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Antarctic Explorer, Operated by Quark

11 days
Start and end in Ushuaia
4.8
20 traveler reviews
Antarctic Explorer, Operated by Quark - Exodus Adventure Travels
From
$12,195
-10%
US $10,975
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Price based on per person for departure 17 February 2026

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Plan your adventure:
Fully Guided
An experienced guide will be with you for the entire tour
Guided in English
Group Size 4 - 18
Age range 18 to 99
Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Highlights

  • Explore Ushuaia, the gateway to Patagonia
  • Sail through the Beagle Channel at sunset
  • Spot whales and seabirds in the Drake Passage
  • Take Zodiac excursions in Antarctica
  • Witness the calving of Antarctic glaciers

Itinerary

Expand All
  1. Introduction
  1. Day 1 Start Ushuaia, Argentina
  2. Day 2 Board ship and sail along the Beagle Channel (dinner)
  3. Day 3-4 Cross the Drake Passage (breakfast,lunch,dinner)
  4. Day 5-8 South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula (breakfast,lunch,dinner)
  5. Day 9-10 Sail back through the Drake Passage (breakfast,lunch,dinner)
  6. Day 11 Disembark and end in Ushuaia (breakfast)
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What's Included

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  • Accommodation
  • Guide
  • Meals
  • Additional Services
  • Transport

What's Not Included

  • Insurance
  • Additional Services

Number of tours

445

Age Range

16 to 80 years old

Response time

within 2 days

Response rate

84%

For almost 50 years Exodus has been a pioneer of active small group adventure...

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Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation Policy

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Travel Insurance

Be covered for any unforseen circumstances.

Customer Reviews

  • Most Recent
  • Most Popular
  • Highest First
  • Lowest First
  • AM
    · January 22nd, 2023
    Trip of a lifetime from Quark. Couldn't ask for...
    Show more
    Trip date: January 2023
  • A
    · February 13th, 2013
    The whole trip was exceptionally well organised and was up there with my most inspriational trip ever (and I have done a fair bit of travelling!!)) Antarctica is definately a place you should experience a once in a lifetime experience.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?This is a hard one to answer as the whole trip was awsome, the most amazing moment was a close encounter (close enough to touch!) with a humpback whale.  We were in two zociacs and the humpback came and played with the boats for over half an hour it brought tears to your eyes that such a huge creature could be so interactive and gentle with boats that it outsized by many times.  Close up and personal.Penguins galore while you can stay the recommended 5 meters away from them dont be surprised that they dont pay the same attention to the rules!!!  If I am to use an analogy in the future for teams it will be to have the determination of a penguin getting to their nesting sites sometimes at the top of mountains.  Sheer resilliance and determination. It was inspirational to see the working and historical scientific/research sites that our guides could inform us of the great work that had been done to inform our future. What did you think of your group leader?Group leader from exodus was very inmative and our leader and the ships tour leaders got as much out of the trip that was possible for the whole group.  Made sure we had the information we needed and were always on hand to give answers to quesitons and ensure our trip was safe and most importantly enjoyable.  As a photographer the opportunities were massive.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?Yes go for it ensure you look at the guidelines on what to bring and what is available on ship, I took most of my camera kit and used it all there are sooo many opportunities for great photographs.  Remember to take the time to sit back be quiet and take in the sounds views and experiences of Antarctica put the camera down and experience the place.  Take lots of memory cards and a back up to ensure you have enough space for the images you will get. Plenty of layers and a spare pair of socks.If you get the chance tag an extra day on at Beunos Aires a great experience and if its summer there v. hot remember to take an outfit that will work in this temperature. Is there anything else you would like to add?Dont hesitate to go for it, I had a wonderous time with fabulous like minded people and learnt so much from the guides and fellow travellers.
    Show more
    Trip date: February 2013
  • A
    · March 30th, 2012
    What can I say?! The most amazing trip, far exceeding the expectations that I had held for a lifetime! Each experience seemed to surpass the last , and I hold the memory in my head each day since returning home.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?Zodiac cruising on a sublime cloudless day, encircling aquamarine icebergs, quietly observing a leopard seal casually lounging on an icefloe. The intense colours, the stark white of the ice and snow contrasting with the deepest blue ocean. The sound of penguin chatter and raucous calls,  the soft patter of penguin feet while I sat very still on the beach, listening, absorbing and watching the astonishingly beautiful scene before me. Humpback whales breaching and the whoosh of the sea as they played out the spectacle. Hourglass dolphins accompanying the ship as we approached Cape Horn. Listening to the group leader, Shane, reading a short poem about the wandering albatross and lost sailors  as we approached land at Tierra del Fuego.. Sitting with like minded people, conversing about our adventure. The feel of the ship under my feet as I stood at the bow, looking, watching and looking...What did you think of your group leader?Brilliant! Shane was professional, informative, kindly and always concerned for our safety, well being and enjoyment!! Cannot speak too highly of him. Inspirational.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?Read up on Antarctica before you go, it will enhance your awareness of what to look for. Take more memory cards than you think you'll need. Sea sickness pills are provided and are effective( although we were very lucky - no Drake shake!). Take your time when on shore, stay still and the penguins will come to you. Take time to look, look and look... there is nowhere else on earth like this....you wont see anywhere like it and it deserves to be experienced fully. The ship is warm, you dont need outdoor gear inside! High factor suncream and moisturiser is necessary- the weather can be snowy, dry , windy, cold, sunny - protect your skin. Forget about your phone- no signal after the Beagle Channel. Its good to be able to email but dont get hung up on it- you can do that at home. And perhaps when taking photos- just put your camera aside sometimes and look around you...Is there anything else you would like to add?The yellow jackets from Quark are pretty much indestructible! Marvellous item of clothing, plus the interactive fleece is great! I cannot recommend Quark and Exodus highly enough. Every aspect of the trip was planned and executed without a hitch- the only thing that prevents you doing anything is the weather- control is an illusion..! Take every opportunity to absorb each minute of the trip- it is unique and totally unforgettable. Do not wait to go.
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    Trip date: March 2012
  • A
    · February 14th, 2012
    A wonderful experience - both wildlife and scenery - significantly helped by the efficient and knowledgable staff.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?Seeing penguins really close up - they came even closer to us than I thought possible; at times pecking (gently) at us. Also sailing through the Lemaire Channel in sea ice and sunshine - a great job by the Vavilov's captain. What did you think of your group leader?Fantastic. "Woody" was so enthusiastic and able to modify the itinerary seamlessly when required due to weather etc. This gave us the opportunity to go through the Lemaire Channel and its sea ice in a zodiac - a great experience.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?Bring plenty of memory cards, and sit down and be patient with the penguins and they'll come closer.
    Show more
    Trip date: February 2012
  • A
    · January 22nd, 2012
    Having dreamt of visiting Antarctica since i was a child, a recent life-changing event inspired me to take the plunge. I wish i had taken that plunge years ago, it was stunning.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?For me, the most awe-inspiring moment was when the captain of the ship announced land ahoy, my first sight of Antarctica made my heart race. I've been fortunate to visit many parts of the world in my flying career but the seventh continent feels like a trip to another planet.What did you think of your group leader?Our group leader was Doctor Lynn Woodworth, she is an authority on polar marine life and conservation, possesses a warm and welcoming nature, has a positive outlook on life and has the rare skill of making people feel special. Her team adore her and I strongly recommend her as your group leader.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?My only suggestion would be to pack lightly, our ship, the Vavilov, was extremely comfortable and warm with an excellent crew and delicious, copious food. My expectation was of living in a harsh environment so i took far too many layers of clothing. We were issued a technical jacket with zipped-in fleece which was ideal protection against the elements for our shore landings, the boots that were loaned to us were so comfortable and warm that i have now bought my own.Is there anything else you would like to add?There was a special atmosphere onboard the Vavilov, partly down to the adventure that we were embarking on and partly because it was a first 'cruise' for many onboard; in my opinion the atmosphere was created mainly by the team of marine biologists, geologists, historians, ornithologists and other scientists. It was an education in all things Antarctic; the knowledge, enthusiasm and welcoming spirit of this group of professionals made the experience unique. I heartily recommend that you wait no longer to discover the greatest wilderness.
    Show more
    Trip date: January 2012
  • A
    · January 3rd, 2012
    my first thoughts goto kim christie, for rescueing my holiday when it looked doomed as the vessel went tech, she acted quickly and efficiently with getting me on another trip, sometimes it is not just the dream of making it on the greatest adventure in the world, but the great people behind the scenes who make it possible.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?I Think if it was the beautiful pristine landscape that took my breath away!!What did you think of your group leader?Chad was my group leader on one ocean, and he worked tirelessly to make everyone happy, even when he looked exhausted himself still kept on cracking the jokes and smilingDo you have any advice for potential travellers?Make sure your have a quality  camera with fast shutter speed to catch all the wildlife actionIs there anything else you would like to add?only about 13000 people a year get this opportunity, and if there is one holiday you remember in your rocking chair days, it WILL be this ONE !!!!
    Show more
    Trip date: January 2012
  • A
    · March 9th, 2011
    I was expecting something special but nothing could prepare me for the absolutely breathtaking landscapes, turquoise icebergs and such marvellous encounters with penguins, whales and seals. I was, and still am, overwhelmed by the beauty and remoteness of Antarctica!What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?This was my first ever trip where i have travelled alone and the sense of personal achievement was enormous.Watching a glacier calveThe captain of the Vavilov turning around to extend a whale watching encounterThe stillness and beauty after climbing a mountain ridge for phenomenal views...quite humbling!What did you think of your group leader?Absolutely fantastic. Demonstrated a professional but relaxed manner with all guests and always striving to maximise the experience with flexible itinariesDo you have any advice for potential travellers?I had some "wobbles" before i went re- travelling alone mostly, but i would say to anyone who is hesitating to go for it. The comradeship between passengers is heartwarming and there is nowhere on earth quite like it. I would go back in a heartbeat. By far the most stunning place on earth i have ever seen!The ship is warm and comfortable so take some light clothing for the evenings. I almost overheated in my thermal gear ;-)Is there anything else you would like to add?Thankyou to exodus. The support i had from the team in the booking office was invaluable. I almost missed out on this trip through self doubt but all my questions were answered honestly and gave me enough reassurance to go ahead. Because of this i look forward to my next adventure with them.
    Show more
    Trip date: March 2011
  • A
    · February 4th, 2011
    It's true what they say - nothing will prepare you for Antarctica. Not just in the don't-forget-the-sunscreen sort of preparation but the sheer beauty, wildness and silence of the place. The ship, although it was only the second trip it had done for Quark, was brilliant and we honestly couldn't fault the crew, food, comfort (except we didn't have a window: if you're offered cabin 330 on the Sea Spirit, ask to change it!) and overall planning and preparation for the trip. The trip leaders oozed enthusiasm, they were knowledgeable and were able to make last-minute alterations to the schedule to allow us to make the most of every glorious moment of this holiday. I doubt if I will go to Antarctica again, but if I could, I would go again with Exodus and Quark. The free coat was pretty cool too. Only downside was the long journey with the stop at Sao Paulo and the overnight at Ushuaia. Aerolineas Argentinas was delightfully quirky but Exodus had the foresight to allow plenty of transfer time so we didn't miss any connections. And a special "thank you" to their out-of-hours service (and in-hours service too!) for sorting out a couple of minor hitches with all efficiency and politeness.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?The moment in Paradise Bay when they cut the engine of the Zodiac, the camera shutters stopped and the silence was absolute.What did you think of your group leader?Brilliant.  A very people-person, knowledgeable, very safety conscious, and unfailing enthusiasm.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?Take lots of layers.  We had sunshine and no wind and boiled in our thermals.  Take your swimming costume - it may well be needed.  And don't forget the sunscreen.Is there anything else you would like to add?Take plenty of books for the journey, go find the crazy houses in Ushuaia, have a go at everything that is offered and make sure you're fit. There's a lot more scrambling, slipping and sliding than you would expect and it's as hard to go down the mountains as up them. It's not glamorous, the penguins pong and the elephant seals make noises that have to be heard to be believed.  Just go for it. Enjoy.
    Show more
    Trip date: February 2011
  • A
    · February 4th, 2011
    An absolutely amazing trip that surpassed all expectations. The cabin was bigger than expected, the food great, the wildlife plentiful and close, the crew were friendly, organisation was superb and there was so much to do I didn't even get to read my book!What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?My Highlights were a 2hr Zodiac cruise amongst the ice seeing some most amazing formations.The polar plunge .. where I jumped off the gangway into the Antarctic waters and was pulled back in again by Sergi the Russian sailor.Landing on my Seventh continent on Christmas Day and then celebrating later with a barbecue on the back deck.Watching the Humpback whales from the ship with the Captain making awesome maneuvers to make sure we got the best shots.What did you think of your group leader?The group leader and her team were incredible. They were all very knowledgeable and passionate about their jobs. They created a very relaxed atmosphere on the ship and nothing seemed too much trouble.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?Do it!  Book early if you want to do any of the extra activities. I regret not picking a longer trip that went to South Georgia. I had an extra week in Patagonia walking and visiting the Purto Moreno Glacier which was awesome.Is there anything else you would like to add?I did have a problem with kayaking. Staff on board were suppotive but ultimately there was nothing they could do. I contacted Exodus on my return and was happy with the way they responded and the high level of customer service they demonstrated. I consequently would have no qualms travelling with them again or recommending them to others.The jackets we were given were excellent and did their job well. At the end we were given a dvd with a slideshow of the trip, all the timetables, menu's etc plus folders of other peoples photos. A great idea as it means I have some amazing photos of my trip that my little camera couldn't have taken. I also liked the idea of a cashless boat and the fact that the tip was divided up equally amongst all staff.
    Show more
    Trip date: February 2011
  • A
    · February 19th, 2010
    Fantastic holiday. The numbers of penguins and seals were just what I'd hoped for but the large number of Whales were an added bonus. I cannot begin to describe the atmosphere and the surreal experiance of cruising in the Zodiacs through the giant icebergs. Sharing this with a great group of people from all over the world made it a dream holidayWhat was the most inspirational moment of your trip?Difficult to choose, and I thought it would be being close to the penguins or the seals but infact just sitting on deck taking in the quiet, stillness and sheer size of the scenary is the moment I will cherish.What did you think of your group leader?Our group leader was good, keeping us fully informed of our plans with regular updates. The whole team were great and so knowledgeable with an obvious love of their topic and antarctica. The information lectures were delivered at just the right pitch for interest and entertainment especially Mickalow's.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?The fleece lined parka provided on this trip is great so don't take up room packing your own thick fleece or waterproof. Thin layers are best and I didn't find it too cold even on the zodiacs, 2 base layes and a thin fleece enough and inside the ship it is warm so you can soon thaw out if you do get cold.Sea sickness was not mentioned in any reviews I read but it is a big problem for a lot of people. We were lucky with an apparently smooth sail across the drake passage, but many were ill. Hyocine patches worked well for most of us, but put them on a few hours before you set sail so they start to take effect Check out the Quark website as this is who you will be travelling with and they have more information on thereIs there anything else you would like to add?I pondered this trip too long and was repeatedly asked why go there?If it somewhere you would like to go then just do it. You will not be disappointed.
    Show more
    Trip date: February 2010

Dates & Availability

11 days
Antarctic Explorer, Operated by Quark
From Ushuaia to Ushuaia

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  • Tuesday
    11 Mar, 2025
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What our customers ask about this tour

    The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.
    • How is emergency contact handled during the Antarctic trip?

      Emergency contact numbers, including the 24-hour support and local embassies, are made available to all travelers prior to departure.

    • When are final bookings and full payments typically confirmed for the Antarctic cruise?

      Final bookings and full payments are confirmed at least 60 days before departure to ensure all arrangements are in place for the tour.

    • What is the procedure for final document submission and what details are provided?

      Final documents, including travel itineraries and mandatory procedural information, are provided 30 days prior to sailing.

    • Where can I find resources and guides for preparing for the Antarctic expedition?

      Resources and guides are available on the Quark Expeditions 'Know Before You Go' online section, providing all necessary preparation details.

    • How do I inquire about accommodations and single cabin options on the ship?

      You can inquire about accommodation availability and specific cabin options directly through our booking system or by contacting our support team.

    • What should I consider while packing for the Antarctic cruise?

      Packing should focus on warm, waterproof clothing and the mandatory safety gear as outlined in the packing guide available on our website.

    • Is there wifi on the cruise ship and can I easily make phone calls?

      Limited communication services are available on the ship via satellite, but we encourage disconnecting and enjoying the journey. Services like email or internet come at an additional cost.

    • What immediate actions should I take upon booking the Antarctic Explorer?

      You need to complete medical and personal expedition forms, secure travel insurance, and confirm your travel and visa arrangements as per the guidelines provided.

    • How can I handle payments for the Antarctica tour?

      Payments can be made through various channels including online platforms, ensuring all forms are submitted and payments are completed before the departure date.

    • What are the medical and expedition information submission requirements?

      You need to complete the required medical forms, which may need to be signed by a physician, submitted at least 90 days prior to departure.

    Can’t find the answer to your question?
    Reach out to the experts at Exodus Adventure Travels with your enquiry, they usually respond within 2 days.

    Good to Know

    Tour ID: 33463

    • Currencies
      $
      Argentine Peso
      Argentina
      $
      Chilean Peso
      Chile
    • Plugs & Adapters

      As a traveler from USA, Canada, England, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, I, L. As a traveler from Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, L.

      Type C
      Argentina and Chile
      Type E
      Argentina and Chile
      Type F
      Argentina and Chile
      Type I
      Argentina
      Type L
      Chile
    • Vaccines
      • These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
      • Typhoid - Recommended for Argentina and Chile. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
      • Hepatitis A - Recommended for Argentina and Chile. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
      • Hepatitis B - Recommended for Argentina and Chile. Ideally 2 months before travel.
      • Rabies - Recommended for Argentina and Chile. Ideally 1 month before travel.
      • Yellow fever - Recommended for Argentina. Ideally 10 days before travel.
    • Visa
      • Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
      • Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
    • Payment information
      • For any tour departing before May 19th, 2025 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after May 19th, 2025, a minimum payment of 25% is required to confirm your booking with Exodus Adventure Travels. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 90 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
      • Some departure dates and prices may vary and Exodus Adventure Travels will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
      • The following cards are accepted for "Exodus Adventure Travels" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
    • Cancellation Policy
    • Accessibility
      Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team, who are ready and waiting to help you.

    Videos

    • Why travel to Antarctica
    • Your Guide to Ultramarine | Exodus Travels
    Why travel to Antarctica