Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake
Enjoy a 2-hour flight before setting foot on the 7th Continent. This 8- to 11-day Antarctic air cruise aboard a selection of modern expedition ships flies above the Drake Passage before exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.
Time. Rough seas. There are many reasons to fly to Antarctica, skipping the customary sea crossing of the Drake Passage. This Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake cruise shaves up to 100 hours off your trip, flying directly from southern Chile to King George Island in the South Shetlands. This quick 3-hour flight crossing won’t reduce the scale of your adventure—you’ll first experience breathtaking aerial views then join the ship with camera ready to spot wildlife and ice while exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Beaches dotted with leopard seals and penguins give way to icy plateaus with snowcapped mountains looming behind. Cruise in a Zodiac in search of whales, search the skies for seabirds and perhaps paddle amongst blue icebergs.
In addition to the main Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake itinerary that cruises over 8 days, there are 9- and 10-day options that cruise one way, either beginning or ending in Ushuaia, Argentina. There is also a longer 11-day option that includes the opportunity to cross the Antarctic Circle. Two small ships operate the itineraries: the 138-passenger Ocean Explorer and 178-guest World Voyager. The classy ambience and unique wellness amenities of World Voyager makes her departures an excellent option among our luxury Antarctica cruises.
Each departure includes up-close exploration on guided hikes, shore walks and small craft excursions. Optional activities (additional cost) include kayaking, one-time paddling excursions and stand-up paddleboarding. Find yourself in near-constant sunlight, flying high above the legendary Drake Passage. Some believe sailing the Drake is a rite of passage, but others enjoy the smooth 3-hour flight before setting foot on the 7th Continent.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctic Circle Cruises, Antarctica cruises, trips to Antarctica, including even more Antarctica fly cruises.
Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake
The 8-day Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake voyage begins and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile, with a charter flight to and from King George Island where guests embark and disembark the cruise to Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands.
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 representative will meet you at the official starting point hotel, where you’ll pick up your expedition gear, enjoy a welcome dinner and be briefed about preparing for your embarkation day.
Your charter flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica will enable you to cross the legendary Drake Passage in only two hours, while 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 onto the South Shetland Islands. After landing, make your way to the shore, before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula.
There are few places in the world as evocative as Antarctica. The Antarctic Continent 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. Expert lecturers will also provide in-depth explanations of the geology, history and wildlife of the region, and presentations on photography to help you take memory-catching images
Even more exciting are the daily land excursions. Your first Zodiac landing is something you’ll never forget. Walking on a shore inhabited by thousands of penguins is the most intimate way to experience the unique wildlife of Antarctica. Each landing is different and is 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 penguins. 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 orcas in action, you’ll wake up early and welcome each day with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore during this unrivaled wilderness experience.. The expedition team will accompany you all along the way, providing insights into the places you visit.
After your week of exploration, say goodbye to your expedition team and disembark at King George Island. Your two-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, brings your adventure to an end. After your group transfer from the airport 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.
After breakfast, you are welcome to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.
Included
Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; complimentary select beer, wine and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner; complimentary basic WiFi; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by an experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by the expedition team and special guests as scheduled; a photographic journal documenting the expedition; waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; an official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard the ship; group transfer in Punta Arenas from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on Day 1; one night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas, with breakfast; a briefing dinner on Day 1 in Punta Arenas; pre-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas from the hotel to the airport; flights to and from Antarctica (King George Island); post-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas from the airport to the hotel; one night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas, with breakfast.
Exclusions
International airfare; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption, evacuation and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended; excess-baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, massage services, premium WiFi and other personal charges unless specified; phone charges; additional overnight accommodation; optional adventure activities; transfer from the hotel to the airport at the end of the expedition; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 150 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 25% of total trip cost
119 to 90 days – 75% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake adventure begins and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile, (PUQ). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Punta Arenas with enough time to check into the hotel by 1:00pm. An arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel on Day 1 is included, as are group transfers in conjunction with the charter flights to and from Antarctica. However, a departure transfer from the hotel to the Punta Arenas airport on the final day is not included. Plan flights to depart Punta Arenas anytime on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
The flight to Antarctica is expected to depart after breakfast from Punta Arenas for King George Island on Day 2 of the itinerary. Although the flight is scheduled to depart at 9:00am, there is significant variability based on weather conditions. Be prepared to depart the hotel for the airport on the group transfer at any time.
Upon arrival at Frei Base airfield on King George Island, travelers are required to walk approximately 1 mile to the vessel mooring (20-30 minutes). Checked luggage will be transferred to the vessel by staff. If you think that you will not be able to walk this distance, then please inform your Adventure Specialist.
There is a strict luggage limit of 33 lbs (15 kg) checked luggage (one bag) and 11 lbs (5 kg) cabin baggage (one bag) on the flights between Punta Arenas and King George Island. Should you have additional luggage, it can be stored at the hotel in Punta Arenas. There is no option to pay for additional luggage.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake cruise, for guests aged 16 and older. Per-person prices for the 2026-27 & 2027-28 seasons: kayaking $1,995; stand-up paddleboarding $295. One-time paddling excursions are available for $395 per person, per outing, for those who want something less in-depth than the full sea kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ocean Explorer: Grand & Royal Veranda Stateroom; Studio Veranda Single; Explorer, Junior & Owner’s Suite
World Voyager: Superior Suite, Deluxe Suite & Owner’s Suite
Families & Children
At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 9 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times and may not participate in adventure options.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of your participation in this expedition that you shall have comprehensive medical insurance in place which is sufficient to cover all medical risks and exposure, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flights to and from Antarctica operate based on weather conditions. While historically only a minority of flights have experienced a delay, be prepared for that possibility by reading this trip’s Contingency Plan. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Contingency Plan
In the unlikely event that the flight to Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavorable weather conditions, a Contingency Plan, included in the cost of your expedition, will apply. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience while adapting to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or return back to Punta Arenas, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers financial protection by providing an opportunity to rebook or a refund should weather conditions prevent you from reaching Antarctica. Please read the full Contingency Plan and contact your Adventure Specialist for further clarification.
Antarctic Express: Fly South, Sail North Itinerary
The 9-day Antarctic Express: Fly South, Sail North voyage begins with a charter flight from Punta Arenas, Chile to King George Island, and ends by cruising to disembark in Ushuaia, Argentina.
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 ship 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.
Your charter flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica will enable you to cross the legendary Drake Passage in only two hours, while far below, the ship will approach King George Island for your arrival. Your first glimpse of dramatic Antarctic landscapes is from a unique perspective, as your plane descends for landing in the South Shetland Islands. After landing, make your way to the shore before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula.
There are few places in the world as evocative as Antarctica. The Antarctic Continent 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. The onboard team of expert presenters will deepen your experience with explanations of the glaciology, history and wildlife of the region, and presentations on photography to help you take memory-catching images.
Even more exciting are your daily excursions. Your first Zodiac landing is something you’ll never forget. Walking on a shore inhabited by thousands of penguins is the most intimate way to experience the unique wildlife of Antarctica. Each landing is different and is 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 Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap penguins. 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 orcas in action, you’ll wake up early and welcome each day with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore during this unrivaled wilderness experience. The expedition team will accompany you all along the way, providing insights into the places you visit.
A rite of passage for any Antarctic adventurer, crossing the Drake signals the end of your journey. No matter the sea conditions, you will benefit from having developed your sea legs over the course of the previous 4 days.
While the journey home has begun, your wildlife spotting continues. The expedition team will be available on
deck and on the ship’s bridge to help you spot the majestic wandering albatross and a number of whale species, such as minke and humpback. When you’re not looking at photos and reminiscing about the previous days, the expedition team will conclude their series of engaging presentations on subjects such as marine biology, polar history and glaciology.
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, after which you can continue your onward journey, or catch your flights home.
Included
Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; complimentary select beer, wine and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner; complimentary basic WiFi; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by an experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by the expedition team and special guests as scheduled; a photographic journal documenting the expedition; waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; an official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard the ship; group transfer in Punta Arenas from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on Day 1; one night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas, with breakfast; a briefing dinner on Day 1 in Punta Arenas; group transfer from hotel to airport on embarkation day; flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica (King George Island); post-expedition group transfer in Ushuaia from the ship to the hotel; one night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia, with breakfast.
Exclusions
International airfare; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption, evacuation and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended; excess-baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, massage services, premium WiFi and other personal charges unless specified; phone charges; additional overnight accommodation; optional adventure activities; transfer from the hotel to the airport at the end of the expedition; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 150 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 25% of total trip cost
119 to 90 days – 75% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The 9-day Antarctic Express: Fly South, Sail North voyage begins in Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ), and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Punta Arenas with enough time to check into the hotel by 1:00pm. An arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel on Day 1 is included, as are group transfers on embarkation and disembarkation days. Plan flights to depart Ushuaia anytime on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
The flight to Antarctica (Punta Arenas to King George Island) is expected to depart after breakfast on Day 2 of the itinerary. There is significant variability based on weather conditions. Be prepared to depart the hotel for the airport on the group transfer at any time.
Upon arrival at Frei Base airfield on King George Island, be transferred by bus that will take you approximately 1 mile to the beach. Checked luggage will be transferred to the vessel by staff. There is a strict luggage limit of 33 lbs (15 kg) checked luggage (one bag) and 11 lbs (5 kg) cabin baggage (one bag) on the flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island. There is no option to store excess luggage as you’ll embark and disembark in different cities/countries. There is no option to pay for additional luggage.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your 9-day Antarctic Express: Fly South, Sail North voyage, for guests aged 16 and older. Per-person prices for the 2026-27 & 2027-28 season: kayaking $1,995. One-time paddling excursions are available for $395 per person, per outing, for those who want something less in-depth than the full sea kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ocean Explorer: Grand & Royal Veranda Stateroom; Studio Veranda Single; Explorer, Junior & Owner’s Suite
Families & Children
At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 9 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times and may not participate in adventure options.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of your participation in this expedition that you shall have comprehensive medical insurance in place which is sufficient to cover all medical risks and exposure, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flights to and from Antarctica operate based on weather conditions. While historically only a minority of flights have experienced a delay, be prepared for that possibility by reading this trip’s Contingency Plan. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Contingency Plan
In the unlikely event that the flight to or from Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavorable weather conditions, a Contingency Plan, included in the cost of your expedition, will apply. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience while adapting to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or return back to Punta Arenas, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers financial protection by providing an opportunity to rebook or a refund should weather conditions prevent you from reaching Antarctica. Please read the full Contingency Plan and contact your Adventure Specialist for further clarification.
Antarctic Express: Fly South, Sail North via Buenos Aires Itinerary
The 9-day Antarctic Express: Fly South, Sail North via Buenos Aires voyage begins with a charter flight from Punta Arenas, Chile to King George Island, then cruises back to disembark in Ushuaia, Argentina, ending with a flight to Buenos Aires.
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 ship 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.
Your charter flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica will enable you to cross the legendary Drake Passage in only two hours, while far below, the ship will approach King George Island for your arrival. Your first glimpse of dramatic Antarctic landscapes is from a unique perspective, as your plane descends for landing in the South Shetland Islands. After landing, make your way to the shore before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula.
There are few places in the world as evocative as Antarctica. The Antarctic Continent 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. The onboard team of expert presenters will deepen your experience with explanations of the glaciology, history and wildlife of the region, and presentations on photography to help you take memory-catching images.
Even more exciting are your daily excursions. Your first Zodiac landing is something you’ll never forget. Walking on a shore inhabited by thousands of penguins is the most intimate way to experience the unique wildlife of Antarctica. Each landing is different and is 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 Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap penguins. 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 orcas in action, you’ll wake up early and welcome each day with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore during this unrivaled wilderness experience. The expedition team will accompany you all along the way, providing insights into the places you visit.
A rite of passage for any Antarctic adventurer, crossing the Drake signals the end of your journey. No matter the sea conditions, you will benefit from having developed your sea legs over the course of the previous 4 days.
While the journey home has begun, your wildlife spotting continues. The expedition team will be available on
deck and on the ship’s bridge to help you spot the majestic wandering albatross and a number of whale species, such as minke and humpback. When you’re not looking at photos and reminiscing about the previous days, the expedition team will conclude their series of engaging presentations on subjects such as marine biology, polar history and glaciology.
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. You will then make your way towards your group charter flight to Buenos Aires.
Included
Charter & Hotel Package (approximate package price is $595 for the 2026-27 & 2027-28 season and includes a charter flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires); shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; complimentary select beer, wine and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner; complimentary basic WiFi; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by an experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by the expedition team and special guests as scheduled; a photographic journal documenting the expedition; waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; an official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard the ship; group transfer in Punta Arenas from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on Day 1; one night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas, with breakfast; a briefing dinner on Day 1 in Punta Arenas; group transfer from hotel to airport on embarkation day; flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica (King George Island); post-expedition group transfer in Ushuaia from the ship to the hotel; one night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia, with breakfast.
Exclusions
International airfare; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption, evacuation and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended; excess-baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, massage services, premium WiFi and other personal charges unless specified; phone charges; additional overnight accommodation; optional adventure activities; transfer from the hotel to the airport at the end of the expedition; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 150 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 25% of total trip cost
119 to 90 days – 75% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The 9-day Antarctic Express: Fly South, Sail North via Buenos Aires voyage begins in Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ), and ends in Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Punta Arenas with enough time to check into the hotel by 1:00pm. An arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel on Day 1 is included, as are group transfers on embarkation and disembarkation days. Arrange your own independent transfer (if needed) once in Buenos Aires. Plan flights to depart Buenos Aires no earlier than 9:00pm (EZE) on disembarkation day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
The flight to Antarctica (Punta Arenas to King George Island) is expected to depart after breakfast on Day 2 of the itinerary. There is significant variability based on weather conditions. Be prepared to depart the hotel for the airport on the group transfer at any time. Upon arrival at Frei Base airfield on King George Island, be transferred by bus that will take you approximately 1 mile to the beach. Checked luggage will be transferred to the vessel by staff.
A group charter flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires is required on this trip’s itinerary; see the Charter Flight & Hotel Package information listed above under Inclusions. There is a strict luggage limit of 33 lbs (15 kg) checked luggage (one bag) and 11 lbs (5 kg) cabin baggage (one bag) on the flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, and from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires. There is no option to store excess luggage as you’ll embark and disembark in different cities/countries. There is no option to pay for additional luggage.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your 9-day Antarctic Express: Fly South, Sail North via Buenos Aires voyage, for guests aged 16 and older. Per-person prices for the 2026-27 & 2027-28 season: kayaking $1,995; stand-up paddleboarding $295. One-time paddling excursions are available for $395 per person, per outing, for those who want something less in-depth than the full sea kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
World Voyager: Superior Suite, Deluxe Suite & Owner’s Suite
Families & Children
At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 9 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times and may not participate in adventure options.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of your participation in this expedition that you shall have comprehensive medical insurance in place which is sufficient to cover all medical risks and exposure, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flights to and from Antarctica operate based on weather conditions. While historically only a minority of flights have experienced a delay, be prepared for that possibility by reading this trip’s Contingency Plan. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Contingency Plan
In the unlikely event that the flight to or from Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavorable weather conditions, a Contingency Plan, included in the cost of your expedition, will apply. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience while adapting to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or return back to Punta Arenas, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers financial protection by providing an opportunity to rebook or a refund should weather conditions prevent you from reaching Antarctica. Please read the full Contingency Plan and contact your Adventure Specialist for further clarification.
Antarctic Express: Sail South, Fly North Itinerary
The 10-day Antarctic Express: Sail South, Fly North voyage begins in Ushuaia, Argentina, and ends with a charter flight from King George Island to Punta Arenas, Chile.
You may arrive in Ushuaia at any time on Day 1. Many guests choose to arrive a day or two before embarkation day to explore this quaint port city at the bottom of South America, and the surrounding region. Based on the arrival information you send in advance, a transfer from the airport to your hotel will be pre-arranged.
On the morning of Day 2, your luggage will be collected from the hotel lobby and transferred to your cabin on the ship. Guests will meet at a designated location near the pier, usually about 4:00pm, and board the waiting buses for transfer to the ship. After a late afternoon embarkation, you will sail along the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Excitement builds in anticipation of your next stop: The Antarctic.
Legendary for its high winds and rolling seas, you may get lucky and have surprisingly calm seas through the Drake Passage. Spend your time in the lounge or chatting with your fellow travelers. As you develop your sea legs during the crossing, the expedition team will begin their series of presentations to help prepare you for your upcoming Zodiac and land excursions. You officially enter Antarctica when your ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence, a biological boundary that fluctuates around 60° south.
The most common reaction upon reaching the 7th Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience.
Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore glaciated bays, channels and landing sites. Your expedition team will take care of you at each landing, whether you are hiking the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or observing chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins, all of which can be found here. Keep an eye out for Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals as well as curious whales, such as humpbacks, minkes, or perhaps orcas while on a Zodiac cruise.
Each excursion will present a new array of creatures to fascinate you and keep your camera busy. Amid the serene silence of Antarctica, noisy interludes become indelible memories, such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, or the boom and crack of a calving glacier. Every day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your expedition team to inspire and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.
With only the Drake Passage ahead, you’ll disembark on King George Island before flying to Punta Arenas, Chile. Once you’re in Punta Arenas, be transferred from the airport to your hotel, where you’re free to explore and enjoy a final dinner on your own, before your homeward journey.
After breakfast, you are free to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.
Included
Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; complimentary select beer, wine and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner; complimentary basic WiFi; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by an experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by the expedition team and special guests as scheduled; a photographic journal documenting the expedition; waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; an official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard the ship; group transfer in Ushuaia from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on Day 1; one night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia, with breakfast; group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day; flight from Antarctica (King George Island) to Punta Arenas; post-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas from the airport to the hotel; one night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas, with breakfast.
Exclusions
International airfare; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption, evacuation and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended; excess-baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, massage services, premium WiFi and other personal charges unless specified; phone charges; additional overnight accommodation; optional adventure activities; transfer from the hotel to the airport at the end of the expedition; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 150 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 25% of total trip cost
119 to 90 days – 75% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Antarctic Express: Sail South, Fly North voyage begins in Ushuaia, Argentina (USH), and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Ushuaia at any time on Day 1. If arriving on Day 1, a group arrival transfer from the Ushuaia airport to the group hotel is included and a ship representative will be available to answer questions in the lobby during the optional pre-departure briefing on Day 1, at 6:00pm.
An arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel on Day 1 is included, as are group transfers on embarkation and disembarkation days. However, a departure transfer from the hotel to the Punta Arenas airport on the final day is not included. Plan flights to depart Punta Arenas anytime on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
The flight from Antarctica (King George Island to Punta Arenas) is expected to depart following ship disembarkation in the late morning on Day 9 of the itinerary. There is significant variability based on weather conditions. Be prepared to arrive into Punta Arenas at any time.
Upon disembarkation at Frei Base airfield on King George Island, be met at the beach by a transfer bus that will take you approximately 1 mile to heated comfortable pre-boarding lounges before boarding your flight. Checked luggage will be transferred from the vessel by staff. There is a strict luggage limit of 33 lbs (15 kg) checked luggage (one bag) and 11 lbs (5 kg) cabin baggage (one bag) on the flight from King George Island to Punta Arenas. There is no option to store excess luggage as you’ll embark and disembark in different cities/countries. There is no option to pay for additional luggage.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your Antarctic Express: Sail South, Fly North voyage, for guests aged 16 and older. Per-person prices for the 2026-27 season: kayaking $1,995; stand-up paddleboarding $295 (2027-28 only). One-time paddling excursions are available for $395 per person, per outing, for those who want something less in-depth than the full sea kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ocean Explorer: Grand & Royal Veranda Stateroom; Studio Veranda Single; Explorer, Junior & Owner’s Suite
Families & Children
At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 9 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times and may not participate in adventure options.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of your participation in this expedition that you shall have comprehensive medical insurance in place which is sufficient to cover all medical risks and exposure, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flights to and from Antarctica operate based on weather conditions. While historically only a minority of flights have experienced a delay, be prepared for that possibility by reading this trip’s Contingency Plan. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Contingency Plan
In the unlikely event that the flight to or from Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavorable weather conditions, a Contingency Plan, included in the cost of your expedition, will apply. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience while adapting to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or return back to Punta Arenas, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers financial protection by providing an opportunity to rebook or a refund should weather conditions prevent you from reaching Antarctica. Please read the full Contingency Plan and contact your Adventure Specialist for further clarification.
Antarctic Express: Sail South, Fly North via Buenos Aires Itinerary
The 10-day Antarctic Express: Sail South, Fly North via Buenos Aires voyage begins in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with a charter flight to embark in Ushuaia and a charter flight from King George Island to end in Punta Arenas, Chile.
Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, make your way to the included group hotel, which is part of your Charter Flight &
Hotel Package. A presentation room will be open from 12:00pm Noon to 8:00pm for luggage weighing and tagging. A ship representative will be available to answer your questions and give information about the next day’s flight and ship embarkation. After an early breakfast the following morning, your group will transfer to the airport and board your private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world.
Your Charter Flight & Hotel Package will provide you with some free time to explore this quaint port town at the bottom of South America. Steeped in marine history, this walkable Argentine city has plenty of museums, galleries and historic sites to visit quite easily. Transfer with the group to the ship for embarkation around 4:00pm.
Legendary for its high winds and rolling seas, you may get lucky and have surprisingly calm seas through the Drake Passage. Spend your time in the lounge or chatting with your fellow travelers. As you develop your sea legs during the crossing, the expedition team will begin their series of presentations to help prepare you for your upcoming Zodiac and land excursions. You officially enter Antarctica when your ship crosses the Antarctic Convergence, a biological boundary that fluctuates around 60° south.
The most common reaction upon reaching the 7th Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience.
Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore glaciated bays, channels and landing sites. Your expedition team will take care of you at each landing, whether you are hiking the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or observing chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins, all of which can be found here. Keep an eye out for Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals as well as curious whales, such as humpbacks, minkes, or perhaps orcas while on a Zodiac cruise.
Each excursion will present a new array of creatures to fascinate you and keep your camera busy. Amid the serene silence of Antarctica, noisy interludes become indelible memories, such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, or the boom and crack of a calving glacier. Every day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your expedition team to inspire and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.
With only the Drake Passage ahead, you’ll disembark on King George Island before flying to Punta Arenas, Chile. Once you’re in Punta Arenas, be transferred from the airport to your hotel, where you’re free to explore and enjoy a final dinner on your own, before your homeward journey.
After breakfast, you are free to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.
Included
Charter & Hotel Package (approximate package price is $795 for the 2026-27 & 2027-28 season and includes one night’s pre-expedition hotel night in Buenos Aires with breakfast on Day 2, group transfer from hotel to airport in Buenos Aires, charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, and arrival transfer in Ushuaia); shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; complimentary select beer, wine and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner; complimentary basic WiFi; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by an experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by the expedition team and special guests as scheduled; a photographic journal documenting the expedition; waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; an official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard the ship; group transfer in Ushuaia from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on Day 1; one night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia, with breakfast; group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day; flight from Antarctica (King George Island) to Punta Arenas; post-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas from the airport to the hotel; one night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas, with breakfast.
Exclusions
International airfare; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption, evacuation and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended; excess-baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, massage services, premium WiFi and other personal charges unless specified; phone charges; additional overnight accommodation; optional adventure activities; transfer from the hotel to the airport at the end of the expedition; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 150 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 25% of total trip cost
119 to 90 days – 75% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The 10-day Antarctic Express: Sail South, Fly North via Buenos Aires cruise begins in Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE), and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Buenos Aires ahead of the 12:00-8:00pm window for luggage weighing and tagging on Day 1. Arrange your own independent transfer to the included Buenos Aires hotel on Day 1. On disembarkation day, a group transfer from the airport to the hotel in Punta Arenas is included. However, a departure transfer from the hotel to the Punta Arenas airport on the final day is not included. Plan flights to depart Punta Arenas anytime on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
A group charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia is required on this trip’s itinerary; see the Charter Flight & Hotel Package information listed above under Inclusions. The flight to Ushuaia is expected to depart early on Day 2 of the itinerary. There is a strict luggage limit of 33 lbs (15 kg) checked luggage (one bag) and 11 lbs (5 kg) cabin baggage (one bag) on the flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, and from King George Island to Punta Arenas. There is no option to store excess luggage as you’ll embark and disembark in different cities/countries. There is no option to pay for additional luggage.
The flight from Antarctica (King George Island to Punta Arenas) is expected to depart following ship disembarkation in the late morning on Day 9 of the itinerary. There is significant variability based on weather conditions. Be prepared to arrive into Punta Arenas at any time. Upon disembarkation at Frei Base airfield on King George Island, be met at the beach by a transfer bus that will take you approximately 1 mile to heated comfortable pre-boarding lounges before boarding your flight. Checked luggage will be transferred from the vessel by staff.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your 10-day Antarctic Express: Sail South, Fly North via Buenos Aires cruise, for guests aged 16 and older. Per-person prices for the 2026-27 & 2027-28 season: kayaking $1,995; stand-up paddleboarding $295. One-time paddling excursions are available for $395 per person, per outing, for those who want something less in-depth than the full sea kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
World Voyager: Superior Suite, Deluxe Suite & Owner’s Suite
Families & Children
At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 9 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times and may not participate in adventure options.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of your participation in this expedition that you shall have comprehensive medical insurance in place which is sufficient to cover all medical risks and exposure, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flights to and from Antarctica operate based on weather conditions. While historically only a minority of flights have experienced a delay, be prepared for that possibility by reading this trip’s Contingency Plan. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Contingency Plan
In the unlikely event that the flight to or from Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavorable weather conditions, a Contingency Plan, included in the cost of your expedition, will apply. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience while adapting to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or return back to Punta Arenas, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers financial protection by providing an opportunity to rebook or a refund should weather conditions prevent you from reaching Antarctica. Please read the full Contingency Plan and contact your Adventure Specialist for further clarification.
Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle
The 11-day Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle adventure begins and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile, with a charter flight to Antarctica and the opportunity to cross the Antarctic Circle.
The adventure begins in Punta Arenas, Chile, the most populated city in southern Patagonia. Those who arrive early may visit the many museums, restaurants and shops in town. By early afternoon, meet a representative at the official starting point hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner and be briefed about preparing for embarkation day.
The charter flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica crosses the legendary Drake Passage in only a few hours. Far below, the ship approaches King George Island. The first glimpse of dramatic Antarctic landscapes is from a unique perspective, as the plane descends for landing in the South Shetland Islands. After landing, stretch your legs with a one-mile walk to the shore, before being transferred by Zodiac to the ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula.
There are few places in the world as evocative as Antarctica. The Antarctic Continent is indescribable and can only be fully appreciated through your own eyes. Even more exciting are the land excursions. The 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. It won’t be long before you can tell the difference between an Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap penguin. Perhaps 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, 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. This expert education team will also provide in-depth explanations of the glaciology, history and wildlife of the region.
Crossing the Antarctic Circle is both a memorable experience and impressive achievement, as few travelers reach so far south. If conditions allow to cross this famed latitude of 66°33´ S, 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 foundation of the Antarctic marine ecosystem.
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. Continue to explore by Zodiac or on land while traveling north along the western Antarctic Peninsula. The expedition team is always be on the lookout for species of seabirds, seals and whales.
After a week of exploration, say goodbye to the expedition team and disembark at King George Island. The two-and-a-half-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, brings the adventure to an end. After a group transfer to the hotel, feel free to explore and enjoy an evening at leisure in the city or at the hotel to reminisce about the sights and sounds of Antarctica.
After breakfast, continue on your travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.
Included
Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping; all meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board; complimentary select beer, wine and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner; complimentary basic WiFi; coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock; all shore landings per the daily program; leadership throughout the voyage by an experienced expedition leader; all Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program; formal and informal presentations by the expedition team and special guests as scheduled; a photographic journal documenting the expedition; waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings; an official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep; hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin; all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; all luggage handling aboard the ship; group transfer in Punta Arenas from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on Day 1; one night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas, with breakfast; a briefing dinner on day 1 in Punta Arenas; pre-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas from the hotel to the airport; flights to and from Antarctica (King George Island); post-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas from the airport to the hotel; one night’s post-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas, with breakfast.
Exclusions
International airfare; passport and visa expenses; government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above; meals ashore unless otherwise specified; baggage, cancellation, interruption, evacuation and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended; excess-baggage fees on international flights; mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned; laundry, bar, massage services, premium WiFi and other personal charges unless specified; phone charges; additional overnight accommodation; optional adventure activities; transfer from the hotel to the airport at the end of the expedition; voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew; arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 150 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 25% of total trip cost
119 to 90 days – 75% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle fly adventure begins and ends in Punta Arenas, Chile, (PUQ). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Punta Arenas with enough time to check into the hotel by 3:00pm and attend a 6:00pm meeting on Day 1. An arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel on day 1 is included, as are group transfers in conjunction with the charter flights to and from Antarctica. However, a departure transfer from the hotel to the Punta Arenas airport on the final day is not included. Plan flights to depart Punta Arenas anytime on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
The flight to Antarctica is expected to depart after breakfast from Punta Arenas for King George Island on Day 2 of the itinerary. Although the flight is scheduled to depart at 9:00am, there is significant variability based on weather conditions. Be prepared to depart the hotel for the airport on the group transfer at any time.
Upon arrival at Frei Base airfield on King George Island, travelers are required to walk approximately 1 mile to the vessel mooring (20-30 minutes). Checked luggage will be transferred to the vessel by staff. If you think that you will not be able to walk this distance, then please inform your Adventure Specialist.
There is a strict luggage limit of 33 lbs (15 kg) checked luggage (one bag) and 11 lbs (5 kg) cabin baggage (one bag) on the flights between Punta Arenas and King George Island. Should you have additional luggage, it can be stored at the hotel in Punta Arenas. There is no option to pay for additional luggage.
Activities
Various optional activities may be available on your Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle cruise, for guests aged 16 and older. Per-person prices for the 2026-27 & 2027-28 seasons: kayaking $1,995; stand-up paddleboarding $295 (2027-28 only). One-time paddling excursions are available for $395 per person, per outing, for those who want something less in-depth than the full sea kayaking program; no experience is necessary. Each departure’s first paddling excursion may be pre-booked and all subsequent outings are booked on the ship. Please contact AdventureSmith to reserve activity space with your booking.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x (2x for Premium cabins) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability. Premium Cabins are as follows:
Ocean Explorer: Grand & Royal Veranda Stateroom; Studio Veranda Single; Explorer, Junior & Owner’s Suite
World Voyager: Superior Suite, Deluxe Suite & Owner’s Suite
Families & Children
At date of embarkation, a minimum age restriction of 9 years and minimum height and weight requirements (weight of 64lbs or 29kg and 48 in. or 1.2 m. tall) must be met. Children under 16 years of age must be supervised by a parent/guardian at all times and may not participate in adventure options.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of your participation in this expedition that you shall have comprehensive medical insurance in place which is sufficient to cover all medical risks and exposure, including emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flights to and from Antarctica operate based on weather conditions. While historically only a minority of flights have experienced a delay, be prepared for that possibility by reading this trip’s Contingency Plan. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Antarctica expedition. Visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Contingency Plan
In the unlikely event that the flight to Antarctica cannot take place on the scheduled day due to unfavorable weather conditions, a Contingency Plan, included in the cost of your expedition, will apply. The primary goal of the plan is to provide an engaging and comfortable travel experience while adapting to the weather. A change in the flight schedule can impact travel to Antarctica or return back to Punta Arenas, and the plan includes a range of activities determined by the circumstances. Additionally, the Contingency Plan offers financial protection by providing an opportunity to rebook or a refund should weather conditions prevent you from reaching Antarctica. Please read the full Contingency Plan and contact your Adventure Specialist for further clarification.
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The 138-passenger Ocean Explorer cruise ship is the smallest ship offered by Quark Expeditions. Arctic and Antarctic travelers choosing Ocean Explorer are treated to a modern and refined atmosphere, excellent sightlines and outdoor access, top-notch guides, and smooth sailing due to the ship's inverted bow. The Ocean Explorer ship was built in 2021 by Ulstein; she's part of the SunStone Infinity series and launched in Antarctic waters in late 2024.
Ocean Explorer Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Ocean Explorer review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our experts have been aboard nearly every small expedition ship in the polar regions. Please read our Ocean Explorer ship review below then contact our polar cruise experts to compare the Ocean Explorer with Antarctica ships and expedition ships that offer Antarctica cruises, Arctic cruises, northern lights cruises, Iceland cruises, Greenland small ship cruises, Spitsbergen & Svalbard cruises, Canada cruises and small ship cruises in northern Europe.
Choose the Ocean Explorer for her superior comfort and modern feel. With a leading ice class rating and inverted Ulstein X-Bow, the Ocean Explorer offers a smoother ride and faster transits. Nearly every cabin offers a walkout balcony, with various solo traveler options. Add top-trained, loyal guides, thoughtful amenities and sweeping sightlines with views directly into the sea, and Ocean Explorer becomes a leader in polar vessels.
Design, Sustainability & Accessibility
For guest comfort and aesthetics, Ocean Explorer offers bespoke Scandinavian interiors with grand fixtures and luxe furnishings throughout. Spaces blend the outdoors with the indoors via features including floor-to-ceiling glass library walls. The ship's ample observation decks create opportunities for photographs with a variety of vantages, plus increased opportunities to capture wildlife on the move. An elevator accesses all decks of the ship, however accessible cabins are not available.
Ocean Explorer's Micro Auto Gasification System incinerates waste that then creates stored energy for use on board, making her a leader in state-of-the-art waste handling. Her X-Bow increases efficiency while underway, reducing fuel consumption. Rolls Royce zero-speed stabilizers help ensure smooth sailing and steadiness when at rest. Finally, Ocean Explorer's Safe Return to Port system maintains power even in cases of engine failure.
Onboard Facilities
The Ocean Explorer cruise ship offers upscale, inviting spaces and amenities aimed at ultimate guest comfort in demanding polar climates. The ship touts unbelievable viewing areas, including a dramatic two-story forward lounge and the well-stocked library's floor-to-ceiling glass refuge, with views straight down into the sea. Complimentary basic WiFi is offered throughout the ship, with a premium option available. Finally, a medical clinic offers peace of mind during remote polar travel.
Lecture Theater & Observation Decks
The Explorer Lecture Lounge seats all guests at the same time, for informative talks on polar wildlife, history, geology and more. With TVs strategically placed around the room and clean sightlines, every guest is guaranteed a front-row seat.
Ocean Explorer's Deck 8 features 360-degree opportunities to view and photograph passing wildlife and scenery, away from sea spray; an interior Observation Lounge (seating 63 guests at a time) adds a heated space from which to soak in the ship's surrounds. And Deck 7 features a special forward-facing Observation Deck, just below the Bridge (guests can also enjoy the open Bridge policy for sheltered forward viewing on Deck 7).
Dining & Bars
The Ocean Explorer cruise ship offers her guests numerous daily dining options. The Main Dining Room seats up to 144 guests at a time for buffet-style breakfast and lunch, in a modern, bright, stylish setting. This dining room also features a nightly 5-course dinner, for an elegant 3-hour affair. For groups, a private dining room accommodates up to 36 guests with buffet-style service; reserve on board (no additional fee).
Deck 8's Compass Restaurant (the Observation Bistro) provides a streamlined alternative to the full-course dinner in the Main Dining Room. Buffet-style options enable guests to eat a lighter meal, or save time for relaxing. Seating is unassigned for all meals in all dining areas.
Ocean Explorer features two bars: the al fresco Sun Deck Bar and the lecture-lounge-adjacent Latitude Bar (the latter seating up to 46 guests at once). Enjoy lush sofas and chairs, faux marble-topped tables and a convivial atmosphere.
Jacuzzis, Sauna & Gym
A dry sauna (accommodating up to 15 guests at a time) and two upper deck, outdoor Jacuzzis invite guests to unwind after an exciting day exploring in the polar wilds. A fitness center ensures guests can maintain routines, with machines such as treadmills, a spin bike and an elliptical machine—all beside floor-to-ceiling windows for wildlife sighting.
Library
The onboard Library accommodates up to 47 guests with comfortable seating, accent lighting, view windows and reference materials. The Ocean Explorer ship's library seamlessly transitions into the 2-story glass atrium for forward viewing off the bow.
Mudroom
Ocean Explorer's Deck 3 Mudroom optimizes the process for polar excursions. Each guest is assigned an open storage locker for life jackets, coats, and waterproof pants and boots throughout the voyage. With thoughtful locker assignments and ample benches, no one is cramped while preparing or ending an off-ship excursion.
Activities & Expeditions
For expedition operations, 15 Zodiacs deployed via four separate sea-level embarkation points get guests out into the environment faster. Also on board are 16 sea kayaks for long outings, 16 inflatable kayaks for one-time paddle excursions, 16 stand-up paddleboards, full dry suits, gloves and life jackets, plus camping gear.
Crew, Guides & Expedition Leaders
The 105 crew members aboard work to ensure a seamless guest experience, where lifelong memories are made. And the 22-26 onboard Quark Expeditions guides (some with over 20 years of experience) are eager to base their expeditions from this purpose-built, comfortable small ship. These elite guides are trained above and beyond every standard imaginable for safety and preparedness in the Polar Regions. Guests' experience on board the Ocean Explorer ship will be enriched by lectures and interactions with professionals from various knowledge bases: paddle guides, photography guides, geologists, ornithologists, historians, penguin scientists, marine biologists and other experts relevant to each specific polar destination.
Cabins & Ocean Explorer Deck Plan
With 8 cabin categories (Junior Suite becomes Triple Suite starting late 2026), Ocean Explorer offers the optimal space for every polar traveler. Each luxurious cabin features calm polar tones, plenty of space (meaning reduced noise from neighbors), and a private bathroom with shower, hair dryer, vanity, bathrobes, slippers and heated floors. Most cabins feature a balcony for outdoor viewing. And all cabins offer seating, a desk and chair, minifridge and modern infotainment system. Some 41 (47 in late 2026) cabins offer a sofa bed that can accommodate triple occupancy for families or three adults.
Come aboard the 168-guest World Voyager cruise ship for a well-rounded polar expedition. Savor upscale cuisine and sleek spaces bathed in light. Enjoy unobstructed views from various lounges and outdoor observation decks. Relax in her spacious sauna, steam room and spa beds. Take advantage of onboard activity gear for camping and paddling. And delight in citizen science opportunities and interactions with traveling researchers in World Voyager's Science Hub.
World Voyager Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ World Voyager review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our experts have been aboard nearly every small expedition ship in the polar regions. Please read our World Voyager ship review then contact our polar cruise experts to compare the World Voyager with Antarctica ships and expedition ships that offer Antarctica cruises and luxury Antarctica cruise amenities.
Choose the World Voyager for her all-suite, all-balcony cabin options, plus her Science & Discovery program, substantial wellness amenities and classy ambiance. This polar expedition ship is equal parts polished, relaxing, adventure-minded and nerdy, offering a voyage of the utmost comfort, intellect and polar immersion.
Design, Sustainability & Accessibility
The World Voyager cruise ship offers not only a comfortable ride but also one you can feel good about. She improves upon her predecessor ship World Explorer with even better sustainability-minded tech. She is equipped with the industry-leading Micro Auto Gasification System, which converts waste into recycled onboard energy. And her two hybrid-electric Rolls Royce engines keep fuel consumption down, while also offering a smooth ride. Additionally, two elevators access all decks, helping ease movement around this spacious 8-deck ship.
Onboard Facilities
Every aspect of an incredible expedition cruise is accounted for on this ship. Like World Explorer, her 6 passenger decks offer opportunities to get active, relax with fellow guests, take in educational lectures and breathe in the invigorating polar air. Add a medical clinic, plenty of public restrooms, and panoramic views throughout the ship, and it's clear the World voyager is ideally suited for polar expedition cruising.
Lecture Theater & Observation Decks
The lecture theater on Deck 4 offers seating for the entire passenger complement, with regular presentations and/or films on offer. Moving up the ship, commanding views of the surrounding polar wilds can be accessed everywhere, with a few standout locations.
The bow of Deck 5 reveals 180-degree views from its exterior deck. Deck 6 has an open bridge with special wings that jut out beyond the walls of the ship. Deck 7's Observation Lounge features wraparound views (including a skylight) and another forward-facing outdoor deck. And Deck 8 has an oval track perfect for a walk or run amongst stunning scenery.
Dining & Bars
Deck 4 plays host to a variety of social areas aboard the World Voyager cruise ship. Anchoring every day is the onboard restaurant, with an elegant feel but casual approach, including unassigned seating and enough room for all guests to dine at the same time. Meals are international in flavor, with classic dishes on offer daily, alongside a rotating list of options. While al fresco seating is available at the aft of the dining room, it is typically reserved for warmer climates. For drinks and snacks with a view, the Deck 7 Observation Lounge is a great choice.
Pool, Jacuzzis, Sauna, Steam Room & Gym
The World Voyager cruise ship sets herself apart with her variety of wellness amenities, all accessible to every passenger (not just those who opt for a treatment). The World Voyager offers a spa that outsizes that of her predecessor ship, World Explorer.
Relax knowing you won't miss any wildlife through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the spacious sauna and its adjoining relaxation lounge with steam room. These starboard spaces complement the port-side gym with its glass walls and modern equipment. Uncommon among polar ships is the World Voyager's heated outdoor pool, complete with two Jacuzzis and protected lounge chairs (available when weather and seas allow).
Science Hub
The Science Hub brings together guides, travelers and researchers for engaging collaboration. This space provides opportunities to participate in citizen-science-minded data collection and reporting, while also offering the tools needed by researchers conducting experiments aboard. On select departures, guests can interact with scientists thanks to a partnership whereby operator Quark Expeditions provides berths to researchers.
Ready Room
Deck 3's Ready Room is a space to gear up for adventure, plus store parkas, boots and other items needed for off-ship activities. Rows of assigned open lockers and benches are adjacent to Zodiac access points. This space allows guests to keep their suite uncluttered, and is strategically managed for efficient embarkation and disembarkation during daily off-ship activities.
Activities & Expeditions
The World Voyager is just as adventurous as she is refined. She carries a fleet of Zodiacs to get all guests out exploring at the same time. And her gear racks are stocked with sleeping bags, bivouac sacks and mats for camping; inflatable stand-up paddleboards and "kayaks," dry suits, neoprene gloves/booties and adjustable paddles for shorter outings; and fiberglass sea kayaks for longer, repeated excursions.
Crew, Guides & Expedition Leaders
With 125 staff and crew, and only 168 guests, the service is first-class both on and off this ship. As a newer ship in the Quark fleet (joining after World Explorer), with upscale spaces, World Voyager attracts some of its operator's top guides, ensuring your cruise will be memorable. Expect a cerebral and passionate group of guides, who are also safety-minded, approachable and light-hearted; and a dedicated crew who will quickly learn your preferences.
Cabins & World Voyager Deck Plan
Choose from 5 categories aboard this all-suite, all-balcony ship. Also choose between a Juliet balcony with roomier seating, or a private walk-out balcony with more outdoor space. Cabins are designed for double occupancy, with no dedicated singles, quads or triples. Bedding is convertible for either two twins or one double.
Every suite comes equipped with a private bathroom with a hairdryer, soap, and bathrobes on loan; a refrigerator; plenty of electrical outlets with standard European round pin and American flat-pronged plugs (220 volts) plus USB ports; a TV with state-of-the-art “infotainment” system; a coffee maker, tea and reusable water bottles for sparkling or flat water; a thermostat and a safe.
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Choose the Small Ship that Fits Your Travel Style
The Ocean Explorer offers refined spaces, a relaxed atmosphere, state-of-the-art technology, a design optimized for smooth and efficient cruising, an elevator servicing all decks, and a private balcony in most cabins. Come aboard this polar ship for amenities like Jacuzzis and a sauna, plus tenured guides.
The hybrid-electric World Voyager pairs polished spaces with expansive wellness amenities and a Science Hub for researchers and citizen scientists alike. Come aboard for a well-rounded polar expedition, complete with activity gear and engaging guides.
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