Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent

This classic Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent itinerary delivers the very best of the Antarctic Peninsula in one unforgettable journey: cross the legendary 800-kilometer (500-mile) Drake Passage; explore majestic polar landscapes by Zodiac, kayak, or on foot; photograph penguins, whales, and seals framed by towering ice; and deepen your experience with expert presentations on history, biology, and glaciology.

Your Fly, Stay & Cruise Package Includes:

• $4,000 flight credit per person
• 10 night Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent expedition cruise onboard Ocean Explorer, Ushuaia return

Includes:

• One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia
• Specialist Expedition Leaders
• Immersive Off-ship Activities
• On-Ship Experiences & Facilities
• Premium dining, with a wide selection of options that accommodate a variety of dietary preferences
• Complementary Wi-Fi
• An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep
• Select transfers

Rate is per person twin share and based on travel 30 November – 10 December 2026

Single traveller pricing available, speak with your travel consultant

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina

You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port town at the tip of South America. This Argentine town is an ideal gateway for you to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for your adventure ahead. Enjoy the mountains or sample handcrafted chocolate at a café in town.

Day 2: Embark

Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you see land, you’ll be on the world’s most southern continent!

Day 3-4: Crossing the Drake Passage

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

Day 5–8: South Shetland Islands & Antarctic Peninsula

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 and enduring as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travellers alike. Every time we visit Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means that your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience.

Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore 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 consorting with 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.

Days 9–10: Crossing the Drake Passage

The journey back across the Drake Passage provides final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air Spend time on the deck, watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team and celebrate the experiences shared exploring Antarctica.

Day 11: Depart in Ushuaia

You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, which allows for you to continue your adventure onward or catch your flights home.

Prices listed are per person in AUD, based on twin occupancy, including all discounts unless otherwise stated. The offer is subject to availability at time of booking and shown on the lowest category available at the time.  Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice. Prices/Offers are correct as at 19-02-2026 and can be withdrawn without notice.   Cabin categories include prepaid government fees and port taxes unless otherwise stated.  Hotels may charge resort fees not included in this package, payable direct upon check in. Visas are not included.  Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge.