Crossing the Antarctic Circle: Southern Expedition by Quark

The most in-depth exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula, Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition by Quark Expeditions is one of few that ventures South of the Antarctic Circle, a destination that few will reach in their lifetimes.

On this breathtaking expedition, you'll marvel at dramatic ice formations as you search the landscape for the wildlife that call this region home. Spot humpback whales alongside the ship, leopard seals diving beneath your Zodiac, penguins sliding off an iceberg into crystal waters, or giant petrels soaring above cracking sea ice. In Antarctica, you'll experience a sensory overload you have never felt before.

On this 14-day expedition from Ushuaia, you'll also have opportunities for sea kayaking, camping, paddling, stand-up paddleboarding and more.

Highlights

• Be one of the few travellers to venture to 66°33' S
• Visit historic research stations in Marguerite Bay
• Witness abundant Antarctic wildlife, including penguins, seals, whales and more
• Experience western Peninsula highlights and visit iconic landing sites
• Learn about Antarctica’s geology and wildlife from onboard lecturers and specialists

Quick Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina

Day 2: Embarkation day

Days 3 and 4: Cross the Drake Passage

Days 5 to 7: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

Days 8 and 9: Antarctic Circle

Days 10 and 11: Northbound Along the Peninsula

Days 12 and 13: Cross the Drake Passage

Day 14: Disembarkation in Ushuaia

Secure your space today by calling one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 196 1000 

Departures and Prices

Ocean Diamond

8th January 2021 - 21st January 2021

Prices from £11,100 pp

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Ocean Adventurer

15th February 2021 - 28th February 2021

Prices from £5,000 pp

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Day 1: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina

Begin your journey in Ushuaia, the most southerly city in the world. This small, but bustling port town has an eclectic history and some incredible wildlife and an ideal gateway for you to explore southern Patagonia before your journey to Antarctica. Be sure to visit the Magellanic Penguins at penguin beach, as this is a South American species of Penguin not found any further south than Patagonia.

Day 2: Embarkation Day

You will embark in the late afternoon and sail through the Beagle channel which traverses the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. From here, the next time you see land you will be in the world's most southern continent!

Days 3 and 4: Cross the Drake Passage

Day three and four will be spent crossing the Drake Passage, with an air of anticipation as Antarctica draws ever nearer.

Enjoy insightful lectures onboard from the Expedition Team who will prepare you for the wildlife, glaciology and history as you cross the Antarctic convergence and enter the Southern Ocean.

Days 5 to 7: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

As you get your first glimpse of the White Continent you will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travellers alike.

Each day you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites on the Antarctic Peninsula, enjoying an array of activities such as hiking, visiting research stations or visiting penguin colonies. Adelie, Chinstrap and Gentoo can all be found here.

Day 8 and 9: Antarctic Circle

Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula do not reach this far south. Cross the famed line at 66°33'S and celebrate in style knowing you've made it to a part of the world visited by very few people. This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun, Adelie penguins and some of the most awe-inspiring ice formations you'll see anywhere on the planet.

Days 10 and 11: Northbound Along the Peninsula

By now, your knowledge of Adelie, Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins will be matched by your ability to differentiate between a Leopard, Fur and Weddell seal. As you head north, Zodiac excursions will fill your days, and you'll continue looking out for species of seabirds, seals and whales.

Days 12 and 13: Cross the Drake Passage

As you recross the Drake Passage, Antarctica fades away, leaving you with a collection of memories to last a lifetime. Your Expedition Team will round up its series of presentations with a slideshow of the great landing sites and wildlife you've witnessed over the course of your voyage as you reflect on everything you've experienced.

Day 14: Disembarkation in Ushuaia

Today you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and fellow travellers, disembarking in the morning to catch your homeward flights or continue your travels with an extended stay.

Secure your space today by calling one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 196 1000