Antarctic Peninsula: Crossing the Circle

14 days
Jan 2027
World Voyager
Included: flights, hotels, transfers
Kayaking
Zodiac Landings
In-depth Lectures
2027

From

$17,450

per person

Relatively few humans set foot on the remote 7th Continent. Even fewer achieve the incomparable polar milestone of crossing the Antarctic Circle. While navigating beyond 66°33′ South is the highlight of the 14-day Antarctic Peninsula: Crossing the Circle, this voyage encompasses many extraordinary immersive adventures and breath–taking polar landscapes. Traveling with Quark Expeditions on our brand-new ship, World Voyager, you’ll be able to explore this fascinating region by ship, Zodiac, kayak and during guided hikes.

In addition to navigating beyond 66⁰33´ South—which is marked by a special on-board celebration—you’ll be able to explore penguin colonies, glaciers, remote bays and historical sites of the Peninsula and experience the awe of splendid isolation. Our ultimate goal is to allow you to customize your adventure as you cross the 7th Continent off your bucket list.

Reach out to our team of Polar Travel Advisers for assistance at any time.

Highlights

SCIENCE & DISCOVERY

In addition to daily presentations by polar experts, this itinerary also features hands-on educational opportunities as part of our new Science & Discovery program.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upon arriving in this cosmopolitan city, known for its architecture and rich European heritage, you will independently transfer to your group hotel (pre-expedition hotel night included in mandatory transfer package).

Day 2 | Fly to Ushuaia and Embark

After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred from the airport to a central downtown location for free time on your own to explore this quaint port town before making your way to the pier.

As the ship sets sail in the late afternoon, you will begin your Antarctic journey, passing through the historic Beagle Channel. Named after the famed ship on which Charles Darwin voyaged, the channel presents great photo opportunities of landscapes and seabirds. Eventually the channel opens up to the Southern Ocean, and onwards to Antarctica.

Day 3-4 | Crossing the Drake Passage

Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team on photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history. You can also spend time on deck looking for wildlife, or chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.

Day 5-7 | South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula

The most common reaction upon reaching the Antarctic Peninsula is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every visit to Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means that your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience. Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites. With wildlife always at the forefront of our minds, you will visit penguin rookeries, scout for humpback and minke whales, and search for a number of southern seal species, including the elusive leopard seal. Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each landing, whether you are exploring the Antarctic terrain, visiting a research station or consorting with penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with five different species of seals. Zodiac cruising can offer opportunities to view some of the larger local marine mammals more intimately, such as Antarctic minke and humpback whales. Your days will be busy spotting wildlife and being mesmerized by the astounding beauty of Antarctica. Listening to the crackling and crumbling of icebergs and glaciers and watching penguins waddling on the beach will become your daily entertainment, while heli flightseeing, sea kayaking or paddle excursions are optional activities available on select voyages (at an extra cost).

Day 8-9 | Antarctic Circle

Crossing the Antarctic Circle is both a memorable experience and impressive achievement, as few travelers reach so far south. If conditions allow us to cross this famed latitude of 66°33 ́ S, we’ll toast the first explorers who ventured here, and you can raise a glass and take pride in knowing you’ve made it to a part of the world visited by very few people. This is raw Antarctica, home of the midnight sun, Weddell seals, and your best chances of encountering sea ice—the very foundations of the Antarctic marine ecosystem.

Day 10-11 | Northbound Along the Peninsula

By now, your knowledge of Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins will be matched by your ability to differentiate between a leopard, crabeater and Weddell seal. Terms like ‘bergy bits’ and ‘pancake ice’ will become part of your vocabulary, yet there are still many tales to be told. As you head north, Zodiac excursions will fill your days, and your Expedition Team will continue looking out for species of seabirds, seals and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south.

Day 12-13 | Crossing the Drake Passage

As you recross the Drake, Antarctica fades away, leaving you with a collection of memories to last a lifetime. Excited conversations with your newfound friends will make the crossing fly by, regardless of weather and sea conditions. Your Expedition Team will round up its series of presentations as well, with a slideshow of the adventures you’ve shared and wildlife you’ve witnessed over the course of your voyage. Be sure to take some time to reflect on everything you’ve experienced so far.

Day 14 | Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires

You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. You will then make your way towards your included group charter flight to Buenos Aires.

Ships

World Voyager

World Voyager—the newest addition to the fleet— is a modern expedition ship built for science and discovery. Every design element, from the deluxe, all-balcony suites—with direct views into the surrounding polar wilderness—to the presentation theater and Science Hub, embody the spirit of discovery: the never-ending urge to explore and learn more about the rugged polar landscapes.

Wellness amenities, such as the spa, sauna, swimming pool, Jacuzzis and outdoor running track, allow guests to rejuvenate throughout their polar expedition. The beautifully designed restaurant and spacious lounges are ideal for guests to gather and engage in lively discussions about the day’s discoveries.

Another pivotal space on World Voyager is the Science Hub, where guests can share knowledge, information and insights with our scientists in residence and our Expedition Guides as part of our Science & Discovery program.

The latest Rolls-Royce propulsion technology ensures a comfortable, fuel-efficient sailing experience as World Voyager navigates the Antarctic waters.

The World Voyager is an exceptional expedition ship because it combines luxury, adventure, and sustainability in a way that few other ships do. Here’s why it stands out:

Small, Intimate, and Exclusive

  • Carries only 198 guests, ensuring a personalized and uncrowded experience.

  • Small size allows access to hard-to-reach destinations, like hidden fjords and remote polar regions.

Luxury Accommodations

  • All ocean-view staterooms & suites—many with private balconies.

  • High-end spa, sauna, and fitness center for relaxation after excursions.

  • Gourmet dining with international cuisine, open-seating restaurants, and premium beverages.

Ultimate Expedition Experience

  • Zodiac landings & wildlife encounters led by expert guides.

  • Kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking available for active travelers.

  • State-of-the-art lecture theater with daily talks by scientists and historians.

Eco-Friendly & Sustainable

  • Hybrid power management system for reduced emissions.

  • Low-impact cruising technology protects fragile ecosystems.

  • Dynamic positioning system allows anchoring without damaging the seabed.

Read More

What's included

Inclusions

RATES INCLUDE:

For all voyages:

  • An official Quark Expeditions parka to keep

  • Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Team, including shore landings and other activities

  • All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program

  • All shore landings as per the daily program

  • Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping

  • All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage.

  • Complimentary select beer, wines and select cocktails during bar service hours and dinner

  • Complimentary coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock

  • Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled

  • A photographic journal documenting your expedition

  • A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions

  • Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin

  • World Voyager guests will receive a free 1GB data card for limited Wi-Fi access for use on one device, permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Additional data can be purchased on ship.)

  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program

  • All luggage handling aboard the ship

  • Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person

Your Charter Flight and Hotel Package includes:

  • One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Buenos Aires with breakfast (Note: The number of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available.)

  • Group flight departing from Buenos Aires’ domestic airport (Aeroparque/AEP) to Ushuaia, and returning to Buenos Aires’ international airport (Ezeiza/EZE)

  • Group transfer from hotel to airport in Buenos Aires

  • Group transfer from Ushuaia airport to the ship, and return (Note: Transfer on arrival in Buenos Aires from airport to hotel at the beginning of the journey is not included. Please make your way to the included hotel.)

Exclusions

RATES SPECIFICALLY DO NOT INCLUDE:

For all voyages:

  • International airfare

  • Passport and applicable visa expenses

  • Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned

  • Meals unless otherwise specified

  • Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended

  • Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights

  • Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landing and cruising excursions, or any other gear not mentioned

  • Laundry, spa services and other personal charges, unless specified

  • Phone charges may vary by location

  • Our basic complimentary Wi-Fi service does not include Premium packages which enable more data-intensive applications

  • Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and shipboard crew

  • Additional overnight accommodation

  • Arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated

Excursions

Zodiac Cruising in the Antarctic Quark Expeditions

Included

Zodiacs are used for transferring you ashore, transporting your luggage when necessary and for taking you ocean-level cruising among icebergs, whales and seabirds. During the expedition, you will visit remote and isolated sites that are accessible only by Zodiac.

These large, heavy-duty inflatable vessels are extremely safe and were specially designed for expedition work. Zodiacs are the workhorses of Polar expeditions. Separate air compartments retain a large reserve of buoyancy even if these sturdy boats are damaged. Their flat bottom design permits the craft to land directly onto the cobble and ice-strewn beaches that you will encounter on your Polar expedition.

Stand-up Paddleboarding Quark Expeditions

1.5 hours

Included

Stand-up Paddleboarding, popularly known as SUPing, originated in Hawaii. Quark Expeditions is the first company to bring this watersport all the way to Antarctica.

SUPing combines the immersive experience of kayaking but in a standing position. Participants, if they prefer, can kneel, sit or even lie down and stare up at the azure Antarctic sky. Because of their wide base and tail fins, SUP boards are quite stable, enabling participants – after a bit of practice – to stop staring at their feet and admire the surrounding scenery. Imagine seeing Gentoo penguins gliding below you, or making eye contact with a Weddell seal lying on a piece of ice as you paddle by.

Guests receive on-ship and on-water instruction from a qualified SUP guide. In addition, a safety driver (in a Zodiac) stays within range to offer assistance.

Duration: 1 to 1½ hours.

Guide to client ratio: 1 SUP guide and 1 Zodiac safety driver for 10 participants

Is SUP Experience Necessary?

Previous experience isn’t necessary but comfortability with water is an asset. SUP’ing adventures are offered in protected bays and channels during calm weather conditions.

Provided Gear

  • Board

  • Paddle

  • Drysuit

  • Neoprene Booties

  • Waterproof gloves

  • PFD – Personal Flotation Device

Other recommended gear/clothing

  • Base and mid-layers (drysuits keep you dry, but not warm)

  • Thin fleece or wool liner glove to wear under rubber gloves (optional)

  • Waterproof and sweatproof sunscreen and lip balm (minimum SPF 30)

  • Brimmed hat as well as a warm hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Camera (either waterproof or in a waterproof case or drybag)

Polar Plunge in the Antarctic Quark Expeditions

Included

The Polar Plunge is scheduled once during each voyage. Throughout the journey, the Expedition Leader and Captain constantly monitor conditions in order to choose the optimal time and location. The Polar Plunge sometimes takes place onshore or, in many cases, from the gangway or Zodiac. All participants wear a tethered harness and plunge into the polar waters from the side of Zodiac or safety of the gangplank cheered on, of course, by fellow passengers and Expedition Team.

Safety is paramount—the onboard physician always attends the Polar Plunge. Guides in survival gear circle the area in Zodiacs as guests take their turn jumping or cannon-balling into the polar waters.

Paddling Excursion Quark Expeditions

Included

Explore the ocean from a more intimate vantage point on a sit-on-top kayak. No experience is required to maneuver these very stable kayaks, allowing you to enjoy an unforgettable experience on the water, taking in breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. Whether it’s your first time in a kayak or you want greater flexibility to try other Adventure options, this shorter excursion is for you.

Paddling in the Polar Regions is highly weather-dependent and a one-time experience. Your kayak guides will attempt to take you out on the water for 1-1.5 hours of paddling. Offered on most voyages, spaces are limited. All equipment, guides and instructions are provided by Quark.

Pricing subject to change based on season.

Sea Kayaking in the Antarctic - Quark Expeditions

Included

Positioning yourself in the seat of a kayak is one of the most intimate ways travelers can connect with the polar regions—at water level, up close, where you can touch and feel every polar sensation imaginable. The Sea Kayak Program enables a small group of like-minded individuals to forge bonds as they explore fjords, glacial faces or mazes of sea ice.

Quark Expeditions Sea Kayak Program is a voyage-length program available in Antarctica, in which kayakers (those who have minimal experience as well as seasoned paddlers) will enjoy the polar regions from a unique perspective.

Conditions and logistics permitting, your kayak guide(s) will endeavor to have you paddling as often as possible throughout the voyage. Typically, sea kayakers are shuttled by Zodiac from the ship to an ideal starting point, where the kayak excursion begins. Guests return to the ship by Zodiac at the end of their paddling experience. Some kayak excursions are designed so guests can go ashore and explore.

In addition to the kayak guides, a safety driver in a Zodiac will always stay nearby to offer assistance if required. Excursions typically last one and a half to three hours.

Note: Due to its popularity and limited space, if you want to ensure a space in the Sea Kayak program, please register when you book your expedition. While the program routinely fills up well before the voyage, if there are vacant spaces when you board the vessel you may sign up. Quark Expedition guides attempt to lead guests on as many sea kayak excursions as possible, but the number of excursions will depend on weather and sea conditions as well as logistical factors. Be prepared to paddle in a double or single kayak depending on availability.

Is Kayaking Experience Necessary?

The Sea Kayak program was developed to accommodate kayakers with a range of experience. Please don’t hesitate to consult with our polar travel advisors if you have any questions.

Provided gear

  • Sea kayaks (single or double)

  • Paddle

  • Spray-skirt

  • Drysuit

  • Insulated rubber gloves and pogies*

  • PFD (personal flotation device)

  • Neoprene booties

  • 10L dry bag

  • Water bottle (provided in rooms upon embarkation)

Other recommended gear/clothing

  • Thermal base layer top and bottom (synthetic or wool, no cotton)

  • Thin fleece 200 weight top or wool sweater

  • Fleece pants

  • Liner socks

  • Thick wool socks

  • Neckwarmer

  • Thin fleece or wool liner glove to wear under rubber gloves (if you wish)

  • Warm hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Waterproof and sweatproof sunscreen

  • Camera (either waterproof, in exterior waterproof housing, or stored in a drybag)

  • Waterproof backpack or a drybag

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Practical information

The Antarctic cruise season runs from November to March, during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer. Each month offers a unique experience:

  • November – Early Season: Pristine landscapes, fresh snowfall, and active penguin courtship.

  • December & January – Peak Season: Warmer temperatures, 24-hour daylight, and hatching penguin chicks.

  • February & March – Late Season: Best whale watching opportunities and more ice-free waters for deeper exploration.

Antarctica is home to incredible wildlife, including:

  • Penguins: Emperor, Adélie, Chinstrap, Gentoo, and more.

  • Whales: Humpback, Minke, Orca (Killer Whales), and Blue Whales.

  • Seals: Weddell, Leopard, Elephant, and Crabeater Seals.

  • Birds: Albatross, Petrels, Skuas, and more.

No visa is required for Antarctica itself, but depending on your nationality, you may need visas for Argentina or Chile, where most cruises depart from. Quark Expeditions will provide all necessary permits for landing in Antarctica as part of the IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) guidelines.

Despite being a frozen continent, temperatures during the cruise season are warmer than many expect, ranging from:

  • Early Season (Nov - Dec): -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)

  • Peak Season (Jan - Feb): 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F)

  • Late Season (Feb - Mar): -2°C to 6°C (28°F to 43°F)
    Wind and weather conditions can change rapidly, so layering is key.

• Your passport and a copy of it!

• Cash in the applicable currency. Please check your travel documents for information about card payments on board

• Regular indoor shoes

• Sun protection

• A good pair of binoculars (ask the Cruise Norway team if they are included in your cabin)

• A small waterproof backpack

• Sunglasses with UV filter lenses

• Lip balm with UV protection

• Moisturizer

• Enough medication and other essentials to last through unforeseen delays

• Extra memory cards

• Extra batteries. Battery life can be reduced in cold climates

• Chargers

• Electrical adapters and converters if needed, please check your travel documents for information

• Sea sickness medication

• Sleeping mask

Clothing:
Layering clothes helps to keep you warm and dry. We recommend layering with wool, silk or synthetic fabrics rather than cotton. Dress code on board is casual (expedition style). Clothing should be comfortable and informal, including shoes. Dressing up for meals is not required.

• Summer clothing to wear in Buenos Aires

• Comfortable shoes for exploring South America

• Warm winter jacket

• Wind and water-resistant trousers or ski pants (some cruises require waterproof pants for landings and zodiac cruises, do not wear jeans or similar)

• Long thermal base layer

• Warm hat or headband

• Scarf or fleece tube

• Warm wool jumper and fleece jacket

• Gloves and mittens, fleece and wool

• Warm socks

Quark Expeditions’ Antarctica cruises offer daily landings and Zodiac excursions, depending on weather conditions. Activities may include:

  • Wildlife Watching: Close encounters with penguins, whales, and seals.

  • Zodiac Cruising: Exploring icebergs, glaciers, and remote shorelines.

  • Guided Hikes: Walks led by expert expedition guides.

  • Photography Workshops: Capture Antarctica’s stunning scenery.

  • Scientific Lectures: Learn from onboard experts about Antarctic history, geology, and wildlife.

Some cruises may offer optional activities such as kayaking and camping (availability varies).

Crossing the Drake Passage (between South America and Antarctica) can be rough or calm, depending on weather conditions. While some travelers experience motion sickness, Quark Expeditions’ advanced stabilized ships and onboard medical assistance help make the journey more comfortable. Those prone to seasickness may consider bringing medication or using natural remedies like ginger or acupressure bands.

Quark Expedition guest are provided limited Wi-Fi access for use on one device, permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Additional data can be purchased on ship.)

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Ann

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Steve

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Diana

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Europe & Global

Anne

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Matthew

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Sarah

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Mari

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Australia and
Latin America

Danielle

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Germany

Ivo

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India

John

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DISCLAIMER: Rates are per person, subject to availability and can change at any time

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