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Quark Expeditions is a member of the United States Tour Operators Association and other international accreditation organizations.  As a result, you can travel with compete peace of mind since your trip is financially protected.

About Quark Expeditions

When you venture into the untouched wilds of the Arctic and Antarctic, you need a great team around you. And we have the greatest. You’ll join elite guides trained at Quark Academy — which surpasses every standard imaginable for safety and preparedness in the Polar Regions—and interact directly with world-class polar experts. Our philosophy? The team that explores together, discovers more together.

What Our Guests Have To Say

An incredible trip to Antarctica

The whole experience was great. The world Explorer is a beautiful and very comfortable ship, the food was amazing. And of course the landings and cruising the area was a once in a lifetime experience.

Falklands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Circle

The team managed all our expectations so very well from the outset and they in turn were far exceeded at every twist and turn of the daily programme. What a simply SUPERB trip it was and the fantastic weather was, like the icebergs and glaciers the 'icing on the cake'.

Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings

Our expedition team was fantastic and amazing in the breadth of their knowledge of wildlife, history and geology. Fantastic daily lectures by an energetic and funny crew.

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Our Quark Expeditions Antarctica Cruise: Review & Recap

A trip to Antarctica has long been at the top of our travel bucket list. It’s a destination we’ve admired from afar since we began travelling more than a decade ago. For years, we’ve been captivated by Antarctica’s remoteness, the abundance of wildlife in its waters, and the honour associated with visiting the last frontier. 

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So when an email from  Adventure Life  arrived in our mailbox inviting us to join an upcoming sailing to the 7th continent, we didn’t hesitate for a second. It was a resounding YES! 

It’s been more than a month since we returned from our sailing but the feelings of awe and gratitude from our time in Antarctica are still present in our mind. From our smooth sailing on the infamous Drake Passage to that incredible afternoon lost in the fog with the friendliest humpback whale to the terrifying polar plunge – there were so many highlights on this trip.

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Many of you have asked questions about our trip, followed our adventure on social media and asked us to share more about what it was really to travel to Antarctica. 

It’s time to share all the details. Read on to get all the details from our expedition aboard the  Quark Expeditions Discovering the 7th Continent Sailing  to Antarctica.

Choosing the Right Operator

We can attest from firsthand experience that choosing the right ship and itinerary for your first trip to Antarctica can be challenging. Not all itineraries, ships, and staff on board are the same, and that can make a huge difference in your trip. Here are a few things to consider. 

Size of Ship 

The size of the ship makes the biggest different on any sailing to Antarctica. As we learned, there are 2 types of ships that sail to Antarctica

• Ships over 200 passengers  – are  NOT allowed to make landings in Antarctica . That means that any itinerary on a ship with over 200 passengers will include  sailing around the Peninsula , but NO land excursions, zodiac rides or opportunity to get off the ship and step foot on the continent. These sailing are significantly cheaper but come with this big and important caveat. 
• Ships with less than 200 passangers  – are  allowed to make landings in Antarctica.  These trips are more expensive but do offer the full Antarctica experience with landings, and zodiac rides. The trip price and experience then further vary based on the operator and ship. 

Itinerary 

Most cruises to Antarctica begin in South America. Cruise ships usually depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile. While the exact details depend on the operator, there are basically 3 types of itineraries in Antarctica

• Intro to Antarctica:  This is a classic Antarctica itinerary. This trip is usually 8-10 days long and includes 4-5 days on the continent plus 4 days sailing across the Drake Passage (2 days each way). There is also an option to fly over the Drake Passage. 
• Crossing the Antarctic Circle:  This 12-14-day itinerary allows you to spend a bit more time on the continent, whether crossing the Antarctic Circle or exploring more landing sites around the Peninsula. 
• Beyond Antarctica.  This extended itinerary  includes stops in the Falkland Islands  and a few days exploring  South Georgia , in addition to exploring Antarctica. It is the ultimate trip to the Antarctic region. 

Price is a huge decision factor for most people.  Basic Antarctica trips on a large ship (over 200 people) with a company like Princess Cruises or Norwegian Cruises start from as low as $2,000/person. “Intro to Antarctica” itineraries range from $5,000-13,000, depending on the ship and its comforts, and itineraries that take you beyond Antarctica start at a whopping $23,000. 

Needless to say, selecting the right ship, itinerary, and experience is essential when it comes to any trip to Antarctica. We did a lot of research and due diligence in preparation for our trip but relied heavily on the advice and suggestions of our Trip Planners from  Adventure Life  to guide us through the trip selection process. 

About Adventure Life

Adventure Life  is a leader in the adventure travel industry. Founded in 1999, the company offers tours and tailor-made travel itineraries for epic adventures worldwide. Their destinations span all seven continents, with the most popular regions being South America and Central America, Polar Regions and Asia.

Adventure Life is known for its commitment to sustainable tourism and responsible travel practices. The company partners with local guides and communities to ensure that their tours benefit both travellers and the destinations they visit while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and local cultures.

About Quark Expeditions

Quark Expeditions  is one of the oldest and premier operators in Antarctica. With over 30 years of experience in the Polar Regions, they have long been renowned for their focus on conservation, guest experience and education on board. 

With lectures on polar history, marine biology, glaciology, ornithology, and even photography in Antarctica, the  Expedition Staff share a wealth of information over the course of the sailing.  There is so much to learn every day!

Their comfortable ships and impressive staff-to-guest ratio offered another reason to choose them over other operators in Antarctica.

Our Trip: Discovering the 7th Continent

After a lot of research and some back and forth with Adventure Life, we decided to sail on the  Quark Expedition   “Intro to Antarctica”  trip, officially called  Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7 th  Continent . This classic voyage would take 11 days and allows us to experience the iconic Drake Passage and spend 4-5 days in Antarctica, making landings in South Shetland Islands, and in other parts of the Peninsula. 

Our Ship: Quark World Explorer 

About the ship.

The  Quark World Explorer  is a 1B ice-class vessel built to be fast, comfortable, refined, and roomy. It has a cruising speed of 16 knots in open water, and houses 172 guests and 125 crew members.

As sustainable travel advocates, we were interested to learn about World Explorer’s sustainability initiatives on board. 

• The ship burns Marine Gas Oil, a clean-burning fuel with a low emission factor. 
• The restaurant on site serves only sustainable seafood and has a strong focus on reducing food waste on board. 
• The cleaning team uses eco-friendly laundry chemicals and cabin amenities. 
• Only recycled, acid-free paper is used on board
• The ship is free of single-use plastic, and every passenger is provided with a reusable water bottle.

There are  six types of cabins  on the World Explorer. 

• 4 TRIPLE CABINS  – 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, a separate sitting area with another single sofa bed, plus a small walk-out balcony and ensuite. 
• 24 INFINITY SUITES  – 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony, and an ensuite. 
• 48 VERANDA SUITES  – 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, a walk- out balcony and an ensuite. 
• 4 SUPERIOR SUITES  – 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, an extra large walk-out balcony with access from the sitting room and bedroom, and an ensuite 
• 2 DELUXE SUITES  – 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have with one double or two single beds, a large walk-out balcony with access from the sitting room and bedroom and an ensuite.
• 4 OWNER’S SUITES  – 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, a large walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom, and an ensuite. 

We had the Infinity Suite,  and it was much more luxurious than we ever imagined! At first, we were bummed we didn’t get a Balcony Cabin, but a few days into the trip, we realized our suite was actually way better. We had so much space, and always had the option to look out at the view while staying warm thanks to the cabin’s floor-to-ceiling glass Juliet balcony.

Our room came with a comfortable double bed, a spacious sitting area, a built in closet with plenty of storage space, a private bathroom with a shower, a desk, a fridge, and a TV. We really appreciated the extra space in our cabin, as it allowed us to really spread out and keep things tidy in our cabin over the course of the sailing. 

The TV was a surprising bonus! A few days into the trip, we learned that the lectures, held in the auditorium were broadcasted to our cabin’s state-of-the-art  “infotainment system,”  it was a huge game changer! We learned so much about the wildlife from the comfort of our beds! Of course, we also used the TV to watch shows and movies in the evenings. 

Other Facilities on Board

We were happy to see a well-equipped gym on board the World Explorer. We had good intentions but didn’t use it as much as we wanted. We tried to hit the gym during the crossing days but found it tough to work out while the ship was swaying. 

Sauna & Spa

We didn’t find time for this, but it was good to have the option to book massages, facials, and hair, hand, and foot treatments. The spa also features change rooms, showers, and lockers.

Polar Boutique

There was a  shop on the ship  that sold whatever you forgot to bring from your Antarctica packing list. In case you showed up with no warm gear, they had good options for waterproof pants, hats, and gloves. They also had gifts and souvenirs, camera equipment, and other random bits and bobs.

Observation Deck

This was a  fun place to hang out,  meet with all the guests, and watch as the ship passed by wildlife and icebergs. We spent most of our free time here. 

The Upper Deck on the World Explorer ship had a  2km running track,  which we really came to love over the course of the trip. We came up here daily for little walks, and to watch the wildlife while we sailed from one landing site to another. 

Pool and Heated Hot Tub

We were really excited to find that the World Explorer ship had  a pool and hot tubs on board . But the reality is we never once used these. During the Drake Passage, when we had the most time, the pool and hot tubs were emptied and not available for use. They got filled while we were on the Peninsula, but we never found the time to hang out there. 

Main Expedition Lounge

This was a  great place to spend some time with new friends . In the evenings, we typically gathered here for casual bar talks.

Coffee/Tea Station 

The complimentary coffee and tea station was  always stocked and open.  We used it daily. To be honest, I found the tea selection to be a bit lacking and was happy that I brought my own loose-leaf tea on board. 

The bars were  well-stocked  with premium beers, wines, liquors, and spirits, and open from mid-morning into evening. Drinks were not included in our package, but free wine was available at dinner and additional drinks were reasonably priced. The good news is that starting in 2024,  alcoholic drinks will now be included in the price of the sailing.

There was  only one dining room on board , which made things easy and simple. Breakfast and lunches were served in a mix of buffet style and a la carte while dinners were a la carte and fully plated. 

The  food was great,  and there was plenty of it. The quality was high, we were impressed with the variety as well. The menu was different every day, a mix of international fare and a few themed nights. Most dietary restrictions were accommodated with ease as long as you informed the staff before the expedition.

Internet on Board 

There was  surprisingly good internet on board,  though it was expensive at $69 for 1GB. We got one package each and were careful about only checking emails and posting an occasional photo on Instagram, but it lasted us the whole trip.  For the 2024-2025 season, internet will be free and included on all Quark sailings to Antarctica. 

Our Day by Day Experience

Day 1: arrival in ushuaia.

Day 1 on our itinerary actually included a day in Ushuaia, Argentina. We arrived the day before and made the most of our trip by taking a day tour of  Tierra del Fuego National Park , Argentina’s first coastal national park. 

We highly recommend it if you have some extra time. Our trip included a 3.5-hour trek through evergreen forests, then a canoe ride to the pristine Laguna Verde. We were back in Ushuaia by the afternoon, just in time for dinner and an orientation session with Quark Staff. 

Day 2: Embarkation in Ushuaia at 4pm 

After a chill morning in Ushuaia, we  boarded our Quark World Explorer  and finally set sail to Antarctica! We had time to settle into our cabins, explore the ship, and check out the amenities. 

That evening, we enjoyed our first meal on board, attended a few mandatory information sessions and settled into our cabin. 

Day 3-4: The Drake Passage 

We spent 2 days crossing the infamous Drake Passage. Every cruise to Antarctica has to go through this 48-hour crossing, which is notorious for rough seas in bad weather.

We got VERY lucky during our crossing. According to our expedition guides, our  Drake crossing was the smoothest of the season ! It was a true Drake Lake!

The crossing days flew by! We were busy attending information sessions on biosecurity, wildlife viewing, and activities during the cruise. There was also an evacuation drill. And, to make sure we didn’t bring any foreign matter on land, all our outerwear and even our camera bags were fully cleaned and vacuumed.

Excitement was high on the morning of Day 4, as we started spotting whales and icebergs around our ship! We spent a few hours that day just hanging around the Observation Deck, watching wildlife and admiring the iceberg-filled scenery. 

Because it was smooth sailing along the Drake, we actually arrived in Antarctica 12 hours early and got to enjoy one extra excursion. 

After lunch on Day 4, we had our first Antarctica excursion. We got into zodiacs and explored Deception Island. The island itself is an exposed portion of an active volcano. In the 1800s, it served as a whaling and fur-sealing base. It was later used as a year-round research base until the volcanic eruptions in 1967 and 1969 forced its evacuation. There is so much history here! 

We got to walk around the island, check out the remnants of this historical research base and  visit our first big penguin colony.  In addition to thousands of penguins, we saw dozens of fur seals and plenty of birds circling around.

We learned that 95% of fur seals are actually found in South Georgia. Though we saw them on Deception Island at Whalers Bay, they wouldn’t have been there in November. Most females are in South Georgia from December until May, nursing the pups. The last helicopter survey showed 3.5 million fur seals, but now numbers are increasing by 7%.

We learned that there are 1 in 1,000 albino fur seals, and we were lucky enough to see one in Whalers Bay!

When we got back on board, we saw an amazing sunset peeking through the clouds as we had dinner. Max ran upstairs and snapped some awesome shots on the camera! Our expedition was off to a great start already.

Day 5: Useful Island & Cuverville Island 

We woke up to a jam-packed schedule with 2 planned landings, but the foggy weather conditions made it impossible for us to reach them. Our start was delayed so we spent the morning on the Upper Deck of the ship, admiring the view. It was here that we first had our  “WOW moment”.  Once in a while, the fog would part and reveal snow-clad mountains all around it. The scenery was magical! 

We finally disembarked the ship at around 11am and jumped in the  zodiacs for a cruise around Useful Island.  While on the zodiac, we had our  second WOW moment of the day.  We heard the call of a whale way in the distance, and our expedition guide drove the Zodiac straight into the fog, following the sound. Within minutes, the whale found us! He played with us, swimming all around the zodiac, coming up for air right beside us. His calls echoed across the water and created one of the most memorable moments of our trip! 

After lunch, we set off on another excursion, this time – a  shore landing at another penguin colony on Cuverville Island.  The scenery was amazing! There were penguins and icebergs all around us! 

Day 6: Lemaire Channel, Pleneau Island and Petermann Island

We woke up early this morning to  watch the ship sail through the Lemaire Channel – a sight that was well worth the early wake-up!  This was definitely another WOW Moment!

After breakfast, we had an  excursion on Pleneau Island. We did an hour-long zodiac ride to admire the views and the icebergs and look for wildlife. 

In the afternoon, we joined a SUP group for what was supposed to be a peaceful way to explore the area near Petermann Island. But we could not have predicted what would happen next! 

We got on our boards, and before we could even find our balance, a  leopard seal popped out of nowhere and started swimming right towards us. It was our first time seeing a leopard seal on this trip, so we were beyond excited to spot this elusive animal. But we were also a bit nervous, as they are known to be vicious hunters. As the seal got closer and closer to us, we had to paddle hard to get out of the bay and avoid a close-call encounter! It all happened so fast we didn’t get a chance to snap any photos!

Then, just as we had calmed down from the exciting leopard-seal interaction,  a giant iceberg cracked right in front of us  and sent pieces of ice and a ripple of waves our way! Once again, we had to paddle fast to make sure we didn’t get surrounded by pieces of iceberg. 

As if that wasn’t thrilling enough, a whale popped up less than 100m from us, and penguins started swimming all around us. Our expedition guide said Antarctica was on crack that day…in the best way possible! Definitely far from the relaxing SUP experience we expected, but it ended up being incredible –  another WOW moment for the books  – an unforgettable experience!

Day 7: Andvord Bay and Danco Island 

We were simultaneously very excited and slightly terrified of this day because  Day 7 was Polar Plunge Day!  We woke up to icy conditions, but the expert ship navigation changed the course from the unpassable Neko Harbour to Errera Channel and Paradise Harbour. The scenery was beautiful, and we even saw a sleeping whale!

In the afternoon, the wind picked up, and for the first time on this trip, we felt the cold, frosty conditions while on the Zodiac. It was very cold and made us so grateful for the amazing weather we’d had during all other excursions. 

That afternoon, it was time for a Polar Plunge!  Despite the freezing water (the water was -0.5 °C) and nerves, we didn’t back down and took Polar Plunge! It wasn’t bad and not as cold as we expected. It was a fun experience and one we’d definitely recommend. 98 out of 167 passengers did it, and everyone loved it! 

We celebrated this amazing day with new friends at dinner. And as if the day wasn’t eventful enough, we  saw an incredible whale breach while eating dinner!

Day 8: Last Day in Antarctica

Our last day in Antarctica was one for the books. One of the add-ons on this Quark Sailing was a paddling excursion, also known as PEP (not to be confused with a kayaking activity). This paddling excursion allows you to experience Antarctica from the comfort of an inflated double-seater kayak, allowing you to get closer to the landscape. 

The program filled up before we even got on board (it’s just one of the many reasons why it’s essential to book any Antarctica trip with PLENTY of lead time), but we added our names to the wait list and hoped for the best. 

The weather conditions on our sailing were fantastic, allowing everyone who signed up for PEP, including those on the waitlist, to experience this adventure. 

We joined the last PEP group outting , but it was such a beautiful way to finish our trip! We paddled far, getting up close and personal with a penguin colony, a pod of sleeping whales and a flock of young cormorants taking to the water for their first time. 

On this day, we finally made the official touchdown on the Antarctic Peninsula at Portal Point and stepped foot on our seventh continent. It was a day to remember!

Day 9-10: Drake Passage 

Our journey back to Ushuaia began as soon as we departed Portal Point and lasted the full 48 hours. The weather was a bit windier on the way back, so the ship swayed and rocked in the 3-meter swell (that’s nothing compared to an average sailing of the season). But even in 3-meter swell, some people felt a little ill and chose to stay in their rooms for the day. 

Luckily, we were fine. We attended a few more educational sessions, hung out with friends, and learned about other Quark sailings in the Arctic (our NEW bucket list destination!). 

It was fun to watch the waves at mealtime, but we had to be really careful when moving around the ship. 

These 2 days flew by, with nightly entertainment keeping us up late. There was a wedding on board, a games night, and a really fun Charity Auction 

Day 11 – Arriving Back in Ushuaia 

We disembarked at 9 a.m., and then it was straight to the airport and onto the next leg of our trip: Bueno Aires!

The Bottom Line

This 11-day  Discovering the 7 th  Continent  itinerary starts at $11,195 per person.

It’s not the cheapest way to “see” Antarctica and not the cheapest way to step foot on the continent either. But the truth is, Antarctica, in and of itself, is not a budget-friendly destination.  It’s a bucket list experience that’s worth the splurge. 

Is it worth it? 

100% YES! The Antarctic Continent is probably the most beautiful destination we’ve ever been to. The scenery is amazing and the wildlife encounters are incredible – we never thought we’d see so many whales, penguins and sea lions. 

When planning your trip, consider the best time to visit Antarctica and get clear on what you want to see there.

READ NEXT:   Best Time to Visit Antarctica

How to book?

Our amazing trip was made possible by  Adventure Life. They’re amazing, and we definitely recommend using their services if you’re considering a trip to Antarctica! They’ll be fantastic at helping you pick the right ship, the perfect cabin, and the ideal time to visit the continent for YOUR bucket list wildlife encounters!

Is visiting the Antarctic Peninsula on your bucket list?

Disclaimer:  Our trip to Antarctica was made possible courtesy of  Adventure Life  and  Quark Expeditions . As always, all opinions expressed in this article are our own, no matter who is footing the bill.

About The Author

Oksana & Max St John

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Quark – Our Company – Our Firsts

Quark Expeditions has set many firsts for expedition travel by passenger vessel. Here are a few of them:

• Quark Expeditions launches as a polar adventure specialist.
• Quark Expeditions conducts its first voyage to the North Pole.
• Quark Expeditions conducts the first-ever tourism transit of the  Northeast Passage > , the historic route along the Arctic coast of Europe and Asia.
• Quark offers the most comprehensive series of Antarctic voyages by chartering a fleet of oceanographic research vessels.
• Quark Expeditions deploys the icebreaker  Kapitan Khlebnikov  to the Far Side of Antarctica, a sector never before accessible to expedition travel.
• Quark Expeditions offers the first visits for non-scientific adventurers to Emperor Penguin rookeries.
• Using helicopters carried aboard  Kapitan Khlebnikov , Quark Expeditions passengers fly to McMurdo Dry Valleys, in the Ross Sea Sector of Antarctica, a first for expedition travel.
• Quark Expeditions makes the first-ever attempt to circumnavigate Greenland, though difficult ice thwarts the attempt with only a quarter of the expedition remaining.
• Quark Expeditions retraces the legendary voyage of  Endurance , the first time the voyage was completed with commercial passengers.
• Quark crosses 80°N to Nares Strait, the narrow, ice-choked waterway between Ellesmere Island and Greenland, making visits to new archaeological, historical sites on both sides of the Strait possible.
• Quark Expeditions begins a circumnavigation of Antarctica, the first ever passenger voyage of its kind.
• At 21:44 hours (GMT), January 24, 1997, Quark Expeditions icebreaker  Kapitan Khlebnikov  returns to 60°S, 50° 45’W, after 60 days at sea, having successfully completed the first-ever circumnavigation of Antarctica with commercial passengers.
• Quark Expeditions’ icebreaker  Kapitan Dranitsyn  circumnavigated the Arctic Ocean.
• Lynne Cox, the world’s premier cold-water open-water swimmer, partners with Quark Expeditions for her first Antarctic one-mile swim. Cox was the first swimmer in history to accomplish such a feat.
• Adventurers aboard the icebreaker  Kapitan Khlebnikov  are the first commercial travelers to witness a  total eclipse of the sun >  in the isolation of Antarctica’s Davis Sea.
• Quark Expeditions confirms the location of the most northerly Emperor Penguin rookery in the world, near  Snow Hill Island >  in the Weddell Sea.
• Quark Expeditions breaks Roald Amundsen’s record, set nearly a century ago, by reaching the farthest south latitude of any surface vessel in the Bay of Whales, Ross Sea.
• Quark Expeditions operates the maiden voyage to the North Pole of the world’s largest and most sophisticated icebreaker,  50 Years of Victory .

More From Forbes

Explore the mystifying arctic and antarctica with aurora expeditions.

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People are profoundly impacted by visiting the Arctic.

Exploring some of the most isolated corners of the world often leaves an indelible impression on travelers who develop a connection and care for these places, and it’s rare that people return without their perspectives altered. As a part of their journey to the Arctic and Antarctica with Aurora Expeditions , travelers can give back to the area they’re visiting with Aurora’s Citizen Science Program where they can share new discoveries while deepening their connection to the natural world. By taking part, travelers can provide invaluable data to the scientific community, becoming ambassadors of the planet when returning home by sharing what they’ve learned.

Howard Whelan, Expeditions Leader for Aurora Expeditions, recently offered a detailed summary of the two emotive tours.

Aurora’s Antarctic season is October to March.

What are some highlights of the Arctic and Antarctica tours?

• Aurora Expeditions is known for its adventurous itineraries to some of the most remote corners of the world, and for truly immersing travelers in these unique regions on our purpose-built small ships, which serve as our comfortable base camps for adventure. A love of place, sense of curiosity and a desire to explore have been Aurora Expeditions’ guiding principles from the start. Now, our small, purpose-built ships provide comfortable base camps deep in the heart of nature.
• During the Arctic season, June through September, we visit Iceland, a fantastic land of volcanos, puffins and whales. Svalbard, Norway’s high-latitude archipelago is home to walrus, arctic fox, reindeer and polar bears. Greenland, where the world’s second-largest ice cap sheds incomprehensible amounts of ice daily including the planet’s most beautiful icebergs, and tundra alive with musk ox, reindeer, arctic fox and hare. We visit local Inuit communities from the most remote on the east coast to the world’s northernmost capital, Nuuk, on the west coast. Our Northwest Passage trip traverses the Canadian Arctic. We’ll Zodiac-cruise below vast sea cliffs buzzing with thousands of seabirds and will constantly keep watch for polar bears. As the season winds up and night-time returns, we hope to encounter Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights.
• Aurora’s Antarctic season, October to March, is summer when the pack ice breaks out, wildlife returns to breed and feed and the days are the longest. Aurora offers trips that range from nine to 23 days, visiting spectacular regions including the Antarctic Peninsula. Its west coast features wildlife-rich islands against a backdrop of glaciated peaks. On the east side is the Weddell Sea, a world of ice-free landscapes and massive tabular icebergs. Our Antarctic Circle trips take you below 66° 33’ South where we enjoy the midnight sun shining on ice and land few have seen.
• The sub-Antarctic islands we visit include South Georgia and the Falkland (Malvinas) Islands. The former is renowned for its whaling stations. More recently, a successful pest eradication has brought back endemic birds including a pipit and pintail, as well as king penguin colonies half-a-million strong. The latter is a surprisingly rich wildlife haven where the Falkland War was fought. Today the waters surrounding South Georgia and the Falklands are feeding grounds for humpback, orca, fin and blue whales and dolphins.
• Aurora recently announced its return to East Antarctica and the Ross Sea, south of Australia, during its 2025-26 season. Comparing these regions to the Antarctic Peninsula is like comparing the Swiss Alps to the Australian outback. While one is a chocolate box pretty, the other is vast and powerful. Both offer the thrill of landing on the Seventh Continent, and both are worth visiting.
• Travelers hoping to experience our destinations in unique ways can choose from a variety of optional activities, including sea kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, camping on the ice and more.
• With an average of 132 passengers, our small size means we can go where larger ships cannot. We also have greater flexibility to change plans based on conditions or chance wildlife encounters, and passengers can enjoy more time exploring, whether on land or water.

Antartica remains a vast unexplored, pristine region.

Are there any physical demands that people need to be aware of when traveling to these isolated locations?

• Expedition cruising guarantees an adventure quite different from that of traditional cruise ships. The latter is typically associated with strict itineraries, plenty of time to rest and onboard activities that amuse. Expedition cruising, especially in the Arctic and Antarctica, is about embracing the unexpected and building deeper connections with the places we visit. For most people in reasonable physical condition, the demands should be well within their ability. All expeditions to these remote areas do involve moderate hiking and walking, meaning that some mobility is needed for most daily activities, however we generally offer hiking options with three levels of difficulty. For those who would prefer to opt-out of walks, we also offer plenty of scenic Zodiac-cruising excursions. Activities that require extensive activity like kayaking, paddling, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc. are optional add-ons and the level of fitness requires varies according to the activity chosen.

As Russia s Armored Vehicles Get Worse Ukraine s American Made M 2s Destroy Them Faster

Tucupita marcano lost millions in future earnings by betting on mlb, microsoft issues new warning for 70% of all windows users.

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FinanceBuzz

14 Unique Cruises You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

Posted: January 27, 2024 | Last updated: January 27, 2024

Whether you’re a diehard cruise lover or a casual tourist looking to step up your travel game , cruise ships offer a wonderful way to see the sights in multiple locations.

There are plenty of recognizable cruise ships that specialize in specific experiences or themes. However, these lesser-known cruise ship lines may offer a unique experience for those seeking something a little different.

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Sea Cloud Cruises

Mainstream cruise ships are often huge and fully modernized. At Sea Cloud Cruises, they focus on a smaller, more intimate sailing experience.

The private yachts primarily use hand-set wind sails to guide the ship. In fact, the routes periodically change to adapt to the weather. The yachts also dock at smaller ports, creating a more unique and personalized travel experience.

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Emerald Cruises

With Emerald Cruises, you can enjoy a river cruise through Europe and Southeast Asia.

Some river routes include the Danube, Rhine, Douro, and Mekong. The company also offers yacht cruises on the Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Red Sea. You can also cruise through the Caribbean and Central America.

Emerald Cruises is also committed to sustainability, sourcing local ingredients at port and avoiding single-use plastic entirely.

Alaskan Dream Cruises – Kruzof Explorer

For a much smaller, more intimate cruising experience, book a stay on the Kruzof Explorer from Alaskan Dream Cruises. This former Bering Sea crab fishing boat only hosts 12 passengers in luxurious, cozy rooms.

Another perk of the Kruzof is the boat’s ability to get to remote, hard-to-access waters. There are also speed boats, kayaks, and adventuring gear on board for further exploration.

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For a more culture-forward cruise experience, take a trip on a Viking river or ocean cruise.

The cruise line docks in smaller towns like Marksburg Castle in Germany or Porto in Portugal. You can also travel along the Seine River in France or the Nile River in Egypt.

The vessels are designed in a modern yet comfy Scandinavian style.

Ocean Endeavour

If you’re seeking a true adventure, book a trip on the Ocean Endeavour, which takes guests on a tour of Antarctica.

With limited off-board options, the on-board amenities are vast, including saunas, spas, a pair of restaurants, and more. The experience is also intimate, with the passenger headcount capped at 199.

UnCruise Adventures

Another cruise line tailored to adventure seekers is UnCruise Adventures. This Alaska-based company has several vessels of varying sizes, and destinations that include Hawaii, California, the Galapagos, and Machu Picchu.

The smallest cruise ship hosts 22 guests in 11 cabins, and the largest can hold up to 86 in 43 cabins.

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Maple Leaf Adventures – Swell

History lovers will enjoy a cruise on the Swell, a 1912 tugboat built in Canada that has been converted into a commercial cruise ship.

The vessel is small, with six cabins and a maximum of 12 guests per voyage. Other amenities include a hot tub, three salons and lounging areas, and kayaks for further exploration.

Paul Gauguin Cruises – The Gauguin

Experience the South Pacific on an intimate vessel with Paul Gauguin Cruises. The Gauguin holds 330 guests and has three restaurants and a spa on board.

Destinations include Tahiti, the Society Islands, Fiji, Tonga, the Cook Islands, and more, many of which are explored together on one voyage. The ship can sail to a total of five islands within a week.

Quark Expeditions – 50 Years of Victory

Quark Expeditions offers another adventurous cruise ship option: 50 Years of Victory.

This nuclear-powered vessel features a spoon-shaped bow and stainless steel skirt that makes it able to break through ice as thick as 9.2 feet.

When not exploring polar waters, guests can take helicopter excursions, hit the gym, swim laps in the pool, warm up in the sauna, and more.

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American Cruise Lines

While most cruise ships explore oceans and rivers abroad, American Cruise Lines sets forth on river expeditions in America.

Specific rivers include the Mississippi River and the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Cruises also visit New England, Alaska, Puget Sound, and more.

The riverboats range in capacity from 90 to 180 guests, with each vessel featuring onboard entertainment and education, fine dining, and more.

Aranui Cruises – Aranui 5

Aranui is a Polynesian-focused cruise line that includes the Aranui 5. The vessel carries passengers around for a 12-day, immersive getaway. At the same time, it is also a supply ship that delivers to small, remote civilizations in French Polynesia.

The ship hosts up to 230 passengers and provides a culturally enriching, comfortable, all-inclusive experience.

Aqua Expeditions

Aqua Expeditions vessels offer river and ocean cruises in destinations such as the Mekong River in Cambodia and Vietnam, the Amazon River in Peru, Komodo Island, the Raja Ampat and Spice Islands in Indonesia, and the Galapagos Islands.

The small cruises focus on culturally engaging experiences, emphasizing exploring nature and local wildlife.

Relais & Châteaux – Ecoventura

Adventurous travelers get to explore the Galapagos Islands aboard the Relais & Châteaux Ecoventura.

This experience also focuses on wildlife and nature, with activities that include snorkeling with sea lions. You might also spot dolphins, green sea turtles, and giant tortoises.

Seeing rare Galapagos birds is another enriching opportunity for passengers of the Ecoventura.

Sailing4Adventure – Skull & Crossbones

For a truly special sailing experience, take a trip aboard the Skull & Crossbones. Expeditions are four days long and recreate the experience of being a pirate sailing on the Baltic Sea in one of two ships.

Passengers are also referred to as players, as they will spend the expedition in character as a true pirate, complete with mock combat between the ships.

Bottom line

These cruise ships offer unique experiences — from exploring remote islands to experiencing the Antarctic.

So, if you have a credit card that helps you earn travel rewards , see if you have accumulated enough points or other perks to enjoy one of these cruises today.

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THE 10 BEST Dzerzhinsky Sights & Historical Landmarks

Dzerzhinsky landmarks.

• Monuments & Statues
• Churches & Cathedrals
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Sacred & Religious Sites
• Architectural Buildings
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• District South-Western (YuZAO)
• Butovo North
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Nikolo-Ugreshskiy Monastery

2. Church of the Savior Transfiguration of Ugresh Monastery of St. Nicholas

3. Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin in the Ugresh Monastery of St. Nicholas

4. Temple of the Beheading of St. John the Baptist of Ugresh Monastery of St. Nicholas

5. Chapel of Phenomena Image of St. Nicholas in Nikolo-Ugreshskiy Monastery

6. Temple of the Mother of God of All Who Sorrow Ugresh Nicholas Monastery

7. Monument to Dmitriy Donskoi

8. Peter and Paul Church in Ugresh Monastery of St. Nicholas

9. Cathedral of St. Nicholas

10. Monument to Creators of Missile Shield of Russia

11. Church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

12. Sculpture Crying Boy

13. Chapel of the Passion of Nikolo-Ugreshskiy Monastery

14. Monument to Dzerzhinskiy

15. Dmitriy Donskoi's Temple

16. temple of holy spirit.

17. Temple of Makariy Nevskiy

18. Palestinian wall of the Nikolo-Ugreshsky monastery

19. Chapel of Our Lady of the Perishing

20. Pamyatniki A. S. Pushkinu

21. Memorial of the Great Patriotic War

22. Monument to Veterans of Local Wars

23. Monument-bust to academician B.P. Zhukov

24. Monument to St. Nicholas

25. Tserkov' Pitmana Ugreshskoy

26. pamyatnik prepodobnomu antoniyu kiyevo-pecherskomu.

2024.25 Crossing the Circle

With a more in-depth exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula, our 14–day Crossing the Circle voyage gives you the chance to venture beyond the Antarctic Circle, a milestone few have reached. In addition to an exploration of the penguin colonies, glaciers, bays and historical sites of the Peninsula, you’ll also navigate beyond 66⁰33´ South. Encounter even more wildlife and experience the awe of splendid isolation.

ANTARCTIC 2024/25 CROSSING THE CIRCLE

Southern Expedition

Overview Itinerary Arrival and Departure Details Your Ship Options Included Activities Adventure Options Departure Dates Inclusions and Exclusions Your Expedition Team

1 2 5 7 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 20

Extend Your Trip Meals on Board Possible Excursions Packing Checklist

Overview 14–day Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition

Antarctica offers so many extraordinary immersive adventures and breath–taking polar landscapes, and traveling with Quark Expeditions offers multiple options to personalize your experience. We’ve designed this guide to help you identify what interests you most, so that you can start planning your version of the perfect expedition to the 7th Continent. With a more in-depth exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula, our 14–day Crossing the Circle voyage gives you the chance to venture beyond the Antarctic Circle, a milestone few have reached. In addition to an exploration of the penguin colonies, glaciers, bays and historical sites of the Peninsula, you’ll also navigate beyond 66⁰33´ South. Encounter even more wildlife and experience the awe of splendid isolation. You can personalize your adventure with options that suit your interests, and cross the 7th Continent off your list—your way. Antarctica has been inspiring explorers for centuries and our expeditions offer the chance for you to discover why. We’re excited to host you on your unforgettable adventure! Feel free to reach out to our team of Polar Travel Advisers who can answer your questions and provide assistance at any time.

EXPEDITION IN BRIEF Be one of the few travelers to venture to 66°33'S

Visit Antarctic research stations

Witness abundant Antarctic wildlife, including penguins, seals and whales Experience western Antarctic Peninsula highlights and visit iconic landing sites Enjoy presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology and geology by our onboard polar experts Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic, with an optional paddling excursion

Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details

famed ship on which Charles Darwin traveled, the channel presents great photo opportunities of landscapes and seabirds. Eventually the channel opens up to the Southern Ocean, and onwards to Antarctica. DAYS 3 & 4 | CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team on photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history. You can also spend time on deck looking for wildlife or chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.

DAY 1 | ARRIVE IN USHUAIA, ARGENTINA

Buenos Aires

You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port town at the tip of South America. This Argentine town is an ideal gateway for you to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for your adventure ahead. Enjoy active outings in the mountains or sample handcrafted chocolate at a café in town.

Atlantic Ocean

Punta Arenas

South Shetland Islands

Drake Passage

Anvers Island

Lemaire Channel

DAY 2 | EMBARK As the ship sets sail in the late

Weddell Sea

Antarctic Peninsula

afternoon, you will begin your Antarctic journey, passing through the historic Beagle Channel. Named after the

CROSSING THE CIRCLE Southern Expeditions On board the Ocean Adventurer

DAYS 5–7 | SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA The most common reaction upon reaching the Antarctic Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every visit to Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means that your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience. Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites. With wildlife always at the forefront of our minds, you will visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales, and search for a number of southern seal species, including the elusive leopard seal.

Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each landing, whether you are exploring the Antarctic terrain, visiting a historic research base or consorting with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with five different species of seals. Zodiac and ship cruising can offer opportunities to view some of the larger local marine mammals more intimately, such as Antarctic minke and humpback whales. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to delight you and keep your camera busy. Your days will be busy spotting wildlife and being mesmerized by the astounding beauty of Antarctica. Listening to the crackling and crumbling of icebergs and glaciers and watching penguins waddling on the beach will become your daily entertainment, while sea kayaking, paddle excursions, or camping are optional activities available on select voyages (at an extra cost).

DAYS 8 & 9 | ANTARCTIC CIRCLE 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.

DAYS 10 & 11 | NORTHBOUND ALONG THE PENINSULA

friends will make the crossing fly by, regardless of weather and sea conditions. Your Expedition Team will round up its series of presentations as well, with a slideshow of the adventures you've shared and wildlife you’ve witnessed over the course of your voyage. Be sure to take some time to reflect on everything you’ve experienced so far. DAY 14 | DISEMBARK IN USHUAIA Today, you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and fellow travelers, disembarking in the morning to catch your homeward flights or continue your travels on your own.

EXPEDITION SPIRIT Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your Expedition Team must consider the sea, ice and weather to guide the route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you may experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed. By the same token, wildlife encounters as described are expected, but not guaranteed. Your Expedition Team will use their considerable experience to seek out wildlife in known habitats, but the presence of any particular species of bird or marine wildlife is not guaranteed.

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. Terms like ‘bergy bits’ and ‘pancake ice’ will become part of your vocabulary, yet there are still many tales to be told. As you head north, Zodiac excursions will fill your days, and your Expedition Team will continue looking out for species of seabirds, seals and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south. DAYS 12 & 13 | CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE As you recross the Drake, Antarctica fades away, leaving you with a collection of memories to last a lifetime. Excited conversations with your newfound

Arrival and Departure Details

As you prepare for your journey, you may be interested in your arrival and departure details. Since international air transportation is not included in the cost of your expedition, you have some flexibility in planning your flights. Looking to extend your adventure beyond your polar expedition? On page 14, learn how to add on a pre- or post-expedition stop—or both!—in your gateway city.

Arrival Day and Embarkation ARRIVING IN USHUAIA

You may arrive in Ushuaia at any time during Day 1 of your itinerary. Ushuaia is a destination worth exploring, so we do encourage you to arrive a day or two before your expedition. Based on the arrival information you send us, we will arrange for a transfer from the airport to your hotel. A Quark Expeditions representative will be available to answer your questions in the lobby of your hotel in Ushuaia during your optional pre-departure briefing on Day 1 at 6 pm.

Included Hotel Accommodations

Arrival and Departure Transfers USHUAIA AIRPORT TRANSFERS ARRIVAL: A group transfer in Ushuaia is included from the airport to your included pre-expedition hotel on Day 1 of your itinerary. DEPARTURE: A group departure transfer is included from the ship to the airport on the final day of your itinerary. If your flight is later in the day, you may opt to transfer to our luggage storage facility instead and enjoy further activities in Ushuaia on your own. Access to luggage storage is available until 6 pm on the disembarkation day only. You will need to arrange your own transfer to the airport if you do not take advantage of the included transfer or if you are leaving Ushuaia after the disembarkation day. In order to facilitate your transfers, we request that you provide your flight details to Quark Expeditions at least 30 days prior to traveling.

EMBARKATION IN USHUAIA On the morning of Day 2, your luggage will be collected from the lobby of your hotel, transferred to the ship and stored in your cabin. Ship embarkation will occur on Day 2 of your itinerary, usually around 4 pm. You and your shipmates will meet at a designated location near the pier, and board the waiting buses for transfer to the ship. Information about embarkation will be posted in your Ushuaia hotel and discussed during your optional pre- departure meeting on Day 1. Final Day and Departure DISEMBARKATION IN USHUAIA AND ONWARD Your ship is scheduled to arrive at the pier in Ushuaia, usually between 7 am and 8 am. Once the ship has docked, you will bid farewell to your Expedition Team, shipmates and newfound friends before completing your disembarkation. The process takes about an hour. Weather conditions can always change our arrival times, and airline schedule changes have also been known to occur in Argentina. Please book your flight home from Ushuaia to depart as late in the day as possible or at a date after the end of your expedition. If you have booked a flight that departs before 11 am on the date that your expedition ends, you will be at risk of missing your flight. Quark Expeditions staff in Ushuaia will reconfirm your domestic flight 48 hours prior to disembarkation, provided you give your information to our team ahead of time.

Your included accommodation begins on Day 1 of your itinerary, and the specific hotel will be indicated on your final voyage confirmation. Ushuaia accommodations trend toward mid-range properties, and hotel space is limited. A particular property cannot be guaranteed, but space is most often booked at Hotel Las Lengas, Hotel Los Acebos, and Albatros Hotel. If you are arriving prior to Day 1 of your expedition or are staying after the disembarkation day and would like help booking a pre- or post-stay, please contact your preferred travel agent or Quark Expeditions for hotel options. As accommodation space is limited, you are encouraged to request any extra nights as early as possible.

Quark Expeditions maintains the most diverse fleet of small vessels designed for polar navigation. Our ships accommodate 128 to 199 guests. The entire Quark Expeditions fleet is built for challenging polar environments, allowing us to take you to places that larger cruise ships couldn’t dream of going.

Ocean Adventurer, Library

Ocean Adventurer, Main Deck Twin Porthole Cabin

OCEAN ADVENTURER Ocean Adventurer has long been a fleet favorite among guests and crew who’ve appreciated the charm of this nimble vessel, its ample outdoor deck space, numerous cozy spots to socialize onboard, the outdoor jacuzzi and, of course, the intimacy of a 128-passenger vessel. Several years ago, Ocean Adventurer underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation including a refreshed look and feel throughout, plus a completely remodeled lounge, dining room and bar. All cabins received brand new bathroom facilities. Six new deluxe cabins, as well as three new suites, were also added. Major technical enhancements featured two new Rolls-Royce engines, which yield increased speed and fuel efficiency, and a minimized carbon footprint.

SHIP SPECIFICATIONS: Staff and Crew: 87 Guests: 128 Lifeboats: 4, partially enclosed Ice Class: 1A Visit QuarkExpeditions.com to view deck plan details. Ocean Adventurer

Owner’s Suite Suite Deluxe Superior

Main Deck Twin Window Main Deck Twin Porthole Lower Deck Twin Triple

Included Activities These are included in your trip package.

staff make stepping in and out of them safe and comfortable, and your Zodiac drivers will provide active interpretation, making the landscape come even more alive. HIKING Hiking in Antarctica is free-form and supervised by our expert staff, who set out a perimeter or paths at each landing site within which you are free to explore. While you hike, staff will be available to enhance your experience by answering questions about the wildlife, history and geography of the area. PRESENTATIONS Enjoy daily chats with and presentations by our world-class onboard polar experts—expedition guides, specialists, photography guides and other special guests who will introduce you to the fascinating history, biology, ornithology, glaciology and geology of the region, and much, much more.

POLAR PLUNGE This rite of passage, scheduled only once per expedition, gives you the chance to jump safely into the bracing Antarctic waters under the watchful eye of our staff—and just about every single camera on board! PHOTOGRAPHY Documenting your voyage so you can take the memories home is a rewarding experience. Our photography guide will help you hone your skills to capture the beauty of the polar regions. More information about your Included Activities and Adventure Options, including the necessary experience, physical requirements and cost, is available by contacting your Polar Travel Adviser or your travel professional.

Ready for a little adventure beyond your ship? Each Quark Expeditions voyage offers a variety of immersive off–ship activities to enhance your polar experience. ZODIAC CRUISING Zodiacs—rugged inflatable watercraft— are the workhorses of polar expeditions, taking you to places the ships can’t access, allowing you to reach remote shorelines, explore shallow inlets and search for unique wildlife. Expedition

Adventure Options These activities cost extra and must be booked in advance of your trip.

SEA KAYAKING Imagine gliding across the surface of a bay in the presence of icebergs and glaciers. Our Sea Kayaking program is a great way to intimately explore your surroundings. A small group of kayakers will plan to go out multiple times per voyage as an alternative to shore landings or Zodiac cruises. The number of opportunities to kayak is weather dependent, and will be conducted only during calm conditions. Prior kayaking experience is required, and you must be able to do a wet exit to participate. Beginners interested in kayaking should consider participating in the Paddling Excursion. PADDLING EXCURSION If you’re interested in kayaking but would like to try something a bit less demanding than Sea Kayaking, you’re the perfect candidate to sign up for a one-time paddle on our stable sit-on-top kayaks—perfect for anyone with minimal or no kayaking experience. Small groups of paddlers will be taken out on calm days, with our expert guides always present to provide instruction and help you connect with the polar sea. Pre-book into one of two priority groups. Any subsequent excursions can be booked on board, and groups will be assigned via a lottery as spaces are limited.

PLEASE NOTE Pre-booking is required for all paid activities. We recommend booking early, as spaces fill quickly. Please see your pre-departure guide for a list of provided gear for each Adventure Option.

Departure Dates Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition

OCEAN ADVENTURER Dates

Adventure Options

Days Start / End

ANTARCTIC 2024/25 FEB 4 – 17, 2025

MAR 4 – 17, 2025

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions RATES INCLUDE:

Exclusions RATES SPECIFICALLY DO NOT INCLUDE: • International airfare • Passport and applicable visa expenses • Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned • Meals unless otherwise specified • Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended • Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights • Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landing and cruising excursions, or any other gear not mentioned • Laundry, bar, spa services and other personal charges, unless specified • Phone and Internet charges (connectivity may vary by location) • Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and shipboard crew • Additional overnight accommodation • Arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated • Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities

• Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Team, including shore landings and other activities • An official Quark Expeditions parka to keep • All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program • All shore landings as per the daily program • Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping • All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage. Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals. • Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock • Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled • A photographic journal documenting your expedition • A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions

• Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program • All luggage handling aboard the ship • Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person • Group arrival transfer in Ushuaia from airport to pre- expedition hotel on Day 1 • One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia with breakfast. (Note: The number of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available.) • Group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day • Group departure transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from ship to local airport or to luggage storage facility

Your Expedition Team

Our Expedition Leaders—the best in the industry—and their teams possess diverse expertise in subjects as varied as polar history, marine biology, glaciology, ornithology and photography. Their knowledge and enthusiasm will greatly enhance your immersion into the polar environment and further deepen your connection to the Antarctic. With over 30 years of experience bringing passengers to remote Polar Regions and an industry-leading staff-to-guest ratio, we know how to safely handle the unexpected. Ensuring this hard-earned experience is passed on, all our expedition staff undergo comprehensive training at Quark Academy, which provides hands-on polar expedition training prior to any staff member’s first voyage, as well as ongoing training for experienced staff.

Extend Your Trip

PRE- AND POST-EXPEDITION TRIP EXTENSIONS

Since you’re traveling such a long way, you may want to spend extra time in Buenos Aires. We have a variety of pre- and post-expedition packages in this captivating city, known as the tango capital of the world. Enjoy an extensive city tour, take in a tango show and explore the unique neighborhoods of Recoleta, Palermo and San Telmo. Savor Argentine barbecue at a steakhouse (parrilla) , then stroll the tree-lined boulevards and marvel at the historic architecture. Take an extended tour from Buenos Aires to Iguazú Falls, and, if you’re daring, walk the catwalks over the falls. Upon arrival in Ushuaia, you can take in its unique museums, incredible hiking, and Patagonian cuisine. Spend a day in nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park, marvelling at the mountains, birdlife, waterfalls and forests.

To discover the best options for extending your adventure, get in touch with your Travel Professional or a Polar Travel Adviser for seamless, worry-free booking of all trip extensions.

FROM TOP: Iguazú Falls; Recoleta Cemetery; Argentinean asado (barbecue)

Meals on Board

If there is one constant on board, it is that you’ll enjoy delicious meals daily. While meal times may change due to landings and wildlife encounters, you’ll always be served three well-prepared meals per day. Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated by letting us know prior to your expedition. Breakfasts and lunches are normally served buffet style, while dinners are served plated. À la carte meals are made at the time of your order, allowing our chefs to prepare each dish to your individual needs, ensuring you receive top-quality meals during the course of your expedition. Soft drinks and juices are available during meals and when the bar is open; beer and wine are served with dinner; and coffee, tea and water stations are available around the clock—all included in the cost of your package. Spirits, premium wines and champagne are available at extra cost which can be billed to your shipboard account. The well-stocked bars on the ship are open to enjoy with your fellow shipmates in late morning, afternoon and evening.

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, or shore landing. Antarctic Peninsula ANTARCTIC CIRCLE Although not a shore landing, the crossing of the Antarctic Circle is a moment to remember for life. The event will happen while at sea, so be sure to head out on deck to toast the achievement. CIERVA COVE Cierva Cove boasts jaw dropping icebergs and a glaciated backdrop. A massive glacial face regularly calves into the bay, leaving often spectacular floating ice. Seals can be spotted on ice floes, and later in the season, humpback whales occasionally feed in the icy waters.

CUVERVILLE ISLAND A gentoo penguin rookery is situated on a rocky beach at the north end of the island. Depending on when in the season you arrive, you may see the penguins building nests or attending to their chicks. Giant petrels and kelp gulls breed on the island. DAMOY POINT Damoy Point is the site of a historical ice runway used by the British Antarctic Survey for their flights further south since 1975. The well-maintained hut was used as a staging-post to store supplies and for accommodation while awaiting ideal flying conditions. The point is also home to a penguin rookery and allows for spectacular views of the mountains of Anvers Island. DANCO ISLAND Home to gentoo penguins, this small dome-shaped island provides you with a stunning view of the Errera Channel and excellent Zodiac cruising opportunities.

DETAILLE ISLAND Detaille Island lies in Lallemand Fjord, just south of the Antarctic Circle. Station W, of the British Antarctic Survey, is a historical research hut established in 1956. Researchers overwintered here, setting out on expeditions and conducting scientific investigations. Stepping inside is a walk back in time as the hut has been impeccably preserved. Revel in 1950s memorabilia such as jars of HP Sauce and canned butter, a little beyond their expiry dates, and imagine overwintering here, below the Circle. ENTERPRISE ISLAND Located in Wilhelmina Bay, this island's protected coves were once used by whalers. A Zodiac cruise exploring the island passes the rusting remains of a wrecked whaling ship, and provides opportunities to search for humpback whales, seals and Antarctic cormorants (blue-eyed shags). LEMAIRE CHANNEL One of the most scenic locations on the peninsula’s west coast, this dramatic strait runs between the towering cliffs of Booth Island and the Antarctic Peninsula. The channel may become impassable when ice fills the narrow, 6.8-mile (11 km)-long passageway, so we’ll hope for clear waters. MELCHIOR ISLANDS This group of low, glaciated islands in Dallmann Bay is where you may see hauled-out male fur seals as they recuperate from their battles for supremacy at the end of their breeding season. MIKKELSEN HARBOR Located on the south side of Trinity Island and surrounded by stunning ice cliffs and several reefs, Mikkelsen Harbor is a 1.86-mile (3 km)-wide bay, discovered by a Swedish Antarctic expedition in 1901-04. Enjoy a Zodiac cruise of the beautiful waters, or if conditions allow,

land at D'Hainaut Island, home to an Argentine refuge hut and whaling remains in the form of a wooden boat and whale skeletons. Weddell seals are often seen in the area and a gentoo penguin rookery is situated on the island. NEKO HARBOUR Little evidence remains that this bay was once used by the floating whale factory ship Neko . You might see whale vertebrae being used by resident gentoo penguins as shelter from the wind. PARADISE HARBOR Paradise Harbor is a wide bay and natural harbor on the West Antarctic Peninsula. Mountains, glaciers and ice cliffs offer spectacular views. Icebergs regularly calve from the glaciers, providing a place for seals, penguins and seabirds to rest and play. An Argentine base, Almirante Brown Station—named after Admiral Guillermo Brown, father of the Argentine Navy—is also located in Paradise Harbor, and was operated from 1951 until a large section of it burned down in 1984. It has since been partially rebuilt and is used as a summer research base. PETERMANN ISLAND Here, near the Lemaire Channel, you can stand ashore and see the southernmost breeding colony of gentoo penguins. Adélie penguins, shags and south polar skuas also inhabit the island. PORT LOCKROY As part of Operation Tabarin during the Second World War, a secret British base was built in this sheltered harbor, located on the west side of Wiencke Island. Now a designated historic site, the base is a museum and post office. Proceeds from your purchases in Port Lockroy support the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust, which preserves British and other historic sites dating to the Heroic Age of Exploration. A large gentoo penguin population resides here.

EXPEDITION SPIRIT Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your Expedition Team must consider the sea, the ice and the weather to guide the route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you may experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed. By the same token, wildlife encounters as described are expected, but not guaranteed. Your Expedition Team will use their considerable experience to seek out wildlife in known habitats, but the presence of any particular species of bird or marine wildlife is not guaranteed.

South Shetland Islands AITCHO ISLANDS This group of small islands is situated in the northern entrance of the English Strait. You can often spot a great mix of wildlife in the area, with gentoo and chinstrap penguins having established rookeries on the islands. Southern elephant and fur seals frequently haul out here, too. DECEPTION ISLAND Deception Island is a flooded circular caldera formed by the collapse of an active volcano. To reach this protected harbor, it is necessary to sail through a narrow passage called Neptune’s Bellows. Inside are several bays used at various times for whaling and scientific research. Along with waddling penguins and lounging seals, you’ll see the rusting remains of whaling operations on the beach in some locations. The landscape of Deception Island often presents

STONINGTON ISLAND Two abandoned research stations can be found on this island south of the Antarctic Circle. The first women to overwinter in Antarctica were housed at East Base. The British built Base E is about 656 feet (200 m) away from East Base, which was built by the United States Antarctic Service Expedition. WATERBOAT POINT A surveyor and a geologist lived in a makeshift shelter utilizing an up-turned water boat on this point from 1921 to 1922. The remains of their camp have been designated an Antarctic historic site. The aptly named Waterboat Point is also home to a Chilean Antarctic research station, named González Videla Base after the first sitting head of state to visit the Antarctic continent. When the base is manned, you may be welcomed inside for a visit by the base personnel, or you may visit the resident nesting gentoo rookery if the base is inactive.

WILHELMINA BAY Humpback whales abound in “Whale- mina Bay,” as it’s nicknamed, and the scenery is spectacular. Sheer cliffs and glaciers surround the calm waters of the protected bay, named after Wilhelmina, queen of the Netherlands from 1890 to 1948. If you’re lucky, you may see the humpbacks bubble-net feeding: they exhale while swimming in a wide circle below the surface, trapping krill in a “net” of bubbles, and then swim straight up from below, mouths open, to engulf their prey. A truly astounding sight! YALOUR ISLANDS These islands were named for an Argentine Navy lieutenant who rescued the shipwrecked members of the Swedish Antarctic Expedition in 1903. Approximately 8,000 pairs of Adélie penguins nest in the islands, sometimes parading for visitors. Yellow lichens and grass give color to the landscape, and icebergs are easy to spot from your Zodiac cruise.

opportunities for longer walks to striking vistas. The stark contrast between snow and dark volcanic sand and the steam along the shoreline from geothermic activity when the tide is right, gives this location an atmospheric feel. HALF MOON ISLAND This crescent-shaped island was known to sealers as early as 1821. While they tried to keep this productive location secret, we’re happy to bring you ashore on this impressive island. Many Antarctic birds breed here, including chinstrap penguins, shags, Wilson’s storm petrels, kelp gulls, snowy sheathbills, Antarctic terns and skuas. HANNAH POINT On the southern coast of Livingston Island at Hannah Point, you may see chinstrap and gentoo penguin rookeries, along with the occasional breeding macaroni penguin. Due to the rather congested area available to the nesting penguins, we are able to visit here only after January 10.

PENGUIN ISLAND Antarctica has two flowering plants, both of which you can find on Penguin Island: Antarctic hair grass ( Deschampsia antarctica ) and Antarctic pearlwort ( Colobanthus quitensis ). Chinstrap penguins, fur seals and southern elephant seals can also be spotted here. ROBERT POINT A beautiful spot for Zodiac cruising, this point was known to sealers as early as 1820. Chinstrap penguins, kelp gulls and pintado petrels breed here, and whales may be seen in the surrounding waters. TURRET POINT Chinstrap and Adélie penguin rookeries are found on this point, situated on the south coast of King George Island. The beaches here are often crowded with southern elephant, fur and Weddell seals hauled out on the rocks.

YANKEE HARBOUR Gentoo penguins have established a rookery at this harbor, situated on the southwest side of Greenwich Island. Here, you can see an abandoned Argentine refuge hut and a large glacier that stretches along the east and north sides of the bay. An abandoned sealing try pot is all that remains of the activity that brought men thousands of miles in tall ships to seek their fortune. Enjoy a rare chance for a longer walk along the expansive beach, dotted with historical artifacts and wildlife.

What to pack on your polar expedition WHAT TO BRING! Packing for the Polar Regions doesn’t have to be daunting, and to make it easier for you, all Quark Expeditions voyages include a Quark parka to keep, and a loan of insulated waterproof boots. Additional suggested items include:

WEATHERCONDITIONS AND TEMPERATURES Polar weather is extremely variable; temperatures may hover around the freezing mark and winds can be strong. The extended daylight warms sheltered areas so that you may sometimes find it warm enough for t-shirts. However, you may encounter rain, snow squalls, fog and white-outs during an expedition and should be ready for any conditions.

TO WEAR ON LANDINGS  Base-layer wool or synthetic top 

ADDITIONAL ITEMS 

Swimsuit (for the Polar Plunge! Some vessels may also have a pool, hot tub, sauna and/or steam room. See your ship book for details.)

Base-layer wool or synthetic bottom

         

Mid-layer warm or fleece top

Light warm jacket to wear during travel to the ship

Mid-layer warm or fleece bottom

Workout attire (for the fitness center!)

Warm wool or synthetic socks (keep a dry pair in your bag, and bring extras for layering)

Hand and feet warmers

Glove liners

Camera with charger and extra batteries

Waterproof gloves or mitts (bring an extra pair)

Extra memory or laptop with spare storage (for saving photos)

Scarf, buff, or other face protection

Warm hat that covers ears (bring an extra)

Waterproof cell phone case or rain sleeve for camera

Waterproof pants (mandatory for every Zodiac ride)

Lens cloth for camera

Waterproof, lightweight backpack or dry sack

Earplugs and eye masks for sleeping

Polarized sunglasses with UV protection (bring an extra pair)

Voltage converters and plug adapters (see ship book for details)

Ski goggles (offers extra protection for adventure options or Zodiac cruising on snowy or windy days)

Personal alarm such as mobile phone, watch, or alarm clock

Moisturizer for face and hands (polar air can be dry)

Extra pair of prescription glasses or contact lenses

Reusable waterproof bags or plastic bags with zippers (to keep small items organized and cameras dry)

TO WEAR ONBOARD   Complimentary Quark 3-in-1 Parka provided on board (wear the waterproof shell out on deck, and the removable liner indoors to stay comfortable)  Comfortable casual clothing like lighter shirts, pants or jeans, etc. (in case the ship gets warm)  Comfortable non-slip closed-toed unheeled shoes (flip flops, sandals or slip-on shoes should not be worn on board due to safety concerns)

Seasickness, indigestion, headache, or other medications

Hand sanitizer

Passport, visas, immunization and vaccination records, travel documents, etc. (as required)

Small amount of local currency (see pre-departure book for more details)

Water bottle (a collapsible reusable water bottle will be provided onboard)

Scan this QR code to watch our video on what to pack before you go!

20 Call a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 or your Travel Professional | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details

TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE Contact your Travel Professional

or a Quark Expeditions Polar Travel Adviser

TOLL FREE AND LOCAL NUMBERS:

QuarkExpeditions.com

PHOTO CREDITS (over all Expedition Brochures for the Antarctic 2024/25 season) : Acacia Johnson; David Merron; Michelle Sole; Nicky Souness; Samantha Crimmin; Hugo Perrin; Taylor Cranney; Sam Edmonds; Abbey Weisbrot; Hans Lagerweij; Rogelio Espinosa; Cindy Miller Hopkins; Grange Productions; Adobe Stock

March 21, 2023 EXPEDITION BROCHURE

www.quarkexpeditions.com

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