Signature Antarctic Expedition 2025

Stepping onto the 7th Continent represents a remarkable polar achievement that only a select few have the opportunity to embrace in their lifetime. Revel in the breathtaking sights of awe-inspiring ice formations, as humpback whales gracefully glide alongside your vessel, while leopard seals gracefully dive beneath your Zodiac boat. Witness playful penguins effortlessly sliding off pristine icebergs into crystal-clear waters, and marvel at the majestic giant petrels soaring high above the crackling sea.

Embark on this extraordinary journey aboard a stable, polar-class vessel, conquering the renowned Drake Passage. Explore the stunning natural landscapes both by Zodiac and on foot, immersing yourself in the unparalleled beauty of this unique environment. Forge intimate connections with the enchanting penguins, majestic whales, and other captivating wildlife that call this remote continent home. Engage in enlightening talks led by onboard polar experts, delving into the fascinating realms of history, biology, and glaciology.

Continue your adventure!

This tour combines seamlessly with our Classic Argentina and Chile tour. Click here to see full Argentina and Chile details.

 

INCLUSIONS & HIGHLIGHTS

  • 1 Night deluxe accommodations in Buenos Aires
  • 11 Nights shipboard accommodations
  • All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices are on board
  • Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa are available around the clock
  • One 10- to 15-minute helicopter flightseeing excursion (weather and logistics permitting)
  • Guided hiking tour at each landing spot
  • Zodiac cruising with assistance from the expedition staff
  • Daily presentations by the Expedition Team
  • Photographic journal documenting the expedition
  • Photography guide on the Expedition Team
  • Waterproof expedition boots are on loan for shore landings
  • An official Quark Expeditions parka to keep
  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
  • All luggage handling aboard the ship
  • $250 shipboard credit
  • Women’s Travel Club Tour Host

If the minimum number of members is not met, the tour will continue without a tour host.

ITINERARY

**Prices are subject to change and availability. Space is limited and activities and specific hotels are subject to change. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

IMPORTANT DETAILS & PRICING

Rates

Explorer Suite
Double Occupancy: $13,942 USD per person

Solo Panorama
Single Occupancy: $19,192 USD per person

Balcony Suite
Double Occupancy: $15,342 USD per person
Single Occupancy: $25,385 USD per person

Deluxe Balcony Suite
Double Occupancy: $18,212 USD per person
Single Occupancy: $35,388 USD per person

If you would like the double occupancy rate but don’t have a roommate, we will match you with a suitable roommate. The single occupancy rate will give you your own room. Single occupancy may be limited. USD = United States of America dollars.

25% is due at time of booking.
Final Payment: October 22, 2024

*Please see full terms and conditions. Prices are subject to change based on availability.

Cancellation Policy

Within 15 days after booking confirmation
Booking must be confirmed more than 180 days prior to Day 1. 
Free Cancellation
From 15 days after booking confirmation up to 180 days prior to Day 1  $1,250 USD
179 to 120 days prior to Day 1 Loss of Deposit
119 to 90 days prior to Day 1 50%
89 to 60 days prior to Day 1 75%
59 to 0 days prior to Day 1 100%

Activity Level

Moderate Activity
The activities included in this tour are fairly moderate but there are more active activities available. You should be able to walk for extended periods of time on uneven and possibly slippery terrain and get in and out of a zodiac easily.

Group Size

Minimum – 10 ladies
Maximum – 18 ladies

If the minimum number of members is not met, the tour will continue without a tour host.

Exclusions

  • International Airfare
  • Visa/passport handling fees
  • Meals not listed in itinerary
  • Alcoholic Beverages other than with dinner
  • Gratuities
  • Optional Activities
  • Expenses of a Personal Nature
  • Early check-in and late check-out of hotel
  • Travel Insurance

Tour Host

Women’s Travel Club tours are hosted tours. Your tour host is in addition to local tour guides. Your Women’s Travel Club tour host is your tour concierge and there to make sure every part of the tour runs smoothly. Our trained hosts are seasoned travelers who are with you every step of your tour so that you only have to worry about enjoying yourself and having fun.
The Women’s Travel Club Tour Host for this tour is Kim Healy.

Roommate Matching Policy

Roommate matching is done as a courtesy and while most matches result in wonderful friendships, success is not guaranteed. If, during the tour, you decide you would no longer like to share a room with your roommate, you will need to request (and pay for) a single room at all accommodations. This can be shared between the two people in the room if it is a mutual decision. If you are a very light sleeper or snore, you may want to consider getting your own single room.

Flight Information

The Women’s Travel Club recommends booking flexible/refundable air tickets when possible.
Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina – EZE at any time on or before first day of tour.
Depart from Buenos Aires, Argentina – EZE – Suggest flights in that afternoon as ship may be delayed in arrival.
If you would like assistance booking international flights for your tour please use the form below. The Women’s Travel Club Flight Desk will work with you to arrange the best options.
Our Flight management fee is CAD 100.00 + HST, per tour.
Flight Quote

Travel Insurance:

Out-of-country medical insurance is required. We strongly recommend that you obtain cancellation and interruption insurance to protect your investment.
Use this link to request an insurance quote.

Insurance Quote

Optional Experiences:

Sea Kayaking – $995 USD

Antarctic Sea Kayaking

Positioning yourself in the seat of a kayak is one of the most intimate ways travelers can connect with the polar regions—at water level, up close, where you can touch and feel every polar sensation imaginable. The Sea Kayak Program enables a small group of like-minded individuals to forge bonds as they explore fjords, glacial faces or mazes of sea ice.

Quark Expeditions Sea Kayak Program is a voyage-length program available in Antarctica, in which kayakers (those who have minimal experience as well as seasoned paddlers) will enjoy the polar regions from a unique perspective.

Conditions and logistics permitting, your kayak guide(s) will endeavor to have you paddling as often as possible throughout the voyage. Typically, sea kayakers are shuttled by Zodiac from the ship to an ideal starting point, where the kayak excursion begins. Guests return to the ship by Zodiac at the end of their paddling experience. Some kayak excursions are designed so guests can go ashore and explore.

In addition to the kayak guides, a safety driver in a Zodiac will always stay nearby to offer assistance if required. Excursions typically last one and a half to three hours.

Note: Due to its popularity and limited space, if you want to ensure a space in the Sea Kayak program, please register when you book your expedition. While the program routinely fills up well before the voyage, if there are vacant spaces when you board the vessel you may sign up. Quark Expedition guides attempt to lead guests on as many sea kayak excursions as possible, but the number of excursions will depend on weather and sea conditions as well as logistical factors. Be prepared to paddle in a double or single kayak depending on availability.

Is Kayaking Experience Necessary?

The Sea Kayak program was developed to accommodate kayakers with a range of experience. Please don’t hesitate to consult with our polar travel advisors if you have any questions.

Provided gear

  • Sea kayaks (single or double)
  • Paddle
  • Spray-skirt
  • Drysuit
  • Insulated rubber gloves and pogies*
  • PFD (personal flotation device)
  • Neoprene booties
  • 10L dry bag
  • Water bottle (provided in rooms upon embarkation)

Other recommended gear/clothing

  • Thermal base layer top and bottom (synthetic or wool, no cotton)
  • Thin fleece 200 weight top or wool sweater
  • Fleece pants
  • Liner socks
  • Thick wool socks
  • Neckwarmer
  • Thin fleece or wool liner glove to wear under rubber gloves (if you wish)
  • Warm hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Waterproof and sweatproof sunscreen
  • Camera (either waterproof, in exterior waterproof housing, or stored in a drybag)
  • Waterproof backpack or a drybag

Paddling Excursion – $295 USD

Antarctic Paddling Excursion

Every sweep of the paddle as your craft glides through the pristine polar waters creates an incredible soundtrack: the jostle of glacial ice, the lapping of waves against the rocky shore, the perpetual drip from your paddle, the call of seabirds, and the occasional splash as wildlife break the surface of the water.

Our Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you’ll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.

Excursions last a minimum of one hour and are offered to participants once per voyage. Each group includes 10 paddlers, 1 guide, and 1 one safety Zodiac driver. The wind, weather and water conditions determine the timing and location of paddling excursions.

Is Kaying Experience Necessary?

The Paddle Excursion was created for guests with little or no paddling experience, or for those who want a single paddle experience to add variety to their expedition. Participants must be fit enough to enter and exit the kayak from the Zodiac, and to maneuver with your paddle.

Provided Gear

  • Inflatable Super Lynx sit-on-top kayak
  • Paddle
  • Drysuit
  • Insulated rubber gloves
  • PFD (personal flotation device)
  • Neoprene booties
  • 10L dry bag
  • Water bottle

Other recommended gear/clothing

  • Thermal base layer (top and bottom)
  • Thin fleece or wool sweater
  • Fleece pants
  • Liner socks
  • Thick wool socks
  • Neckwarmer
  • Warm hat
  • Brimmed hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Waterproof and sweatproof sunscreen and lip balm
  • Camera (either waterproof, in exterior waterproof housing, or stored in a drybag)**
  • Waterproof backpack

Tip: It’s a good idea to protect any camera gear in a drybag. Small waterproof cameras should be attached to your PFD with a string and carabiner.

Stand Up Paddleboarding – $295 USD

Antarctic Stand UP Paddleboarding

Stand-up Paddleboarding, popularly known as SUPing, originated in Hawaii. Quark Expeditions is the first company to bring this watersport all the way to Antarctica.

SUPing combines the immersive experience of kayaking but in a standing position. Participants, if they prefer, can kneel, sit or even lie down and stare up at the azure Antarctic sky. Because of their wide base and tail fins, SUP boards are quite stable, enabling participants – after a bit of practice – to stop staring at their feet and admire the surrounding scenery. Imagine seeing Gentoo penguins gliding below you, or making eye contact with a Weddell seal lying on a piece of ice as you paddle by.

Guests receive on-ship and on-water instruction from a qualified SUP guide. In addition, a safety driver (in a Zodiac) stays within range to offer assistance.

Duration: 1 to 1½ hours.

Guide to client ratio: 1 SUP guide and 1 Zodiac safety driver for 10 participants

Is SUP Experience Necessary?

Previous experience isn’t necessary but comfortability with water is an asset. SUP’ing adventures are offered in protected bays and channels during calm weather conditions.

Provided Gear

  • Board
  • Paddle
  • Drysuit
  • Neoprene Booties
  • Waterproof gloves
  • PFD – Personal Flotation Device

Other recommended gear/clothing

  • Base and mid-layers (drysuits keep you dry, but not warm)
  • Thin fleece or wool liner glove to wear under rubber gloves (optional)
  • Waterproof and sweatproof sunscreen and lip balm (minimum SPF 30)
  • Brimmed hat as well as a warm hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera (either waterproof or in a waterproof case or drybag)

Exclusive Heli-Landing – $395 USD

Antarctic Heli Landing

Imagine setting foot in an area of the world that can only be safely accessed by helicopter. With a small group of fellow passengers and expert guides, you’ll board one of Ultramarine’s two twin-engine helicopters to soar off to an exclusive polar site where no ships can navigate. Expect stunning bird’s-eye views during your flight, and then, upon arrival, simply sit back, relax and take in the splendor from “the best seat in the house”: glacial amphitheaters, breath-taking summits, and more. Traveling in groups of 12 with no more than 4 groups (48 guests) at a time on each landing, you’ll have time to relax and quietly reflect on the beauty of your polar surroundings, after which you’ll be picked up by the helicopters in the same location and returned to Ultramarine.

Each heli-landing experience is uniquely curated by our expedition team, taking conditions and location capacity into consideration.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Ultramarine

Introducing our latest addition to the fleet, Ultramarine – a vessel meticulously crafted to redefine polar exploration. Its purpose extends beyond the ordinary, immersing guests in uncharted corners of the Polar Regions that have seldom been trodden by humankind.

Ultramarine is furnished with two twin-engine helicopters and 20 swiftly deployable Zodiacs, setting a new standard for off-ship adventure possibilities. This ship boasts an unparalleled range of activities, enhancing your expedition like never before. Delight in the culinary offerings of two restaurants, Balena and Bistro 487. For relaxation, the Tundra Spa and its window-walled sauna await, offering stunning vistas. Abundant wildlife observation spaces and generously appointed suites contribute to the comfortable experience.

What sets Ultramarine apart is its advanced sustainability systems, raising the bar beyond industry norms. A vessel that surpasses expectations in every aspect, Ultramarine is impeccably designed to provide the quintessential polar expedition, delivering an unparalleled experience.

Explorer Suite

Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). These suites are perfect for people traveling together or solo guests looking to share with like-minded individuals. This suite maximizes interior living space while still offering guests the opportunity to stay connected to the outdoors. Our entry-level twin suites are the largest available on a ship of this class.

 

Balcony Suite

Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 m2) of indoor living space, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 m2) balcony, this entry-level balcony suite is one of the largest available on a ship of this class. This suite is perfect for guests who are looking for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. There are four connecting suites in this category, making this an excellent option for families or groups wanting to stay connected to each other during their expedition.

Solo Panorama

Located on Deck 6, and approximately 132 sq. ft. (12.3 m2). This suite is perfect for solo guests who appreciate privacy and want to wake up to sweeping views from the comfort of their bed. These are the only solo suites with floor-to-ceiling windows available onboard any ship in its class.

Deluxe Balcony Suite

Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 299 sq. ft. (27.8 m2) of indoor living space, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting a larger living space, full bathroom, and a substantial balcony. Deluxe Balcony Suites are the first suite type to offer additional privacy in the bathroom with an enclosed toilet, a full bath and shower to make it easier for guests to get ready together in the morning

** Occasionally, due to situations beyond our control, specific hotels may change. Any accommodation changes will be to a similar hotel.

FAQ's

Through our own clients and networking clubs we have realized a general desire for women to travel but they don’t always have a companion. We developed the Women’s Travel Club for these women to have a fun and safe group to travel with. We offer a wide range of destinations, so that there is something for everyone.

We have women of all ages, with the average being 45 to 65 years. However, we do have regular travelers anywhere from 30 years to over 80 years of age.

We do not include international flights in the price of our tours. Not including the cost of international flights in the cost of the tour allows members the flexibility to get the flight schedule, price and class of service that best suits them. The Women's Travel Club flight desk will be happy to help arrange your international flights.

Yes, we always negotiate the best possible single supplement rate for our trips. Single spots fill quickly and may be limited so we suggest you book early for a single spot.

Yes, each of our booking forms has an area for you to request to be matched with a roommate. We get some general information that will help us match you with a great new friend.

No, at this time a travel visa is not required by Argentina for Canadian or US Citizens. However, travel requirements may change at any time. Please visit your governments travel recommendations page. Canada - Canada Travel Recommendations & Information USA - USA Travel Recommendations & Information

Weather can be unpredictable in Antarctica. For March you can expect temperatures tend to be around -5 to 0 degrees Celsius (20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit), it can get colder, and of course, on a sunny day, it can feel a lot warmer. You will be given a parka to keep and warm boots to use for the trip. We recommend you bring hats, gloves and waterproof outer pants.

Once in the Antarctic Peninsula the seas are generally calm. However, on the way to and from the Peninsula you will travel the Drake Passage. The Drake Passage has the possibility of being rough and we recommend that you bring medication in case of seasickness.

Feb 19 - Mar 02 2025

Tour Level: Signature Tours,
Activities:

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