Sea Adventurer: Crossing The
Antarctic Circle
An expedition that encompasses the very spirit of Antarctica, this in-depth adventure takes you from the
southern tip of the South American continent and across the vast expanse of the Southern Ocean, to
experience “The Great White Continent” in all its magnificent glory.
Beginning in Ushuaia, on the southernmost tip of South America, you’ll venture through the Beagle Channel
and across the open waters of the Drake Passage, heading towards the South Shetland Islands and vast
Antarctic Peninsula.Then begins your journey through one of the most beautiful and serene landscapes on
earth. With more time in the area than most voyages, you’ll have numerous opportunities for fantastic wildlife
encounters and remote shore landings, before continuing on across the Antarctic Circle, travelling well beyond
the range of most cruise operators.
With daily zodiac excursions and fascinating on board presentations from the resident experts, you’ll journey
deep into a land filled with fabulous ice formations, Weddell seals, humpback whales and the promise of
unique adventure. Journeying back across the Drake Passage, the voyage then ends back in Ushuaia in time
to catch the flight on to Buenos Aires.
Highlights
Enjoy the unique experience of crossing the Antarctic Circle
Take daily zodiac excursions in search of icebergs, whales and wildlife
Visit the historic research stations around Marguerite Bay
Discover the quintessential Antarctic wildlife including penguins, whales and seals
Learn from the experts, with daily on board lectures and presentations
Cruise Includes:
11 nights aboard Quark Expeditions cruise ship
11 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 11 dinners
Accompanied by an experienced English speaking local guide
All inclusive program in the Antarctic (including hot drinks and water)
Your own parka jacket to keep
From price is based on a triple share basis
Departure: Set departures November – March
Itinerary
Day 1: Ushuaia
Departing from the port city of Ushuaia late this afternoon you'll leave the
southern tip of South America and head down the Beagle Channel, the
famed body of water named after the ship that carried Charles Darwin
into the history books. Providing some great photo opportunities for
capturing the accompanying seabirds, the channel opens up the great
vastness of the Southern Ocean and the next land mass you'll
encounter will be along the edge of the Antarctic Peninsula. (D)
Day 2: Drake Passage
Over the next two days you'll negotiate the infamous body of water that
lies between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands. The crossing
of the Drake Passage is often a good place to spot whales, dolphins and
seabirds including giant petrels and albatross. There will also be daily
lectures on board from resident experts, which provide a fascinating
insight into the region's history of exploration and whaling. (B,L,D)
Day 3: Continue cruising the Drake Passage
Day 4: Antarctic Peninsula
The first sight of the magnificent landscapes of Antarctica heralds the
start of your adventure around the Great White Continent. Over the
coming days you'll experience some of the most inspiring scenery on the
planet, as you enjoy the sight of passing icebergs and take to the icy
waters in zodiac boats. There are several landing sites available and
numerous opportunities to encounter penguins, seals and, hopefully,
whales. Optional activities also include kayaking and a chance to camp
overnight on the ice. (B,L,D)
Day 5: Continue exploring the Antarctic Peninsula
Day 6: Antarctic Circle
Most Antarctic expeditions don't reach as far south as the Antarctic
Circle, so over the following days you'll achieve something that few
people ever have. A unique feature of this particular voyage, the
crossing of the Antarctic Circle is something to be celebrated in style,
with a well deserved glass of champagne. (B,L,D)
Day 7: Continue exploring the Antarctic Circle
Day 8: Antarctic Peninsula
As you begin the long journey home, your knowledge of chinstrap, Gentoo and Adelie penguins should be
coming along nicely, along with your ability to differentiate between Weddell seals, leopard seals and
Antarctic fur seals. Terms like 'bergy bits' and pancake ice will be common place by now and any gaps in your
education can be filled in by the daily lectures, zodiac excursions and the expert crew. (B,L,D)
Day 9: Continue exploring the Antarctic Peninsula
Day 10: Drake Passage
Heading back across the open waters of Drake Passage presents the perfect time to reflect on the highlights
of this incredible voyage with your crew and fellow passengers. Keep an eye out from the observation deck for
some last-minute whale sightings as you head back towards the port of Ushuaia and the end of this incredible
adventure. (B,L,D)
Day 11: Continue cruising the Drake Passage
Day 12: Ushuaia
Disembark in Ushuaia early this morning and transfer to the airport for the flight to Buenos Aires. (B)
Accommodation
Ushuaia
Sea Adventurer