Deck 6
Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals

Deluxe Suite

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.

Size
345
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 5
Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals

Superior Suite

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.

Size
207 – 270
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 5, Deck 6
Deck 6

Cabin Options

Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals

Infinity Suite

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.

Size
270
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 5, Deck 6
Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals

Veranda Suite

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.

Size
215
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 5, Deck 6
Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals

Owner's Suite

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.

Size
365
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 5, Deck 6
Antarctic Marine Mammals: The World of Whales and Seals

Superior Suite

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.

Size
207 – 270
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 5, Deck 6
Deck 7

Public Spaces & Amenities

Deck 8

Your Life Onboard

This is polar exploration at its finest. Our ships are intimate, luxurious floating hotels, packed with exciting experiences.
Several guests standing on the deck of a ship, wearing their Quark Expedition Parks, looking out onto a polar landscape

Enjoy panoramic views while you mingle in our comfy lounges, or head outside and chat with fellow adventurers on the wraparound deck. Our social spaces foster connections & shared experiences.

Engage with world-class experts in our auditorium. Presentations cover wildlife, history, marine biology, ecology, & geology, to enhance your polar knowledge & excitement for exploration.

Enjoy onboard amenities, attend lectures, or watch for wildlife from our observation decks. Sea days offer a perfect blend of education, relaxation, and anticipation.

Find tranquility in our well-stocked library, perfect for reading or quiet contemplation. The glass-domed Observation Lounge offers a peaceful retreat to reflect & enjoy awe-inspiring polar views.

Prepare for off-ship excursions in our spacious mudroom. Kayak, paddleboard, or take a plunge in polar waters. Stay active onboard with our gym, outdoor track, and pool facilities.

What’s Included

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.

International airfare & visa expenses, travel insurance, mandatory expedition gear, on-ship expenses, adventure options and trip extensions are not included.

World Voyager guests will receive a free 1GB data card for limited Wi-Fi access. (Additional data can be purchased on the ship.)

Possible Excursions

Departure Dates & Cabins

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Polar Expedition Team Leader, dressed in warm outdoor gear, with a friendly expression

Ready For Your Expedition?

Our Polar Travel Advisors will recommend the best expedition itinerary to suit your requirements.

Know Before You Go

For your personal safety—and to ensure you get the most enjoyment out of your polar adventure—please assess your mobility and medical requirements before booking. It is essential that guests have a high level of mobility to get in and out of Zodiac boats, and for off-ship activities such as hiking on uneven terrain. Our destinations are remote. Apart from our basic ship infirmary, it could take up to 72 hours to reach adequate medical facilities. For more details to help you assess your mobility and medical requirements before booking your voyage, please review Health & Safety.

Some of our expeditions have included transfers and these will be detailed in your Invoice and Trip Brochure.

Please note that if you have an airport transfer included in your trip, it is only available if you arrive on Day 1 of the itinerary. Please ensure your flight information on your Passenger Forms is up to date so our ground crew know when to expect you. There will be someone with a sign in Arrivals waiting for you. Please look for them and they will direct you to our group shuttle.

If you do not have included transfers, or you are arriving before Day 1, you will need to make your own way to the hotel. Most airports we travel in and out of have good taxi ranks in the Arrivals area, or you can often prebook a transfer online.

Packing is an exciting part of the trip for many of us. You will find a handy packing list towards the end of your Trip Brochure. You will have received a copy of this when you first booked. We also have two excellent videos, which you can check out here: What to Pack

Our Protection Promise allows you to make a purchase decision that will leave you worry-free in the event your plans change down the road. Please review details for each term in our Quark Expeditions Protection Promise.

Whether you are thinking of an expedition, or you’ve booked the trip of a lifetime with Quark Expeditions, review all our FAQs for comprehensive tips to help you prepare for the Polar Regions and how to make the most out of your voyage with the most experienced expedition team in the industry. If your specific question isn’t covered below, please reach out to your Polar Travel Advisor or helpful Client Experience Team at guest@quarkexpeditions.com.