Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctic Express Cruise: Crossing the Circle

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Check off a travel milestone by crossing the Antarctic Circle with the best expedition team in the industry. Our 11-day Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle voyage enables you to skip the notorious Drake Passage sailing with a charter flight to and from King George Island, where your Antarctic adventure begins and ends. Cruise the stunning Antarctic Peninsula, then push farther to 66°33′ south. Along the way, add bucket-list experiences like sea kayaking through iceberg-dotted channels and unforgettable wildlife encounters.


Highlights


• Fly over the Drake Passage and experience the fastest, most direct way to Antarctica

• Witness iconic Antarctic wildlife, such as penguins, seals and whales

• Marvel at Antarctic Peninsula highlights, including crossing the Antarctic Circle

• Celebrate crossing the Antarctic Circle with a toast

• Enjoy presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology & geology by our onboard polar experts



  • Day 1 — Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile

    Your adventure begins in Punta Arenas, Chile, the most populated city in southern Patagonia. If you arrive early, there are many museums, restaurants and shops to keep you busy for days. By early afternoon, a Quark Expeditions® representative will meet you at the official starting point hotel, where you’ll enjoy a welcome dinner and be briefed about preparing for your embarkation day.

  • Day 2 — Fly to King George Island and Embarkation

    Your charter flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica will have you crossing the legendary Drake Passage in only a few hours. Far below, the ship will approach King George Island for your arrival. Your first glimpse of dramatic Antarctic landscapes will be from a unique perspective, as your plane descends for landing in the South Shetland Islands. After landing, stretch your legs with a one-mile (1.6 km) walk to the shore, before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula!

  • Days 3 to 5 — Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands

    There are few places in the world as evocative as Antarctica. As your ship approaches the White Continent, you may be overcome by feelings of excitement and awe. Much of Antarctica is indescribable and can only be fully appreciated through your own eyes. As your captain and Expedition Team keep a lookout for whales and seabirds, you’ll be alerted to any new sightings. Our team of expert lecturers will also provide in-depth explanations of the glaciology, history and wildlife of the region. Even more exciting are your land excursions. Your first Zodiac landing is something you’ll never forget! Walking on a beach dotted with penguins is the most intimate way to experience the unique wildlife of Antarctica. Each landing is different and dependent on weather, but every day presents new sightings and photo opportunities, and it won’t be long before you can tell the difference between an Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap penguin. You may take a Zodiac cruise in search of whales and icebergs one day, followed by a hike to a penguin rookery the next day. From the booming sound of a calving glacier to the thrill of spotting apex predators like leopard seals and killer whales in action, you’ll wake up early and welcome each day with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore this unrivaled travel experience. Your Expedition Team will accompany you along the way, ensuring safety and providing insights into the places you visit.

  • Days 6 and 7 — Antarctic Circle

    Crossing the Antarctic Circle is an impressive achievement, as most expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula do not reach 66°33´ S. If conditions allow us to cross this famed line at 66°33´ S, you and your shipmates will celebrate in style with a well-earned glass of sparkling wine! As you toast the first explorers who ventured this far south, you can 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 some of the most peculiar, yet magical ice formations you’ll see anywhere on the continent.

  • Days 8 and 9 — Northbound Along the Peninsula

    If you haven’t had your fill of Antarctic wildlife and icebergs by now, you’ll surely be satisfied by the time you return to King George Island. You will continue to explore by Zodiac or on land as you travel north along the western Antarctic Peninsula. Your Expedition Team will always be on the lookout for species of seabirds, seals and whales that may have eluded you on your journey south.

  • Day 10 — Disembarkation and Fly to Punta Arenas

    After your week of exploration, you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and disembark at King George Island. Your two-and-a-half-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, brings your adventure to an end. After your group transfer to the hotel, you are free to explore and enjoy an evening on your own, in the city or at the hotel to reminisce about the sights and sounds of Antarctica.

  • Day 11 — Depart Punta Arenas

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

  • Please Note:

    Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy – and excitement – of expedition travel. There are no guarantees that we can achieve everything we set out to accomplish. A measure of flexibility is something all of us must bring to a voyage. There are nearly 200 recognized sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned above may be changed to others equally as interesting.

  • 28 February, 2026 to 10 March, 2026

    Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom

    $33,230 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom Deck 4 168-195 sq. ft. 1-2 One double bed made up of two twin berths

    Veranda Stateroom

    $34,966 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Veranda Stateroom Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

    Veranda Suite

    $37,115 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Veranda Suite Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Studio Single

    $43,811 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Studio Single Deck 3 177 sq. ft. 1-2 One double bed made up of two twin berths

    Junior Suite

    $43,811 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Junior Suite Deck 6 296-299 sq. ft. 1-2 Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed

    Studio Veranda Single

    $47,284 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Studio Veranda Single Deck 7 238 sq. ft. 1 One twin single

    Penthouse Suite

    $50,673 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Penthouse Suite This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

    Owners Suite

    $54,145 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
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    Owners Suite Deck 7 443 sq. ft. 1-2 Two rooms. One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
  • 21 January, 2027 to 31 January, 2027

    Deluxe Veranda Forward

    $46,848 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Deluxe Veranda Forward Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Veranda Stateroom

    $49,171 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Veranda Stateroom Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

    Veranda Suite

    $52,200 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Veranda Suite Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Junior Suite

    $61,591 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Junior Suite Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

    Studio Single

    $61,591 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Studio Single Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Studio Veranda Single

    $66,437 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Studio Veranda Single Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Penthouse Suite

    $71,385 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Penthouse Suite This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

    Owners Suite

    $76,333 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Owners Suite This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities.
  • 22 January, 2027 to 01 February, 2027

    Triple Suite

    $40,335 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Triple Suite

    Deluxe Veranda Forward

    $45,283 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Deluxe Veranda Forward Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Veranda Stateroom

    $47,605 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Veranda Stateroom Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

    Veranda Suite

    $50,635 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Veranda Suite Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed.  There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony.  There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Studio Single

    $60,025 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Studio Single Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Junior Suite

    $61,591 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Junior Suite Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

    Studio Veranda Single

    $64,872 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Studio Veranda Single Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

    Penthouse Suite

    $69,820 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Penthouse Suite This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom.and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony . There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area. 

    Owners Suite

    $74,768 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Owners Suite This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities. 
  • 17 February, 2028 to 27 February, 2028

    Infinity Suite

    $50,130 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Infinity Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass Juliet balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Veranda Suite

    $52,856 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Veranda Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Superior Suite

    $69,214 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Superior Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Deluxe Suite

    $74,566 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Deluxe Suite Located on Deck 5, and approximately 345 sq. ft. (32 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

    Owner's Suite

    $79,918 NZD pp
    * indicative rate.
    Book now
    Owner's Suite Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 365 sq. ft. (34 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.5 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.
  • Ocean Explorer

    Ocean Explorer

    Vessel Type: Polar Expedition

    Length: 342 ft (104.4 m)

    Passenger Capacity: 138

    Built: 2021

    The Ocean Explorer is a modern, purpose-built expedition vessel combining contemporary elegance with advanced polar exploration technology. Accommodating up to 138 guests, this state-of-the-art ship features the innovative ULSTEIN X-BOW® design, which ensures smooth, stable sailing even in rough seas. A highlight of the vessel is its stunning two-story, glass-walled library located at the bow—perfect for quiet reflection with panoramic views of the polar landscapes. Almost all spacious cabins include private verandas, while the ship’s sleek Scandinavian-inspired interiors create a sense of understated luxury. Guests can unwind in the fitness centre, sauna with large windows overlooking the ice, or one of two outdoor Jacuzzis while taking in the surrounding scenery.

    Designed with both exploration and comfort in mind, Ocean Explorer offers generous outdoor viewing spaces and elevated observation decks for exceptional photography and wildlife watching. A fleet of 15 Zodiacs ensures quick, safe embarkation for off-ship adventures. Social spaces such as the elegant Main Dining Room, Latitude Bar, and Observation Lounge provide a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, complemented by fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and cutting-edge sustainability systems, including waste-to-energy technology. Every detail of the Ocean Explorer reflects innovation, comfort, and environmental consciousness—setting a new standard for luxury expedition cruising.

    Cabin layout for Ocean Explorer
  • World Voyager

    World Voyager

    Vessel Type: Yacht

    Length: 129 m

    Passenger Capacity: 198

    Built: 2022

    World Voyager is a modern expedition ship built for discovery and polar exploration, accommodating 168 guests in all-balcony suites with direct views of the surrounding wilderness. The vessel combines luxurious comfort with functional design, offering public spaces such as a glass-domed Observation Lounge, theater-style lecture hall, and the Science Hub, where guests engage with onboard scientists and expedition guides. Wellness and recreation facilities include a spa, sauna, heated outdoor pool with Jacuzzis, a gym, and an outdoor running track, ensuring relaxation and activity throughout the voyage.

    Equipped with two Rolls-Royce hybrid-electric engines and the Micro Auto Gasification System (MAGS) for converting waste into energy, World Voyager emphasises sustainability while navigating Antarctic waters. The ship also features a wraparound deck with heated seating, a Polar Boutique for essential gear, and the Ready Room for seamless Zodiac excursions, providing a comfortable, immersive, and environmentally conscious polar expedition experience.







    Cabin layout for World Voyager

Paddling Excursion

Every sweep of the paddle as your craft glides through the pristine polar waters creates an incredible soundtrack: the jostle of glacial ice, the lapping of waves against the rocky shore, the perpetual drip from your paddle, the call of seabirds, and the occasional splash as wildlife break the surface of the water.

Kayaking

Kayaking in Antarctica is probably one of the most intimate and inspiring ways you can explore this incredible region. Glide through the quiet waters and take in the beauty of Antarctica. Paddle through astounding icebergs, watch penguins, seals and possibly whales swim around your kayak. Kayaking in the Polar Regions is highly weather-dependent, however we guarantee at least one outing during your voyage. Your kayak guides will always attempts to take you out as many times as possible throughout your voyage.

Stand-up Paddleboarding

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.

Special Offers

Online prices reflect current special offers and may vary based on demand. This promotion is time limited and subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. For more information, please contact us.

Ocean Explorer
Expedition on Ocean Explorer

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$3,021 NZD per day
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