The Emperor Penguin Quest: Snow Hill Expedition
Trip Overview
Trip Length: 14 Days
Price Point: From $20,186
Seasons Available: Fall
Quark Expeditions made history in 2004 by becoming the first to reach the Emperor Penguin rookery at Snow Hill Island, a tiny island off the east coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. Since then, they’ve brought more travelers to this rarely visited destination than any other operator. Now, they invite you to be part of this legacy—an unparalleled opportunity to witness the rare and elusive Emperor Penguin in its natural habitat, deep within Antarctica’s Weddell Sea. This exclusive 14-day adventure takes you aboard the state-of-the-art Ultramarine, a ship designed for true exploration and equipped with twin-engine helicopters for extraordinary access to the frozen wilderness. Soar over towering icebergs and an endless expanse of untouched sea ice, landing within walking distance of thousands of Emperor Penguins and their fluffy chicks. With five days dedicated to exploring the area, each moment is a rare privilege—watching penguins toboggan across the ice, listening to their calls echo across the frozen expanse, and feeling the sheer wonder of standing in one of the most inaccessible places on Earth. This is a journey for those who seek true adventure, a rare chance to witness nature’s most extraordinary spectacle in one of the planet’s most remote frontiers. Will you answer the call of the ice?
- Walk Among Emperor Penguins – Stand just meters from thousands of Emperor Penguins and their fluffy chicks in a rare, intimate wildlife encounter.
- Fly Over the Weddell Sea – Observe breathtaking aerial views of towering icebergs and endless sea ice over Antarctica’s frozen wilderness.
- Explore by Air, Sea, and Foot – Travel by helicopter, Zodiac, kayak, paddleboard, and on foot to experience the icy landscapes and diverse wildlife up close.
- Expert-Led Adventure – Learn from polar scientists, historians, and expedition leaders who bring Antarctica’s wonders to life.
- Sail in Comfort on Ultramarine – Enjoy a world-class expedition ship with luxury amenities designed for exploring the planet’s most remote frontier.
Day to Day Itinerary
- Day 1 - Buenos Aires
Arrive in Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital and transfer independently to your group hotel. Enjoy the city’s rich culture, European-style architecture, and vibrant atmosphere before your expedition begins. - Day 2 - Ushuaia
Fly to the world’s southernmost city. Explore its charming streets before boarding Ultramarine. Sail the historic Beagle Channel, anticipating the incredible adventure ahead. - Days 3/4 - Drake Passage
Navigate the infamous Drake Passage, watching seabirds and marine life from the deck. Attend expert-led lectures to deepen your understanding of the polar regions and their unique ecosystems. - Day 5 - Weddell Sea
As you venture deeper into Antarctica, learn about the icy landscapes, Emperor penguins, and the legendary explorers who first braved these remote and extreme conditions. - Days 6/10 - Snow Hill and Antarctic Peninsula
Fly via helicopter to Snow Hill’s remote Emperor penguin colony. Observe thousands of penguins in their natural habitat, enjoy Zodiac excursions, and explore the pristine Antarctic wilderness. Alternative landings may include Brown Bluff, Paulet Island, or Seymour Island. - Days 11/13: Drake Passage
Savor your last moments in Antarctica before crossing the Drake Passage again. Reflect on your experiences, enjoy final lectures, and celebrate with fellow travelers. - Day 14 - Ushuaia
Arrive in Ushuaia and explore Tierra del Fuego National Park before flying back to Buenos Aires, concluding your extraordinary Antarctic journey.
Ultramarine
Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, multiple embarkation points, and a bespoke Zodiac hangar, Ultramarine offers a robust menu of adventure activities, spontaneous excursions, and intimate wildlife engagement. Together with an innovative mix of sustainability features that converts waste into energy and eliminates the environmental impact of waste transportation, Ultramarine is the perfect choice for active, conscious-minded guests looking for a unique adventure. Spacious suites are thoughtfully outfitted with premium amenities, while the ship provides plenty of areas, both inside and out, to witness incredible Antarctic wildlife including a spacious observation deck and a wrap-around deck with panoramic views.
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