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Antarctic Explorer

Save up to $9,395 per couple*

Ushuaia, Argentina return

Expedition / Small Ship Cruise

For travel today until 26 Feb 2026

Overview

Conquer the famed Drake Passage in your choice of four stabilized, polar-class vessels; explore majestic natural environments by zodiac and on foot; get up close and personal with penguins, whales and other wildlife; and enjoy talks on history, biology and glaciology by onboard polar experts. You can personalize your adventure with options that suit your interests and cross the 7th Continent off the list—your way.

Inclusions & Highlights

  • Specialist Expedition Leaders - The team is comprised of the most professional and passionate Expedition Leaders in the world, who bring a wide range of experience and expertise to every adventure.
  • Immersive Off-ship Activities - Itineraries are packed with adventure options designed to immerses travelers in the polar wilderness, enabling them to connect with the natural wonders of their surroundings.
  • On-Ship Experiences & Facilities - Designed for comfort and adventure, each ship accommodates no more than 200 guests. Facilities include comfortable cabins, exceptional dining options, wellness treatments, and breathtaking panoramic views of the polar landscape.
  • Food & Beverages - Premium dining, with a wide selection of options that accommodate a variety of dietary preferences.
  • Quark Expedition Perks - Complementary Wi-Fi, alcohol on all voyages, and the Official Quark Expeditions parka to take home.
  • Transfers - Select voyages include essential transportation and accommodation arrangements for guests, ensuring seamless travel to and from the expedition starting point.
  • Explore highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula
  • Travel safely and comfortably aboard any Quark Expeditions ice-strengthened vessel
  • Enjoy presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology & geology by our onboard polar experts
  • Experience abundant wildlife, such as penguins, seals and whales
  • Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Antarctic, with an optional paddling excursion

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina

You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port town at the tip of South America. This Argentine town is an ideal gateway for you to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for your adventure ahead. Enjoy the mountains or sample 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—the next time you see land, you’ll be on the world’s most southern continent!

Day 3 & 4: Crossing the Drake Passage

Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team on photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history. In between presentations, spend time on deck looking for wildlife, or chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.

Day 5 to 8: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

The most common reaction upon reaching the 7th Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every time we visit Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means that your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience.

Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore glaciated bays, channels and landing sites. Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each landing, whether you are hiking the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or consorting with chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins, all of which can be found here. Keep an eye out for Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals as well as curious whales, such as humpbacks, minkes, or perhaps orcas while on a Zodiac cruise. Each excursion will present a new array of creatures to fascinate you and keep your camera busy.

Amid the serene silence of Antarctica, noisy interludes become indelible memories, such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, or the boom and crack of a calving glacier.

Every day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your Expedition Team to inspire and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.

Day 9 & 10: Crossing the Drake Passage

The journey back across the Drake Passage provides final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air Spend time on the deck, watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team and celebrate the experiences shared exploring Antarctica.

Day 11: 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.

Booking terms and conditions apply.

* Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.

Destinations featured in this deal

Antarctica South & Central America Argentina

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