Antarctic Express across the Antarctic Circle

Dive into the Antarctic with Quark Expeditions, experience icebergs, impressive glaciers, and drifting ice floes. A foreign, extreme, and at the same time beautiful nature awaits you near the southern North Pole. A highlight of this expedition is crossing the Antarctic Circle, which is celebrated accordingly. Perhaps you will dare to take a plunge into the cold sea or, with a bit of luck, catch a glimpse of a penguin. Whatever the far south holds for you: memories for a lifetime will be created here. A flight to the Antarctic Peninsula saves you from the rough Drake Passage and gives you more days to spend in Antarctica in harmony with untouched nature. The travel price per person is based on accommodation in a double cabin with double occupancy.

Antarctic Express crossing the Southern Polar Circle: Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Punta Arenas, Chile
Today you will arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile and check into the hotel in the afternoon. The travel package starts (if necessary) with a transfer from the airport to the hotel. In the afternoon, you will be greeted at the hotel and receive information for embarkation. Enjoy a welcome dinner, look forward to the adventures ahead, and get to know your fellow travelers.

Day 2: Flight to the Antarctic Peninsula and Embarkation
After a hearty breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport. A flight to King George Island saves you from the rough Drake Passage, avoiding not only the high waves but also the time involved. This flight lives up to the name of this journey, as in just two hours you will already be in Antarctica. Your first impressions of the Antarctic Peninsula are impressive, and from the air, you will get a different perspective on the beauty of these landscapes. The Zodiacs will take you to the ship, where you will settle into a cozy cabin and prepare for the next few days. Marvel from the outer deck as the ship sets off on an extraordinary expedition.

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Day 3 - 5: Southern Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
During your sea voyage, you will discover places that few people have ever seen, and they are very different from any other areas on Earth. You will likely be in constant awe and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes passing by. The Zodiac rides and landings are exciting, where friendly penguins await you - an experience you will never forget. Here, you get as close to the wilderness as possible and explore the most remote places in the world. Each day is different, each landing is unique, as everything is determined by the weather and ice conditions. One day, you may go on a Zodiac ride to search for whales or observe icebergs up close, and the next day, you may go on a hike to penguin breeding grounds. Perhaps you will be lucky enough to spot seals or killer whales hunting, or to see native seabirds. Your experienced expedition team accompanies you throughout the entire journey, sharing their knowledge with you and ensuring your safety. Not only will the expedition team assist you on land, but they will also provide onboard lectures on fascinating topics related to Antarctica.

Day 6 - 7: Southern Polar Circle
The expedition continues further south, heading towards the southern Polar Circle as far as conditions allow. Crossing this boundary around the South Pole is another unforgettable adventure and will be duly celebrated. At 66°33' S, you will reach this point and be surrounded by the most untouched and remote wilderness. In the realm of the midnight sun and sea ice, you will marvel at the indescribable views.

Day 8 - 9: North along the Antarctic Peninsula
The expedition ship sails north along the Antarctic Peninsula, offering you a unique perspective on the nature of Antarctica and the perfect starting point for landings or Zodiac excursions. Throughout the day, the expedition team will be on the lookout for seabirds, seals, whales, and other wildlife observation opportunities.

Day 10: Disembarkation and Return Flight
After one last breakfast on board, it is unfortunately time to say goodbye. Disembarkation will take place on King George Island, and from there, you will take the return flight to Punta Arenas, Chile, crossing the Drake Passage. After two hours of flight time, you will be back in civilization, and a transfer will take you to the hotel for the last night. The remaining free time is yours to explore Punta Arenas and to gradually return to daily life.

Day 11: Departure
With breakfast, this unforgettable journey comes to an end, and you check out with a multitude of wonderful memories of Antarctica.

Arrival:
The travel package begins with a group transfer from the airport to the hotel in Punta Arenas, Chile on Day 1 and ends with a night in the hotel including breakfast. The travel price includes the transfer from the airport to the hotel in Punta Arenas, Chile on Day 1, the first hotel overnight stay, the last hotel overnight stay on Day 10/11, as well as all other services described in the itinerary. Please note that only breakfast is included in the hotel overnight stays in Punta Arenas.

Expedition Ship:
Ocean Explorer
Modern and cozy, the Ocean Explorer welcomes you and is a safe and comfortable retreat for your expedition. With room for 138 guests and 105 crew members, the expedition ship promises a personalized experience of the polar regions. The Ocean Explorer also has Ice Class 1A and can reach speeds of 16.5 knots in open water.
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