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World Explorer

Antarctic Express: Fly South, Cruise North

Discover the main polar attractions in this Antarctic Express Cruise aboard the World Explorer

Length

10 Days

Ship category

Luxury

Ship type

Large Ship

Capacity

172 Passengers

Antarctic Express: Fly South, Cruise North

5 Reviews

Trip highlights

Spot iconic Antarctic wildlife such as penguins, seals & whales

Hike up a sparkling glacier

Step a foot on the 7th continent

Cross the Drake passage by flight & boat

The Polartours experience

Best price guaranteed

Experience the chill of a polar plunge

Your booking contributes to our Conservation Project

Learn from Polar experts on history, glaciology and geology

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.

Expect the unexpected and be rewarded with unique wildlife and natural attractions, each highlight surpassing the last. Marvel at the contrast of a desolate landscape inhabited by abundant wildlife including curious, playful penguins and seals. And embrace the excitement of standing on the continent for the very first time.

Your ship: World Explorer

World Explorer
World Explorer Deck Plan
World Explorer

Welcome aboard the World Explorer! Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer. Every cabin has a private walk-out or French balcony for direct ocean views. World Explorer also delivers spacious public lounge spaces to unwind after a day outdoors, including the glass-domed Observation Lounge, the Explorer Lounge, and a dedicated presentation theater. Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor walking track, a fitness center, and a spa, plus a sauna with a change room and shower.

For the active adventurers, add-ons include kayaking, camp … Read more about World Explorer

Cabins

world explorer infinity suite
Infinity Suite

Type:

Double/Matrimionial (convertible)

Max. occupancy:

2

More about this cabin

world explorer superior suite
Superior Suite

Type:

Double/Matrimionial (convertible)

Max. occupancy:

2

More about this cabin

World explorer veranda suite
Veranda Suite

Type:

Double/Matrimionial (convertible)

Max. occupancy:

2

More about this cabin

world explorer deluxe suite
Deluxe Suite

Type:

Double/Matrimionial (convertible)

Max. occupancy:

2

More about this cabin

world explorer triple
Triple Suite

Type:

Triple

Max. occupancy:

3

More about this cabin

world explorer owners suite
Owner's Suite

Type:

Double/Matrimionial (convertible)

Max. occupancy:

2

More about this cabin

Map

Itinerary

Keep in mind this is an expedition cruise, so your itinerary will depend greatly on the weather, amount of ice and wildlife breeding behavior.

Paddling Excursion

0 Days

Paddling Excursion

Please note that depending on the ship, length of your cruise, and the itinerary, this price may vary. Inquire with your Polar Specialist. Enjoy being out on Polar waters on a two-person inflatable kayak, which enables you to enjoy a more intimate sailing experience in an unforgettable location. The kayaks are stable and comfortable, the perfect vehicle to see the Polar regions from a different perspective. This is a one-time activity, and no prior experience is necessary. IMPORTANT: This activity is dependent on weather conditions and logistics.

Price on request

Sea-Kayaking-What-To-Wear-In-Antarctica

0 Days

5.0

(1)

Sea Kayaking

Embark on an exhilarating sea kayaking adventure in some of the world's most magnificent and biodiverse wilderness areas, including Antarctica and the Arctic. Take in the breathtaking scenery as you navigate through ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes. In Antarctica, spend unforgettable moments with penguins, seals and whales, and keep an eye out for the occasional encounter with leopard seals or killer whales. In the Arctic, paddle through bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around huge icebergs. Led by experienced guides, you will join a small group of like-minded adventurers to explore the picturesque coastlines of these wild and remote destinations. Paddling offers an intimate and unique way to experience the beauty of these regions and make the most of your time there. Important: This activity is subject to weather conditions and logistics.

Price on request

Stand Up Paddleboarding

0 Days

Stand Up Paddleboarding

Please note that depending on the ship, length of your cruise, and the itinerary, this price may vary. Inquire with your Polar Specialist. Combine surfing and kayaking into one fun and unique Antarctic experience. Stand-up paddle boarding is conducted in small adventurous groups, accompanied by a safety Zodiac boat. You’ll paddle around in calm bays and harbors, in good weather conditions only. IMPORTANT: This activity is dependent on weather conditions and logistics.

Price on request

Punta Arenas
Polartours
Polartours

Arrival at Punta Arenas

Embark in Punta Arenas

End of Air Cruise

Flight to King George Island

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.

Business Flight to King George Island
King George Island
King George Island

King George Island

Flight to King George Island

Embark at King George Island

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.

Antarctic Peninsula
Before and After Antarctic Peninsula
South Georgia

Cuverville Island

Wordie House, Winter Island

Yankee Harbour

Georges Point, Rongé Island

Neko Harbour

Pleneau Island

Goudier Island

Port Charcot, Booth Island

Damoy Point

Danco Island, Errera Channel

Yalour Islands

Jougla Point

Astrolabe Island

Orne Harbour

D’Hainaut & Trinity Island

Orne Islands

Portal Point

Petermann Island

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.

Drake Passage
Crossing the Drake Passage
Beagle Channel

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

Punta Arenas Chile
Polartours
Polartours

City tour Ushuaia

Canoeing to Lapataia Bay

Dinner in a refuge

City Exploration

Beaver watching (opt.)

King Crab Lunch

Dinghy tour to Lapataia Bay

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Welcome Cocktail with the Crew

Boat Tour on Beagle Channel

Penguin Island Isla Martillo

Hike in Fireland National Park

Picnic at Lapataia Bay

End of the World Museum

Former Prison & Maritime Museum

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.

Punta Arenas Chile
Polartours
Polartours

City tour Ushuaia

Canoeing to Lapataia Bay

Dinner in a refuge

City Exploration

Beaver watching (opt.)

King Crab Lunch

Dinghy tour to Lapataia Bay

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Welcome Cocktail with the Crew

Boat Tour on Beagle Channel

Penguin Island Isla Martillo

Hike in Fireland National Park

Picnic at Lapataia Bay

End of the World Museum

Former Prison & Maritime Museum

Today you are free to make your way to the airport for departure, or extend your stay in Ushuaia.

Dates & Prices

From

Until

Info

Availability

Price

20

Dec

2025

29

Dec

2025

- Discounts apply if the total is paid in full within 7 days

Available

From

USD 13,676

USD 17,995

20

Dec

2025

29

Dec

2025

Discounts apply if the total is paid in full within 7 days

Available

From

USD 13,676

USD 17,995

Preferred date unavailable? Contact us

Info

Single Cabin Supplement

When booking online, you can choose the option to "Upgrade to single occupancy". This will guarantee you the whole cabin to yourself, for an additional fee. If you don't select this option, then another traveler of the same sex might be placed into the same cabin with you. Exceptions may apply.

What's included

Leadership throughout the voyage by our 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 (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals.)

Select beer and wine during dinner; and 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

A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions

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

Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person

A group arrival transfer in Punta Arenas from airport to pre-expedition hotel on Day 1

One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas with breakfast (Note: The number of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available.)

A briefing dinner on Day 1 in Punta Arenas

A pre-expedition group transfer in Punta Arenas from the hotel to the airport

Flights to and from King George Island

A 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

What's not included

International airfare

Passport and applicable visa expenses

Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned

Meals unless otherwise specified

Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended

Excess-baggage fees on international flights

Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landing and cruising excursions, or any other gear not mentioned

Laundry, bar, spa services and other personal charges, unless specified

Phone and Internet charges

Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for expedition staff and shipboard crew

Additional overnight accommodation

Arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated

Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities

Credit Card charges may apply

A fuel surcharge may apply at a later stage. More info

Reviews

World Explorer

Jonisharps

World Explorer Antarctic Cruises

Luxury

This new ship was very nice! The staff and Quark expedition crew on our Feb. 2020 sailing were amazing! Wine was good, food very good and excursions awesome (Copied from Trip Advisor)

World Explorer

LarryandTim

World Explorer Antarctic Cruises

Luxury

A visit to Antarctica is a once in a lifetime experience. Quark excels in this region of the world. There were 27 naturalists with various specialties for 130 passengers. The Zodiac activities were well organized and efficient. Special special place to visit. (Copied from Trip Advisor)

Quark Expeditions - Antarctica

Dave & Lisa

World Explorer Antarctic Cruises

Luxury

Simply amazing! Efficiency and friendliness of staff and guides. Willingness to make every excursion special. We ticked off the big 13. Add a blue sky glacier day with some calving and you have it all. (Copied from Swoop Antarctica)

FAQ

All cruises in the polar regions operate to itineraries that are more-or-less fixed. We say "more or less", because wildlife (breeding, seasonality) and weather always play an important role in routing. Most cruises will offer a range of land-based and water-based activities that you will enjoy at various points in your cruise, including:

  • Land excursions (including hiking trails, visitor centers, time relaxing on beaches, observing animals, etc.)
  • Bird Watching
  • Snorkeling (from ship or beaches)
  • Dinghy rides
  • Kayaking
  • Diving (on ships with diving itineraries)
  • Naturalist presentations. These usually take place every evening - on board the bigger ships also with help of projectors, microscopes etc.

All boats carry English speaking, scientifically trained guides. They will lead you on your excursions, allowing you to learn as much as possible about the unique wildlife and habitats of the Polar Regions.

Choosing the right ship for a cruise to Antarctica or the Arctic seems difficult, but it doesn't have to be. Our fleet is over 30 vessels, we are sure that there is the perfect one for you. Please, follow these simple steps, and you will be able to find your ideal ship:

  • Determine your budget and desired level of comfort: Are you looking for luxury or more budget-friendly options? On our website you can set the price range.
  • Consider ship size: Large ships offer more amenities and facilities, but they can also feel crowded and impersonal. Smaller ships offer a more personal experience, but may not have as many amenities.
  • Look at the cabins: Although you probably won’t spend much time in your cabin, look at the photos and read the descriptions to make sure you're happy with the one you choose.
  • Consider the activities on board: Are you interested in kayaking, camping, diving or a photography workshop? Or maybe you want to take part in a Citizen Science Program? These activities can enhance your overall experience. See what our ships have to offer.
  • Read customer reviews: Learn about other travelers' experiences by reading reviews.
  • Ask your Polar Specialist: Feel free to contact your Polar Specialist. They are happy to share their knowledge and are always ready to help.

In addition: We work with responsible partners who provide a great experience for their passengers. All of our providers are committed to sustainability and to preserving the beauty of the polar regions. You don’t need to worry about the impact of your cruise, because we’ve already taken care of it.

We love to help people find their dream vacation to the Arctic and Antarctic. Whether you give us a call, contact us via email, or use our website inquiry form, one of our Polar travel experts will be more than happy to answer any questions, recommend ships and itineraries, and walk you through the whole process!

Step 1: Find your perfect trip. If you have already started looking for Polar Cruises, you will have quickly noticed that the sheer amount of options can be quite overwhelming. To help you navigate the countless departures and itineraries that our fleet offers, we have put together a great filter page for Antarctic and Arctic Expedition Cruises. Use this page to filter all trips by price, date, ship category, and even destinations you wish to visit. We update all dates, prices, and availabilities daily, and are proud to host what is doubtlessly the world's most complete collection of information.

Step 2: Found something you love? We'll hold your spaces, free of charge! If you find a cruise you like, you can either inquire directly with us or make an unbinding booking online. We will then reach out to the shipowners to put a hold on your spaces for a limited time, free of charge. Once we have confirmed your block with the ship, we will send you a written confirmation of your reservation and include full payment details in an invoice. Typically, we are able to hold unpaid reservations for up to 1 week*. This gives us time to clarify all your remaining questions, and also ensures that no other passengers can book your spaces, while we continue our conversation.

Step 3: Confirm your booking. In order to confirm your booking, we ask for a deposit payment. You can pay via bank transfer or credit card. Keep in mind, that we can only hold your spaces for a limited amount of time. If we don't receive your payment after this time, we can no longer guarantee that the places will be available or that the price won't increase. To prevent disappointment, we will automatically cancel your reservation if we don't receive your deposit by the due date stated on your booking reservation.

Step 4: Booking confirmation & Payment. As soon as we have received your deposit and a completed passenger information form, we will be pleased to send your booking confirmation and updated invoice, along with your trip itinerary, important information, and other great tips for your cruise.

Step 5: Final payment. In your initial invoice, we will define a final payment date by when you need to pay us the remaining amount of your trip. Once we have received your final payment we'll send you your cruise documents and voucher. As your trip approaches, we make sure to pass along all necessary information, so you feel super prepared and stress-free.

*For last-minute bookings, we might not be able to hold your spaces for so long. We will also require the full payment of your cruise upon booking.

An expedition cruise to Antarctica or the Arctic is a big deal! Most people plan for this type of trip at least 8 months in advance. This means the earlier you book, the better chance you'll have to reserve your prefered cabins. Early bird discounts are also popular and a great way to get 10-30% off your cruise.

Most expedition cruises offer optional activities like camping and kayaking, but the spaces are limited. A cruise with 120 passengers can have only 10-15 spaces for kayaking. These are reserved on a first come first served basis. The earlier you book, the higher your chance of grabbing a spot.

Even though last minute deals do occur, keep in mind that the airline prices will be much higher if you purchase them last minute. You may save a few hundred on your cruise, but you may end up paying the most for airfare.

If you are prone to motion sickness then here are a few hints to help you.

Firstly, book a cabin in the middle of the ship. The middle of the ship will move less, both in roll and in pitch. Secondly, chose a larger ship. Bigger vessels typically are more stable, and some of them are even equipped with "stabilizers", fins under water that remove the rolling in the swells. Thirdly, take medical advice on anti-seasickness medication. Some traditional remedies are said to be very effective, such as taking ginger or using commercially-available acupressure wristbands.

Watch this informative video about life onboard an expedition ship and seasickness from our expert guide and Polartours Brand Ambassador, Kevin.

Life Onboard & Seasickness

A Polar expedition is one of the most singular travel experiences you could ever have. Its isolated location comes with a unique set of health-and-safety-related requirements. Besides it being mandatory to be reasonably fit, here is what you must know about insurances for your trip:

  • Mandatory for all Polar Trips: Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance. Polar regions are remote and challenging to access in case of a medical emergency. For this reason, all Polar tour operators require travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation and repatriation. Without this coverage, you will not be allowed to board.

  • For Antarctica, most operators require coverage between $100,000 and $500,000.

  • In the Arctic, the required coverage ranges from $100,000 to $200,000.

To confirm the exact requirements for your specific cruise, please reach out to one of our Polar specialists. They’ll be happy to assist and ensure you’re fully prepared for your expedition.

If you are an EU resident, please inquire about insurance packages from our partner HanseMerkur by clicking here. If you are not an EU resident, then we must ask you to get an insurance on your own terms. Our customers have made good experiences with World Nomads Rescue and Allianz Care as insurers, both offer such packages that cover Polar Expedition Cruises.

  • Not mandatory, but recommended: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance. Polar expedition cruises can be quite expensive. Travel insurance can protect your investment by covering the costs if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unforeseen circumstances like illness, family emergencies, or other covered reasons.
  • Not mandatory and optional: Gear and Equipment Coverage. Polar expeditions often require specialized clothing and gear. Some insurance policies offer coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged equipment.

Please note that policies change over time and from ship to ship, so it's important to check both the booking documents we send you when you book your expedition and your insurance policy carefully. Some ships may already have some insurance included, some other operators may have specific insurance requirements. The insurers we list above are recommendations only and it's your responsibility to check that the insurance you buy really does cover everything you need for your trip.

Antarctic Express: Fly South, Cruise North

4.8

(5)

Luxury

From

USD 13,676



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