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Begin in Ushuaia, Argentina, the gateway to your Antarctic voyage. Sail to the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) to explore rugged coastlines and spot penguins and seabirds. Continue to South Georgia, home to vast king penguin colonies, elephant seals, and Shackleton’s grave. If conditions allow, visit the South Orkney Islands before reaching the icy wilderness of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, where you’ll encounter glaciers, whales, and diverse penguin species. Return via the Drake Passage and disembark in Ushuaia.
Your gateway for this expedition is Ushuaia, Argentina. Located within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, Ushuaia has a small-town feel yet boasts many shops, museums, cafés and restaurants that you can enjoy before your voyage. If you’re feeling adventurous, the nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park and Martial Glacier offer plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking.
As you embark, the anticipation grows. Trade your land legs for sea legs, meet and greet your fellow travelers and get acquainted with your ship. Since every Antarctic adventure presents new opportunities and experiences, embarkation day is just as exciting for your Expedition Team as it is for you. On board your team will be there both to ensure your comfort and safety as well as help make your wildlife dreams come true.
Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team on photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history. In between presentations, spend time on deck looking for wildlife or chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.
Upon your arrival in the Falklands (Malvinas), your camera will get its first real workout capturing the abundant wildlife and rugged feel of this sub- Antarctic region. The archipelago contains two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, which you will explore during daily excursions.
Stanley, also known as Port Stanley, is often a favored landing site, as the town offers a unique British outpost feel, complete with eclectic charm. You’ll be free to explore, grab a pint at the local pub or visit the cathedral and museum.
In terms of wildlife, the archipelago is home to Magellanic, gentoo and southern rockhopper penguins. If you’re lucky, you may even spot king penguins here as well! You can expect to see black- browed albatross, plus two endemic bird species—the flightless Falkland steamer duck and, possibly, the elusive Cobb’s wren.
Your expert education team will enrich your understanding of the local flora and fauna, making the most out of your time in the Falklands.
Sailing southeast to South Georgia, you’ll officially enter Antarctic waters once you cross the Antarctic Convergence, an invisible biological boundary encircling the continent. This meeting of oceans, where the cold Antarctic waters mix and mingle with the warmer waters of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, helps nourish the abundance of krill that attracts whales, seals, and birdlife to this part of the world. Your Expedition Team will notify you when you cross this invisible yet important line, and also look out for the seabirds and marine life that frequent this nutrient-rich area.
This remote, mountainous island was a popular stop for many historic Antarctic expeditions and was once known for whale– and seal–hunting. Today, island wildlife populations are rebounding, but you’ll still see remnants of old whaling stations and other abandoned outposts.
One significant and historic site is the grave of the great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. You can visit his grave at the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to an old whaling station, plus a museum, gift shop, church and small research station.
Although South Georgia’s history is an important attraction to the island, its incredible densities of wildlife make it truly memorable. Each landing you make on South Georgia, often referred to as the Galapagos of the Southern Sea, will open your eyes to the wondrous lives of new, enthralling creatures.
One day you may see colonies with hundreds of thousands of pairs of king penguins waddling on shore, and the next, you may visit another beach inhabited by hundreds of fur or elephant seals. The grasses, mountains and beaches of South Georgia all play an important role in the breeding and survival of different species on the island. This fragile and interwoven relationship is something your Expedition Team will instill in you during your time here.
Say goodbye to the king penguins as you leave for your next destination: Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations, workshops, and social activities led by your Expedition Team.
If conditions allow, we may attempt landfall on the South Orkney Islands, our first official stop in Antarctica.
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 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 curious penguin waddles by to observe the human.
Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each excursion, whether you are Zodiac cruising, visiting a historical site or consorting with penguin colonies.
Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. During Zodiac cruises, keep an eye out for Antarctic whales such as minkes, as you may get a chance for an intimate experience with these majestic animals. Each day and each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to entertain 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!
After more than two weeks of endless wildlife encounters, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage, completing your Antarctic adventure. Enjoy your final moments celebrating with your fellow shipmates and savor the silence of the sea as long as you can.
After breakfast aboard the ship, it is time to part ways and say goodbye to your Expedition Team. Airport transfers will be provided for those departing on the first homeward flights. Other guests will be transferred to town.
To confirm reservations, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the net, discounted rate (minimum US$1000 per person) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. The deposit must be paid by major credit card, wire transfer, check or money order. For any bookings within 120 days of departure full payment is required. Deposit amounts may vary for special promotions and are subject to the promotion terms and conditions. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.
All late payments are subject to a penalty of 1.5% interest per month, or 18% per annum. QEI reserves the right to cancel any booking that is not paid within 120 days of departure or deny boarding on any unpaid balances.
CABIN DETAILS
Approximately 208 sq. ft. (19.3 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus separate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. The floor-to-ceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Stateroom is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 are not furnished with club chairs and reading table.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
208 ft2 (19.3 m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
Approximately 182 sq. ft. (16.9 sq. m.), these Deck 4 cabins are furnished with one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles. Guests in these elegant suites enjoy front-of-ship privacy, as well as sweeping views from their very own veranda.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
182 ft2 (16.9m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
166 ft2 (15.4 m2)
Porthole view
Approximately 205 sq. ft.(19.2 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus a separate sitting area furnished with a sofa bed. The floor-toceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Suite is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as a private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
205 ft2 (19 m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. These two-room suites feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles in the inner bedroom. The outer sitting room is set up with a sofa-bed, as well as an activity table for two. The bedroom is designed with floor-to-ceiling glass that opens onto a doublesized walkout balcony. The Junior Suite also includes two TVs, a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, and a private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
298 ft2 (27.7m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
This palatial 2–room suite (443 sq. ft/41.2 sq. m.) on Deck 7 offers stunning views from its large veranda on the highest cabin level. The suite encompasses a triple–sized balcony, master bedroom, living room, dining area and two large master bathrooms. The inner bedroom, with a double bed that can be made into two singles, features an en suite with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. The outer room contains a sofa bed, club chair and 4–seat dining table. Additional amenities include two TVs and a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
443 ft2 (41.2m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. ft (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom, and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony. There are also 2 TV’s, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. There’s an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
269 ft2 (25m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. ft. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
162 ft2 (15.1m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
Approximately 208 sq. ft. (19.3 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus separate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. The floor-to-ceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Stateroom is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 are not furnished with club chairs and reading table.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
208 ft2 (19.3 m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
Approximately 182 sq. ft. (16.9 sq. m.), these Deck 4 cabins are furnished with one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles. Guests in these elegant suites enjoy front-of-ship privacy, as well as sweeping views from their very own veranda.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
182 ft2 (16.9m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
166 ft2 (15.4 m2)
Porthole view
Approximately 205 sq. ft.(19.2 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus a separate sitting area furnished with a sofa bed. The floor-toceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Suite is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as a private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
205 ft2 (19 m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. These two-room suites feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles in the inner bedroom. The outer sitting room is set up with a sofa-bed, as well as an activity table for two. The bedroom is designed with floor-to-ceiling glass that opens onto a doublesized walkout balcony. The Junior Suite also includes two TVs, a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, and a private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
298 ft2 (27.7m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
This palatial 2–room suite (443 sq. ft/41.2 sq. m.) on Deck 7 offers stunning views from its large veranda on the highest cabin level. The suite encompasses a triple–sized balcony, master bedroom, living room, dining area and two large master bathrooms. The inner bedroom, with a double bed that can be made into two singles, features an en suite with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. The outer room contains a sofa bed, club chair and 4–seat dining table. Additional amenities include two TVs and a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
443 ft2 (41.2m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. ft (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom, and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony. There are also 2 TV’s, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. There’s an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
269 ft2 (25m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. ft. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
162 ft2 (15.1m2)
Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony
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Hiking in the polar regions differs from your typical trail experience. Here, in a tree-less terrain, you are the tallest figure on the landscape as you walk over spongy tundra, crusty snow or sandy beaches in remotes parts of the Arctic and Antarctica. Stepping ashore anywhere in the polar regions means you’re not a distant observer.
Our organized hikes range from short jaunts to the top of lookouts or visits to see wildlife or longer walks of several kilometers over ice and rock and snow. Hiking excursions may last from two to three hours with plenty of time for photographs of wildlife, learning moments from your experienced guides, or just time to stand back and admire the incredible polar surroundings.
No experience is necessary but participants should be able to get in and out of a Zodiac and walk on uneven terrain. Hiking options are tailored to all interests and abilities, from those who want to contemplate the landscape in silence to photographers who want that perfect image to energetic travelers who want to summit a peak in the hopes of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat.
Zodiacs are used for transferring you ashore, transporting your luggage when necessary and for taking you ocean-level cruising among icebergs, whales and seabirds. During the expedition, you will visit remote and isolated sites that are accessible only by Zodiac.
These large, heavy-duty inflatable vessels are extremely safe and were specially designed for expedition work. Zodiacs are the workhorses of Polar expeditions. Separate air compartments retain a large reserve of buoyancy even if these sturdy boats are damaged. Their flat bottom design permits the craft to land directly onto the cobble and ice-strewn beaches that you will encounter on your Polar expedition.
The Polar Plunge is scheduled once during each voyage. Throughout the journey, the Expedition Leader and Captain constantly monitor conditions in order to choose the optimal time and location. The Polar Plunge sometimes takes place onshore or, in many cases, from the gangway or Zodiac. All participants wear a tethered harness and plunge into the polar waters from the side of Zodiac or safety of the gangplank cheered on, of course, by fellow passengers and Expedition Team.
Safety is paramount—the onboard physician always attends the Polar Plunge. Guides in survival gear circle the area in Zodiacs as guests take their turn jumping or cannon-balling into the polar waters.
$395 Per Person
Every sweep of the paddle as your craft glides through the pristine polar waters creates an incredible soundtrack: the jostle of glacial ice, the lapping of waves against the rocky shore, the perpetual drip from your paddle, the call of seabirds, and the occasional splash as wildlife break the surface of the water.
Our Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you’ll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.
Excursions last a minimum of one hour and are offered to participants once per voyage. Each group includes 10 paddlers, 1 guide and 1 one safety Zodiac driver. The wind, weather and water conditions determine the timing and location of Paddling Excursions.
$1,995 Per Person
Positioning yourself in the seat of a kayak is one of the most intimate ways travelers can connect with the polar regions—at water level, up close, where you can touch and feel every polar sensation imaginable. The Sea Kayak Program enables a small group of like-minded individuals to forge bonds as they explore fjords, glacial faces or mazes of sea ice.
Quark Expeditions Sea Kayak Program is a voyage-length program available in Antarctica, in which kayakers (those who have minimal experience as well as seasoned paddlers) will enjoy the polar regions from a unique perspective.
Conditions and logistics permitting, your kayak guide(s) will endeavor to have you paddling as often as possible throughout the voyage. Typically, sea kayakers are shuttled by Zodiac from the ship to an ideal starting point, where the kayak excursion begins. Guests return to the ship by Zodiac at the end of their paddling experience. Some kayak excursions are designed so guests can go ashore and explore.
In addition to the kayak guides, a safety driver in a Zodiac will always stay nearby to offer assistance if required. Excursions typically last one and a half to three hours.
Note: Due to its popularity and limited space, if you want to ensure a space in the Sea Kayak program, please register when you book your expedition. While the program routinely fills up well before the voyage, if there are vacant spaces when you board the vessel you may sign up. Quark Expedition guides attempt to lead guests on as many sea kayak excursions as possible, but the number of excursions will depend on weather and sea conditions as well as logistical factors. Be prepared to paddle in a double or single kayak depending on availability.
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Ocean Explorer, the newest addition to our fleet, is modern, elegant and purpose-built for polar exploration. The 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology. One of the ship’s key features is the ULSTEIN X–BOW®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to the inverted bow. With its distinctive X-Bow design and remarkable twostory forward lounge, Ocean Explorer sets a striking stage for your expedition of a lifetime. Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design, and almost all have verandas. You can relax and find comfort in our signature Tundra Spa & Sauna (with large windows), well-equipped gym and two outdoor Jacuzzis. Ocean Explorer has been designed with ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, which are ideal for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. The vessel is equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs that enable guests to get off the ship quickly and safely for off-ship adventures. In addition to the well-appointed and spacious public areas, Ocean Explorer has an industryleading mix of sustainability systems, including fuelefficient Rolls Royce engines.
Light-filled interior library—at the bow of the ship— allows guests to sit and relax indoors while taking in the surrounding polar landscapes from their choice of two levels.
With the latest sustainability technology in polar expedition, the ship features fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and the ground-breaking MAGS gasification system that converts waste into energy, eliminating the environmental impact of waste transportation.
In addition to forming the double-story library, the innovative X-Bow design ensures calm, energy-efficient sailing in rough waters.
Observation areas on Decks 7 and 8 allow for higher, longer-view landscape photography while contending with less sea spray.
Spacious and luxurious cabins ensure your quiet ambience with no sound disturbance from adjoining cabins—and almost all cabins feature a balcony for outdoor viewing.
Each interior element was carefully hand-picked by designers for you to enjoy, from the dramatic two-story forward lounge, the floor-to-ceiling glass refuge in the library, to the grand fixtures and luxe furnishings throughout the ship.
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Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.
Yes!!! Once we arrive in Antarctica it will be the ultimate goal of the Captain, Expedition Leader, and the Expedition Team to make sure we get off the ship as much as possible. You’ll participate in landings, zodiac cruises, and any additional activities you’ve signed up for. Check the “Detailed trip itinerary” for more details on each outing.
The price shown is the “all-in” price after all taxes, fees, port fees, and permits required; which are handled by the tour operator. The only main additional costs will be mandatory travel insurance, optional gratuity, and additional activities.
Not necessarily, no! Our trips are usually made up of around 50% solo travelers! Prices are always per person, per bed. If you’re a solo traveler, we will match you with a same-gender roommate from our group to share your cabin with. There is also the option for solo cabin availability on certain trips. Please send us a message about solo cabins if that’s your preference.
MORE INFORMATION
Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.
With over 15 years of combined experience, our team of Polar Expedition Guides is dedicated to providing unforgettable polar journeys.
