Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle | Ocean Explorer
11 Days
Save Up To 33%
WAS From £ 24,095 Now From £ 16,264
STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ACTSAEX
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Punta Arenas, Chile
Finish: Punta Arenas, Chile
SHIP: Ocean Explorer
Destination
Antarctica
Meals
Breakfast at hotel. All meals & snacks on board. Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
Transport
Group transfers throughout & return charter flight Punta Arenas to King George Island
Accommodation
Hotel & Cabin on board a ship
DEPARTURE DATES
Enquire Now
Included Sightseeing
Daily Antarctica Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team.
NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions
Zodiac Cruising
Cruise by Zodiacs amongst the beautifully sculpted icebergs and take excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites
Whale watching
Penguins
Spot penguins from your zodiac or hiking in Antarctica. Common species on the peninsula are the Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adelie penguins.
Antarctic Circle
OVERVIEW
Enjoy Antarctica in style - by flying and then cruising south of the Antarctic Circle! A short three-hour flight is all it takes to travel between Punta Arenas, Chile and King George Island in Antarctica. Skipping all the extra days at sea, you’ll enjoy only the best scenery and wildlife experiences of the Antarctic. Prepare yourself for a sensory overload, as you will be overwhelmed by the sheer beauty and dramatic landscapes of the White Continent. Soon after landing in Antarctica, our team of Polar Experts on the ship will have you searching for penguins and whales in Antarctica. Choose from a selection of optional adventure activities to make the most of your time in Antarctica.
*Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 30 Apr 2024, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Some current in market offers may be combinable and Shackleton Club Past Passenger and multi trip discounts may be applied subject to confirmation at the time of booking. 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. The advertised prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment discount, which requires the full balance to be paid at the time of booking to apply. 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.
Please note: You must arrive at the designated hotel by 3pm local time. We recommend staying connected to the internet/phone in case of any updates.
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 is approaching King George Island ready for your arrival. Your first glimpse of dramatic Antarctica landscapes will be from a very unique perspective, as your plane descends towards the South Shetlands. After landing, stretch your legs and spend some time exploring the island before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship. Meet the rest of your shipmates and 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. Your first sightings will be from the ship itself. As the Captain and Expedition Team keep their eyes open 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 excursions to land. Your first Zodiac landing is something you’ll never forget! Walking up to a beach that is 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 in Pleneau Island one day, followed by a hike to a penguin rookery the next day. From the booming shot of a calving glacier at Petermann Island to the complete silence of night while camping on the ice in Antarctica, you’ll welcome each day with the excitement and energy of a young child. Our Expedition Team will be with you all along, providing insights into the places you visit.
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Peninsula do not reach 66° 33' S. You and your shipmates will celebrate in style with a well-earned glass of wine!
With a toast to the first explorers who ventured this far south, you can take pride in knowing that you’ve made it to a part of the world still visited by very few people. This is raw Antarctica, home to the midnight sun, Weddell seals and some of the most magical, unusual ice formations seen anywhere in Antarctica.
If you haven’t had your fill of Antarctic wildlife and icebergs by now, you’ll surely be satisfied by the time we return to the Drake Passage. You will continue to journey onto land by Zodiac as you travel north along the western Antarctic Peninsula. Your Expedition Team will always be on the lookout for any species of penguins, seals and whales that may have eluded you on the journey south.
After your week of exploration, you’ll say goodbye to the 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 the group transfer to your hotel, enjoy an evening on your own, in the city or at the hotel.
After breakfast, you are welcome to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.
Ocean Explorer
Utilising the best ships and expedition crew is necessary to venture further in the Polar Regions. We have both of them. In terms of elegance, adventure, and cutting-edge technology, Ocean Explorer is the ideal complement to our fleet. For our sophisticated polar explorers, Ocean Explorer enhances the polar experience on all fronts. The Ulstein X-Bow, the industry-leading X-Bow design, ensures that your clients will glide through even the roughest waves with ease. In any polar sea state, the ship's distinctive forward-sloping X-Bow reduces vibration, noise, and impact for a comfortable ride. The ship is equipped with the newest sustainability technologies, including fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and the revolutionary MAGS gasification system, which turns garbage into energy and reduces the environmental effect of waste transportation. Equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs and four distinct sea-level embarkation locations, Ocean Explorer provides a wide range of off-ship experiences, such as Zodiac cruising and kayaking, enabling your guests to experience a close-up encounter with the Antarctic and Arctic wilderness. Every interior feature on board, including the striking two-story forward lounge, the floor to ceiling glass retreat in the library, and the elegant fittings and furniture throughout the ship, has been meticulously chosen by designers to ensure that visitors have a wonderful experience. The roomy and opulent cabins guarantee your guests a peaceful stay free from noise pollution from nearby rooms, and nearly every cabin has an outdoor balcony. Two outdoor Jacuzzis and a dry sauna are available for your clients to relax in after a full day of activities off-ship.
Ice Class:
Length: 342 ft (104.4 m)
Breadth: Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:138
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.
Kayaking
Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.
Learn More
Hiking
Hiking excursions are among the most popular options in Antarctica as many itineraries are short and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Guided hikes lead you to amazing vantage points and allow even closer interaction with local wildlife, so don’t forget to pack your camera!
Learn More
Snowshoeing
Go even deeper into Antarctica’s interior and reach less visited places where many other visitors simply don’t go!
Learn More
Camping
Fall asleep amid the snow-capped mountains as you watch the colours of the Antarctic twilight bounce off the ocean and surrounding glaciers.
Learn MorePricing per person
 | Deluxe Veranda Forward StateroomFeatures:- Enjoy privacy and elegance at the front of the ship where guests are treated to sweeping views from their private veranda. | 10 % off £ 21,100 £ 18,990Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda Middle StateroomFeatures:- These classic staterooms ensure guests have easy access to all amenities the ship has to offer. | 10 % off £ 22,300 £ 20,070Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Deluxe Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Revel in superior comfort of this stateroom on Deck 4 while taking in the panoramic ocean views from your private veranda. | 10 % off £ 23,100 £ 20,790Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Grand Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Near the center of the ship on Deck 6, this stateroom offers easy access to the lounge, dining room and a private veranda. | 10 % off £ 24,300 £ 21,870Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Royal Veranda StateroomFeatures:- This spacious, classic stateroom allows you to stretch freely. Centrally located on Decks 4 and 6. | 10 % off £ 28,400 £ 25,560Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Explorer SuiteFeatures:- This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area. | 10 % off £ 33,300 £ 29,970Available Enquire Now
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 | Owners SuiteFeatures:- This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities. | 10 % off £ 34,500 £ 31,050Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.. | 10 % off £ 24,300 £ 21,870Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio DoubleFeatures:- Enjoy the calm ambience of this stateroom which features a porthole window and every amenity essential for your polar voyage. | 10 % off £ 19,100 £ 17,190Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 173 sq. f. (16.1 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 10 % off £ 20,300 £ 18,270Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 10 % off £ 30,000 £ 27,000Unavailable Enquire Now
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 | Junior SuiteFeatures:- The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. | 10 % off £ 32,000 £ 28,800Available Enquire Now
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| Studio SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.. | 33 % off £ 30,895 £ 20,854Available Enquire Now
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| Studio DoubleFeatures:- Enjoy the calm ambience of this stateroom which features a porthole window and every amenity essential for your polar voyage. | 33 % off £ 24,095 £ 16,264Available Enquire Now
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| Studio Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Located on Deck 6 and approximately 173 sq. f. (16.1 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 33 % off £ 25,595 £ 17,276Available Enquire Now
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| Deluxe Veranda Forward StateroomFeatures:- Enjoy privacy and elegance at the front of the ship where guests are treated to sweeping views from their private veranda. | 33 % off £ 26,995 £ 18,221Available Enquire Now
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| Deluxe Veranda Middle StateroomFeatures:- These classic staterooms ensure guests have easy access to all amenities the ship has to offer. | 33 % off £ 28,395 £ 19,166Available Enquire Now
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| Deluxe Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Revel in superior comfort of this stateroom on Deck 4 while taking in the panoramic ocean views from your private veranda. | 33 % off £ 29,195 £ 19,706Available Enquire Now
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| Grand Veranda StateroomFeatures:- Near the center of the ship on Deck 6, this stateroom offers easy access to the lounge, dining room and a private veranda. | 33 % off £ 30,895 £ 20,854Available Enquire Now
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| Royal Veranda StateroomFeatures:- This spacious, classic stateroom allows you to stretch freely. Centrally located on Decks 4 and 6. | 33 % off £ 31,795 £ 21,461Available Enquire Now
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| Junior SuiteFeatures:- The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. | 33 % off £ 35,495 £ 23,959Available Enquire Now
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| Studio Veranda SingleFeatures:- Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. | 33 % off £ 32,595 £ 22,001Unavailable Enquire Now
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| Explorer SuiteFeatures:- This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area. | 33 % off £ 36,795 £ 24,836Available Enquire Now
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| Owners SuiteFeatures:- This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities. | 33 % off £ 39,695 £ 26,794Available Enquire Now
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