Quark Expeditions Review: The Best in Antarctica cruises
Published May 28, 2023, updated October 20, 2024
When it comes to the best cruises to Antarctica, Quark Expeditions leads the way.
With decades of expertise in polar travel, they offer more than just a trip. They provide an unforgettable journey filled with inspiration and personal discovery.
Their expeditions are crafted for the bold and curious, delivering once-in-a-lifetime encounters on the world’s most remote continent.
Antarctica, with its towering glaciers, endless ice, and unique wildlife, feels like a land out of reach for most travelers. But for those who dream of adventure and crave experiences unlike any other, this icy frontier calls loudly.
And for those seeking fulfillment through exploration, Quark’s Antarctica cruises ensure that every moment will ignite your soul.
This post is my review of Quark Expeditions. They’re not affiliated, I just felt called to share.
By sharing this company with you, it’s my hope that you’ll be compelled to book your own unforgettable journey with Quark Expeditions.
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My Experience with Quark Expeditions
Ever pick up a book and feel a sudden surge to pack your bags and embark on an adventure?
That’s exactly what happened when I flipped through the pages of “Shackleton’s Way.” Tales of Ernest Shackleton’s relentless spirit and challenges in the icy realms of Antarctica left me spellbound.
Living on ice for months, hopping from one uninhabited island to another. Plus, ensuring every single crew member made it to safety? That’s something, right?
But I digress. Read the book if you want the full scoop.
That story, among others, lit a fire in me about the sparsely uninhabited 7th continent of Antarctica. There’s just something about its raw, untouched beauty that’s hard to resist.
But how do you even get to such a remote place?
Enter Quark Expeditions.
They offer a plethora of trips like the memorable 9-day “Discovering the 7th Continent” I went on. And they’ve set the gold standard for Antarctic adventures.
Let me take you through my journey and describe why sailing through the Drake Passage (with only a single barfing episode) is well worth what waits on the other side!
The Drake Passage
For many, the mention of an Antarctic cruise can conjure the infamous image of the Drake Passage.
Lying between the southern tip of South America and the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, this stretch of water is legendary. And not just for its temperamental weather conditions.
It’s as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. If the North Pole has polar bears as its guardians, then the South Pole has the Drake.
And it takes 2 full days to cross.
But don’t worry. With whatever expedition you decide to join, you’re not crossing these waters alone.
You’re doing so backed by a team that has years of experience in polar expeditions.
And Quark’s expedition ships, from smaller vessels to the more recent and larger ships in the fleet, are designed with these challenging waters in mind.
They ensure that the safety and comfort of every single passenger is paramount.
And as you spend your days aboard your vessel, you’ll have plenty to keep your mind occupied with sweeping views of the Drake from deck.
You’ll strike up conversations with your fellow passengers at the bar or attend presentations on glaciology and regional wildlife.
South Shetland Islands and Beyond
After 2 days of travel, you’ll get your first glimpse of the Antarctic Peninsula, and it’s unforgettable.
Emerging from the turbulence of the Drake after 2 days, seeing the South Shetland Islands in the distance was moving.
With the islands in view, Zodiacs transport you from the ship to the land.
And it’s the sheer versatility of these small, inflatable vessels that are the most impressive!
They skim through sea ice, dance around floating icebergs, and provide up-close experiences with wildlife in the most remote parts of the world.
While many envision Antarctica as an unchanging canvas of white, in reality, it’s a vibrant ecosystem. Each day presents you with a new adventure.
You might observe a Gentoo penguin teaching its young to fish or see a Leopard seal stealthily hunting its prey amidst the ice floats.
Then there’s the experience of seeing the distant spouts of Minke whales. On your Antarctica expedition cruise, nature’s spectacle is ceaseless.
Is a Quark Expeditions Cruise Right for You?
If you’re the kind of traveler who seeks extraordinary experiences, a Quark Expedition trip might be perfect for you.
But this isn’t your typical cruise to Antarctica. Quark Expeditions pushes the boundaries of exploration and it’s meant for adventure travelers seeking a challenge.
You might be a seasoned adventurer, a passionate wildlife photographer, or someone who finds fulfillment in taking on nature’s raw beauty. If so, you’ll find Quark’s polar expeditions transformative.
And if you’ve already ticked off adventurous destinations like the W Trek in Patagonia or the climb up Mount Kilimanjaro, Antarctica with Quark is the next level.
Their highly-skilled guides lead a variety of immersive activities for your enjoyment, like kayaking through icy waters or hiking across frozen landscapes.
If you’re ready to go beyond the ordinary, exploring a place few have ever seen, a Quark Expedition is the journey for you.
Overview of Quark Expeditions
Quark Expeditions has built an outstanding reputation as a leader in commercial polar travel.
With over 30 years of experience specializing in the most remote regions of the planet, they have earned the trust of adventure travelers worldwide.
Quark Expeditions has made polar tourism more accessible by pioneering trips to the Arctic and Antarctic that are both safe and enriching.
They were among the first to offer commercial voyages to these remote regions, creating itineraries that allow more travelers to experience these awe-inspiring landscapes.
By investing in a fleet of specialized ice-class ships, they’ve opened up areas that were once only accessible to scientists and explorers. Their vessels are designed to navigate icy waters and rugged coastlines.
And this provides travelers with unique experiences like kayaking alongside icebergs or hiking across snow-covered terrain.
Quark also focuses on making these journeys comfortable without compromising the adventure. They offer expert guides, flexible trip lengths, and a variety of optional activities to suit different interests.
With Quark, every detail is crafted for travelers seeking more than just a vacation.
You’ll be investing in an unforgettable journey into some of the planet’s last untouched wilderness, guided by true experts.
Deep Dive into Quark’s Antarctic Trips
Quark Expeditions offers unforgettable expedition-style cruises to the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Destinations to the south include Patagonia, the Sandwich Islands, the Falklands, and the Arctic Peninsula.
Here’s an overview of the 12 cruises to Antarctica offered Quark Expeditions for the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 seasons.
Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent (11 or 12 days)
Departing From: Ushuaia, Argentina or Buenos Aires, Argentina
As one of the classic Antarctica cruises, this expedition cruise embodies the essence of the white continent.
With a small ship weaving through icebergs, you’ll experience firsthand the majesty of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands.
If the weather conditions favor, a stop at Deception Island might be on the cards. It’s the best option for those looking to capture the core of Antarctica without spending an entire month at sea.
Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake (8 days)
Departing From: Punta Arenas, Chile
For those short on time, this is your express ticket to the end of the world! Skip the long voyage across the Drake Passage with a flight and then board your expedition vessel.
Engage with polar experts on board and witness the unparalleled beauty of Antarctic waters, from shimmering icebergs to playful Magellanic penguins.
Crossing the Circle: Southern Expedition (14 days)
Departing From: Ushuaia, Argentina or Buenos Aires, Argentina
This is not just an Antarctic expedition, but rather an Antarctic odyssey. Cross the polar circle and venture into waters where few have sailed.
From the South Shetland Islands to the Antarctic Peninsula, it’s a journey reserved for true explorers. The cruise line offers a smaller ship experience, ensuring a more intimate connection with nature.
Antarctic Express: Crossing the Circle (11 days)
Departing From: Punta Arenas, Chile
Combine the speed of flying over the Drake with the thrill of crossing the Antarctic Circle. Experience the wonders of the Southern Ocean. If you’re lucky, you might spot the elusive Minke whales!
En route, you’ll be in the hands of polar experts with years of experience navigating these icy waters.
South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari (18 days)
Departing From: Ushuaia, Argentina
Penguins, and more penguins! South Georgia Island is often touted as the best place for penguin lovers.
Here, amidst the backdrop of dramatic glaciers, King penguins roam in vast numbers. This voyage is the dream for any wildlife enthusiast.
Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings (20 days)
Departing From: Ushuaia, Argentina
Tracing the routes of great explorers, this expedition voyage is a deep dive into the history and biodiversity of the region.
Visit South Georgia Island, which houses a population of population of elephant seals, and navigate the Beagle Channel, a historically significant waterway.
Emperor Penguin Quest: Expedition to Snow Hill (14 days)
Departing From: Buenos Aires, Argentina
It’s one thing to witness a penguin in the wild; it’s another to see the majestic Emperor Penguin in its natural home.
This exclusive trip focuses on Snow Hill, one of the few places where these magnificent birds breed.
And it’s one of the best cruises to Antarctica if you want an experience what only a handful of explores can say that they have.
Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands and South Georgia (23 days)
Departing From: Buenos Aires, Argentina
As the name suggests, this Antarctic cruise is truly epic. It’s a comprehensive cruise that guarantees you don’t miss a thing.
From the icy shores of South Georgia to the historic remnants on the Antarctic Peninsula, it’s a sensory overload.
Antarctica By Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains and Remote Lands (12 days)
Departing from: Buenos Aires, Argentina
For those seeking to explore the most remote corners of the 7th Continent, Antarctica by Helicopter is the ultimate adventure.
With exclusive helicopter access, you’ll soar over stunning icebergs, snow-capped peaks, and rarely-visited landscapes like the Weddell Sea and Erebus and Terror Gulf.
Imagine stepping out of a helicopter onto the pristine, Mars-like terrain of Antarctica, a place few have ever seen.
Antarctic Express: Fly South, Cruise North (10 days)
Departing from: Punta Arenas, Chile
Whether you’re limited on time or just anxious for your adventure to truly begin, this expedition is ideal for travelers interested in the fastest, most thrilling route to Antarctica.
Your journey begins with a breathtaking 3-hour flight over the continent, offering an unforgettable aerial view of one of the world’s last untouched landscapes.
Once aboard the ship, you’ll immerse yourself in an adventure packed with penguins, seals, and stunning icy vistas.
As you return across the legendary Drake Passage, you’ll follow in the footsteps of historic explorers, creating memories of a lifetime in this awe-inspiring, remote corner of the world.
Antarctic Express: Cruise South, Fly North (10 days)
Departing from: Ushuaia, Argentina
The Cruise South, Fly North version of Antarctic Express trip offers the perfect balance of adventure and convenience.
It’s best for those who interested in experiencing the Drake Passage without the return journey by sea.
Take in the majesty of ice floes, whales, and penguins as you sail along. Invigorated by the rugged wilderness, you’ll then be ready to take on the Antarctic Peninsula.
Unlike the previous tour, this trip allows you to fully immerse yourself in the remote wilderness and then enjoy a smooth flight back at the end.
Essential Patagonia: Chilean Fjords and Torres del Paine (15 days)
Departing from: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Essential Patagonia is a brand new expedition that promises to be a dream journey for adventure travelers.
You’ll retrace Darwin’s footsteps as you navigate through Chile’s stunning fjords and channels, surrounded by majestic glaciers and dramatic landscapes.
Enjoy helicopter flightseeing tours that offer breathtaking views of Patagonia’s remote beauty and Zodiac cruises that will bring you up close to Antarctic wildlife with towering, blue-tinted glaciers in the background.
Step into a world of wonder and discovery, where every day reveals the wild splendor of southern Patagonia.
The Antarctic Cruise Experience
Day-to-Day Itinerary
All Quark Expedition itineraries to Antarctica share a few key features that ensure every trip is an unforgettable experience.
Most trips begin with a 2-day sail across the Drake Passage, where you’ll have time to attend educational briefings and prepare for the days ahead.
Once you reach the Antarctic Peninsula, each day is designed to maximize your time on and around the continent.
Mornings typically start with Zodiac cruises, where small groups head out to explore icy waters, spot wildlife, or land on remote shores.
You’ll have opportunities to hike on snow-covered landscapes, visit penguin colonies, or kayak alongside icebergs.
Afternoons often feature more landings, wildlife sightings, or special activities like visiting research stations.
And evenings are spent onboard, where you can attend lectures from experts, relax, and reflect on your adventures with your fellow passengers.
Optional Activities
Quark Expeditions ensures your journey is peppered with true Antarctic activities.
Some activities are available on select trips and typically require pre-booking before your departure, like camping trips.
Other activities, like hikes and polar plunges might also be available to sign up for onboard as the weather allows.
Camping
For the truly intrepid, the Antarctic camping experience is surreal. Imagine it: a night beneath the polar sky with constellations unfamiliar to the northern hemisphere.
There’s the crunch of snow beneath you, the vast expanse of the starlit sky overhead, and the unparalleled silence.
No tents, no artificial lights, just you and the Antarctic expanse.
There’s a sense of vulnerability, yet an overwhelming connection to nature. And of course (again), the legendary polar plunge.
However, it’s not for the faint of heart. It will challenge you.
It’s a leap of faith, a chilly embrace, and a story for the ages. A cold yet invigorating baptism into the Antarctic club.
Kayaking and Paddling Excursions
The sea kayaking and paddling programs aren’t just about paddling in polar waters.
They’re about feeling the Antarctic waters against your fingertips, hearing the distant calving of glaciers, and having penguins playfully dart around your kayak.
Flightseeing
Imagine soaring above the stunning Antarctic landscape on a flightseeing tour, where you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of vast icefields, majestic glaciers, and colossal icebergs.
This exhilarating experience allows you to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of the continent in a way you simply can’t from the water.
Heli-Landing
Enjoy the thrill of a heli-landing adventure, where you’ll be transported by helicopter to remote and untouched areas of Antarctica.
This unique opportunity allows you to explore pristine landscapes and breathtaking viewpoints that few have ever seen.
Heli-Trekking
Heli-trekking combines the excitement of a helicopter ride with the adventure of hiking.
You’ll be flown to breathtaking locations that are otherwise inaccessible, allowing you to trek across stunning landscapes, including glaciers and rugged terrain of the polar wilderness.
Photography Workshops
Enhance your photography skills on the ground in expert-led workshops designed for both beginners and seasoned photographers.
You’ll learn tips and techniques tailored for capturing the unique light, landscapes, and wildlife of the icy continent.
Daily Presentations
Back on board the boat, there’s a wealth of knowledge to be soaked up. Daily briefings and lectures from polar experts with years of experience.
They cover a variety of appropriate topics including marine biology, the geology of landing sites, and the tales of great explorers of yesteryears.
The Polar Plunge
And yes, for the brave-hearted, there’s the polar plunge — an invigorating leap into the icy waters, and a rite of passage in its own right!
Wildlife Encounters
Alright, let’s get down to it. The Antarctic isn’t just about icy landscapes. It’s a dynamic, living, breathing ecosystem bursting with wildlife wonders!
Combine this with Quark’s adventurous activities, and you’ve got the ultimate Antarctic experience on your hands.
Penguins
From the inquisitive gaze of the Adelie to the distinct chinstrap marking of, well, the Chinstrap, penguins are the unofficial mascots of Antarctica.
The Gentoo, with their bright orange feet, also make quite an appearance.
Now, imagine kayaking amidst these flightless birds! The tranquil waters, the icebergs, and suddenly a group of penguins torpedoing beneath your kayak, their silhouettes darting against the deep blue.
With Quark, that’s precisely the experience you get.
Seals
The frozen coasts are replete with seals.
The sunbathing Weddell seals with their cute expressions, the ever-voracious Leopard seals on the hunt, the gigantic Elephant seals sounding like old engines, and let’s not forget the nimble Crabeater seals.
While these names might sound like they come straight out of a storybook, a Zodiac cruise takes you close to their icy habitats.
You’ll watch them in their natural behaviors, some napping, others playing, and some just observing you with cautious curiosity.
Whales
No words can encapsulate the feeling when a gigantic humpback whale breaches, or when you spot the tall dorsal fin of an Orca slicing through the waters.
Viewing them from the deck of your expedition ship, especially when the Antarctic waters are calm and mirror-like, is transcendent.
But if kayaking is on your agenda, the proximity to these marine giants amplifies the thrill. Their deep, resonant calls echoing through the water, felt more than heard.
Why Choose Quark Expeditions? (No, They’re Not Paying Me to Say This!)
Let’s dive deep into why Quark Expeditions stands out among a sea of expedition voyages to the Antarctic.
Expertise
First and foremost, Quark Expeditions isn’t just another cruise line offering a run-of-the-mill Antarctic tour.
They are specialists. With years of experience navigating the icy waters of both the North Pole and South Pole, their reputation is hard-earned.
The onboard expedition team, a blend of seasoned polar experts, marine biologists, and historians, provides invaluable insights throughout the journey.
Every sight, every sound is enhanced with their knowledge, turning a visual spectacle into a profound experience.
Diverse Offerings
From solo travelers to small groups seeking to cruise Antarctica, Quark caters to everyone. And not just in terms of group size.
Are you eager to sail through the polar waters for up close and personal encounters with wildlife?
Or perhaps you’re keen on a quiet day, just absorbing the serenity of the Antarctic waters from the deck?
Maybe you’re an avid birdwatcher hoping to catch a glimpse of the avian wonders en-route to the Falkland Islands.
Whatever your Antarctic dream, Quark Expeditions aims to make it a reality. And each of their vessels offers amenities tailored to different tastes and adventure levels.
Unmatched Perks
Post-adventure relaxation takes a whole new dimension with Quark.
You’ve just returned from an exciting day of witnessing penguin colonies on Deception Island or cruising the Beagle Channel.
Then, you relish in a muscle-restoring massage, Antarctic vistas around you, the deep blues of the Southern Ocean below.
It’s an indulgence that words fall short of describing!
And as if that isn’t enough, the evenings are filled with live music, setting the tone for cozy gatherings and the sharing of stories.
It’s like combining the charm of a smaller ship with the luxury offerings of larger ships. Pure bliss.
These are just a few examples that highlight how Quest Expeditions offers the best cruises to Antarctica for adventure travelers.
Cost and Booking Information
With costs ranging from $8,000 to $25,000. Booking a trip with Quark Expeditions is truly an investment in a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
It’s important to keep in mind when pricing and planning that the cost of your expedition will depend on the length of the trip, the type of cabin you choose, and the time of year you go.
Peak season, which offers prime wildlife viewing (like penguin hatching season in December and whale sightings in February) tends to be more expensive.
Shoulder seasons may offer lower rates but come with less predictable weather.
The company offers available trips from a month to over a year ahead of schedule. I recommend booking well in advance if you have specific dates or experiences in mind.
Quark Expeditions also occasionally offers special promotions, so it’s worth checking their website regularly for deals.
The Reality: Things to Consider Before Booking
When you travel with Quark Expeditions, every moment of the trip is nothing but superb.
However, I urge you to be honest with yourself and be prepared to meet the challenges you’ll face. Doing so guarantees a smooth trip and a stellar experience.
The Challenge of Pricing
Quark Expeditions offers a premium experience, but that comes with a higher cost compared to other travel options. Ultimately, you get what you pay for.
The specialized nature of polar expeditions, smaller, specialty ship sizes, and expert-led excursions contribute to the price.
While the cost is justified by the once-in-a-lifetime experience, this might be a significant investment for many.
Unpredictable Weather
When you travel to the polar regions, unpredictable weather is the name of the game.
Antarctica’s extreme climate can cause delays or changes in itinerary. Some of your activities might be rescheduled or even canceled for safety reasons.
You’ll need to be flexible and prepared for potential disruptions due to the volatile conditions.
Long Travel Times
For most trips, you’ll need to factor in lengthy international flights to reach departure points like Ushuaia, Argentina.
Crossing the Drake Passage by ship also takes several days, and seasickness can be an issue for some.
And although there are options to fly over the Drake, long travel days are still part of the adventure.
Final Thoughts
Choosing Quark Expeditions is more than just a travel choice. It’s about embarking on an expedition voyage that adds you to the pages of polar exploration history.
It’s not about observing Antarctica; it’s about immersing in it. The question isn’t if you should embark on this journey, but when.
While there are other big names in the game, like Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic, my heart is with Quark.
And just to reiterate, this isn’t a sponsored shout-out. I don’t have ties with Quark Expeditions.
It’s pure love from one traveler to another, nudging you towards what I believe is one of the best Antarctica cruises out there.
Because when you’re journeying to the end of the world, why settle for anything less than exceptional?
