We use cookies on our website in order to improve your experience. By using our website you consent to our use of cookies. See our privacy policy here.

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!

Highlights

  • Experience the state-of-the-art vessel Ultramarine and its twin-engine helicopters
  • Navigate through the Weddell Sea
  • Discover places home to countless birdlife and the Emperor penguins
  • Contemplate breath-taking views from imposing tabular icebergs to infinite pack ice
  • Experience one of the most unique wildlife encounters
  • Enjoy opportunities to hike, paddleboard and kayak

Quark's Snow Hill Promise

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.  

Itinerary

Day 1 - Buenos Aires

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).

Day 2 - Ushuaia
Days 3 & 4 - Cross the Drake Passage
Day 5 - Weddell Sea
Days 6 - 10 - The Weddell Sea and Snow Hill
Days 11 - 13 - Cruising
Day 14 - Ushuaia

Departures and Prices

Send An Enquiry
Enquire About Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill by Quark

When Do You Want To Go?

My Routes Rewards Logo

From your first booking with us, you’ll become a member of My Routes Rewards and begin collecting points for every holiday you book!


ABOUT US


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.


ATOL Logo

Why book with Polar Routes?

CHOICE
  • We can compare a huge selection of expedition ships, cruises and operators.
  • From former Russian research vessels to larger and luxurious ships - there is an expedition cruise to suit you. 
  • Our Polar Specialists will help you choose the perfect expedition cruise for your requirements.
SPECIALISTS
  • We are the expedition cruise specialists and know all the polar destinations inside out.
  • Our expert team of Polar Specialists have extensive knowledge of all the expedition ships & operators.
  • All of our Polar Specialists have first-hand experience of expedition cruising to the polar regions.
VALUE
  • Our prices are amongst the best you'll find, plus look out for Polar Routes exclusive offers!
  • All our holidays are ATOL protected (11104), for your complete peace of mind.
  • As supporters of the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust, booking with us helps support the work of the trust within Antarctica.