Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake | World Explorer
Available until 03 April 2023 unless sold out prior.
8 Days
Save Up To 45%
WAS From AUD 28,600 Now From AUD 15,730
Trip Code: ACTSWEFD
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
SHIP: World Explorer
Destination
Antarctica
Accommodation
Cabin on ship
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
OVERVIEW
See your first glimpses of the dramatic landscapes of Antarctica from the air, as you fly by charter plane across the infamous Drake Passage from Punta Arenas, to land only hours later on the South Shetland Island of King George. From here you cruise in style aboard the refined and luxurious World Explorer, to discover the wonders of the White Continent. Shore landings by Zodiac take you to beaches dotted with penguins and seals, to visit research stations and to hike to a penguin rookery. Zodiac cruises take you out in search of whales and seals and in amongst beautifully sculpted icebergs, set against spectacular landscapes of snow-capped peaks, icy plateaus and glaciers. This is the ideal cruise for those who are short on time but want to experience the wonders of Antarctica.
Single Travellers can book a double-occupancy cabin on departures on 03,08 & 13 Mar 2023 and 5,15,20 Dec 2023 on selected cabins and receive a special single savings offer . Offer has limited availability and is only available until sold out. Discount applies on full voyage fare only. This promotion is only combinable with pay in full savings and Shackleton Club past passenger discounts. The pricing that we advertise on our website is based on the current in market offers and the Single Traveller offer is not combinable with these promotions. Please contact us for pricing if you are interested in booking a single occupancy cabin.
*Discount offers are correct at the time of publishing and are available for sale on selected cabins and departure until 03 April 2023 or sold out.. Discounts are subject to change, availability will be confirmed at time of booking. Only combinable with Shackleton Club Past Passenger offers. Prices are subject to change based on currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other external factors. No discount applies to any transfer packages, additional activities or pre/post services. Excludes Triple and Single Cabins. The below prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment bonus. Further conditions may apply, contact us for more information.
ITINERARY
Your adventure begins in Punta Arenas, Chile, the most populated city in southern Patagonia. If you arrive early, there are many museums, restaurants and shops to keep you busy for days. By early afternoon, a Quark Expeditions representative will meet you at the official starting point hotel, where you’ll enjoy a welcome dinner and be briefed about preparing for your embarkation day.
Your charter flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica will have you crossing the legendary Drake Passage in only a few hours. Far below, the ship will approach King George Island for your arrival. Your first glimpse of dramatic Antarctic landscapes will be from a unique perspective, as your plane descends for landing in the South Shetland Islands. After landing, stretch your legs and spend time exploring the island before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula!
There are few places in the world as evocative as Antarctica. As your ship approaches the White Continent, you may be overcome by feelings of excitement and awe. Much of Antarctica is indescribable and can only be fully appreciated through your own eyes.
As your captain and Expedition Team keep a lookout for whales and seabirds, you’ll be alerted to any new sightings. Our team of expert lecturers will also provide in-depth explanations of the geology, history and wildlife of the region.
Even more exciting are your daily land excursions. Your first Zodiac landing is something you’ll never forget! Walking up to a beach dotted with penguins and seals is the most intimate way to experience the unique wildlife of Antarctica.
Each landing is different and is dependent on weather, but every day presents new sightings and photo opportunities, and it won’t be long before you can tell the difference between an Adélie, gentoo or chinstrap penguin.
You may take a Zodiac cruise in search of whales and icebergs around Pleneau Island one day, followed by a hike to a penguin rookery the next day. From the booming sound of a calving glacier at Neko Harbour to the thrill of watching a leopard seal as it hunts a penguin, you’ll wake up early and welcome each day with a sense of excitement and a desire to explore that which is unrivaled by any other travel experience.
Your Expedition Team will be with you all along the way, providing insights into the places you visit.
After your week of exploration, you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and disembark at King George Island. Your three-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, brings your adventure to an end. After your transfer from the airport to the hotel, you are free to explore and enjoy one final dinner to reminisce about the sights and sounds of Antarctica.
After breakfast, you are welcome to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.
World Explorer
Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer. Not only will it be among our fastest ships, it will also be one of our finest, with six tiers of deluxe accommodation. The personal space is exceptional. Every cabin has either a private walk-out or Juliet balcony for direct ocean views. World Explorer also delivers plenty of public areas to unwind in after a day outdoors, including the glass-domed Observation Lounge for quiet contemplation and full skyline views, the Explorer Lounge for a drink and a chat, and the library for more intimate relaxing and reading. Presentations and discussions are facilitated in a dedicated lecture theatre. Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor running track, a small gym and a sauna, plus a spa with change rooms, showers and lockers. For the active adventurers, add-ons include kayaking, camping and stand-up paddleboarding. Blending high design with total functionality, World Explorer is all set to be your home away from home on the seas.
Ice Class:
Length: 126 meters
Breadth: 19 metersMax
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 220v Passenger
Capacity:176
View Ship Details
Accommodation
We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.
Standard
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Superior
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Deluxe
Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.
Stand-up Paddle Boarding
Stand-up Paddle boarding, commonly known as SUP originated in Hawaii and is now available as an optional activity in Antarctica. What a way to explore!
Learn More
Kayaking
Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.
Learn MorePricing per person
 | TripleFeatures:- Located on Deck 6, and approximately 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet is around the corner, and a refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 10 % off AUD 23,600 AUD 21,240Available Enquire Now
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 | Owner's SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin. | 37 % off AUD 40,500 AUD 25,515Available Enquire Now
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 | Infinity SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 33 % off AUD 29,400 AUD 19,845Available Enquire Now
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 | Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 33 % off AUD 28,000 AUD 18,900Available Enquire Now
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 | Superior SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 37 % off AUD 35,300 AUD 22,239Available Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 37 % off AUD 36,800 AUD 23,184Unavailable Enquire Now
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| TripleFeatures:- Located on Deck 6, and approximately 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet is around the corner, and a refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 10 % off AUD 25,000 AUD 22,500Available Enquire Now
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| Owner's SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin. | 37 % off AUD 40,500 AUD 25,515Available Enquire Now
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| Infinity SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 33 % off AUD 30,900 AUD 20,857Available Enquire Now
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| Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 33 % off AUD 29,400 AUD 19,845Available Enquire Now
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| Superior SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 37 % off AUD 36,800 AUD 23,184Available Enquire Now
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| Deluxe SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 37 % off AUD 38,300 AUD 24,129Available Enquire Now
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| TripleFeatures:- Located on Deck 6, and approximately 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet is around the corner, and a refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 10 % off AUD 25,000 AUD 22,500Available Enquire Now
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| Owner's SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin. | 37 % off AUD 40,500 AUD 25,515Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Infinity SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 33 % off AUD 30,900 AUD 20,857Available Enquire Now
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| Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 33 % off AUD 29,400 AUD 19,845Available Enquire Now
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| Superior SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 37 % off AUD 36,800 AUD 23,184Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Deluxe SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 37 % off AUD 38,300 AUD 24,129Unavailable Enquire Now
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| TripleFeatures:- Located on Deck 6, and approximately 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet is around the corner, and a refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | AUD 20,300Available Enquire Now
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| Owner's SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin. | 45 % off AUD 42,800 AUD 23,540Available Enquire Now
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| Infinity SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 45 % off AUD 30,000 AUD 16,500Available Enquire Now
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| Veranda SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 45 % off AUD 28,600 AUD 15,730Available Enquire Now
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| Superior SuiteFeatures:- Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 45 % off AUD 36,800 AUD 20,240Available Enquire Now
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| Deluxe SuiteFeatures:- Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin. | 45 % off AUD 39,900 AUD 21,945Unavailable Enquire Now
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Important Information
Shipboard accommodation
All meals and beverages onboard
All scheduled landings/excursions
Guiding and lectures by experienced expedition leader
A photographic journey documenting the expedition
Waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings
Expedition parka to keep
Comprehensive predeparture materials, including a map and an informative Antarctica Reader
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges
All luggage handling aboard the ship
All gratuities
Emergency evacuation insurance to a maximum benefit of US$500,000.00 per person
Return charter flight from Punta Arenas, Chile
EXCLUSIONS:
Airfares to/from embarkation and disembarkation city/cities
Passport and visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above
Meals ashore unless otherwise specified
Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance
Excess baggage fees on international flights
Laundry and personal expenses incurred onboard
Phone and internet charges
Additional overnight accommodation
Optional adventure activities
- 2 (light adventure)
Available upon request
Contact us for more details
Season and availability