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Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

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Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

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Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

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Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

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Antarctic From 12 days From $15,472 USD

Antarctic Peninsula A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Starting from

  • Ushuaia, Argentina

Ships

  • Ocean Explorer

Departures

1 Departure in December 2027
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Expedition Overview

Spend more time in the remote, ice-laden Weddell Sea—home to massive Adélie penguin colonies and colossal tabular icebergs—than you ever imagined possible. While many Antarctic itineraries attempt to include the Weddell, they typically spend just a day here, two at most. Our 12-day Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea devotes three to four days in the farthest reaches of the Weddell Sea and Antarctic Sound. In fact, our arrival in Antarctica coincides with the Winter Solstice, December 21, 2027. Guided by our seasoned Expedition Team, this route is designed with maximum flexibility to adapt to shifting conditions and reach rarely visited sites few travelers ever see. 
 

Highlights

Join a rare, in-depth journey into the remote Weddell Sea and Antarctic Sound

Photograph massive flat-topped tabular icebergs

Visit archeological sites amid volcanic and scenic landscapes

See tens of thousands of Adélie penguins

Spot a variety of whales: Humpbacks, minkes, fin, and, possibly, killer whales.

Explore off-ship by Zodiac and kayak.

Find Your Ideal Itinerary

From Ushuaia, Argentina, 12 days, on Ocean Explorer

Duration
12 days
Departing from
Ushuaia, Argentina
Ship
Ocean Explorer
Learn more about the ship
Starting from
$15,472 USD per person
View Brochure
You may arrive in Ushuaia at any time on Day 1. Many guests choose to arrive a day or two before embarkation day to explore this quaint port city at the bottom of South America, and the surrounding region. Based on the arrival information you send in advance, we will arrange for a transfer from the airport to your hotel.
Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel, transecting 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 at the world’s most southern continent.
You have many options of activities during the 800-km (500 mile) Drake crossing. As you gain your sea legs, our Expedition Team will begin their series of presentations to help prepare you for your upcoming Zodiac and land excursions. You officially enter Antarctica when your ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence, a boundary that f luctuates around 60° south. This is also a great opportunity to meet your fellow travelers—many of whom will become friends by the voyage end.
One word best describes the Weddell Sea and Antarctic Sound: immense. That applies equally to the ice formations, penguin colonies, and vast stretches of sea. In Antarctic Sound and the Weddell Sea, we will encounter massive tabular icebergs. These bergs don’t calve from tidewater glaciers but from ice shelves— and many will dwarf Ocean Explorer. Some in the Weddell Sea reach the size of a football field or larger. Their smooth, tabletop-flat surfaces reflect the ocean beneath: flat seas yield flat ice. Ice shelves stretch from land into the sea. In the northwest corner of the Weddell Sea, penguin colonies can number in the tens of thousands. For travelers seeking Adélie penguins, Antarctic Sound and the Weddell Sea offer prime viewing of this iconic species—the most southerly breeding penguin, and possibly bird, on Earth (though snow petrels, prevalent here, are also a contender for that crown). Gentoo penguins are found here too, and you’ll have chances to spot chinstraps. The legendary Snow Hill Emperor colony lies in this region; while we won’t reach it, we may encounter individual members on the ice. The Weddell Sea is less visited than the Gerlache Strait, not for lack of beauty, but due to its ever-shifting ice. On this voyage, we’ve added an extra day in this area—time enough for a true adventure into this endless wilderness, and to ensure we can fully embrace the dance with the ice. In the Weddell Sea, penguins are our priority—but ice will guide our course. Alongside towering tabular icebergs, we’ll likely encounter vast stretches of sea ice, more than on the Peninsula’s west side. Your Expedition Team and bridge officers will track charts and forecasts, seeking openings to navigate toward the region’s highlights, and intentionally visiting the ice edge to maximize our time in this remarkable environment. Our route will be shaped by sea ice and weather, but every destination— whichever we visit first or last—will be exceptional, evoking words like profound, humbling, and surreal. We’ll make every effort to visit large Adélie penguin colonies—at Brown Bluff, Paulet Island, or Tay Head—ranging from 20,000 to several hundred thousand penguins, including gentoo. Photos and documentaries can’t match the experience of standing before tens of thousands of penguins. The sounds alone—partners calling, chicks crying for parents, wind and waves against the shore, and the distant crack of calving glaciers—create an acoustic landscape of pure wildness. Add the sight of a penguin-covered landscape, and you have an encounter that’s impossible to replicate. The currents of Antarctic and Active sounds are mesmerizing. While you’re in a Zodiac, you may observe ice—large and small—flowing through narrow straits at several kilometers per hour, a raw display of the power of water. From shore, you may glimpse or sense the ice’s movement. Your Zodiac may pass through open water, while your return ride could weave among drifting floes, crackling brash, and scattered bergy bits. The Weddell Sea is known for superb birdwatching—especially cape, snow, and southern giant petrels—and the chance to spot Weddell, crabeater, or leopard seals onshore or catching rides on the drifting ice. Sightings may occur near Adélie colonies or at sites like Kinnes Cove and Active Sound. When ice opens in the Weddell Sea’s northwest, whales follow—lured by the feeding opportunities. Humpbacks and minkes are most common, with occasional killer whales. Conditions may also allow us to explore areas frequented by fin whales, and possibly southern rights. For historians, the Weddell Sea brims with stories—from Shackleton’s legendary Endurance survival and Nordenskjöld’s gallows-humored ordeal on Antarctic to far older histories told by the 60-million-year-old fossils on The Naze, Vega Island, and Cockburn Island. Fossils are discovered here partly because large areas remain relatively snow-free. Volcanic activity has painted these sites—as well as Brown Bluff on the Peninsula’s mainland—in rich reds, burnt oranges, and chocolate browns. In a landscape dominated by white, gray, and blue, these colors add a vivid layer to a region steeped in both human and ancient geological history. This itinerary offers the best of a polar expedition—soak in the vastness of the Weddell Sea and Antarctic Sound from your ship, then get up close to stunning geological formations by Zodiac or kayak.  
The journey back across the 800-km (500 mile) Drake Passage provides final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air, spend time on the outer deck watching for seabirds and whales, or attending one of our team’s expert-led polar presentations.
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 take advantage of the included transfer to the airport or, depending on the time of your flight, explore the town on your own and take a taxi to the airport later.
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Adventure Activities

Included Activities

Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Zodiac Cruising

Get an up-close looks at icebergs, ice floes, and glaciers on a guided zodiac tour.
Passengers hiking in Antarctic Landscape

Hiking

Hiking in the polar regions is far from your typical trail experience.
Photography

Photography

Our photography guides will help you hone your skills to capture the beauty of the polar regions.
A guest jumps off the gangway (with a safety harness) into Antarctic waters during the Polar Plunge.

Polar Plunge

Plunge into polar waters cheered on by fellow passengers and our Expedition Team.
Presentations

Presentations

Enjoy daily chats with and presentations by our world-class onboard polar experts.

Adventure Options

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

Guests enjoying the paddle excursion in Greenland. Photo by Acacia Johnson.

Paddling Excursion

Glide through the pristine polar waters in a sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayak.
Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Sea Kayaking

Experience guided paddles that bring you closer to the polar wilderness.

Expedition Ships

Ocean Explorer

Ocean Explorer is modern, elegant and purpose-built for polar exploration. The 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology.

Ship Amenities

  • Main Dining Room
  • Private Dining Room
  • The Latitude Bar
  • Library
  • Dry Sauna
  • Fitness Center
  • Jacuzzis
  • Observation Lounge

Ship Features

  • Two Story Library
  • Leading Edge Sustainability
  • Ulstein X-Bow
  • High Observation Outdoor Decks
  • Quiet and Comfortable
  • Stunning Interior Design

Deck Plans & Cabins

Deck 3
Deck 3

Cabin Options

Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Studio Single

Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 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
146 – 186
Occupancy
1 guest
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 3
Deck 4
Deck 4

Cabin Options

Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Veranda Stateroom

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
173 – 272
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4, Deck 6, Deck 7
Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. 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.

Size
182 – 195
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4
Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Veranda Suite

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed.  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.

Size
200 – 205
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths and fold out sofa bed
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4, Deck 6
Deck 5
Deck 5

Public Spaces & Amenities

Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Main Dining Room

Contemporary meets cozy in this modern dining room with its stylish lighting and contemporary art. Located on Deck 5, the Main Dining Room seats 144 guests, and features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto the spectacular polar wilderness.
Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Private Dining Room

Tasteful and intimate. This stylish, private dining room on deck 5 provides a relaxed dining experience—with views of the polar landscape—for up to 36 guests.
Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

The Latitude Bar

A popular social hub on Deck 5, the beautifully-lit Latitude Bar—with its lush sofas and faux marble-topped end tables—is large enough to seat 46 and is ideal for enjoying a quiet drink on your own or hanging out with friends.
Deck 6
Deck 6

Cabin Options

Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Junior Suite

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV’s, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

Size
296 – 299
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Bed Config.
Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 6
Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Veranda Stateroom

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
173 – 272
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4, Deck 6, Deck 7
Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Veranda Suite

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed.  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.

Size
200 – 205
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths and fold out sofa bed
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4, Deck 6

Public Spaces & Amenities

Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Library

Located on Deck 6 at the top of the gorgeous atrium staircase, this beautiful Library with floor-to-ceiling glass, accommodates up to 47 people
Deck 7
Deck 7

Cabin Options

Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Owners Suite

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
443
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Bed Config.
Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 7
Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Penthouse Suite

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 TV’s, 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
269
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Bed Config.
Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 7
Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Veranda Stateroom

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
173 – 272
Occupancy
1 to 2 guests
Bed Config.
One double bed made up of two twin berths
Class
Standard
Location
Deck 4, Deck 6, Deck 7
Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Studio Veranda Single

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
162
Occupancy
1 guest
Bed Config.
One twin single
Class
Premium
Location
Deck 7

Public Spaces & Amenities

Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Dry Sauna

After a day of exciting off-ship adventure, guests can relax on the sauna’s traditional wood benches while gazing at the polar wilderness just outside the large sauna windows. Accommodates 15 people on Deck 7.
Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Fitness Center

Stay fit with the latest work-out equipment in the Fitness Center on Deck 7.
OEX Jacuzzi

Jacuzzis

Two outdoor Jacuzzis on deck 7, at the ship’s stern, mean you can relax alfresco while soaking up the breath-taking polar views.
Deck 8
Deck 8

Public Spaces & Amenities

Antarctic Peninsula: A Rare Exploration of the Weddell Sea

Observation Lounge

This stylish lounge at the top of the ship guarantees incredible views. Guests also frequent this spacious lookout on Deck 8 to enjoy cocktails and conversation with fellow travelers. Seats 63.
Deck 9
Deck 9

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
Guests on the deck of a polar expedition ship, wearing Quark Expedition parkas, gathered around an expedition leader while everyone raises a glass of champagne in celebration against a backdrop of ice
A presenter stands in front of a large screen displaying educational content about polar regions, engaging the audience with visual aids and maps
Two people stand on a ship with their backs to the camera, wearing their Quark Expeditions parkas, looking out onto an icy landscape
Two people sit in an on ship library reading, with a backdrop of books on bookshelves
A ready room where Quark Expedition parks hang in their open lockers

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.

Guests on the deck of a polar expedition ship, wearing Quark Expedition parkas, gathered around an expedition leader while everyone raises a glass of champagne in celebration against a backdrop of ice

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

A presenter stands in front of a large screen displaying educational content about polar regions, engaging the audience with visual aids and maps

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

Two people stand on a ship with their backs to the camera, wearing their Quark Expeditions parkas, looking out onto an icy landscape

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.

Two people sit in an on ship library reading, with a backdrop of books on bookshelves

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.

A ready room where Quark Expedition parks hang in their open lockers

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.

Departures

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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.
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.

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