Antarctic Express: Fly South, Cruise North
Antarctic Peninsula
Take the fastest route to Antarctica – a three-hour flight – and enjoy your first glimpse of the continent from the air, a unique introduction to the vast and dramatic landscape that remains one of the last unspoiled regions in the world. Continue your journey on ship, where an adventure beyond your wildest imagination awaits. Later, return through the world’s most legendary – and exciting – passage of water, as you follow the path of historic explorers across the infamous Drake Passage
Highlights
- Fly over the Drake Passage from Punta Arenas for the fastest route to Antarctica.
- Land on King George Island and begin exploring the Antarctic Peninsula sooner.
- Enjoy Zodiac cruises, shore landings, glaciers, icebergs and polar wildlife.
- See penguins, seals, whales and seabirds with expert expedition guides.
- Sail north across the Drake Passage to Ushuaia for the classic explorer experience.
- Premium small-ship expedition aboard Ocean Explorer or World Voyager.
2028/29 season earlybird rates
2026/27 Season: Displayed prices include current promo discounts already applied.
2027/28/29 Seasons: Displayed prices include Early Bird Booking deduction, extra promo discount, as well as 5% additional savings for Payment in Full. Contact us for details of rates with deposit only.
Stewart's Take
Make History Again!
Overview
Take the fastest route to Antarctica – a three-hour flight – and enjoy your first glimpse of the continent from the air, a unique introduction to the vast and dramatic landscape that remains one of the last unspoiled regions in the world. Continue your journey on ship, where an adventure beyond your wildest imagination awaits. Later, return through the world’s most legendary – and exciting – passage of water, as you follow the path of historic explorers across the infamous Drake PassageItinerary
Day 1 Punta Arenas, Chile Your journey begins in Punta Arenas. This port city is situated at the southern tip of Chile, on the north bank of the Strait of Magellan. Once a Chilean penal colony, Punta Arenas has transformed into a vibrant city offering you plenty of attractions including historic sites and museums. Explore the city by day, and then join us for an evening dinner to meet your fellow Antarctic adventurers. Day 2 Embarkation Day Today you board your chartered flight to Antarctica. The journey over the Drake Passage will take you less than four hours, whereas our ship-based travelers take two days to make the journey by sea. Your first glimpse of Antarctica comes into view shortly before the aircraft descends towards King George Island—hope for clear skies so you can appreciate the vastness of this great continent! You will have free time to photograph parts of the island and stretch your legs before joining the ship. Once aboard, you’ll enjoy your first trip in a Zodiac and begin your exploration of the Antarctic region. Days 3 to 6 Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands You’ll get a sense that you’ve arrived on a new planet during the start of your Antarctic voyage, as the pristine nature and dramatic environments are like nothing else on earth. From the vessel you can watch whales swim and feed in nutrient-rich waters and spot penguins frolicking in the water and jumping aboard ice floes. Just as amazing as the wildlife are the towering snowcovered mountains and massive glaciers of the Peninsula, which will be your playground for the next few days. Every Zodiac excursion and landing presents new sights, sounds and smells. Some landings may be as relaxing as sitting on a beach, taking photographs of curious gentoo penguins. Other landings may provide exhilarating panoramic views of the Antarctic continent by hiking atop a hill. Perhaps you’ll catch a calving glacier crumbling into the sea at Petermann Island, or take a Zodiac cruise in search of fur and elephant seals around Pleneau Island. Even common travel experiences like mailing a postcard take on an extra level of excitement in Antarctica. While weather and sea conditions determine which landings we can make, your Expedition Team will ensure that each day of your Antarctic adventure leaves a lasting impression. Days 7 and 8 Crossing the Drake Passage to Ushuaia 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 four days. While the journey home has begun, your wildlife spotting continues. Your 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 Day 9 Disembark and overnight in Ushuaia, Argentina After a final breakfast aboard the ship, say goodbye to your crew as we disembark in Ushuaia. We’ll transfer you to the hotel to check in and then you’ll have a chance to explore the town on your own to shop, sightsee and sample some Argentinian cuisine. Day 10 Ushuaia: Depart for home Today you are free to make your way to the airport for departure, or extend your stay in UshuaiaVessel
Your Luxury Expedition Vessel
Your Antarctic expedition will take place on board one of the following state-of-the-art, luxurious and ice-strengthened vessels:
World Explorer

An “all balcony suites” ship, World Explorer features amenities and guest comforts to maximize the exploration off and on the ship and deliver an unequalled Polar expedition experience. Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer. Not only is it among the fastest expedition ships, it is also one of the finest, with six tiers of deluxe accommodation. The personal space is exceptional. Every suite has either a private walk-out or French balcony for direct ocean views. World Explorer also delivers plenty of public areas to unwind in after a day outdoors, including the glass-domed Observation Lounge for quiet contemplation and full skyline views, the Explorer Lounge for a drink and a chat, and the library for more intimate relaxing and reading. Presentations and discussions are facilitated in a dedicated lecture theatre. Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor track, a small gym and a sauna, plus a spa with change rooms, showers and lockers. For the active adventurers, add-ons include kayaking, camping and stand-up paddleboarding.
For full information about this vessel click here:
Ocean Explorer

Ocean Explorer, is state-of-the-art, elegant and purpose-built for polar exploration. This 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology, including the ULSTEIN X-BOW®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to its inverted bow. Located at the bow is also the two-story, light-filled library, which introduces a welcome airiness to the expedition ship. Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design and almost all have verandas. Guests can relax and find comfort in the spacious gym, sauna with large windows, and two outdoor Jacuzzis. Ocean Explorer features ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, which are ideal for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. The vessel is equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs that enable guests to get off the ship quickly and safely for off-ship adventures. In addition to the well-appointed and spacious public areas, Ocean Explorer has an industry-leading mix of sustainability systems, including fuel-efficient Rolls Royce engines..
For full information about this vessel click here:
World Voyager

World Voyager is a modern expedition ship built for science and discovery. Every design element, from the deluxe, all-balcony suites—with direct views into the surrounding polar wilderness—to the presentation theater and Science Hub, embody the spirit of discovery: the never-ending urge to explore and learn more about rugged polar landscapes. Wellness amenities, such as the spa, sauna, swimming pool, Jacuzzis and outdoor running track, allow guests to rejuvenate throughout their polar expedition. The beautifully designed restaurant and spacious lounges are ideal for guests to gather and engage in lively discussions about the day’s discoveries. Another pivotal space on World Voyager is the Science Hub, where guests can share knowledge, information and insights with scientists in residence and Expedition Guides as part of a Science & Discovery program. The latest Rolls-Royce propulsion technology ensures a comfortable, fuel-efficient sailing experience as World Voyager navigates the Antarctic waters.
Booking Information
Essential Information
Rates and Share Bookings
Prices shown are per person on a shared basis. If you are travelling alone and wish to share, you will be matched with someone of the same gender at share rate. If desired, Single occupancy may be available in dedicated solo category cabins, or at 1.7 times the twin share rate for standard twin cabins (or twice the share rate for premium cabins or suites).
Deposit
Reservations require a deposit of 25% at the time you receive a booking confirmation from Expeditions Online. A payment link will be sent to you and this may be paid by major credit card. Bookings made within 90 days of departure require 100% payment.
Final Payment
Balances are due 90 days prior to departure and may be paid by bank transfer.
Cancellation
There is free cancellation if you change your mind within 15 days of booking. Should you need to cancel after this, the following cancellation fees apply - however these are eligible to be applied to a future voyage booked within 1 year of cancellation date. All requests for cancellation must be received in writing to Expeditions Online. Within (and including) 15 days after the date the Booking Confirmation is issued (where the booking is confirmed more than 180 days prior to Day 1 of the Expedition): Free cancellation save for any non-refundable items identified to you or set out in the Booking Confirmation
From (and including) 16 days after the date the Booking Confirmation is issued up to (and including) 90 days prior to Day 1 of the Expedition: 25% of the total booking amount as specified in the Booking Confirmation or (as applicable) the New Booking Confirmation.89 or less prior to Day 1 of the Expedition (including any cancellation after the Expedition has started): 100% of the total booking amount as specified in the Booking Confirmation or (as applicable) the New Booking Confirmation.If full payment has not yet been received, the full penalty will still apply, and any unpaid balance is due immediately. To protect your investment, we highly recommend that you obtain adequate trip cancellation insurance!Refund Guarantee.
We will of course refund all monies paid should the voyage itself be cancelled for any reason. All client monies paid to Expeditions Online are protected under consumer laws by a Travel Guarantee bond placed with the Swedish Legal, Financial and Administrative Services Agency (Kammarkollegiet).
No surcharges - ever.
For peace of mind, the shipping company will not apply fuel or any other surcharges—for any reason—to a booking once it’s confirmed. The price you book, is the price you pay.
Booking Terms
Please read carefully the Terms and Conditions for Expeditions Online (link at the bottom of this page). This voyage is operated by Quark Expeditions and you additionally travel under their terms and conditions as the operator as well as of the Shipping Company/transport carrier. Details will be forwarded to you at the time of booking
Included
- An expedition parka to keep
- A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
- Leadership throughout your voyage by experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
- All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program
- All shore landings as per the daily program
- Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
- All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage
- Complimentary select beer, wines and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
- Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
- Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
- A photographic journal documenting the expedition
- Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
- Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.) Note: Internet access in the polar regions is subject to geography, climate, and other factors beyond control.
- All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
- All luggage handling aboard the ship
Excluded
- Any airfare unless otherwise specified in the itinerary.
- Passport and visa expenses.
- Government arrival and departure taxes.
- Any meals ashore with the exception of breakfast at the host hotel before embarkation
- Baggage, cancellation and medical travel insurance.
- Excess baggage charges.
- Laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified.
- Telecommunications charges.
- The voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew.
- Optional kayaking activities.
Tour Dossier
Antarctic Express: Fly South, Cruise North
A 10 day express Antarctic expedition on board a luxurious expedition vessel including a time-saving flight to Antarctica
File Creation date: 2026-09-01 - for updated information and dates and prices see the following page:
http://expeditionsonline.com/tour/antarctic-express-fly-south-cruise-north_178
Antarctic Express: Fly South, Cruise North
Duration: 10 days
Location: Antarctic Peninsula
Available: January
Start: Punta Arenas, Chile
Finish: Ushuaia, Argentina
Highlights
- Fly over the Drake Passage from Punta Arenas for the fastest route to Antarctica.
- Land on King George Island and begin exploring the Antarctic Peninsula sooner.
- Enjoy Zodiac cruises, shore landings, glaciers, icebergs and polar wildlife.
- See penguins, seals, whales and seabirds with expert expedition guides.
- Sail north across the Drake Passage to Ushuaia for the classic explorer experience.
- Premium small-ship expedition aboard Ocean Explorer or World Voyager.
Itinerary
Take the fastest route to Antarctica – a three-hour flight – and enjoy your first glimpse of the continent from the air, a unique introduction to the vast and dramatic landscape that remains one of the last unspoiled regions in the world. Continue your journey on ship, where an adventure beyond your wildest imagination awaits. Later, return through the world’s most legendary – and exciting – passage of water, as you follow the path of historic explorers across the infamous Drake Passage
Ship Information
Your Luxury Expedition Vessel
Your Antarctic expedition will take place on board one of the following state-of-the-art, luxurious and ice-strengthened vessels:
World Explorer

An “all balcony suites” ship, World Explorer features amenities and guest comforts to maximize the exploration off and on the ship and deliver an unequalled Polar expedition experience. Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer. Not only is it among the fastest expedition ships, it is also one of the finest, with six tiers of deluxe accommodation. The personal space is exceptional. Every suite has either a private walk-out or French balcony for direct ocean views. World Explorer also delivers plenty of public areas to unwind in after a day outdoors, including the glass-domed Observation Lounge for quiet contemplation and full skyline views, the Explorer Lounge for a drink and a chat, and the library for more intimate relaxing and reading. Presentations and discussions are facilitated in a dedicated lecture theatre. Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor track, a small gym and a sauna, plus a spa with change rooms, showers and lockers. For the active adventurers, add-ons include kayaking, camping and stand-up paddleboarding.
For full information about this vessel click here:
Ocean Explorer

Ocean Explorer, is state-of-the-art, elegant and purpose-built for polar exploration. This 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology, including the ULSTEIN X-BOW®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to its inverted bow. Located at the bow is also the two-story, light-filled library, which introduces a welcome airiness to the expedition ship. Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design and almost all have verandas. Guests can relax and find comfort in the spacious gym, sauna with large windows, and two outdoor Jacuzzis. Ocean Explorer features ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, which are ideal for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. The vessel is equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs that enable guests to get off the ship quickly and safely for off-ship adventures. In addition to the well-appointed and spacious public areas, Ocean Explorer has an industry-leading mix of sustainability systems, including fuel-efficient Rolls Royce engines..
For full information about this vessel click here:
World Voyager

World Voyager is a modern expedition ship built for science and discovery. Every design element, from the deluxe, all-balcony suites—with direct views into the surrounding polar wilderness—to the presentation theater and Science Hub, embody the spirit of discovery: the never-ending urge to explore and learn more about rugged polar landscapes. Wellness amenities, such as the spa, sauna, swimming pool, Jacuzzis and outdoor running track, allow guests to rejuvenate throughout their polar expedition. The beautifully designed restaurant and spacious lounges are ideal for guests to gather and engage in lively discussions about the day’s discoveries. Another pivotal space on World Voyager is the Science Hub, where guests can share knowledge, information and insights with scientists in residence and Expedition Guides as part of a Science & Discovery program. The latest Rolls-Royce propulsion technology ensures a comfortable, fuel-efficient sailing experience as World Voyager navigates the Antarctic waters.
Antarctic Express: Fly South, Cruise North
For the latest, up-to-date departure dates and prices please refer to the tour page:
http://expeditionsonline.com/tour/antarctic-express-fly-south-cruise-north_178
- Within (and including) 15 days after the date the Booking Confirmation is issued (where the booking is confirmed more than 180 days prior to Day 1 of the Expedition): Free cancellation save for any non-refundable items identified to you or set out in the Booking Confirmation
- From (and including) 16 days after the date the Booking Confirmation is issued up to (and including) 90 days prior to Day 1 of the Expedition: 25% of the total booking amount as specified in the Booking Confirmation or (as applicable) the New Booking Confirmation.
- 89 or less prior to Day 1 of the Expedition (including any cancellation after the Expedition has started): 100% of the total booking amount as specified in the Booking Confirmation or (as applicable) the New Booking Confirmation.
Included
- An expedition parka to keep
- A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
- Leadership throughout your voyage by experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
- All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program
- All shore landings as per the daily program
- Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
- All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage
- Complimentary select beer, wines and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
- Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
- Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
- A photographic journal documenting the expedition
- Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
- Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.) Note: Internet access in the polar regions is subject to geography, climate, and other factors beyond control.
- All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
- All luggage handling aboard the ship
Excluded
- Any airfare unless otherwise specified in the itinerary.
- Passport and visa expenses.
- Government arrival and departure taxes.
- Any meals ashore with the exception of breakfast at the host hotel before embarkation
- Baggage, cancellation and medical travel insurance.
- Excess baggage charges.
- Laundry, bar, beverage and other personal charges unless specified.
- Telecommunications charges.
- The voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew.
- Optional kayaking activities.
General Terms and Conditions
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