The Journeys Collection
ANTARCTIC EXPRESS: CROSSING THE CIRCLE - OCEAN EXPLORER
ANTARCTIC EXPRESS: CROSSING THE CIRCLE - OCEAN EXPLORER
With over 33 years of experience conquering the most remote lands on the planet, Quark Expeditions is a pioneer and trusted leader in the polar expedition tourism industry.
This special journey begins in Punta Arenas, the vibrant capital of southern Patagonia, where port history meets modernity. Before taking off for Antarctica, visitors can stroll through Plaza Muñoz Gamero, explore the neoclassical Sara Braun Mansion, or simply enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the duty-free shopping area. After just 2 hours of flying across the Drake Passage, they will arrive on King George Island and begin their magical journey on the Ocean Explorer, a state-of-the-art expedition ship designed specifically for the polar region with a capacity of 138 passengers.
On Ocean Explorer, comfort and safety are paramount: from the modern Nordic-style accommodations, gym, spa, outdoor jacuzzi, to the advanced vibration-reducing technology. And of course, Quark Expeditions’ team of polar experts will accompany you, providing insights into the wild nature at the end of the world.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ITINERARY
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Experience the fastest and most direct way to get to Antarctica.
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Let's raise a glass to celebrate crossing the Antarctic Circle (66°33' South) - a milestone only a few travelers in the world have ever reached.
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Meet the iconic inhabitants of Antarctica: penguins, seals, whales… in a majestic icescape.
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Take a Zodiac boat ride, wander among icebergs, or even challenge yourself with a “Polar Plunge” - jumping into icy waters.
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PROJECTED ITINERARY
- DAY 1: START YOUR JOURNEY
- DAY 2: ARRIVE IN PUNTA ARENAS, CHILE
- DAY 3: FLY TO KING GEORGE ISLAND AND BOARD THE SHIP
- DAY 4 - 6: ANTARCTIC PENINSULA AND SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS
- DAY 7 - 8: CROSSING THE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE
- DAY 9 - 10: RETURN TO THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
- DAY 11: DISMISSAL – FLIGHT TO PUNTA ARENAS
- DAY 12: END OF TOUR
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Clothing & Equipment: You will be given a Quark expedition parka and loaned a pair of specialized waterproof boots for the duration of the trip.
Aboard:
- Accommodation and daily housekeeping.
- All meals, snacks, soft drinks, juices, coffee and tea.
- Beer, wine and select cocktails during bar hours and dinner.
- Presentations by our team of experts.
- Basic Wi-Fi is free on board Ocean Explorer.
Activities: All Zodiac boat tours and daily scheduled shore landings.
Accommodation & Transportation:
- Round trip flights between Punta Arenas (Chile) and King George Island (Antarctica).
- Two nights hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas (one night before and one night after the trip) with breakfast.
- Group shuttle from hotel to airport in Punta Arenas prior to trip.
- Round trip airfare to/from King George Island.
- Introductory dinner in Punta Arenas on day 1.
- Formal and informal presentations are organized by the Explorers Team and guest speakers as scheduled.
- Photo diary of your journey.
- Group shuttle from airport to hotel in Punta Arenas after trip.
- 01 night hotel after the trip in Punta Arenas (with breakfast) and luggage storage service.
Others: All service taxes, port fees and baggage handling costs on board.
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NOT INCLUDED
Transportation & Documentation: International airfare to and from Punta Arenas, along with passport and visa costs.
Insurance: Travel insurance (including medical, cancellation, interruption) is required but not included in the tour price.
Personal Equipment: Waterproof pants are required for Zodiac boat trips but must be provided by yourself.
Personal expenses:
- Laundry, spa, and other personal expenses.
- Premium Wi-Fi packages (if you need higher speeds).
- Voluntary tips for expedition team and crew at the end of the trip.
Optional Activities: Additional chargeable adventure options such as kayaking are not included.
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DEPARTURE DATE
OCEAN EXPLORER
Departure Dates:
- January 9 – 19, 2026
- February 28 – March 10, 2026
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ESTIMATED COSTS
From VND 520,900,000 / guest (Twin / Double sharing)
PROJECTED ITINERARY
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DAY 1: START YOUR JOURNEY
- International flights to Punta Arenas, Chile
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DAY 2: ARRIVE IN PUNTA ARENAS, CHILE
Your journey begins in Punta Arenas, Chile, the most populous city in southern Patagonia. If you arrive early, you can visit so many museums, restaurants, and shops that you can spend days exploring.
In the early afternoon, passengers assemble in Punta Arenas, where a Quark Expeditions representative will meet you at the official departure hotel, complete final preparations such as receiving boots and parkas, weighing luggage, and attending a mandatory briefing to receive important safety and logistical information. -
DAY 3: FLY TO KING GEORGE ISLAND AND BOARD THE SHIP
Instead of spending two days crossing the turbulent Drake Passage, it only takes two hours to fly directly from Punta Arenas to Antarctica – the fastest and most comfortable way to set foot on the seventh continent.
The plane lands in the South Shetland Islands , offering the first glimpse of the majestic icy landscapes. Then, you travel by Zodiac boat to officially board the ship and begin your journey to explore the Antarctic Peninsula. -
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DAY 4 - 6: ANTARCTIC PENINSULA AND SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS
Set foot on the beach where thousands of adorable penguins live, listen to the sound of glaciers breaking or board a Zodiac boat to weave between giant icebergs in search of whales and seals – every moment is an unforgettable experience.
Every day brings a new adventure: trekking to a penguin breeding ground, searching for whales and seals, or enjoying the wilderness as giant icebergs collapse into the ocean.
Accompanying you is a team of world-leading experts, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the history, geology and wildlife of this majestic icy land .
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DAY 7 - 8: CROSSING THE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE
Reach 66°33' South – a landmark that few travelers in the world have ever set foot on. If conditions permit, you will toast to the first explorers who braved the farthest reaches of the Earth, and be proud that you have also completed this rare feat. This is Antarctica in its most pristine form: the realm of the midnight sun, home to Weddell seals, and where you have the best chance of encountering the giant icebergs that underpin the entire Antarctic marine ecosystem.
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DAY 9 - 10: RETURN TO THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
The ship heads back north along the west coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, providing more opportunities to explore the various bays, straits and landing points, as well as search for wildlife that may have been missed on the southbound journey.
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DAY 11: DISMISSAL – FLIGHT TO PUNTA ARENAS
After a week of exploring, passengers will disembark at King George Island and board a flight back to Punta Arenas. The evening is free to relax or explore the city again.
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DAY 12: END OF TOUR
After breakfast at the hotel, the program officially ends, passengers are free to arrange their next plans.
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