In 2004, Quark Expeditions made polar history when they conducted the first-ever ground visit to the remote emperor penguin colony near Snow Hill Island, Antarctica. Driven by a true expeditionary spirit—and guided by years of polar expertise—the Quark Expedition team sailed past masses of dense ice and thick, tabular icebergs in the Weddell Sea to experience the legendary rookery, which now numbers 8,000 breeding pairs of emperor penguins. Today, it is one of the most exclusive wildlife viewing experiences on the planet.
Experience a true polar quest as you journey on Quark's new ship, Ultramarine, which is equipped with two twin-engine helicopters that will fly you to the vicinity of this rarely-visited rookery, whereupon you will walk across the thick sea ice to stand within metres of the most coveted penguin species on the planet. Anticipate scenes reminiscent of “March of the Penguins” and BBC’s “Frozen Planet.” Just imagine the penguins tobogganing across the ice towards the sea. Such wildlife moments are too precious for words!
Make it to Snow Hill or get 50% off a 2024 Voyage
Quark were the first to reach this Emperor penguin rookery, offering one of the most exclusive wildlife encounters on the planet. Their Expedition Team has the deepest experience in the industry, bringing more people on more successful Snow Hill landings than anyone else. With the best team, onboard Ultramarine with its unmatched helicopter capability, the goal is to get you there at least once. But it's also clear that this is one of the most daunting destinations in the polar regions, where every explorer must embrace the unexpected.
If conditions mean that no landing is possible for you to visit the Emperor penguins, you will still revel in the once-in-a-lifetime wonders of the Weddell Sea and set foot on the seventh continent’s eastern Peninsula, but Quark will go to the end of the earth to make it up to you.
And that includes both ends of the earth: 50% off any applicable on select voyages departing between January 1st, 2024, and December 1st, 2024, booked and confirmed with full payment before February 1st, 2024.
Secure your space today by calling one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 196 1000 or enquire here
Terms and Conditions
Emperor Penguin Quest Special Offer Terms and Conditions
Quark Expeditions guarantees that you'll visit the Emperor Penguin colony of Snow Hill Island during your expedition. If you don't, we'll offer you the opportunity to travel on any* expedition during 2024 at 50% off.
Snow Hill Promise Terms and Conditions
Offer valid for guests with existing and new bookings on Snow Hill: Emperor Penguin Quest departures in November 2023.
The 50% discount offer is valid on select voyages departing between January 1st, 2024, and December 1st, 2024, and needs to be booked and confirmed with full payment before February 1st, 2024.
Excluded voyages: Ultramarine voyages beginning on January 13th, 2024; March 1st, 2024; August 15th, 2024, August 24th, 2024, and September 2nd, 2024.
• Applied to voyage full fare only.
• Excludes Triple Cabins.
• Based on cabin availability at time of booking.
• Full name required to book.
Bookings made after February 1st, 2024, do not qualify for the savings.
The offer is only combinable with the Shackleton past passenger offer. Not applicable to transfer packages, adventure options, additional hotel accommodations, pre/post tours, insurance, flight, or group bookings.
Quark Expeditions has the right to limit, change, or discontinue offer at any time without notice. No cash value.
If Quark Expeditions cancels the voyage, Quark Expeditions will offer a future travel credit or a cash refund for the amount paid. A voyage for voyage match for a future date will not be honored.
The offer does not apply if severe ice conditions prevent all operators from reaching the colony during your trip, your trip is cancelled, or a regulatory change prevents Quark Expeditions from making the excursion to the colony.
Upon arriving in this fascinating city, known for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will independently transfer to your group hotel (pre-expedition hotel night included in the mandatory transfer package).
When Do You Want To Go?
From your first booking with us, you’ll become a member of My Routes Rewards and begin collecting points for every holiday you book!
We'll compare a huge selection of expedition ships, cruises and operators to find your perfect cruise.
Our prices are amongst the best you'll find, plus look out for Polar Routes exclusive offers!
As supporters of the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust, booking with us helps support the work of the trust within Antarctica.
All our holidays are ATOL protected (11104), for your complete peace of mind.