Antarctica by Helicopter: Crossing the Polar Circle and the Peninsula 11% Discount

Immerse yourself in an extraordinary adventure that takes you from Buenos Aires into the pristine wilderness of Antarctica. This exclusive expedition offers you the chance to cross the southern polar circle and experience the majestic landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula from the air. Onboard the Ultramarine, enjoy the comfort of a modern expedition ship and look forward to exciting helicopter flights and Zodiac excursions. Discover fascinating wildlife, from penguins to whales, and let yourself be enchanted by the impressive beauty of icebergs and glaciers. This journey promises remarkable experiences and unique insights into one of the most remote regions in the world.
 

Itinerary: Antarctica by Helicopter: Crossing the Circle and the Peninsula

 
Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Upon arriving in this splendid city, famous for its vibrant Argentine culture, European-style architecture, and cosmopolitan atmosphere, you will independently transfer to your pre-expedition hotel for an overnight stay, which is included in your charter flight and hotel package. Buenos Aires, with its unique blend of tradition and modernity, welcomes you with its lively streets, where every corner tells a story and each building reflects a part of its rich cultural heritage. As you make your way to your accommodation, you can start to feel the energy that characterizes this metropolis, where tango resonates in the air and gastronomy invites you to a feast of flavors. Prepare to immerse yourself in an experience that promises to be as exciting as it is enriching, in a city that never ceases to surprise its visitors.
 
Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. This journey marks the beginning of an exciting adventure, as Ushuaia is often referred to as the "End of the World" due to its location at the southernmost tip of South America. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a central downtown location, offering you the perfect opportunity to enjoy some time on your own to explore this quaint port town. Stroll through the charming streets, perhaps visiting local shops or enjoying a coffee at a cozy café, before making your way to the designated meeting spot near the pier. Here, you will be transferred to the ship for embarkation, marking the start of your maritime journey. 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. This channel is named after the HMS Beagle, the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his famous voyage. As you sail, expect an air of anticipation to fill the atmosphere as you depart—the next time you see land, you’ll be in the remote Antarctic wilderness, a place of stunning beauty and unparalleled adventure.
 
Day 3: Crossing the Drake: A Polar Rite of Passage
Crossing the legendary 800-km stretch of water is a must-do for many travelers, a journey that promises both excitement and awe. As you embark on this adventure, prepare yourself for dramatic seascapes that unfold before your eyes. Standing on the deck of the Ultramarine, you will find yourself captivated by the vast expanse of water stretching beyond the distant horizon, a sight that is both humbling and exhilarating. Keep your senses alert and be on the lookout for the playful dance of dolphins and the majestic presence of whales as they break the surface of the ocean. The skies above are alive with the graceful flight of seabirds, including the impressive albatrosses, petrels, and skuas, gliding effortlessly over the sometimes rough waters. As the ship makes its approach to the Antarctic Peninsula, anticipation builds for that remarkable moment when you catch your first glimpse of the towering, multi-shaped icebergs, a sight that marks the beginning of your polar adventure.
 
Day 4: At Sea With Polar Experts
Today, as we continue to cross the Drake Passage, we experience the Antarctic Convergence, where the warmer waters of the subantarctic region meet the cold waters of Antarctica. This fascinating encounter of ocean currents offers a unique opportunity to observe the dynamic nature of the oceans. Your days at sea are richly filled with exciting presentations led by your Expedition Team. These experts share their knowledge in photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history, giving you deeper insights into the wonders of Antarctica. Between presentations, you have the chance to spend time on deck, looking out for wildlife that is native to these waters. Alternatively, you can take the opportunity to engage with fellow travelers over a drink at the bar and reflect on the day's experiences.
 
Day 5 & 6: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
The most common reaction upon reaching the Antarctic Peninsula is a sense of awe and wonder. The experience is indescribable, as few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. You'll begin to understand why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Each visit to Antarctica brings something new or unexpected, meaning your expedition will be unique and create a personal experience. Each day, you will embark on Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels, and landings. With wildlife always at the forefront, you will visit penguin colonies, look for humpback and minke whales, and search for a variety of southern seal species, including the elusive leopard seal. Your Expedition Team will take care of you during every landing, whether exploring the Antarctic terrain, visiting a research station, or dealing with penguin colonies. Here you will find chinstrap, Adélie, and gentoo penguins, as well as five different seal species. Zodiac rides offer the opportunity to observe some of the larger local marine mammals, like the Antarctic minke whale and humpback whale, up close. Days 5 and 6 are also ideal times to experience Ultramarine's suite of helicopter-supported adventures, offered exclusively by Quark Expeditions. Your days will be filled with wildlife watching and being fascinated by the captivating beauty of Antarctica. Hearing the crackling and crumbling of icebergs and glaciers and seeing penguins waddle along the beach will be part of your daily entertainment. All in addition to the spectacular experience of hovering in a helicopter over the Antarctic landscape.
 
Day 7 to 9: Explore the Antarctic Circle and the Southern Peninsula by water, land, and air
Helicopter operations in Antarctica are acutely weather-dependent. We have designed this itinerary so we can spend time each day in stunning locations that allow us to enjoy helicopter opportunities if the weather allows and, alternately, to maximize your experience of Antarctic wildlife, ice, and landscapes when flying conditions are not favorable. Each day near the Antarctic Circle will showcase the flexibility and technical prowess of our industry-leading expedition team, pilots, and crew, who will look for opportunities to experience Antarctica well beyond its coasts. As Ultramarine gains access to the Antarctic Circle, you’ll have accomplished an impressive achievement as most expeditions to the Peninsula do not come close to navigating this far south. Toasting the first explorers who ventured here over a century ago, you can raise a glass and take pride in the knowledge you’ve reached part of the world visited by a relative few. Next on our itinerary are Crystal Sound and Marguerite Bay, which comprise the geographical theater of focus on this incredible venture into the “deep south” of Antarctica. After visiting some of the region’s iconic penguin colonies and glacial features, we continue south into Crystal Sound to cross the Antarctic Circle. Crystal Sound is known for its massive expanse of steep mountains that rise directly out of the sea. We hope to visit Detaille Island and, weather-permitting, fly into the mountains of the Antarctic Peninsula at the Antarctic Circle. Our goal is to visit the British Antarctic Survey’s historical hut, and the Adélie penguin colony of Detaille Island. We also hope to Zodiac cruise in this area to see the colossal icebergs that formed from the glaciers fed by the snowfall in the coastal mountains of Antarctica. Seals frequently roam this coastal area. There will be time to marvel at the impressive topography, which features Castle Peak, a 2,380 meter (7,800-foot) massif. If weather allows, we may add to our marine operations and embark on our flightseeing experiences. What you will have just seen from sea, you will now experience from the sky as you witness the vastness of Antarctica and Crystal Sound. Continuing further south, we’ll set out toward Marguerite Bay, which is rich in human history, stunning geological features, and expansive ice fields. The bay is separated from Crystal Sound by Adelaide Island. Ice conditions permitting, we may be able to transit slowly through the narrow passage between the mainland and the island. This channel is known as The Gullet, known for pulsing currents that can lodge and dislodge ice throughout the summer months. Keep your eyes focused off-ship for potential marine mammal sightings. To the west of Adelaide Island, the 70-kilometer-long Fuchs Ice Piedmont stretches out like a long ice tongue to east Arrowsmith Peninsula with multiple peaks rising 1,800 to 2,100 meters (6,000 to 7,000 feet). We also hope to explore Debenham Islands, named after Frank Debenham, a member of the advisory committee for the British Graham Land Expedition of 1934-37. The six main islands are named after Debenham’s children.
 
Day 10 & 11: Northbound Along the Peninsula
By now, your knowledge of Adélie, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins will be matched by your ability to differentiate between a leopard, crabeater, and Weddell seal. As you continue your journey, terms like ‘bergy bits’ and ‘pancake ice’ will become part of your vocabulary, adding a new layer of understanding to your Antarctic adventure. As you head north, Zodiac excursions will occupy your days, offering you the chance to explore the icy waters and rugged landscapes up close. Your Expedition Team will be ever vigilant, scanning the horizon and the skies for species of seabirds, seals, and whales that may have eluded us on this journey south. Each day brings new opportunities to witness the remarkable wildlife and captivating scenery that define this remote and pristine part of the world.
 
Day 12 & 13: Crossing the Drake Passage
As you make your way back across the Drake Passage at the conclusion of your remarkable expedition, you can be confident that you are returning with a treasure trove of memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. Among these cherished experiences, soaring in a helicopter over the remote and stunning landscapes of Antarctica stands out as one of the most extraordinary moments—a privilege that only a select few travelers can boast. During these final days, your dedicated Expedition Team will offer a few more insightful presentations, including the much-anticipated end-of-voyage photo and video compilation. This compilation is a guest favorite, capturing the most memorable highlights of your journey. As you savor these last moments onboard, don't forget to indulge in the luxurious amenities offered by Ultramarine, particularly the Tundra Spa & Sauna, which provide the perfect way to unwind and reflect on your incredible adventure.
 
Day 14: Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires
Upon arriving in Ushuaia in the morning, you will disembark after enjoying a hearty breakfast, marking the end of one chapter of your journey, yet the adventures are far from over. As part of your Charter Flight and Hotel Package, you will be seamlessly transferred to the airport, ensuring a smooth transition for your return group charter flight to the vibrant city of Buenos Aires. This carefully coordinated transfer allows you to relax and reflect on the experiences of your trip, as you prepare to embark on the next leg of your adventure.
 
 
Additional Information: The expedition lasts 14 days and starts in Buenos Aires, Argentina, onboard the ship Ultramarine. It is noted that helicopter operations are highly dependent on weather conditions, meaning planned activities may need to be adjusted. There is a departure between February 2027 and March 2027.
 
Discover the pristine beauty of Antarctica from the air and water—an adventure you will never forget. Spaces for this exclusive journey are limited, so we recommend you secure your place now and prepare for a remarkable expedition!
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