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Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle | Ocean Explorer

11 Days
Save Up To 24%

WAS From NZD 50,295   Now From NZD 38,224

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACTSAEX

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Punta Arenas, Chile

Finish: Punta Arenas, Chile

SHIP: Ocean Explorer

DestinationDestination

Antarctic Circle, Antarctica, Antarctic Peninsula

MealsMeals

Breakfast at hotel. All meals & snacks on board. Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings

TransportTransport

Group transfers throughout & return charter flight Punta Arenas to King George Island

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin on board a ship



Enquire Now
map

Included SightseeingIncluded 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

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, a team of 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. 

ITINERARY

Punta Arenas, Chile

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.

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 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!

Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland - Day 3 to 5

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.

The Antarctic Circle - Days 6 & 7

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.

Northbound Along the Peninsula  - Days 8 & 9

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.

Disembarkation and Fly to Punta Arenas

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.

Depart Punta Arenas

After breakfast, you are welcome to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Experience the quickest route to Antarctica by flying over the Drake Passage.

  • Celebrate with a toast with fellow travelers as you cross the Antarctic Circle, an accomplishment few people, but those that the truly adventurous can boast.

  • See wildlife like whales, leopard seals, iconic penguins and many more.

  • This itinerary is easily combined with a land based tour of Latin America, allowing you to experience a multitude of incredible cultural experiences and unbelievable natural sights on one incredible journey. 

Ocean Explorer

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: 60.3 ft (18.4 m)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 220V (European) & USB-A ports in night lights 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

Day Paddling

If you are looking for another way to nurture your inner adventurer, our day paddle excursion might be the perfect fit! Absorb the majestic scenery from a more intimate vantage point as you paddle through the pristine waters of Antarctica on a sit-on-top kayak.Our expertly guided, one-time, Paddle Program gives you the rare chance to see Antarctica from the same perspective as most of the wildlife – at the surface of the sea.

Learn More

Pricing per person

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Features:-

Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 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

NZD 41,600 NZD 37,440

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Penthouse Suite

Features:-

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

NZD 64,000 NZD 57,600

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Owners Suite

Features:-

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

NZD 68,600 NZD 61,740

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Studio Single

Features:-

Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 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

NZD 55,500 NZD 49,950

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Studio Veranda Single

Features:-

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

NZD 59,300 NZD 53,370

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Junior Suite

Features:-

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

10 % off

NZD 55,500 NZD 49,950

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Veranda Stateroom

Features:-

Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. 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. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

10 % off

NZD 43,900 NZD 39,510

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Veranda Suite

Features:-

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. 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

NZD 47,000 NZD 42,300

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Studio Single

Features:-

Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 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.

19 % off

NZD 72,995 NZD 58,944

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Features:-

Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 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.

19 % off

NZD 55,495 NZD 44,812

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Junior Suite

Features:-

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

19 % off

NZD 72,995 NZD 58,944

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Studio Veranda Single

Features:-

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.

19 % off

NZD 78,895 NZD 63,708

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Penthouse Suite

Features:-

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.

19 % off

NZD 84,695 NZD 68,391

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Owners Suite

Features:-

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.

19 % off

NZD 90,495 NZD 73,075

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Veranda Stateroom

Features:-

Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. 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. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

19 % off

NZD 58,395 NZD 47,154

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Veranda Suite

Features:-

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. 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.

19 % off

NZD 51,895 NZD 41,905

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Studio Single

Features:-

Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 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.

24 % off

NZD 66,095 NZD 50,232

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Features:-

Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 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.

24 % off

NZD 50,295 NZD 38,224

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Junior Suite

Features:-

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

24 % off

NZD 66,095 NZD 50,232

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Studio Veranda Single

Features:-

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.

24 % off

NZD 71,295 NZD 54,184

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)

Penthouse Suite

Features:-

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.

24 % off

NZD 76,695 NZD 58,288

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Owners Suite

Features:-

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.

24 % off

NZD 81,795 NZD 62,164

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Veranda Stateroom

Features:-

Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. 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. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

24 % off

NZD 52,995 NZD 40,276

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Veranda Suite

Features:-

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. 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.

24 % off

NZD 56,095 NZD 42,632

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

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Important Information

  • ** Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 31 December 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.

    NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit. 

  • Prices are based on per person, twin share* (unless otherwise stated for single, triple cabins)

    Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time. 


    *Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.

  • INCLUSIONS


    Shipboard accommodation 
    All meals & snacks on board throughout your voyage
    Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
    Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
    All shore landings per the daily program, weather permitting
    Presentations by expedition team & special guests.
    Downloadable photographic journal documenting the expedition
    Expedition boots on loan for shore landings
    An expedition parka to keep
    Hairdryer and bathrobe available in every cabin
    All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
    Luggage handling aboard the ship
    Emergency Evacuation Insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of US$500,000 per person
    Group transfer in Punta Arenas from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on Day 1 of the itinerary
    One night pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas with breakfast
    Briefing dinner on arrival day 
    Group transfer from hotel to airport in Punta Arenas pre-expedition
    Flights to and from King George Island as specified in the itinerary
    Group transfer from airport in Punta Arenas to hotel post-expedition
    One night post-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas with breakfast
    Free WiFi

     

    EXCLUSIONS


    Any airfare unless otherwise specified in the itinerary
    Passport and visa expenses
    Government arrival and departure taxes
    Any meals ashore unless otherwise specified
    Travel insurance
    Excess baggage charges
    Laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified
    Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
    Telecommunications charges
    Voluntary staff and crew gratuities
    Transfer from hotel to airport at the end of the expedition
    Note: Baggage allowance on charter flight is 33 lbs (15 kg)  checked and 11 lbs (5 kg) carry-on.

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • Available upon request, a supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please Contact Us for more information.

  • Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.

FROM PRICE & PROMOTIONAL DETAILS

  • See 'Pricing & Dates' tab for detailed departures, pricing and availability


Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

See detailed promotional T&Cs below

NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.