Polar Circle Quest (12D)
Highlights
- Cross the legendary Antarctic Circle, joining the select few who have ventured beyond 66°33’ south into true polar wilderness.
- Explore pristine landscapes by Zodiac, kayak, or snowshoe, encountering penguins, seals, and whales along the way.
- Sail through spectacular channels like the Lemaire, where towering glaciers and sculpted icebergs create a dreamlike panorama.
The Polar Circle Quest is a rare opportunity to go farther than most travelers ever dream—south of the legendary Antarctic Circle, where vast ice-choked waters, towering glaciers, and dramatic landscapes shape one of Earth’s final frontiers.
Your adventure begins in Ushuaia, sailing the scenic Beagle Channel and navigating the famed Drake Passage, where seabirds wheel overhead and whales may breach in the biologically rich waters. Soon, the pristine shores of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula come into view, offering your first steps into a realm teeming with penguins and seals.
Days are filled with exhilarating exploration: Zodiac cruises through iceberg-laden channels, snowshoe hikes across glacial ridges, and serene kayaking excursions surrounded by curious wildlife. Each voyage is shaped by the expertise of your expedition team, ensuring spontaneous discoveries and unique landings far from the crowds. Along the way, you’ll encounter Adélie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap Penguins, crabeater and leopard seals, and possibly pods of humpbacks or orcas feeding in the krill-rich seas.
The highlight of this journey is venturing below latitude 66°33’ south—crossing into a seldom-reached world few humans experience. This achievement, combined with the awe-inspiring beauty and wildlife encounters, will leave you with memories that endure long after you return home.
Perfect for intrepid travelers, wildlife lovers, and those with a thirst for true adventure, this expedition promises not just a voyage, but a life-affirming journey to the farthest reaches of our planet.
Standard Activities
About the Polar Circle Quest (12D)
The Polar Circle Quest is a rare opportunity to go farther than most travelers ever dream—south of the legendary Antarctic Circle, where vast ice-choked waters, towering glaciers, and dramatic landscapes shape one of Earth’s final frontiers.
Your adventure begins in Ushuaia, sailing the scenic Beagle Channel and navigating the famed Drake Passage, where seabirds wheel overhead and whales may breach in the biologically rich waters. Soon, the pristine shores of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula come into view, offering your first steps into a realm teeming with penguins and seals.
Days are filled with exhilarating exploration: Zodiac cruises through iceberg-laden channels, snowshoe hikes across glacial ridges, and serene kayaking excursions surrounded by curious wildlife. Each voyage is shaped by the expertise of your expedition team, ensuring spontaneous discoveries and unique landings far from the crowds. Along the way, you’ll encounter Adélie, Gentoo, and Chinstrap Penguins, crabeater and leopard seals, and possibly pods of humpbacks or orcas feeding in the krill-rich seas.
The highlight of this journey is venturing below latitude 66°33’ south—crossing into a seldom-reached world few humans experience. This achievement, combined with the awe-inspiring beauty and wildlife encounters, will leave you with memories that endure long after you return home.
Perfect for intrepid travelers, wildlife lovers, and those with a thirst for true adventure, this expedition promises not just a voyage, but a life-affirming journey to the farthest reaches of our planet.
Itinerary Day to Day
Ushuaia, Argentina
Board your ship in the afternoon and meet your expert expedition team and lecturers. After settling into your cabin, the ship sets sail through the Beagle Channel and Mackinlay Pass. Take in the breathtaking scenery of rugged coastlines and sea cliffs as your Antarctic adventure begins.

Crossing the Drake Passage
Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula & Venturing below the Antarctica Circle
Crossing the Drake Passage
Ushuaia, Argentina
Route Map
What's Included
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Accommodation: Fully serviced cabins, ranging from porthole views, large windows, and private balconies.
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Meals: Daily meals, snacks, tea, coffee, and house beer, soda, and wine during lunch and dinner.
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Shore Excursions: Guided walks, daily shore excursions, and Zodiac cruises.
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Adventure Activities: Kayaking, Snowshoeing, Camping, Yoga (Subject to weather and operational conditions)
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Expedition Team: Led by experienced guides, polar experts, and esteemed scientists
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Lectures: Educational talks and expert guiding services.
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Expedition Equipment: Loaned muck boots and access to the onboard doctor and medical clinic.
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Pre-departure Info: Comprehensive materials, how to pack guide, and an Antarctic booklet.
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Port Fees: Includes port surcharges, permits, and landing fees.
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Wi-Fi: Basic Wi-Fi complimentary; upgrades available for a fee.
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Crew Tips / Gratuities
What's Excluded
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Personal Expenses: Includes bar charges and Boutique Charges. Final payments must be made in cash (US Dollar or Euro).
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Additional Excursions: Airfare, pre-cruise accommodation, insurance, or any excursions/ activities/gear not listed in the itinerary.
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Accommodation Upgrades: Single room supplements and stateroom upgrades.
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Off-ship Meals: Meals not provided aboard the ship.
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Optional Services: Examples include onboard boutique purchases.
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Unlisted Items: Anything not specified under “Inclusions.”
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Beverages: Alcoholic drinks and sodas outside of happy hour / dinner time.