ANTARCTICA
2025/2026 SEASON VOYAGES
Guests on a Zodiac cruise in the remote Antarctic.
The Antarctic like you never imagined.
Discover how Quark Expeditions can take you places no one else can. Scan the QR Code.
Our unabashedly polar-obsessed team has focused exclusively on polar exploration for 34 years. Thanks to our team's passion for exploring off the beaten path, we became the first operator to visit the rarely-seen Emperor penguin colony at Snow Hill—an incredible adventure we’re repeating in our Antarctic 2025/2026 season.
Get ready for a season of helicopters, Emperor penguins and whales.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
BEST FROM OUR AWARDS SHELF
AFAR , Vanguard Award 2024
VIRTUOSO , Best Expedition Cruise Line 2023 and 2024
FOOD & TRAVEL READER , Best Boutique Cruise 2023
CRUISE CRITIC EDITOR’S PICKS AWARDS , Best In Adventure (Expedition) 2022, 2023 and 2024 TRAVEL WEEKLY GOLD MAGELLAN AWARD , Expeditions-Shore Excursion Cruise Line 2023 and 2024 , Best Expedition Itinerary, 2017, 2018 and 2019 , Best Expedition Small Ship 2019 WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS , World’s Leading Specialist Cruise Line 2020, 2021 and 2022 SIGNATURE LUXURY TRAVEL & STYLE CRUISE AWARD , World’s Best Four-Star Expedition Ships 2022 and 2023
USA TODAY 10 BEST READERS' CHOICE
TRAVEL AWARD , Best Adventure Cruise Line 2018
IAATO (the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) advocates and promotes the practice of safe and environmentally responsible private- sector travel to the Antarctic.
A playful seal photographed with a telephoto lens.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
What's Inside
34 36 40 44 48 48 50 52 54
Our Superior Fleet Ultramarine Ocean Explorer World Explorer On-Ship Experience Food & Drink Spa & Fitness Amenities Daily Life Onboard
4 6 7 8 9
34 Years Of Polar Exploration Our Team Of Polar Experts Polar Travel Advisors Expedition Team Leaders Helicopter Team Antarctica At A Glance Where We Can Take You Innovative Antarctic Itineraries
10 12 14 16 18 20 24 28 30
Off-Ship Experience Helicopter Adventures Included Excursions Paid Off-Ship Adventure Options Sustainability Why Travel With Us? Solo Travelers Trip Inclusions The Other Pole: Arctic
56 58 59
Snow Hill Patagonia Antarctic Peninsula The Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula 6 Reasons To Fly The Drake Passage Fly/Cruise Express
60 62 64 66 70
Scan QR codes in our brochure to view more great content. Using the built-in camera app on your phone, point the camera at the QR code, tap the banner, and follow instructions on the screen.
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34
OUR EPIC POLAR HISTORY
years of
polar pride
Our team is committed to taking guests deeper into the Polar Regions than they ever thought possible. For the last 34 years, we’ve pushed the limits of our own imagination to provide our guests with the most immersive—and imaginative—itineraries. We have the most diverse fleet. We offer the most off-ship adventures. And our small polar vessels can take you places other larger ships cannot reach. Get ready for the expedition of a lifetime. Going Beyond in Polar Adventure
November 1996 Quark Expeditions begins a circumnavigation of Antarctica for commercial passengers, the first-ever voyage of its kind.
Choose from 13 innovative Antarctic itineraries starting on page 14
CIRCUMNAVIGATION
August 1991 Quark Expeditions becomes the first polar operator to take commercial guests to the North Pole. August 1991 Quark Expeditions celebrates the first-ever passenger transit of the Northeast Passage.
July 1999 Quark Expeditions completes its first passenger circumnavigation of the Arctic Ocean.
November 2003
Quark Expeditions passengers become the first humans to witness a Total Solar Eclipse in Antarctica.
December 1991 Quark Expeditions charters the first series of
oceanographic research vessels specially converted for adventure travel, heralding a new phase in polar exploration.
November 2004
Quark Expeditions becomes the first operator to confirm the existence of the Snow Hill Emperor penguin colony.
November 1993 For the first time, Quark Expeditions guests retrace the voyage of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ship Endurance .
Not one but two Snow Hill itineraries. See pages 16–17
March 2006 Quark Expeditions breaks Roald
Amundsen’s record set nearly 100 years earlier, attaining the most southernly latitude of any vessel.
For itineraries that follow in the footsteps of Shackleton, see pages 24–26
OUR EPIC POLAR HISTORY
January 2019 Quark Expeditions launches the construction of the game-changing ship Ultramarine , the very first vessel purpose-built for polar exploration.
June 2008 Quark Expeditions offers maiden voyage to the North Pole on nuclear icebreaker 50 Years of Victory , the most powerful icebreaker on the planet at the time.
ULTRAMARINE
April 2019 Quark Expeditions unveils Polar Promise, the most holistic sustainability policy in the polar expedition industry. December 2021 Ultramarine sets sail at last. Fittingly, the ship’s inaugural
Fabulous amenities on Ultramarine. See page 38
August 2024 Quark expeditions wins Virtuoso Travel Award for “best expedition cruise line”.
Learn about our Polar Promise sustainability strategy on page 60
April 2011 Quark Expeditions’ Three Arctic Islands voyage is voted one of National Geographic Traveler’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime.”
October 2024 Quark Expeditions expands Arctic portfolio to include Iceland.
voyage is a celebration of the life of polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.
June 2012 Quark Expeditions becomes the first tour operator to successfully offer passengers hot-air ballooning at the North Pole. February 2013 Quark Expeditions hosts Jonathan Shackleton (Ernest Shackleton’s cousin) and Falcon Scott (Robert Falcon Scott’s grandson) as they walk, and camp, on the 7th Continent. October 2017 Quark Expeditions launches Quark Academy training program for expedition team members, the first training program of its kind in the industry.
Why is Ultramarine so popular? See page 36
July 2022 For the first time ever, guests take to the polar skies in Ultramarine 's two twin-engine helicopters.
Keen on a one-of-a-kind helicopter adventure? See page 22
November 2024 The state-of-the-art Ocean Explorer joins our fleet for the first time.
Read about our unbeatable
helicopter excursions on page 56
Our brand-new ship: Ocean Explorer. See page 40
January 2025 Quark Expeditions announces another new ship: World Voyager .
July 2022 We present the first Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience with local chefs on board Ultramarine during a voyage to Greenland. November 2023 Quark Expeditions hosts two successful landings at the legendary Emperor penguin colony Snow Hill Island.
Meet our polar-obsessed team on page 8
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OUR TEAM
Behind every successful polar voyage is a dedicated team who stop at nothing to ensure you have the expedition of a lifetime. Our polar-obsessed team of Expedition Leaders, adventure guides, Polar Travel Advisors, helicopter operations specialists and other ship crew tap into their passion— and three decades of polar expertise—to ensure you have the expedition of a lifetime. Our Team of Polar Experts
Hear what Antarctica means to them, directly from our guides. Scan the QR Code.
An expedition guide prepares for a Zodiac landing.
6 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
OUR TEAM
Polar Travel Advisors
Our passionate team of polar specialists is available to help you from the first email exchange, virtual chat inquiry or initial phone call to the friendly follow-up after your voyage. You can trust our team of Polar Travel Advisors to have the information you need to plan your life-changing Arctic journey.
Polar Experience All of our Polar Travel Advisors have first-hand experience in the Polar Regions and are eager to share their expertise— and passion—for the regions we visit. Many have made multiple trips to the Arctic and Antarctic throughout their careers and can answer your questions about Arctic travel.
In-depth Knowledge Our Polar Travel Advisors have comprehensive knowledge of the wildlife, geography, climate, history, botany and geology of the regions we visit—and can also answer your questions about the expedition experience, whether it pertains to ships, off-shore activities, airport/hotel transfers, the best season to visit, what to pack and what to expect.
Multilingual Collectively, our Polar Travel Advisors are fluent in English, French, Spanish, Mandarin and Egyptian Arabic.
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OUR TEAM
Our Expedition Leaders are unapologetically polar-obsessed. They obsess over every minute detail of your voyage—from your onboard comfort to your off-ship adventures. Our Expedition Leaders spend their entire careers—it’s a life calling, actually—feeding and sharing their passion for the Arctic and Antarctic. They’re driven to ensure you experience polar moments no one else can offer. Your Expedition Leaders
Colin Souness Home base: South Africa Years of polar experience: 22
David Burton Home base: Shetland Islands, UK
Years of polar experience: 11 Polar expeditions to date: 90 Areas of expertise: History and glaciology Advice to polar travelers: “Head to the outer decks after dinner to take an evening constitutional. There’s no better place than the Polar Regions to take some time and reflect on the serene beauty you’ve witnessed that day, as well as contemplate the life- changing moments you’re experiencing. You never know what you might catch sight of—the majesty of the northern lights or a sighting of some wildlife.”
Area of expertise: Having completed a PhD in glaciology, Colin frequently presents on geology, glaciology, as well as polar and Viking history. He’s also a heli operations specialist. Advice to polar travelers: "The challenges of reaching remote Arctic destinations fuel our passion for pushing the boundaries of polar exploration. Try to absorb the vast and unspoiled beauty of the place whilst knowing you’re the only ones up there.”
David (Woody) Wood Home base: Melbourne, Australia
Ryan McDevitt Home base: St. Petersburg, Florida, USA Years of polar experience: 8 Polar expeditions to date: 75 Areas of expertise: Operations, logistics and helicopter operations Advice to polar travelers: "Exploring these wild regions is a full sensory experience. Take time to breathe in deeply and absorb the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the Polar Regions. If you pack one thing for your expedition, make it a good set of binoculars and spend time using them on the outer decks."
Years of polar experience: 21 Polar expeditions to date: 300
Amalia Goodall Home base: Ushuaia, Argentina Years of polar experience: 9 Polar expeditions to date: 45+
Areas of expertise: Woody has developed in-depth knowledge of numerous aspects of polar wilderness throughout two decades of polar expedition. Advice to polar travelers: “Polar voyages touch people in different ways. The polar environment has a power which sets people thinking about their place in our world. Get prepared with gear and have the time of your life. Travel with eyes wide open, with no fixed ideas and be open to the beauty, wonder, tranquility and fury of the polar environment."
Area of expertise: Bachelor's Degree in Tourism Management and Guiding, and Master's Degree in Environmental Management Advice to polar travelers: "Every now and then put down your camera and take a moment to soak it all in. Experience this unique environment with all your senses: the sound of the ice crackling, the scent of the tundra, the vastness of the landscape, the texture of a feather or a piece of qiviut (muskox wool). These simple moments create powerful memories that cannot always be captured on film."
Guest Review: Hear Angelo rave about his Antarctic experiece with the Quark Expeditions team. Scan the QR Code.
8 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
OUR TEAM
Jake Morrison Home base: Lake Simcoe, Ontario, Canada Years of polar experience: 13 Polar expeditions to date: 100 Areas of expertise: With a degree in operations management and after a lifetime on the water, Jake spent six years managing expedition operations from Quark Expeditions’ Toronto office before returning to the field to fuel his love for the great outdoors. During his 12 years with Quark Expeditions, Jake has worked on over 10 different expedition vessels and explored nearly every polar destination where Quark Expeditions operates. Advice to polar travelers: “Slow down, let your soul absorb every majestic moment, and spend plenty of time out on deck.”
Sarah Zaubi Home base: Montana, USA Years of polar experience: 6 Polar expeditions to date: 60
NEIL SIERENS Chief Pilot
Areas of expertise: Gender studies, certified kayak guide, helicopter operations specialist Advice to polar travelers: "Everyone arrives in the Arctic with a vision for their trip, but the Polar Regions have a way of shaping the experience. The polar reality always prevails, and in the end, the unexpected journey becomes the best adventure."
Home base: Fairoaks, UK Years of helicopter experience: 20 Polar expeditions to date: 10 Areas of expertise: Helicopter operations around the globe; specialist in the safe transport of passengers to and from vessels. On embracing helicopter adventures in the Polar Regions: “The view from above is like no other, but the helicopter flight provides more than just an elevated viewpoint. The landing sites we choose can only be accessed by helicopter. So, along with the great views, you can experience the thrill of possibly being the first person to have ever set foot in that area.” Our helicopter team: “Delivering an amazing helicopter experience involves a lot of highly-trained people. It’s similar to a motor racing team which entails numerous experts working behind the scenes to ensure the process goes smoothly and safely. We are very selective in the pilots we hire to fly in the Polar Regions—and we’re incredibly proud of our entire team. Guests are in very safe hands.” Advice to Polar Travelers: “Clearly you will want to take photos during your helicopter flight, but the lens cannot capture it all. Put down your camera occasionally and just look around. Secondly, on most flights you will be able to chat to the pilot. If you’ve got a question, there’s a strong likelihood your fellow guests are also keen to hear the answer. If you don’t get around to asking during the flight, you can always ask later when back on board Ultramarine .”
Meet Expedition Leader Jake Morrison. Scan the QR Code.
Shane Evoy Home base: Pointe au Baril, Ontario, Canada Years of polar experience: 27 Polar expeditions to date: 250 What guests are apt to learn on a polar voyage: “I hope guests will learn a lot about the areas we go into so they can protect what they love. There’s a quote from environmentalist Baba Dioum that I live by when I’m on an expedition: ‘In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught.’" Advice to polar travelers: “Sit, look, listen, and feel what is around you and take it all in.”
Michelle Sole Home base: Oxford, England Years of polar experience: 8 Polar expeditions to date: 85 Areas of expertise: Photography
Advice to polar travelers: "Bring binoculars. They’re are a great tool for spotting wildlife and getting closer views of the mountain tops. Spend as much time as possible on the outer decks and make sure you take a moment just for yourself."
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FALKLAND ISLANDS: AN ORNITHOLOGIST’S DREAM
Antarctica at a Glance
Penguins aren’t the only winged species here. There are 63 breeding bird species, including the inquisitive striated caracara, which likes to steal shiny objects.
Summer in Antarctica (November to April) offers three distinct seasons, each with unique weather, wildlife, and land conditions. Insider tip: Decide what you'd like to experience first, then you'll know the best time to visit.
ARGENTINA
FALKLAND ISLANDS (Islas Malvinas)
CHILE
Stanley
RETRACE DARWIN'S FOOTSTEPS Explore Patagonia’s spectacular network of fjords and channels, and the glaciers of Tierra del Fuego.
Atlantic Ocean
CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE Crossing the infamous 800-km Drake Passage is a polar rite of passage for many travelers. You can expect Drake Lake (calm waters) or Drake Shake (rough seas and high winds).
WHALE-WATCHING WEATHER Humpbacks arrive back in Antarctica MID-DECEMBER to LATE-FEBRUARY when temperatures reach 40°F/ 5°C, and there are up to 22 hours of sunlight daily.
NOV 1915–APR 1916 Shackleton and crew drift on ice, then row through rough ocean waters all the way to Elephant Island.
SUMMER ROMANCE Penguins exhibit
Weddell Sea
ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
courtship rituals (bowing, preening) from NOVEMBER to MID-DECEMBER on the Antarctic Peninsula. Male gentoo penguins sometimes woo a female by giving her a well-chosen rock.
CROSSING THE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE Sailing to 66°33—the Antarctic Circle—is a milestone few travelers reach.
PENGUIN CHICKS Wildlife-viewing is excellent in the Antarctic from MID-DECEMBER to MID-FEBRUARY. Especially eye-catching are the penguin chicks.
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BIRDS OF SOUTH GEORGIA Albatross and Cape petrels guide your ship to South Georgia, also known as the Galapagos of the South Seas.
INCREDIBLE SNOWSCAPES The Antarctic Peninsula is at its most pristine from NOVEMBER to MID-DECEMBER. As the region wakes up from winter, pure white snowscapes stretch beyond the horizons.
KING PENGUINS Salisbury Plain, South Georgia, is home to 500,000 King penguins.
BLUE-TINTED ICEBERGS During the mid-summer period of MID-DECEMBER
to MID-FEBRUARY, sun and salt water turn icebergs into blue works of art.
APR–MAY 1916 Shackleton and five crewmen row to South Georgia to find help for the sailors left on Elephant Island.
SOUTH GEORGIA
DEC 5, 1914 Endurance departs Grytviken whaling station on South Georgia.
CALVING GLACIERS. Thunderous glacier- calving, when chunks of glaciers crash into the sea, is common MID-FEBRUARY to LATE MARCH.
HONORING SHACKLETON Heroic polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton,
who died in 1922, is buried in the cemetery at Grytviken on South Georgia Island.
OVERNIGHT CAMPING IN ANTARCTICA
Sleeping outdoors overnight in a bivy sac on the Peninsula is an unforgettable experience.
Temperatures are at their warmest (up to 40°F/ 5°C) MID-NOVEMBER to MID-JANUARY.
Now that you’ve explored the highlights of the Antarctic region, discover the wide range of itineraries we offer.
ENDURANCE FOUND A search team, using undersea drones, located Endurance at the bottom of the Weddell Sea in MARCH 2022.
NOV 21, 1915 Endurance sinks to the bottom of the Weddell Sea after being trapped in ice for over a year.
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ANTARCTIC MAP
Santiago, Chile
Buenos Aires, Argentina
SOUTH AMERICA
CHILE
Atlantic Ocean
ARGENTINA
Pacific Ocean
Stanley
FALKLAND ISLANDS (Islas Malvinas)
Ushuaia
Punta Arenas
Cape Horn
Drake Passage
KING GEORGE ISLAND
SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS
ANVERS ISLAND
Paradise Bay
Lemaire Channel
Weddell Sea
ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
ANTARCTIC CIRCLE
ADELAIDE ISLAND
ANTARCTICA
Map is not to scale. Itineraries shown are for illustrative purposes only. Actual itinerary is dependent on weather and ice conditions.
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ANTARCTIC MAP
Our exciting Antarctic season offers expeditions to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, Patagonia and beyond the Antarctic Circle. Our diverse fleet of small ships can navigate places larger cruise ships can't: Ultramarine , with its two helicopters; our luxury, all-balcony World Explorer ; and our newest ship, the state-of-the-art Ocean Explorer . Where our team can take you.
SOUTH GEORGIA
ITINERARIES AND SCHEDULED ROUTES
NOT SHOWN ON MAP:
Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent See page 20 Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition See page 21 Snow Hill to the Peninsula: Shackleton's Emperors See page 16 Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords and Torres del Paine See page 18
Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake See page 30 Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle See page 31
Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill See Page 17 Antarctic Express: Sail South, Fly North See page 33 Antarctic Express: Fly South, Sail North See page 32 South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari See page 25 Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains & Remote Lands See page 22
Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and South Georgia See pages 26 Falklands (Malvinas), South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings See page 24
Flight paths
Scheduled paths
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ANTARCTIC ITINERARIES
Innovative Antarctic Itineraries
Our Antarctic 2025/2026 season features over 40 departures—including a return to the Snow Hill, home of the legendary Emperor penguin colony, as well as the brand-new Antarctica by Helicopter itinerary. Guests can explore five fascinating regions in 2025/2026: the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, the Falkland Islands, Snow Hill Island and Patagonia.
Watch a preview of our Antarctic 2025/2026 season. Scan the QR Code.
Gentoo penguins congregate on floating ice.
14 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
ANTARCTIC ITINERARIES
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SNOW HILL
VOYAGE HIGHLIGHT Hands-on sessions with award-winning photographer Paul Goldstein.
Emperor penguins at Snow Hill; heli-flightseeing; guided hike to the Emperor colony.
Buenos Aires s
ARGENTINA
CHILE
Snow Hill to the Peninsula: Shackleton's Emperors
Atlantic Ocean
Not only will you visit the legendary colony of 8,000 Emperor penguins and their chicks at Snow Hill, but our 18-day “Snow Hill to the Peninsula” itinerary also delivers the traditional Western Antarctic Peninsula experience of glaciers, icebergs, snow-capped mountains, whales and seals—plus time on the east coast of the Peninsula, where few operators ever visit. Get ready for heli-flightseeing and Zodiac cruising for unique perspectives of Antarctica. Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your flights and trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
Snow Hill Island Emperor Penguin Colony
Lemaire Channel
Weddell Sea
Antarctic Peninsula
1 departure | 18 days October 30, 2025 Embarkation/Disembarkation: Ushuaia, Argentina See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: Ultramarine
Adventure Options: See pages 58–59 for more details.
Charter flight: To/from Buenos Aires, Argentina (included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package)
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SNOW HILL
A rookery of Emperor penguins and their young.
Buenos Aires s
Santiago
ARGENTINA
CHILE
Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill
Atlantic Ocean
Punta Arenas
Embrace the expeditionary spirit as we journey to the legendary colony of 8,000 Emperor penguins at remote Snow Hill. On our 14–day "Emperor Penguin Quest" you’ll spend up to five days in the vicinity of Snow Hill to maximize your Weddell Sea experience of witnessing this rarely-seen penguin colony. Enjoy helicopter sightseeing and Zodiac cruising during one of the most jaw-dropping wildlife experiences imaginable. Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your flights and trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
Snow Hill Island Emperor Penguin Colony
Lemaire Channel
Weddell Sea
Antarctic Peninsula
1 departure | 14 days November 15, 2025 Embarkation/Disembarkation: Ushuaia, Argentina See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: Ultramarine
Adventure Options: See pages 58–59 for more details.
Charter flight: To/from Buenos Aires, Argentina (included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package)
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PATAGONIA
Guests hike in remote Patagonia; Magellanic penguin; estancia (Patagonian ranch) visit.
From Buenos Aires
Torres del Paine National Park To Santiago
CHILE
ARGENTINA
Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords and Torres del Paine
Puerto Natales
Atlantic Ocean
Kawésqar National Park
Strait of Magellan
Punta Arenas
Retrace Charles Darwin’s epic voyage to the ‘edge of the world’ on this 15-day journey into Chile’s spectacular network of fjords and channels in remote Patagonia. Ultramarine ’s two twin-engine helicopters enable guests to witness some of the most picturesque landscapes on Earth, as well as blue-toned glaciers, vast colonies of penguins and other wildlife. Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your flights and trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
Admiralty Sound
Ushuaia
Alberto de Agostini National Park
Paci c Ocean
Cape Horn
Beagle Channel
Southern Ocean/ Drake Passage
1 departure | 15 days March 12, 2026
Ship: Ultramarine
Adventure Options: See pages 58–59 for more details.
Charter flight: Between Santiago, Chile / Buenos Aires, Argentina (included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package
Embarkation: Ushuaia, Argentina Disembarkation: Punta Arenas, Chile See Dates and Rates for details.
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Spectacular, pristine Patagonia.
Enjoy our Patagonia video. Scan the QR Code.
A guest is awestruck by the snow-covered peaks of Patagonia.
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ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Guest Review: Neha and Amit wanted to explore the raw, rugged terrain of Antarctica. Scan the QR Code.
Guests set foot on the legendary 7th Continent.
Santiago
Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
Flights for Ultramarine departures only
Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent
CHILE
Atlantic Ocean
Punta Arenas
Ushuaia
The classic 11-day expedition, which begins in Ushuaia, lets you revel in the best of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula, including opportunities to observe penguins, whales and seabirds. Guests on the 12-day itinerary (with added transfer out of Buenos Aires) travel on Ultramarine —which is equipped with two twin-engine helicopters. Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your flights and trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
Lemaire Channel
N T
Antarctic Peninsula
Weddell Sea
17 departures | 11 & 12 days November 2025 through March 2026 Embarkation/Disembarkation: Ushuaia, Argentina See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: Ultramarine
Adventure Options: Varies according to ship. See pages 58–59 for more details.
Charter flight: To/from Buenos Aires, Argentina (included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package for Ultramarine only)
World Explorer Ocean Explorer
20 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Anna and Jim's polar milestone: Crossing the Antarctic Circle. Scan the QR Code.
Guide and guest on a paddling excursion; gentoo penguins; a Garmin navigational device.
Santiago
Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
Flights for Ultramarine departures only
CHILE
Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition
Paci c Ocean
Atlantic Ocean
Punta Arenas
Ushuaia
Embrace true isolation as you journey south to cross the Antarctic Circle. Enjoy the highlights of the western Peninsula as you travel toward 66°33' S. Experience the same wonders (penguins, glaciers) witnessed by early adventurers as you explore by Zodiac, on foot and helicopter. Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
Lemaire Channel
N T A
Antarctic Peninsula
3 departures | 14 days January and February 2026 Embarkation/Disembarkation: Ushuaia, Argentina See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: Ultramarine Ocean Explorer
Adventure Options: Varies according to ship. See pages 58–59 for more details.
Charter flight: To/from Buenos Aires, Argentina (included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package for Ultramarine only)
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ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
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ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Learn about our new Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains, and Remote Lands itinerary. Scan the QR Code.
Robust penguin colony with Ultramarine in the backdrop; lounging penguin; helicopter excursion; guests on Ultramarine's heli deck; twin-engine H145 helicopter.
Buenos Aires s
ARGENTINA
CHILE
Antarctica By Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains and Remote Lands Our brand-new “Antarctica by Helicopter” itinerary offers helicopter adventures no one else can. Cutting-edge itinerary maximizes opportunities to explore the interior of the 7th Continent, as well as Erebus and Terror Gulf, Antarctic Sound and the great Weddell Sea. Bonus: Every guest experiences at least two heli-flightseeing excursions and one heli- landing amidst Antarctica’s vast mountain ranges—all included in the cost of the trip. Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your flights and trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
Atlantic Ocean
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
Joinville Island
James Ross Island
Lemaire Channel
Weddell Sea
Antarctic Peninsula
2 departures | 12 days November and December 2025 Embarkation/Disembarkation: Ushuaia, Argentina See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: Ultramarine
Adventure Options: See pages 58–59 for more details.
Charter flight: To/from Buenos Aires, Argentina (included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package)
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THE FALKLAND ISLANDS, SOUTH GEORGIA & ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Guest Review: Patrick admired the way the expedition team fine-tuned his South Georgia adventure so it was all about discovery. Scan the QR Code.
Buenos Aires
Santiago
King penguins waddle across a beach in Antarctica; guests overlook a remote fjord; a rock-hopper penguin.
ARGENTINA
CHILE
Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
Atlantic Ocean
Stanley
Falklands (Malvinas), South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings Explore the entire Antarctic region. Wander the quaint British town of Stanley in the Falkland Islands, view 30 bird species and four types of penguins in South Georgia, and explore the 7th Continent by ship, Zodiac, kayak and on foot while learning from polar experts. Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
South Georgia
Punta Arenas
Ushuaia
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
Elephant Island
South Orkney Island
Anvers Island
Lemaire Channel
Weddell Sea
Antarctic Peninsula
1 departure | 20 days November 13, 2025 Embarkation/Disembarkation: Ushuaia, Argentina See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: Ocean Explorer
Adventure Options: See pages 58–59 for more details.
24 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
SOUTH GEORGIA & ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Guest Review: “To see that many birds and penguins in one place was like a fantasy.” Vivian, South Georgia Voyage. Scan the QR Code.
Buenos Aires
Santiago
A thousands-fold colony of King penguins in South Georgia.
ARGENTINA
CHILE
Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari
Atlantic Ocean
South Georgia
Punta Arenas
Ushuaia
Elephant Island
This is the fastest way to explore the Antarctica Peninsula and South Georgia. Expect albatross and petrels to guide your ship toward South Georgia where you'll find beaches teeming with King penguins and seals. You can visit Sir Ernest Shackleton’s grave at Grytviken. Then experience vast polar landscapes, penguin rookeries and off-ship adventures on the Peninsula. Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your flights and trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
Drake Passage
South Shetland Islands
Lemaire Channel
Weddell Sea
Antarctic Peninsula
2 departures | 18 days January and February 2026 Embarkation/Disembarkation: Ushuaia, Argentina See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: World Explorer Ocean Explorer
Adventure Options: Varies according to ship. See pages 58–59 for more details.
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THE FALKLAND ISLANDS, SOUTH GEORGIA & ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Guest Review: Ian and Christine’s South Georgia and Antarctic voyage included time out with penguins and a “brilliant” lecture program. Scan the QR Code.
Helicopter passenger photographs the Antarctic landscape; guest poses with the unofficial flag of Antarctica; wildlife sighting on South Georgia.
Santiago
Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and South Georgia Experience every highlight of the Antarctic region. This 23-day in-depth voyage includes historic Falkland Islands (home to seals, dolphins and penguins), wildlife-rich South Georgia (known as the "Galapagos of the South Seas") and the iconic Antarctic Peninsula—plus a crossing of the Antarctic Circle.
CHILE
Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
Atlantic Ocean
Stanley
South Georgia
Punta Arenas
Ushuaia
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
Anvers Island
Lemaire Channel
Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
Weddell Sea
Antarctic Peninsula
1 departure | 23 days January 18, 2026 Embarkation/Disembarkation: Ushuaia, Argentina See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: Ultramarine
Adventure Options: See pages 58–59 for more details.
Charter flight: To/from Buenos Aires, Argentina (included in the Charter Flight & Hotel Package)
26 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
The trip was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The expedition crew were so knowledgeable and willing to speak with each guest individually to share their experiences. The sights were beautiful, from icebergs and penguins to seals and whales. I can’t express enough how much I loved this trip. —B.M., Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and South Georgia
Adult penguins and their young inhabit the shoreline.
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FLY/CRUISE
Fly/Cruise Express For time-strapped travelers who really want to visit Antarctica— and perhaps don’t want to use up all of their vacation time—Quark Expeditions offers the perfect solution: Our Fly/Cruise Express option. Instead of spending two days crossing the 800-km Drake Passage, which is also known as the Drake Shake due to the sometimes rough waters, guests can fly from Punta Arenas, Chile, to King George Island, Antarctica, in a staggeringly short two hours.
Choose your Fly/Cruise Express voyage to explore Antarctica with the best expedition team in the industry.
Guests disembark after flying across the Drake Passage.
28 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
FLY/CRUISE
It’s the fastest way to Antarctica. Shaving two days off your travel time means you can explore Antarctica on an 8-day voyage. Enjoy aerial views of the Antarctic landscape during the crossing. Enjoy dramatic vistas as your plane descends on the South Shetland Islands. Avoid the potentially choppy waters of the Drake Passage. Enjoy the comfort of flying. Use the time you save to explore Punta Arenas. Savor the delights of this lively Chilean metropolis. Be part of an intimate group. Our Fly/Cruise voyages are limited to 140 guests. You won’t forego your dream of a polar adventure. Time is a deal-breaker for many—but our time-efficient Fly/Cruise options can make your dream a reality.
Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for detailed itineraries 29
FLY/CRUISE
Buenos Aires
Santiago
Watch a preview of our Fly/Cruise experience. Scan the QR Code.
ARGENTINA
Atlantic Ocean
CHILE
Penguins thrive on the expansive Antarctic ice.
Ushuaia
Punta Arenas
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake
King George Island
Anvers Island
Lemaire Channel
Our fastest trip to Antarctica is ideal for first-timers and time-strapped travelers, and those who prefer not to sail the Drake Passage. Fly from Punta Arenas to King George Island to enjoy eight days of wildlife observation, polar history and off-ship adventures.
Weddell Sea
Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
Antarctic Peninsula
4 departures | 8 days December 2025 through March 2026 E mbarkation/Disembarkation: King George Island, Antarctica See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: World Explorer Ocean Explorer
Adventure Options: Varies according to ship. See pages 58–59 for more details.
Charter flight: To/From Punta Arenas, Chile (included)
30 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
FLY/CRUISE
Buenos Aires
Santiago
ARGENTINA
Atlantic Ocean
CHILE
Guests raise a glass upon crossing the Antarctic Circle; Weddell seal; guests on a Zodiac cruise.
Ushuaia
Punta Arenas
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle
King George Island
Anvers Island
Lemaire Channel
Embrace true isolation as you journey south to cross the Antarctic Circle. Enjoy the highlights of the western Peninsula as you travel toward 66°33' S. Observe penguin colonies, glaciers, birds and other Antarctic wonders as you explore by Zodiac, ship and on foot.
Weddell Sea
Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
Antarctic Peninsula
2 departures | 11 days January and February 2026 E mbarkation/Disembarkation: King George Island, Antarctica See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: Ocean Explorer
Adventure Options: See pages 58–59 for more details.
Charter flight: To/From Punta Arenas, Chile (included)
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FLY/CRUISE
Buenos Aires
Santiago
ARGENTINA
Atlantic Ocean
CHILE
Guests spot a whale on a Zodiac cruise.
Ushuaia
Punta Arenas
Antarctic Express: Fly South, Cruise North
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
King George Island
Anvers Island
Take the fastest route over the 800-km wide Drake Passage to Antarctica—a three- hour flight from Punta Arenas, Chile. Upon landing, continue your 10-day journey by ship as you witness the spellbinding polar wilderness of Antarctica—before you cross back across the Drake Passage by ship to Ushuaia, Argentina. Flying one way and sailing the other gives you the best of both worlds.
Lemaire Channel
Weddell Sea
Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
Antarctic Peninsula
3 departures | 10 days December 2025 through March 2026 Embarkation: King George Island, Antarctica Disembarkation: Ushuaia, Argentina See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: World Explorer Ocean Explorer
Adventure Options: Varies according to ship. See pages 58–59 for more details.
Charter flight: From Punta Arenas, Chile (included)
32 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
FLY/CRUISE
Buenos Aires
Santiago
ARGENTINA
Atlantic Ocean
CHILE
Guide and guest on a paddling excursion; penguins play on the ice; excited guests on a Zodiac cruise.
Ushuaia
Punta Arenas
Antarctic Express: Cruise South, Fly North
South Shetland Islands
Drake Passage
King George Island
Anvers Island
Revel in the excitement of crossing the famed 800-kilometer wide Drake Passage by ship to begin your adventure—then enjoy the speed and convenience of a northbound flight over the Drake on your return. This time-saving option means you’ll have 10 full days to explore Antarctica: icebergs, glaciers, whales, penguins and more. Sailing one way and flying the other gives you the best of both worlds. Nature is the tour guide: Sea, ice, and weather conditions will affect your trip itinerary. Embrace the unexpected.
Lemaire Channel
Weddell Sea
Antarctic Peninsula
3 departures | 10 days December 2025 through February 2026 Embarkation: Ushuaia, Argentina Disembarkation: King George Island, Antarctica See Dates and Rates for details.
Ship: World Explorer Ocean Explorer
Adventure Options: Varies according to ship. See pages 58–59 for more details.
Charter flight: To Punta Arenas, Chile (included)
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OUR SUPERIOR FLEET
The Greatest Fleet on the Frozen Seas
When it comes to polar expeditions, you're only as good as where your ships can take you. Our fleet of small polar vessels enables us to navigate hard- to-reach places that larger cruise ships can’t reach. Each ship (guest capacity ranges from 138 to 199) delivers a unique experience of its own. Ultramarine , with two helicopters and 20 quick-deploy Zodiacs, offers the most off-ship excursions. The all-balcony suites World Explorer offers superior onboard comfort. State-of-the- art Ocean Explorer —the newest addition to our fleet—with its distinctive X-Bow design and remarkable two-story forward lounge, sets a striking stage for your expedition of a lifetime.
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OUR FLEET
Enjoy a video tour of Ultramarine. Scan the QR Code.
BALCONY SUITE
TERRACE SUITE
DELUXE BALCONY SUITE
MEET THE SHIP
Ultramarine The technologically-advanced Ultramarine is designed to go beyond the familiar in polar exploration, to help you explore new places, and to immerse you in the best the Arctic has to offer. Equipped with two twin- engine helicopters and 20 quick-deploy Zodiacs, Ultramarine offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, and features the category’s most spacious suites, breathtaking public spaces, and superb on-board amenities including a spa, and sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows. Ultramarine is equipped with advanced sustainability features that exceed all industry standards. With all this and more, Ultramarine is perfectly positioned to deliver the ultimate polar expedition experience.
Ship Specifications: Staff & Crew: 140 Guests: 199
Lifeboats: 4, fully enclosed Ice Class: PC6
Scan this QR Code to view all Ultramarine departures.
36 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
OUR FLEET
Nine Tiers of Accommodation: Ultra Suite Owner’s Suite Penthouse Suite Terrace Suite
Deck
Bistro
Library
Deluxe Balcony Suite Balcony Suite Explorer Suite Explorer Triple Solo Panorama Balcony
WC
Panorama Lounge & Bar
E E
Studio
Tundra Spa
Gym
Sauna
Deck
Bridge
E E
Deck
WC
Balena Restaurant
Ambassadors Theater
E E
WC
WC
Deck
E E
Deck
Reception
Clinic
E E
Polar Boutique ue
Deck
Zodiac Embarkation
Ready Room A y
Zodiac Embarkation
E E
For all cabin details and descriptions of room amenities, scan QR Code.
WC
Ready Room om B y
Deck
Zodiac Embarkation
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OUR FLEET
ULTRAMARINE
Balena Restaurant Our main dining room, which has direct access to a wraparound deck, seats 2 to 10 at each table. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow every guest to enjoy a spectacular polar view. Bistro 487 Guests can enjoy a meal in the Bistro, which offers an indoor/outdoor dining experience. Perfect for enjoying the polar landscapes. Ambassador Theater A state-of-the-art, high-resolution LED screen wall in the main theater ensures high-definition viewing of expert polar presentations from any angle. Panorama Lounge and Bar The glass-enclosed Panorama Lounge and Bar is a cozy gathering point where guests can sip a glass of wine, play a board game, socialize at the bar or bust a move on the dance floor.
Featured Amenities & Highlights
38 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
OUR FLEET
Tundra Spa Offering a variety of exclusive treatments, the spa facilities—with adjacent steam room and sauna—allow guests to fully relax and unwind between off-ship adventures. Sauna The sauna’s floor-to-ceiling windows ensure guests stay connected to their polar surroundings while relaxing on ship. Smart Technology High-definition, large-screen projectors, real-time translation services, and enhanced connectivity ensure guests get the most out of their polar expedition. Two Twin-Engine Helicopters Ultramarine ’s two helicopters transport guests to new destinations only accessible by air, and offer helicopter-supported excursions exclusive to Quark Expeditions. Water-Level Zodiac Hangar A water-level Zodiac hangar allows our team to quickly deploy our fleet of 20 Zodiacs to get guests off the ship for both scheduled and spontaneous adventures. Ready Rooms Our two ready rooms, with assigned lockers, allow guests to quickly change in and out of their expedition gear. Fitness Center The fully-equipped fitness center features a separate yoga space with views of the polar landscape. Wraparound Deck The wraparound deck on Deck 5 offers generous outdoor viewing opportunities of the polar wilderness.
Sauna
Flightseeing
See what a day onboard Ultramarine really looks like. Scan the QR Code.
Panorama Lounge
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OUR FLEET
Watch a sneak peek of Ocean Explorer. Scan the QR Code.
STUDIO SINGLE
VERANDA SUITE
JUNIOR SUITE
MEET THE SHIP
Ocean Explorer The 138-passenger Ocean Explorer , the newest addition to our fleet, is modern, elegant and purpose-built for polar exploration. The innovative ULSTEIN X-BOW® ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience. Spacious cabins feature a bespoke Scandinavian design and almost all have verandas. Guests can relax in Tundra Spa, the gym, sauna with large windows, and two outdoor Jacuzzis. Located at the bow is the light-filled Discovery Library, which introduces a welcome airiness to the expedition ship. Ocean Explorer offers abundant observation areas on Decks 7, 8 and especially on Deck 9, which offers 360-degree panoramic views from the very top of the vessel.
Ship Specifications: Staff & Crew: 105
Guests: 138 Lifeboats: 2 Ice Class: 1A, PC6
Scan this QR Code to view all Ocean Explorer departures.
40 Call a Quark Polar Travel Advisor at +1 (888) 354-0594 or your Preferred Travel Advisor
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