Antarctic From 11 days From £16,027 GBP

Antarctic Express Crossing the Circle

Starting from

  • Punta Arenas, Chile

Ships

  • Ocean Explorer

Departures

3 Departures between January 2026 to February 2027
View all Departures

Expedition Overview

Check off a travel milestone by crossing the Antarctic Circle. Maximize your adventure by skipping the ocean transit and flying over the Drake Passage by charter plane. Simply combine our exciting Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition itinerary with a direct round-trip flight from Chile to your polar-ready ship, to get our Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle voyage. Then, explore the wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula by sea, and continue further to reach 66⁰33´ south. Check other achievements off your bucket list as well, such as sea kayaking through channels dotted with icebergs.

Highlights

Fly over the Drake Passage and experience the fastest, most direct way to Antarctica

Witness iconic Antarctic wildlife, such as penguins, seals and whales

Marvel at Antarctic Peninsula highlights, including crossing the Antarctic Circle

Celebrate crossing the Antarctic Circle with a toast

Enjoy presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology & geology by our onboard polar experts

Find Your Ideal Itinerary

From Punta Arenas, Chile, 11 days, on Ocean Explorer

Duration
11 days
Departing from
Punta Arenas, Chile
Ship
Ocean Explorer
Learn more about the ship
Starting from
£16,027 GBP per person
View Brochure

Your adventure begins in Punta Arenas, Chile, the most populated city in southern Patagonia. If you arrive early, there are many museums, restaurants and shops to keep you busy for days. By early afternoon, a Quark Expeditions representative will meet you at the official starting point hotel, where you’ll enjoy a welcome dinner and be briefed on preparations for your embarkation day.

Your charter flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica enables you to cross the legendary Drake Passage in only two hours, while far below your ship will approach King George Island for your arrival. Your first glimpse of dramatic Antarctic landscapes will be from a unique perspective, as your plane descends for landing in the South Shetland Islands. After landing, make your way to the shore, before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula!

There are few places in the world as evocative as Antarctica. The Antarctic Continent is indescribable and can only be fully appreciated through your own eyes.

Even more exciting are your land excursions. Your first Zodiac landing is something you’ll never forget! Setting foot on a beach inhabited by thousands of penguins is the most intimate way to experience the unique wildlife of Antarctica.

Each landing is different and dependent on weather, but every day presents new sightings and photo opportunities, and it won’t be long before you can tell the difference between an Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap penguin.

You may take a Zodiac cruise in search of whales and icebergs one day, followed by a hike to a penguin rookery the next day. From the booming sound of a calving glacier to the thrill of spotting apex predators like leopard seals and orcas in action, you’ll wake up early and welcome each day with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore this unrivaled wilderness experience.

Your Expedition Team will accompany you along the way, ensuring safety and providing insights into the places you visit. Our expert education team will also provide in-depth explanations of the glaciology, history and wildlife of the region.

Crossing the Antarctic Circle is both a memorable experience and impressive achievement, as few travelers reach so far south. If conditions allow us to cross this famed latitude of 66°33 ́ S, we’ll toast the first explorers who ventured here, and you can raise a glass and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people. This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun, Weddell seals, and your best chances of encountering sea ice – the foundation of the Antarctic marine ecosystem.

If you haven’t had your fill of Antarctic wildlife and icebergs by now, you’ll surely be satisfied by the time you return to King George Island. You will continue to explore by Zodiac or on land as you travel north along the western Antarctic Peninsula.

Your Expedition Team will always be on the lookout for species of seabirds, seals and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south.

After your week of exploration, you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and disembark at King George Island. Your two-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, brings your adventure to an end. After your group transfer to the hotel, you are free to explore and enjoy an evening on your own, in the city or at the hotel to reminisce about the sights and sounds of Antarctica.

After breakfast, you are welcome to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.

From Punta Arenas, Chile, 11 days, on Ocean Explorer

Duration
11 days
Departing from
Punta Arenas, Chile
Ship
Ocean Explorer
Learn more about the ship
Starting from
£20,174 GBP per person
View Brochure

Your adventure begins in Punta Arenas, Chile, the most populated city in southern Patagonia. If you arrive early, there are many museums, restaurants and shops to keep you busy for days. By early afternoon, a Quark Expeditions representative will meet you at the official starting point hotel, where you’ll enjoy a welcome dinner and be briefed on preparations for your embarkation day.

Your charter flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica enables you to cross the legendary Drake Passage in only two hours, while far below your ship will approach King George Island for your arrival. Your first glimpse of dramatic Antarctic landscapes will be from a unique perspective, as your plane descends for landing in the South Shetland Islands. After landing, make your way to the shore, before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula!

There are few places in the world as evocative as Antarctica. The Antarctic Continent is indescribable and can only be fully appreciated through your own eyes.

Even more exciting are your land excursions. Your first Zodiac landing is something you’ll never forget! Setting foot on a beach inhabited by thousands of penguins is the most intimate way to experience the unique wildlife of Antarctica.

Each landing is different and dependent on weather, but every day presents new sightings and photo opportunities, and it won’t be long before you can tell the difference between an Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap penguin.

You may take a Zodiac cruise in search of whales and icebergs one day, followed by a hike to a penguin rookery the next day. From the booming sound of a calving glacier to the thrill of spotting apex predators like leopard seals and orcas in action, you’ll wake up early and welcome each day with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore this unrivaled wilderness experience.

Your Expedition Team will accompany you along the way, ensuring safety and providing insights into the places you visit. Our expert education team will also provide in-depth explanations of the glaciology, history and wildlife of the region.

Crossing the Antarctic Circle is both a memorable experience and impressive achievement, as few travelers reach so far south. If conditions allow us to cross this famed latitude of 66°33 ́ S, we’ll toast the first explorers who ventured here, and you can raise a glass and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people. This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun, Weddell seals, and your best chances of encountering sea ice – the foundation of the Antarctic marine ecosystem.

If you haven’t had your fill of Antarctic wildlife and icebergs by now, you’ll surely be satisfied by the time you return to King George Island. You will continue to explore by Zodiac or on land as you travel north along the western Antarctic Peninsula.

Your Expedition Team will always be on the lookout for species of seabirds, seals and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south.

After your week of exploration, you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and disembark at King George Island. Your two-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, brings your adventure to an end. After your group transfer to the hotel, you are free to explore and enjoy an evening on your own, in the city or at the hotel to reminisce about the sights and sounds of Antarctica.

After breakfast, you are welcome to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.

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 Centre
  • 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 Express: Crossing the Circle

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 Express: Crossing the Circle

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 Express: Crossing the Circle

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 Express: Crossing the Circle

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

Deck 6
Deck 6

Cabin Options

Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle

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 Express: Crossing the Circle

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 Express: Crossing the Circle

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

Deck 7
Deck 7

Cabin Options

Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle

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 Express: Crossing the Circle

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 Express: Crossing the Circle

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 Express: Crossing the Circle

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

Deck 8
Deck 8

Public Spaces & Amenities

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

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.

Included Activities

Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle

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 differs from your typical trail experience. Here, in a tree-less terrain, you are the tallest figure on the landscape as you walk over spongy tundra, crusty snow or sandy beaches in remotes parts of the Arctic and Antarctica. Stepping ashore anywhere in the polar regions means you’re not a distant observer. Our organized hikes range from short jaunts to the top of lookouts or visits to see wildlife or longer walks of several kilometers over ice and rock and snow. Hiking excursions may last from two to three hours with plenty of time for photographs of wildlife, learning moments from your experienced guides, or just time to stand back and admire the incredible polar surroundings. No experience is necessary but participants should be able to get in and out of a Zodiac and walk on uneven terrain. Hiking options are tailored to all interests and abilities, from those who want to contemplate the landscape in silence to photographers who want that perfect image to energetic travelers who want to summit a peak in the hopes of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat. Equipment you’ll be provided with for hiking outings Other recommended gear/clothing
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.
Photography

Photography

Our photography guides will help you hone your skills to capture the beauty of the polar regions.
Presentations

Presentations

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

Upgrade Your Expedition

Find out what add-on options are available for your expedition.

Adventure Options

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

Possible Excursions

When traveling in extremely remote regions, your Expedition Team must consider the sea, ice and weather to guide the route and itinerary details. The following sites are a sample of what you may experience on your expedition, whether by ship, Zodiac cruise, helicopter, or shore landing.

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

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 customerops@exodus.co.uk.