This itinerary is the fastest way to get to the rarely visited South Georgia Island while also stepping foot on the 7th Continent.
ANTARCTIC 2023.24
SOUTH GEORGIA & ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Penguin Safari
Contents
Overview Itinerary Arrival and Departure Details Your Ship Options Included Activities Adventure Options Dates and Rates Inclusions and Exclusions Your Expedition Team
1 2 5 7 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 21
Extend Your Trip Meals on Board Possible Excursions Packing Checklist
Overview South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari
The Antarctic and sub-Antarctic regions offer so many extraordinary things to see and do for adventurous travelers. We’ve designed this guide to help you figure out what interests you most in order to plan the perfect expedition that suits your interests and passions. The South Georgia and Antarctica: Penguin Safari itinerary is the fastest way to get to the rarely visited South Georgia Island while also stepping foot on the 7th Continent. As we set sail, photograph massive albatross and beautiful pintado petrels as they swoop and soar around the ship, guiding us toward South Georgia. Beaches teeming with king penguins and elephant seals greet us on this fabled island, where we’ll pay our respects to famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Antarctica awaits, with its soaring peaks and overwhelming enormity. Take a Zodiac ride, hike to overlooks of glistening glaciers, share comical moments with inquisitive gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins, or witness the rugged peninsula from a sea kayak. Antarctica will surprise and delight, and never disappoint. Antarctica has been inspiring explorers for centuries and this expedition offers the chance for you to discover why. We’re excited to host you on your unforgettable polar 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 See South Georgia’s incredible
wildlife, including 30 breeding bird species and four penguin species Follow in the wake of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s perilous voyages to South Georgia and pause for a moment at his grave site Explore the Antarctic Peninsula by ship, Zodiac and foot Enjoy presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology & geology by our onboard polar experts Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic, with an optional paddling excursion
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Itinerary
DAY 1 | ARRIVE IN USHUAIA, ARGENTINA
DAYS 3–6 | AT SEA There are many activities to keep you engaged while you are at sea. Learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend dynamic presentations by your Expedition Team. You will be prepped on safety procedures for Zodiac cruises and shore landings, and also be given instructions for getting the most out of your optional sea kayaking adventures (extra cost), a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica. If conditions are right, the first indication that you are approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Have your binoculars and cameras ready to capture these rocky spires rising out of
Buenos Aires
Santiago
You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port at the tip of South America. It’s the ideal gateway for you to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for your adventure ahead. Get active in the mountains or enjoy handcrafted chocolate at a café in town. DAY 2 | EMBARK Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart!
ARGENTINA
CHILE
Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
Atlantic Ocean
South Georgia
Punta Arenas
Ushuaia
Elephant Island
Drake Passage
South Shetland Islands
Lemaire Channel
Weddell Sea
Antarctic Peninsula
SOUTH GEORGIA & ANTARCTIC PENINSULA Penguin Safari On board the Ocean Adventurer or World Explorer
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the icy ocean waters. Shags and prions often rest here, and due to nutrient rich upwellings around the rocks it can be a good place to keep a lookout for whales. DAYS 7 & 8 | SOUTH GEORGIA After enjoying South Georgia from a distance, we’ll head toward its numerous beaches to find a bay for your first excursion. Landing sites are varied, largely determined by the weather conditions of your voyage. Whichever sites we visit, they’ll provide you with wildlife encounters unrivaled anywhere else on earth. South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches blanketed with penguins and seals. It won’t take you long to realize that you are in a bird paradise, as burrowing seabirds, albatross and petrels can be seen in abundance.
You’ll find that South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also scattered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries gone by. Your Expedition Team will help bring those days to life while you visit old whaling stations and enjoy presentations on the South Georgia of then and now. One of the most significant sites you will visit on the island is Grytviken. This settlement is the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Many travelers find that this place has a special appeal, as it is the site of the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers. DAYS 9 & 10 | AT SEA Say goodbye to the king penguins, as your next destination is Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations and workshops led by your Expedition
Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife and landscapes that will surround you upon your arrival. DAYS 11–13 | ANTARCTIC PENINSULA The most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is hard to put into words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. You will discover that Antarctica is a land of extremes. At one moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete isolation and silence, and at the next moment you’ll be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into a brilliant blue sea or a penguin waddles by to inspect your footwear. Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each excursion, whether you are Zodiac cruising, visiting a historical site
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or consorting with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. Keep a lookout for Antarctic whales, such as minkes, while on a Zodiac cruise. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to delight you and keep your camera busy. As exciting as the Zodiac excursions and landings are, perhaps you’ll treat yourself to an extra-special Antarctic experience by partaking in an optional paddling excursion (at an extra cost) or cast reason aside and jump into Antarctic waters for the Polar Plunge!
DAYS 14 & 15 | CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE After more than a dozen days of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage. Spend time on deck watching for seabirds and whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences. DAY 16 | DISEMBARK IN USHUAIA You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, which allows for you to continue your adventure onward or catch your flights home.
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.
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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 15, 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 6pm.
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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 6pm 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 4pm. 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 7am and 8am. Once the ship has docked, you will bid farewell to your Expedition Team and shipmates 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 11am 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 spaceis 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.
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Your Ship Options
Quark Expeditions® boasts the largest polar-class fleet of any polar operator, and the ability to offer you this incredible voyage on one of our ice strengthened vessels. The entire Quark Expeditions® fleet is built for challenging polar environments, allowing us to take you to places ordinary cruise companies wouldn’t dream of going.
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World Explorer
Owner’s Suite Deluxe Suite Superior Suite Veranda Suite In nity Suite Triple Balcony
WORLD EXPLORER Polar powerhouse, the World Explorer —our first all- suites, all-balcony ice-class ship—lets you discover everything Antarctica has to offer, with the type of service available only at premium hotels. The World Explorer also provides plenty of areas, both inside and out, to witness the incredible Antarctic wildlife or simply watch the world go by. Enjoy a spacious observation deck for taking in sights outdoors, an observation lounge with panoramic skyline views, a library for intimate relaxing and reading, and the Explorer Lounge for a drink and a chat. Presentations and discussions are held in a dedicated lecture theater. Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor running track, small gym and spa, plus an outdoor swimming pool. With its new and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology and state-of-the-art Rolls-Royce engines and generators, the ship also boasts reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. SHIP SPECIFICATIONS: Staff & Crew: 125 Guests: 172 Lifeboats: 2, fully enclosed Ice Class: 1B Visit QuarkExpeditions.com to view deck plan details.
Accessibility modi ed cabin; please speak to your travel professional for details
Deck
DECK 8
Expedition Cabin
Fitness Center
WC WC
WC WC
Observation Lounge
Spa
Deck
DECK 7
Deck
DECK 6
Deck
DECK 5
WC WC
Entrance
Explorer Lounge
Restaurant
Reception
Polar Boutique
Bar
Auditorium
Entrance
Clinic
Deck
DECK 4
Zodiac Embarkation
Mudroom
WC
Deck
DECK 3
Zodiac Embarkation
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Ocean Adventurer
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. In 2017, 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.
Owner’s Suite Suite Deluxe Superior
Funnel
Main Deck Twin Window Main Deck Twin Porthole Lower Deck Twin Triple
Observation Deck
Bridge
Bridge Deck
Clinic
Captain’s Deck
SHIP SPECIFICATIONS: Staff & Crew: 87 Guests: 128 Lifeboats: 4, partially enclosed Ice Class: 1A Visit QuarkExpeditions.com to view deck plan details. Ocean Adventurer
Clipper Club
Main Lounge
Dining Room
EL Oce
WC
Reception
Upper Deck
Polar Boutique
Owner’s Suite Suite Deluxe Superior
Zodiac Embarkation
Main Deck
Main Deck Twin Window Main Deck Twin Porthole Lower Deck Twin Triple
tion Deck
Stern
Bow
Lower Deck eck
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eck
Included Activities
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 recreational 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
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Adventure Options
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.
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
STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING (on World Explorer only)
Combining a surfboard with a kayak, stand-up paddleboarding will give you a very personal and unique perspective on Antarctica. Conducted in small groups— in calm bays and harbors, in good weather conditions—and accompanied by a safety Zodiac, one-time stand- up paddleboarding excursions can be pre-booked into one of two priority groups. Any subsequent excursions can be booked on board, and groups will be assigned via a lottery.
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.
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Dates and Rates South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari
WORLD EXPLORER
Adventure Options
Infinity Suite
Veranda Suite
Superior Suite
Deluxe Suite
Owner’s Suite
Days Start / End Triple
Dates
ANTARCTIC 2023.24 DEC 28, 2022 – JAN 12, 2023 16 Ushuaia $23,995 $29,495 $27,995 $36,495 $39,495 $41,995 $995 $295 $295 – ANTARCTIC 2022.23 NOV 5 – 20, 2022 16 Ushuaia $16,895 $24,995 $23,495 $30,595 $33,195 $35,195 $995 $295 $295 – DEC 7 – 22, 2022 16 Ushuaia $16,895 $24,995 $23,495 $30,595 $33,195 $35,195 $995 $295 $295 –
OCEAN ADVENTURER
Adventure Options
Lower Deck Twin
Main Deck Porthole
Main Deck Window
Owner’s Suite
Dates
Days Start / End Triple
Superior
Deluxe
Suite
ANTARCTIC 2023.24 FEB 5, 2024 – FEB 20, 2024 16 Ushuaia $18,495 $21,995 $22,995 $25,495 $26,495 $26,495 $35,495 $37,995 $995 $295 –
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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
• 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
• Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Team, including shore landings and other activities • 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 the expedition • A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions • An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep
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Your Expedition Team
Our Expedition Leaders and their teams bring 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 receive comprehensive training in 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.
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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. Explore Ushuaia, taking in its unique museums, incredible hiking, and Patagonian cuisine. Spend a day in nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park, marvelling at the mountains, 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)
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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.
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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.
located in the former villa of the whaling station manager. The local church, built for the whaling community, is the only building in Grytviken still used for its original purpose. Buried in the church cemetery is one of Antarctica’s most famous explorers, Sir Ernest Shackleton, at whose grave you can pay your respects. SALISBURY PLAIN One of the largest king penguin colonies on South Georgia is located on Salisbury Plain. The Grace and Lucas Glaciers flank the plain, creating a perfect backdrop for photos. ST. ANDREW’S BAY Over 150,000 breeding pairs of king penguins nest at St. Andrew’s Bay—the largest and fastest growing king penguin rookery on South Georgia, and a wildlife spectacle to behold. STROMNESS This abandoned whaling station was in full operation on the day in 1916 that Sir Ernest Shackleton and his companions staggered into it after a 36-hour trek across the island in an attempt to find
South Georgia DRYGALSKI FJORD
This is a photogenic and dramatic fjord, with sharp and jagged peaks rising out of the sea. Glaciation never reached the mountain tops, giving Drygalski its unique landscape. GOLD HARBOUR The backdrop to this harbor is the hanging Bertrab Glacier. Thousands of king and gentoo penguins call Gold Harbour home, as do rowdy elephant and fur seals. GRYTVIKEN Only a handful of people live, albeit temporarily, on South Georgia, a British overseas territory. Two of them are curators of the South Georgia Museum,
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help for their shipmates stranded on Elephant Island. There is a small cemetery here which can be seen from a distance, with the graves of 14 whalers. Antarctic Peninsula BROWN BLUFF A dormant volcano, Brown Bluff towers 2,225 feet (678 meters) over the rookeries of Adélie and gentoo penguins, which number in the thousands. These penguins will create a symphony of background noise while you explore the bluff. CIERVA COVE Cierva Cove boasts jaw dropping icebergs and a glaciated backdrop. A massive glacial face regularly calves into the bay, and the floating ice can be quite spectacular. Seals can be spotted on ice floes, and later in the season, humpback whales occasionally feed in the icy waters. 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.
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. HOPE BAY Three members of the Swedish Antarctic Expedition (1901-04) spent the winter in a hut on the shores of the bay. The hut is located close to the jetty of Esperanza Station, an Argentine research station and one of only two civilian bases in Antarctica outfitted with a school and chapel. 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. 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
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section of it burned down in 1984. It has since been partially rebuilt and is used as a summer research base. PAULET ISLAND Located in the northwestern Weddell Sea, Paulet Island is home to a large Adélie penguin rookery. With a volcanic cone that rises 1,158 feet (353 meters), the island reminds you that this was once a very active landscape. In addition to penguins, you may be interested in viewing the remains of a historic hut built by members of the Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1901-04. A cross marks the grave site of Ole Wennersgaard, a member of the crew. 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! South Shetland Islands AITCHO ISLANDS This group of small islands, some still unnamed, 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 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.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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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.
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.
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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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:
WEATHER CONDITIONS & 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)
Binoculars
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
Sunscreen
Moisturizer for face and hands (polar air can be dry)
Lip Balm
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!
For more packing and gear-related info, visit the Quark Expeditions® online Polar Boutique at Shop.QuarkExpeditions.com
21 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 23.24 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
December 2022 EXPEDITION BROCHURE
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