10 or 11 days
This expedition offers the perfect chance to discover the best of the Antarctic Peninsula, the last continent’s most northern region. You’ll be delighted by penguins, seals and whales as they accompany you on your journey along the Antarctic coastline. Landing on the continent itself is a memorable highlight, where you’ll explore the iconic sights that make this one of the world’s most pristine, exotic and unforgettable natural environments.
Day-by-Day Expedition in Brief
- Perfect for first time visitors to Antarctica;
- Witness and explore the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula;
- Be aboard one of Quark’s specially designed ice strengthened vessels;
- Learn about the environment and wildlife from onboard lecturers and specialists; and
- Witness the abundant wildlife - penguins, seals, whales and more!
Day 1 — Ushuaia, Argentina
Day 2 — Embarkation Day
Days 3 and 4 — Crossing the Drake Passage
Days 5 to 7 — South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Days 8 and 9 — Crossing the Drake Passage
Day 10 — Disembarkation in Ushuaia
Adventure Options Add an Extra Rush of Adrenaline to Your Expedition
Every Quark Antarctic voyage includes great daily outdoor activities including Zodiac cruises, hiking and some also offer snowshoeing. The more discerning adrenaline junkie can also choose from a range of optional adventure activities, with varying exertion levels, to experience the 7th continent in a more personal way. Contact a Quark Polar Travel Adviser to learn more about adventure options, including physical requirements.
Not very many people have the opportunity to say they’ve camped on the 7th Continent. This is one of the best ways to experience Antarctica in a more intimate manner, and take your expedition to the next level.
Camping is available on most Antarctic voyages and has a limited number of spots. All equipment, guides and instructions are provided by Quark.
Pricing subject to change based on season. Please proceed to checkout or contact a Polar Travel Adviser for more details.
Pre- and Post-Trip Options Extend Your Stay
Getting to the Antarctic can be just as much fun as being there. Quark offers multiple travel packages that enable you to see more of the world before and after your Antarctic adventure.
Savour a spectacular bottle of Malbec with fine Argentine steak, explore street art in colourful San Telmo or experience the world-class shopping on Avenida Florida. Discover the elegant beauty of Buenos Aires, a city that melds European charm with the frenzied pace of Latin life. This package includes a guided tour of the city’s impressive highlights, from the quaint, cobbled plazas to its most sophisticated neighbourhoods. In the evening, you will enjoy a spectacular dinner and tango show with a live orchestra. Please contact a Quark Polar Travel Adviser for pricing.
Expedition Facts
Bridge Visits
Say Hello to the Captain and Crew
During your voyage you may be invited to visit the Bridge, where you can observe how the Captain and officers sail and navigate the ship. A map of your expedition path will be available, so you can see exactly where you have been.
Carbon Offsetting Program
Adding to its long list of industry “firsts”, Quark Expeditions is proud to say that Ocean Diamond will be the first ship to deliver CarbonNeutral® voyages under a new certification established in accordance with The CarbonNeutral Protocol, the global standard for carbon neutral certification. The offsets will be provided by The CarbonNeutral Company, a world leading provider of carbon reduction solutions.
Onboard Lectures
Presentations by Quark’s Expedition Team are included as part of your voyage. Through formal illustrated presentations, as well as informal briefings, the Quark Expeditions Team will cover a range of topics including ornithology, marine biology, glaciology, geography, geology, history and the environment.