ANTARCTIC EXPRESS ANTARCTIC 2022.23 - Fly the Drake - Quark Expeditions
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A N TA R C T I C 2 0 2 2 . 2 3 ANTARCTIC EXPRESS Fly the Drake
Contents 1 Overview 2 Itinerary 4 Arrival and Departure Details 7 Your Ship Options 10 Included Activities 11 Adventure Options 12 Dates and Rates 13 Inclusions and Exclusions 14 Your Expedition Team 15 Extend Your Trip 16 Meals on Board 17 Possible Excursions 20 Packing Checklist
Overview
Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake
Antarctica offers so many extraordinary things to see and do, and traveling with
Quark Expeditions® offers multiple options to personalize your experience. We’ve
designed this guide to help you identify what interests you most, so that you can
start planning your version of the perfect expedition to the 7th Continent.
Answer the call of Antarctica by flying over the notorious Drake Passage by charter
plane to land at King George Island before exploring the Antarctic Peninsula by ship.
EXPEDITION IN BRIEF
In just 8 adventure-packed days, you’ll experience rewarding shore visits and Zodiac
Fly over the Drake Passage
cruises, marvel at intimate wildlife encounters, explore historic sites and make the and experience the fastest,
most direct way to Antarctica
most of your landmark visit to the 7th Continent. Select from a range of adventure
Spot iconic Antarctic wildlife,
options and onboard activities that match your personal interests and make your such as penguins, seals and whales
expedition uniquely yours. Marvel at many of the Antarctic
Peninsula highlights
Antarctica has been inspiring explorers for centuries and our expeditions offer the Enjoy onboard presentations
chance for you to discover why. We’re excited to host you on your unforgettable from polar specialists
adventure! Feel free to reach out to our team of Polar Travel Advisers who can Cruise in a Zodiac to get up close
to icebergs, wildlife and more
answer your questions and provide assistance at any time.
1
Itinerary
Santiago Buenos Aires
DAY 1 | ARRIVE IN PUNTA King George Island for your arrival. ARGENTINA
ARENAS, CHILE Your first glimpse of dramatic Antarctic Atlantic Ocean
Your adventure begins in Punta Arenas, landscapes will be from a unique
CHILE
Chile, the most populated city in perspective, as your plane descends for
southern Patagonia. If you arrive early, landing in the South Shetland Islands.
there are many museums, restaurants After landing, stretch your legs with
Ushuaia
and shops to keep you busy for days. By a one-mile (1.6 km) walk to the shore, Punta Arenas
early afternoon, a Quark Expeditions® before being transferred by Zodiac to
South Shetland
representative will meet you at the official your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Drake Passage Islands
starting point hotel, where you’ll enjoy Peninsula! King George Island
Anvers
a welcome dinner and be briefed about Island
Lemaire
preparing for your embarkation day. DAYS 3–6 | ANTARCTIC PENINSULA Channel
& SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS
Weddell Sea
DAY 2 | FLY TO KING GEORGE There are few places in the world as
Antarctic
ISLAND & EMBARK evocative as Antarctica. As your ship Peninsula
Your charter flight from Punta Arenas approaches the White Continent,
to Antarctica will have you crossing the you may be overcome by feelings ANTARCTIC EXPRESS
Fly the Drake
legendary Drake Passage in only two of excitement and awe. Antarctica is On board the Ocean Adventurer
hours. Far below, the ship will approach indescribable and can only be fully or World Explorer
Flights to/from Punta Arenas
2
appreciated through your own eyes. action, you’ll wake up early and welcome
As your Captain and Expedition Team each day with a sense of adventure and EXPEDITION SPIRIT
keep a lookout for whales and seabirds, a desire to explore during this unrivaled Embracing the unexpected is part
you’ll be alerted to any new sightings. travel experience. of the legacy—and excitement—of
Our team of expert presenters will deepen expedition travel. When traveling
Your Expedition Team will accompany in extremely remote regions, your
your experience with explanations of
you all along the way, providing insights Expedition Team must consider the
the glaciology, history and wildlife of
into the places you visit. sea, ice and weather to guide the route
the region.
and itinerary details. This itinerary is
DAY 7 | DISEMBARK &
Even more exciting are your daily FLY TO PUNTA ARENAS a tentative outline of what you may
excursions. Your first Zodiac landing is After your week of exploration, you’ll experience on this voyage; please be
something you’ll never forget! Walking aware that no specific itinerary can be
say goodbye to your Expedition Team
on a beach dotted with penguins is the guaranteed. By the same token, wildlife
and disembark at King George Island.
most intimate way to experience the encounters as described are expected,
Your two-hour flight across the Drake
unique wildlife of Antarctica. but not guaranteed. Your Expedition
Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, brings Team will use their considerable
Each landing is different and is dependent your adventure to an end. After your experience to seek out wildlife in
on weather, but every day presents new group transfer to the hotel, you are free known habitats, but the presence of
sightings and photo opportunities, and to explore and enjoy an evening on any particular species of bird or marine
it won’t be long before you can tell the your own, in the city or at the hotel to wildlife is not guaranteed.
difference between an Adélie, gentoo reminisce about the sights and sounds
and chinstrap penguin. of Antarctica.
DAY 8 | DEPART PUNTA ARENAS
You may take a Zodiac cruise in search of
After breakfast, you are welcome to
whales and icebergs one day, followed by
continue on your own travels or make
a hike to a penguin rookery the next day.
your way to the Punta Arenas airport
From the booming sound of a calving
for your homeward flights.
glacier to the thrill of spotting apex
predators like leopard seals and orcas in
3
Arrival and Departure Details
As you prepare for your journey, you may be interested in your arrival and departure
details. Since international air transportation is not included in the cost of your
expedition, you have some flexibility in planning your flights. Looking to extend
your adventure beyond your polar expedition? On page 15, learn how to add on
a pre- or post-expedition stop—or both!—in your gateway city.
Arrival Day and Embarkation
ARRIVING IN PUNTA ARENAS
Please be sure to book a flight that will land with enough time to arrive at the
hotel prior to 3pm on Day 1 of your expedition. You will be greeted at the airport
and transferred to the included group hotel. For passengers arriving before Day
1 of the itinerary, taxis are available to take you from the airport to your hotel for PLEASE NOTE
approximately US$25. It is important that you arrive at the
hotel in Punta Arenas no later than
On arrival at your hotel, either check in, and then make your way to the Quark
3pm, in order to have time for check
Expeditions® meeting room, or if you have arrived before check-in begins at 3pm, in, luggage weighing and tagging,
you can head directly to the meeting room, which is open from 12pm. Here you boot and parka distribution, and
will collect your boots and parka, which you will need for the following day’s biosecurity clearance, prior to the
flight. You will also need to bring the luggage you are planning to travel with to mandatory briefing at 6pm.
the meeting room, to have it weighed and checked for biosecurity clearance,
which may involve vacuuming out any debris from outer clothing and backpacks.
After these procedures, the mandatory briefing will start at 6pm in the meeting
room. A welcome dinner hosted by a Quark Expeditions® representative will
follow the briefing.
4
KING GEORGE ISLAND
AND EMBARKATION
CONTINGENCY PLAN takes place, but due to complex
Your flight to Antarctica is expected
In the unlikely event that the plane and variable weather conditions,
to depart from Punta Arenas for King
is unable to depart on the planned flying in this region is challenging
George Island on Day 2 of your itinerary,
date of the charter flight, you will and is beyond our control. Safety
after breakfast. Although the flight is
be provided with a night of hotel is paramount to your expedition,
scheduled to depart first thing in the
accommodation in Punta Arenas, and our pilots follow strict weather
morning, there is significant variability
meals included. You may be required assessment procedures. Quark
based on weather conditions. You should
to be on standby and remain close Expeditions® will offer a refund
be prepared to depart the hotel for the
to the hotel, as a weather window of your cruise package and any
airport on our group transfer at any time.
may open with very little notice. If adventure options in the event of
the weather is not suitable on Day 3, a cancellation as a result of the charter
you will enjoy additional nights of flight being unable to depart as
accommodation and meals in Punta planned.
Arenas. On Day 4, should the charter
We strongly recommend that all
flight not be able to take off by 2pm,
expedition guests purchase a com-
Quark Expeditions® will officially
PLEASE NOTE prehensive travel insurance policy,
cancel the voyage and provide a
There is a strict luggage limit of 33 lbs including trip delay, cancellation and
letter for you to submit to your travel
(15 kg) checked luggage and 11 lbs (5 kg) interruption insurance, in addition to
insurance provider for coverage of
cabin baggage on the flights between the required medical coverage. Please
flight changes and other associated
Punta Arenas and King George Island. note that international airfare may not
Should you have additional luggage, non-cruise costs under the trip delay/
be covered by insurance in the event
it can be stored at the hotel in Punta interruption and cancellation clause.
of a cancellation. Please ask your Polar
Arenas. There is NO option to pay for Quark Expeditions® will make every Travel Adviser about travel insurance.
additional luggage. effort to ensure that your program
5
Final Day and Included Hotel Arrival and
Departure Accommodations Departure Transfers
DISEMBARKATION AT Your included accommodation begins on PUNTA ARENAS AIRPORT TRANSFERS
KING GEORGE ISLAND Day 1 of your itinerary, and the specific ARRIVAL: Upon your arrival in Punta
Ship disembarkation will generally hotel will be indicated on your final Arenas, a group transfer is included
occur in the late morning, on King voyage confirmation. If you are arriving from the airport to your included
George Island. After you disembark, prior to Day 1 of your expedition or are pre-expedition hotel on Day 1 of your
you will take a short one-mile walk (1.5 staying after the disembarkation day itinerary. Group transfers are also
km) from the beach to the airport to and would like help booking a pre- or included in conjunction with the charter
meet your plane. Your luggage will be post-stay, please contact your preferred flights to and from Antarctica.
transferred to the plane. After a two-hour travel agent or Quark Expeditions® for
flight, you will land at the Punta Arenas DEPARTURE: A departure transfer in
hotel options. As accommodation space
airport (PUQ). Punta Arenas is not included, however
is limited, you are encouraged to request
your Polar Travel Adviser can arrange
DEPARTING FROM PUNTA ARENAS any extra nights as early as possible.
one for you.
On arrival in Punta Arenas, you will
be transferred from the airport to your
In order to facilitate your transfers, we request that
post-expedition hotel for one final night. you provide your flight details to Quark Expeditions®
Please note that a departure transfer from at least 30 days prior to traveling.
the hotel to the Punta Arenas airport is
not included.
PLEASE NOTE
Weather conditions can always delay
our arrival, and airline schedule
changes have also been known to
occur. Booking flexible tickets is
always encouraged, as we cannot
be held responsible for delays due
to unforeseen circumstances.
6
Your Ship
Options
Quark Expeditions® boasts the largest
polar-class fleet of any polar operator,
and the ability to offer you this
incredible voyage on one of our ice
strengthened vessels.
The entire Quark Expeditions® fleet is
built for challenging polar environments,
allowing us to take you to places
ordinary cruise companies wouldn’t
dream of going.
7
World Explorer
Owner’s Suite
Deluxe Suite
Superior Suite
Veranda Suite
WORLD EXPLORER Infinity Suite
Triple
Polar powerhouse, the World Explorer—our first all- Balcony
Accessibility modified cabin; please speak
suites, all-balcony ice-class ship—lets you discover Deck 8
to your travel professional for details
everything Antarctica has to offer, with the type of DECK 8
service available only at premium hotels. The Expedition Cabin
Fit
F
Fi
itness
World Explorer also provides plenty of areas, both
WC WC
WC
Center
C enter
en te WC
Observation
Lounge
inside and out, to witness the incredible Antarctic Sp
Spa
pa
wildlife or simply watch the world go by. Enjoy Deck 7
DECK 7
a spacious observation deck for taking in sights
outdoors, an observation lounge with panoramic 628 626 610 608
638
640
634
632
630
636
622
624
618
616
614
612
606
604
602
620
Bri
Bridge
skyline views, a library for intimate relaxing and
riid
dg
dge
ge
625
617
615
611
605
603
601
623
619
621
641
631
639
633
637
635
609 607
reading, and the Explorer Lounge for a drink and 629 627
Deck 6
a chat. Presentations and discussions are held in DECK 6
a dedicated lecture theater. Health and wellness
534 520 518
544
546
540
538
536
542
facilities feature an outdoor running track, small
530
532
526
524
522
516
514
512
510
508
506
504
502
528
gym and spa, plus an outdoor swimming pool. With
517
515
511
509
507
505
503
501
533
525
523
531
527
529
547
545
539
537
543
541
535 521 519
its new and environmentally sustainable hybrid Deck 5
DECK 5
technology and state-of-the-art Rolls-Royce engines
and generators, the ship also boasts reduced fuel WC WC
Enntr
Entrance
tra
ran
anc
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Explorer Lounge
Resttaurrant
Restaurantnt Reecep
Reception
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consumption and CO2 emissions. Polar
Po
Bo
Boutique
B out
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Bar Auditorium
Enntra
Entrance
trran
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Clinic
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SHIP SPECIFICATIONS: Deck 4
DECK 4
Staff & Crew: 125 Zodiac Embarkation
Guests: 172
304
310
308
306
312
302
Lifeboats: 2, fully enclosed
Mud
Mudroom
udro
ro
oom
Ice Class: 1B WC
307
311
309
301
305
303
Visit QuarkExpeditions.com to view deck plan details. Deck 3
Zodiac Embarkation
DECK 3
8Ocean Adventurer
OCEAN ADVENTURER Owner’s Suite
Suite
Ocean Adventurer has long been a fleet favorite among Fu
Funne
nel
Funnel Deluxe
guests and crew who’ve appreciated the charm of this Superior
Main Deck Twin Window
nimble vessel, its ample outdoor deck space, numerous Observation
O
Obb
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vaatti
tio
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onn De
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Deck
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Main Deck Twin Porthole
Lower Deck Twin
cozy spots to socialize onboard, the outdoor jacuzzi Triple
and, of course, the intimacy of a 128-passenger vessel. In
2017, Ocean Adventurer underwent a multimillion-dollar 512
510
Bri
Bridge
Br
rid
id
dgge
ge
renovation including a refreshed look and feel throughout, 511
plus a completely remodeled lounge, dining room and Bridge
Bri
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D eecck
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bar. All cabins received brand new bathroom facilities. Six
new deluxe cabins, as well as three new suites, were also C linic
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Clinic
added. Major technical enhancements featured two new 402 400
404 406408
Rolls-Royce engines, which yield increased speed and fuel 403 401 405 407409
efficiency, and a minimized carbon footprint. Captain’s
Cap
Ca
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D eck
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SHIP SPECIFICATIONS:
Staff & Crew: 87 C
Cli
Cllipp
ppe
per
Clipperer 302 300
304
Guests: 128 D
Din
Diining
Dining
C
Clu
Cllub
Club
EL
EL
Main
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ain
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WC L
Lo
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Lifeboats: 4, partially enclosed R
Ro
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Room O
Offi
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Office
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Ice Class: 1A 311 309 307 305 303 301
Upper
Upp
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Deck
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Polar
P
Po
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Boutique
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Ocean Adventurer
Visit QuarkExpeditions.com to view deck plan details.
Owner’s Suite
228
226
224
222
220
218
216
214
212
210
208
206
204
202
200
Suite Zodiac
Zod
Zo
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Em
dia
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ac
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bar
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Embarkationtiioon
on
Deluxe
Gym
Gym
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205
203
201
ym
211
209
207
231
229
227
225
223
221
219
217
215
Main
M
Maaain
in De
D
Deck
eecck
ck
Superior
Main Deck Twin Window
ttion
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io
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D
Deck
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Main Deck Twin Porthole
112
110
108
106
104
102
100
Lower Deck Twin SStern
Stteerrn
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Bow
Triple
103
101
107
105
111
109
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Lower
Lowe
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9Included Activities
out of them safe and comfortable, and photography guides and other special
your Zodiac drivers will provide active guests who will introduce you to the
interpretation, making the landscape fascinating history, biology, ornithology,
come even more alive. glaciology and geology of the region, and
much, much more.
HIKING
Hiking in Antarctica is free-form and POLAR PLUNGE
supervised by our expert staff, who set This rite of passage, scheduled only once
out a perimeter or paths at each landing per expedition, gives you the chance to
site within which you are free to explore. jump safely into the bracing Antarctic
While you hike, staff will be available to waters under the watchful eye of our
enhance your experience by answering staff—and just about every single camera
questions about the wildlife, history on board!
Ready for a little adventure beyond your and geography of the area. Walking
ship? Each Quark Expeditions® voyage PHOTOGRAPHY
poles are provided at each landing for
offers a variety of recreational activities Documenting your voyage so you can
your convenience. As there are a limited
to enhance your polar experience. take the memories home is a rewarding
number of poles available, please bring
experience. Our photography guides will
your own if you require them on every
ZODIAC CRUISING help you hone your skills to capture the
landing. Some landing sites will offer more
Zodiacs are the workhorses of polar beauty of the polar regions.
demanding terrain options than others.
expeditions, taking you to places the
More information about your Included Activities
ships can’t access, allowing you to reach PRESENTATIONS and Adventure Options, including the necessary
remote shorelines, explore shallow Enjoy daily chats with and presentations experience, physical requirements and cost, is
inlets and search for unique wildlife. by our world-class onboard polar available by contacting your Polar Travel Adviser
Expedition staff make stepping in and experts—expedition guides, specialists, or your travel professional.
10Adventure Options
top kayaks—perfect for anyone with
SEA KAYAKING minimal or no kayaking experience.
Imagine gliding across the surface of Small groups of passengers will be taken
a bay in the presence of icebergs and out on calm days, with our expert guides
glaciers. Our Sea Kayaking program is always present to provide instruction
a great way to intimately explore your and help you connect with the polar
surroundings. A small group of kayakers sea. Two outings will be pre-booked,
will plan to go out multiple times per and once successfully completed, any
voyage as an alternative to shore landings subsequent outings will be offered via
or Zodiac cruises. lottery on board.
The number of opportunities to kayak
STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING
is weather dependent, and will be (on World Explorer only)
conducted only during calm conditions. Combining a surfboard with a kayak,
Prior kayaking experience is required, stand-up paddleboarding will give you a
and you must be able to do a wet exit very personal and unique perspective on
to participate. Beginners interested in Antarctica. Conducted in small groups—
kayaking should consider participating in in calm bays and harbors, in good
the Paddling Excursion. weather conditions—and accompanied
by a safety Zodiac, one-time stand-
PADDLING EXCURSION up paddleboarding excursions can be
PLEASE NOTE
If you’re interested in kayaking but pre-booked in two consecutive priority
For all paid activities pre-booking is
would like to try something a bit less groups. After the first two successful
required. We recommend booking early
as spaces fill quickly. Please see your demanding than Sea Kayaking, you’re outings, this activity will be offered
pre-departure guide for a list of provided the perfect candidate to sign up for a via lottery on board the ship for any
gear for each Adventure Option. one-time paddle on our stable sit-on- subsequent outings.
11Dates and Rates
Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake
WORLD EXPLORER Adventure Options
Infinity Veranda Superior Deluxe Owner’s
Dates Days Start / End Triple
Suite Suite Suite Suite Suite
ANTARCTIC 2022.23
MAR 3 – 10, 2023 8 Punta Arenas $13,795 $20,395 $19,395 $24,995 $27,095 $29,095 $995 $295 $295 –
MAR 8 – 15, 2023 8 Punta Arenas $13,795 $20,395 $19,395 $24,995 $27,095 $29,095 $995 $295 $295 –
MAR 13 – 20, 2023 8 Punta Arenas $13,795 $20,395 $19,395 $24,995 $27,095 $29,095 $995 $295 $295 –
ANTARCTIC 2021.22
MAR 1 – 8, 2022 8 Punta Arenas $12,995 $18,995 $17,995 $20,995 $22,495 $24,495 $995 $295 $295 –
MAR 6 – 13, 2022 8 Punta Arenas $12,995 $18,995 $17,995 $20,995 $22,495 $24,495 $995 $295 $295 –
MAR 11 – 18, 2022 8 Punta Arenas $12,995 $18,995 $17,995 $20,995 $22,495 $24,495 $995 $295 $295 –
OCEAN ADVENTURER Adventure Options
Lower Deck Main Deck Main Deck Owner’s
Dates Days Start / End Triple Superior Deluxe Suite
Twin Porthole Window Suite
ANTARCTIC 2022.23
DEC 5 – 12, 2022 8 Punta Arenas $12,295 $15,895 $16,395 $17,895 $18,895 $18,895 $24,995 $26,595 $995 $295 –
DEC 10 – 17, 2022 8 Punta Arenas $12,295 $15,895 $16,395 $17,895 $18,895 $18,895 $24,995 $26,595 $995 $295 –
DEC 15 – 22, 2022 8 Punta Arenas $12,295 $15,895 $16,395 $17,895 $18,895 $18,895 $24,995 $26,595 $995 $295 –
DEC 20 – 27, 2022 8 Punta Arenas $13,295 $16,895 $17,395 $19,395 $20,395 $20,395 $27,095 $29,095 $995 $295 –
FEB 8 – 15, 2023 8 Punta Arenas $12,295 $15,895 $16,395 $17,895 $18,895 $18,895 $24,995 $26,595 $995 $295 –
FEB 13 – 20, 2023 8 Punta Arenas $12,295 $15,895 $16,395 $17,895 $18,895 $18,895 $24,995 $26,595 $995 $295 –
FEB 18 – 25, 2023 8 Punta Arenas $12,295 $15,895 $16,395 $17,895 $18,895 $18,895 $24,995 $26,595 $995 $295 –
ANTARCTIC 2021.22
DEC 5 – 13, 2021 9 Punta Arenas $11,495 $14,995 $15,495 $16,995 $18,995 $18,995 $23,995 $25,495 $995 $295 –
DEC 11 – 18, 2021 8 Punta Arenas $10,995 $13,995 $14,495 $15,995 $17,495 $17,495 $22,495 $23,995 $995 $295 –
DEC 16 – 23, 2021 8 Punta Arenas $10,995 $13,995 $14,495 $15,995 $17,495 $17,495 $22,495 $23,995 $995 $295 –
DEC 21 – 28, 2021 8 Punta Arenas $11,495 $14,995 $15,495 $16,995 $18,995 $18,995 $23,995 $25,495 $995 $295 –
FEB 11 – 18, 2022 8 Punta Arenas $11,495 $14,495 $14,995 $16,495 $18,495 $18,495 $23,495 $24,995 $995 $295 –
12Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions Exclusions
RATES INCLUDE: RATES SPECIFICALLY
• Leadership throughout the voyage by our • A ll luggage handling aboard the ship DO NOT INCLUDE:
experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore • Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers • I nternational airfare
landings and other activities to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person • Passport and applicable visa expenses
• All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily • A group arrival transfer in Punta Arenas from airport • Government arrival and departure taxes not
program to pre-expedition hotel on Day 1 mentioned
• All shore landings as per the daily program • One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation • Meals unless otherwise specified
• Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping in Punta Arenas with breakfast (Note: The number • Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical
• All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy travel insurance—strongly recommended
throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers
• Excess-baggage fees on international and
dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in
domestic flights
Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not
be available.) • Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landing
kosher meals.)
and cruising excursions, or any other gear not
• Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea • A briefing dinner on Day 1 in Punta Arenas
mentioned
and cocoa available around the clock • A pre-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas
• Laundry, bar, spa services and other personal
• Formal and informal presentations by our from the hotel to the airport
charges, unless specified
Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled • Flights to and from King George Island
• Phone and Internet charges (connectivity may
• A photographic journal documenting the expedition • A post-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas vary by location)
• A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for from the airport to the hotel
• Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage
landings and Zodiac cruising excursions • One night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation for expedition staff and shipboard crew
• An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep in Punta Arenas with breakfast
• Additional overnight accommodation
• Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin • Arrival and departure transfers, except
• All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges where explicitly stated
throughout the program
13Your Expedition Team
Our Expedition Leaders and their teams bring diverse expertise in subjects
as varied as polar history, marine biology, glaciology, ornithology and
photography. Their knowledge and enthusiasm will greatly enhance your
immersion into the polar environment and further deepen your connection
to the Antarctic.
With over 30 years of experience bringing passengers to remote polar regions
and an industry-leading staff-to-guest ratio, we know how to safely handle
the unexpected. Ensuring this hard-earned experience is passed on, all our
expedition staff receive comprehensive training in Quark Academy, which
provides hands-on polar expedition training prior to any staff member’s first
voyage as well as ongoing training for experienced staff.
14Extend
Your Trip
PRE- AND POST-EXPEDITION
TRIP EXTENSIONS
Since you’re traveling such a long way,
you may want to spend extra time
in Santiago. Chile’s capital city has a
rejuvenating and modern vibe. Its cool,
cultural current resonates, from the
hillside parks to the sidewalk cafés. The
city’s burgeoning culinary scene is fast
becoming Santiago’s calling card. Enjoy
new wine bars, tapas cafés and high-end
restaurants. Make neighborhood-hopping
a holiday action-item and head to
trendy Barrio Lastarria, Barrio Italia and
Bellavista, the city’s boho quarter.
FROM TOP: Santiago; Casillero del Diablo winery; Chilean seafood
15Meals on Board
If there is one constant on board, it is that you’ll enjoy delicious meals daily.
While meal times may change due to landings and wildlife encounters, you’ll
always be served three well-prepared meals per day. Most dietary restrictions
can be accommodated by letting us know prior to your expedition.
Soft drinks and juices are available during meals and when the bar is open;
beer and wine are served with dinner; and coffee, tea and water stations are
available around the clock – all included in the cost of your package. Spirits,
premium wines and champagne are available at extra cost which can be billed
to your shipboard account. The well-stocked bars on the ship are open to
enjoy with your fellow shipmates in late morning, afternoon and evening.
16Possible Excursions
When traveling in extremely remote their chicks. Giant petrels and kelp gulls
regions, your Expedition Team must breed on the island.
consider the sea, ice and weather to
guide the route and itinerary details. DAMOY POINT
The following sites are a sample of Damoy Point is the site of a historical
what you may experience on your ice runway used by the British Antarctic
expedition, whether by ship, Zodiac Survey for their flights further south
cruise, or shore landing. since 1975. The well-maintained hut was
used as a staging-post to store supplies
Antarctic Peninsula and for accommodation while awaiting
CIERVA COVE ideal flying conditions. The point is also
If one of your expedition goals is to home to a penguin rookery and allows
witness jaw-dropping icebergs and giant for spectacular views of the mountains
sea ice, Cierva Cove will not disappoint. of Anvers Island.
A massive glacial face regularly calves DANCO ISLAND
into the bay, leaving often spectacular Home to gentoo penguins, this small
floating ice. Seals can be spotted on dome-shaped island provides you with
ice floes, and later in the season, a stunning view of the Errera Channel.
humpback whales occasionally feed
ENTERPRISE ISLAND
in the icy waters
Located in Wilhelmina Bay, this
CUVERVILLE ISLAND island's protected coves were once
A gentoo penguin rookery is situated used by whalers. A Zodiac cruise
on a rocky beach at the north end of exploring the island passes the rusting
the island. Depending on when in the remains of a wrecked whaling ship,
season you arrive, you may see the and provides opportunities to search
penguins building nests or attending to for humpback whales.
17LEMAIRE CHANNEL WATERBOAT POINT
One of the most scenic locations on A surveyor and a geologist lived in
the peninsula’s west coast, this dramatic a makeshift shelter utilizing a water
strait runs between Booth Island and the boat on this point from 1921 to 1922.
Antarctic Peninsula. The channel may The remains of their camp have been
become impassable when ice fills the designated an Antarctic historic site.
narrow, 6.8-mile (11 km)-long passageway, The aptly named Waterboat Point is also
so we’ll hope for clear waters. home to a Chilean Antarctic research
station, named González Videla Base
MELCHIOR ISLANDS
after the first sitting head of state to visit
This group of low, glaciated islands
the Antarctic continent. When the base
in Dallmann Bay is where you may
is manned, you may be welcomed inside
see hauled-out male fur seals as they
for a visit by the base personnel, or you
recuperate from their battles for
may visit the resident nesting gentoo
supremacy at the end of their
rookery if the base is inactive.
breeding season.
NEKO HARBOUR
South Shetland Islands
Little evidence remains that this bay was AITCHO ISLANDS
once used by the floating whale factory This group of small islands is situated
ship Neko. You might see whale vertebrae in the northern entrance of the English
being used by resident gentoo penguins Strait. You can often spot a great mix
as shelter from the wind. Climb up a of wildlife in the area, with gentoo and
steep slope for spectacular views of the chinstrap penguins having established
rookeries on the islands. Southern
EXPEDITION SPIRIT
glacier-rimmed harbor. Embracing the unexpected is part
elephant and fur seals frequently haul out
of the legacy—and excitement—of
PETERMANN ISLAND here, too.
expedition travel. When traveling
Here, near the Lemaire Channel, you can in extremely remote regions, your
DECEPTION ISLAND
stand ashore and see the southernmost Expedition Team must consider the
Deception Island is a flooded circular
breeding colony of gentoo penguins. sea, the ice and the weather to guide
caldera formed by the collapse of an
Adélie penguins, shags and south polar the route and itinerary details. This
active volcano. To reach this protected
skuas also inhabit the island. itinerary is a tentative outline of what
harbor, it is necessary to sail through you’ll experience on this voyage;
a narrow passage called Neptune’s please be aware that no specific
PORT LOCKROY
Bellows. Inside are several bays used at itinerary can be guaranteed. By the
As part of Operation Tabarin during the
various times for whaling and scientific same token, wildlife encounters as
Second World War, a secret British base
research. Along with waddling penguins described are expected, but not
was built in this sheltered harbor, located
and lounging seals, you’ll see the rusting guaranteed. Your Expedition Team
on the west side of Wiencke Island. Now
remains of whaling operations on the will use their considerable experience
a designated historic site, the base is a
beach in some locations. The landscape to seek out wildlife in known habitats,
museum and post office. Proceeds from
of Deception Island often presents but the presence of any particular
your purchases in Port Lockroy support species of bird or marine wildlife is
opportunities for longer walks to striking
the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust, which not guaranteed.
vistas. The stark contrast between snow
preserves British and other historic sites
and dark volcanic sand and the steam
dating to the Heroic Age of Exploration.
along the shoreline from geothermic
A large gentoo penguin population
activity when the tide is right, gives this
resides here.
location an atmospheric feel.
18HALF MOON ISLAND PENGUIN ISLAND beaches here are often crowded with
This crescent-shaped island was known Antarctica has two flowering plants, southern elephant, fur and Weddell seals
to sealers as early as 1821. While they both of which you can find on Penguin hauled out on the rocks.
tried to keep this productive location Island: Antarctic hair grass (Deschampsia
secret, we’re happy to bring you ashore antarctica) and Antarctic pearlwort YANKEE HARBOUR
on this impressive island. Many Antarctic (Colobanthus quitensis). Chinstrap Gentoo penguins have established a
birds breed here, including chinstrap penguins, fur seals and southern elephant rookery at this harbor, situated on the
penguins, shags, Wilson’s storm petrels, seals can also be spotted here. southwest side of Greenwich Island.
kelp gulls, snowy sheathbills, Antarctic Here, you can see an abandoned
terns and skuas. ROBERT POINT Argentine refuge hut and a large glacier
A beautiful spot for Zodiac cruising, this that stretches along the east and north
HANNAH POINT point was known to sealers as early as sides of the bay. An abandoned sealing
On the southern coast of Livingston 1820. Chinstrap penguins, kelp gulls and try pot is all that remains of the activity
Island at Hannah Point, you may see pintado petrels breed here, and whales that brought men thousands of miles in
chinstrap and gentoo penguin rookeries, may be seen in the surrounding waters. tall ships to seek their fortune. Enjoy a
along with the occasional breeding rare chance for a longer walk along the
TURRET POINT
macaroni penguin. Due to the rather expansive beach, dotted with historical
Chinstrap and Adélie penguin rookeries
congested area available to the nesting artifacts and wildlife.
are found on this point, situated on the
penguins, we are able to visit here only
south coast of King George Island. The
after January 10.
19Packing WEATHER CONDITIONS & TEMPERATURES
Polar weather is extremely variable; temperatures
may hover around the freezing mark and winds can
be strong. The extended daylight warms sheltered
areas so that you may sometimes find it warm enough
Checklist
for t-shirts. However, you may encounter rain, snow
squalls, fog and white-outs during an expedition and
should be ready for any conditions.
WHAT TO BRING! Packing for the polar regions doesn’t have to be daunting, and to make it easier for you, all Quark
Expeditions voyages include an expedition parka to keep, and a loan of insulated waterproof boots. Additional suggested
items include:
FOR ALL EXCURSIONS Waterproof, lightweight backpack or dry sack
Base layers (wool, synthetic or a blend) Swimsuit (for the Polar Plunge!)
Mid-layer warm/fleece top Binoculars
Mid-layer warm/fleece pants Camera (and charger, external battery, external memory,
waterproof case or cover)
Wool and synthetic socks (3 to 4 pairs)
Earplugs
Neck warmer or balaclava
Eye masks for sleeping
Warm hat that covers ears
Moisturizer and lip balm (polar air can be dry)
Waterproof pants (mandatory for every Zodiac ride)
Seasickness, indigestion, headache
Waterproof gloves and glove liners or other medicines as required
Sunscreen Voltage converters and plug adapters
Sunglasses with UV protection (220V/European outlets)
Spare set of gloves Ski goggles (for Zodiac cruising on snowy or windy days)
Passports, visas, and travel documents as required
FOR ON BOARD
Comfortable casual clothing
(pants/jeans, shirts, sweaters)
Lighter shirts (in case the ship gets warm)
Comfortable non-slip closed-toed unheeled shoes
(NOTE: Flip flops, sandals or slip-on shoes should not be
worn on board due to safety concerns)
20TO BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
Contact your Travel Professional
PHOTO CREDITS (over all Expedition Brochures for the Antarctic 22.23 season):
Acacia Johnson; David Merron; Michelle Sole; Nicky Souness; Samantha Crimmin; Hugo Perrin; Taylor Cranney; EXPEDITION BROCHURE
Sam Edmonds; Abbey Weisbrot; Hans Lagerweij; Rogelio Espinosa; Cindy Miller Hopkins; Grange Productions
January 2021You can also read
