17-night South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari Expedition

January 24, 2026

Quark Expeditions: Ocean Explorer

Roundtrip Ushuaia

Vacation Offer ID 1541814

Reference this number when contacting our travel specialist.

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Overview

Ship Info

Activities & Services

Deckplans

The Signature Collection – Exclusive Amenities
The Signature Collection Sailings offer Exceptional Value and Exclusive Amenities.

Cruise Inclusions

Leadership throughout your 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
One 10- to 15-minute helicopter flightseeing excursion (weather and logistics permitting)

Available Add-Ons

Optional airfare; pre-/post-cruise hotel

Destination Guide
Suggested Shore Excursions

Destination	Arrival	Departure
Ushuaia Ushuaia 01/24/2026 You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port at the tip of South America. It’s the ideal gateway for you to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for your adventure ahead. Get active in the mountains or enjoy handcrafted chocolate at a café in town. Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Ushuaia – Tierra del Fuego National Park and End of the World Train - Half Day Meet your local guide at local pier and start with your visit. Begin the tour by driving along National Route N3, crossing the valley of the Pipo River and the foothills of Mount Susana, to the train station located in the area where the inmates of the old prison collected firewood. The little steam train will wind along the trail that the prison train used to follow over bridges, swampy areas, and green valleys, making a short stop at La Macarena waterfall. On completion of the train ride and already in the Tierra del Fuego National Park, drive through the most attractive landscapes of the park, such as Lake Roca and Bahía Lapataia (where the National Route N3, part of the Pan-American Highway ends). In different locations take short walks to appreciate the different species of the native forest and the protected fauna in the southernmost National Park of Argentina. After the tour you will be transferred back to the pier. Tour highlights: Beagle Channel Lapataia Bay End of the World train Inclusions Transfers to/from the pier English speaking guide Private vehicle Exclusions Gratuities for guide and driver Box-Lunch Entrance fee	01/24/2026	01/24/2026
Ushuaia Ushuaia 01/25/2026 Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart! Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Ushuaia – Tierra del Fuego National Park and End of the World Train - Half Day Meet your local guide at local pier and start with your visit. Begin the tour by driving along National Route N3, crossing the valley of the Pipo River and the foothills of Mount Susana, to the train station located in the area where the inmates of the old prison collected firewood. The little steam train will wind along the trail that the prison train used to follow over bridges, swampy areas, and green valleys, making a short stop at La Macarena waterfall. On completion of the train ride and already in the Tierra del Fuego National Park, drive through the most attractive landscapes of the park, such as Lake Roca and Bahía Lapataia (where the National Route N3, part of the Pan-American Highway ends). In different locations take short walks to appreciate the different species of the native forest and the protected fauna in the southernmost National Park of Argentina. After the tour you will be transferred back to the pier. Tour highlights: Beagle Channel Lapataia Bay End of the World train Inclusions Transfers to/from the pier English speaking guide Private vehicle Exclusions Gratuities for guide and driver Box-Lunch Entrance fee	01/25/2026	01/25/2026
Cruise Starts (Embarkation) Cruise Starts (Embarkation) 01/25/2026 Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart!	01/25/2026	01/25/2026
Beagle Channel Beagle Channel 01/25/2026 Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart!	01/25/2026	01/25/2026
At Sea At Sea 01/26/2026 There are many activities to keep you engaged while you are at sea. Learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend dynamic presentations by your Expedition Team. You will be prepped on safety procedures for Zodiac cruises and shore landings, and also be given instructions for getting the most out of your optional sea kayaking adventures (extra cost), a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica.	01/26/2026	01/26/2026
At Sea At Sea 01/27/2026 If conditions are right, the first indication that you are approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Have your binoculars and cameras ready to capture these rocky spires rising out of the icy ocean waters. Shags and prions often rest here, and due to nutrient rich upwellings around the rocks it can be a good place to keep a lookout for whales.	01/27/2026	01/27/2026
At Sea At Sea 01/28/2026 There are many activities to keep you engaged while you are at sea. Learn to identify seabirds that glide alongside the ship, or attend dynamic presentations by your Expedition Team. You will be prepped on safety procedures for Zodiac cruises and shore landings, and also be given instructions for getting the most out of your optional sea kayaking adventures (extra cost), a truly intimate way to experience Antarctica. If conditions are right, the first indication that you are approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Have your binoculars and cameras ready to capture these rocky spires rising out of the icy ocean waters. Shags and prions often rest here, and due to nutrient rich upwellings around the rocks it can be a good place to keep a lookout for whales.	01/28/2026	01/28/2026
South Georgia South Georgia 01/29/2026 After enjoying South Georgia from a distance, we’ll head toward its numerous beaches to find a bay for your first excursion. Landing sites are varied, largely determined by the weather conditions of your voyage. The sites you visit will provide you with wildlife encounters unrivaled anywhere else on Earth.	01/29/2026	01/29/2026
South Georgia South Georgia 01/30/2026 South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches blanketed with penguins and seals. It won’t take you long to realize that you are in a birder’s paradise, as burrowing seabirds, albatross and petrels can be seen in abundance. You’ll find that South Georgia, once a popular base for whalers and sealers, is also scattered with abandoned relics and evidence of human activity from centuries gone by. Your Expedition Team will help bring those days to life while you visit old whaling stations and enjoy presentations on the South Georgia of then and now.	01/30/2026	01/30/2026
South Georgia South Georgia 01/31/2026 One of the most significant sites you will visit on the island is Grytviken. This settlement is one of the first whaling stations established in sub-Antarctic waters. Grytviken possesses a special appeal largely because it’s the site of the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the most famous Antarctic explorers.	01/31/2026	01/31/2026
At Sea At Sea 02/01/2026 Say goodbye to the king penguins as you leave for your next destination: Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations and workshops led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife and landscapes that will surround you upon your arrival on the 7th Continent.	02/01/2026	02/01/2026
At Sea At Sea 02/02/2026 Say goodbye to the king penguins as you leave for your next destination: Antarctica! Your days at sea are filled with presentations and workshops led by your Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the wildlife and landscapes that will surround you upon your arrival on the 7th Continent.	02/02/2026	02/02/2026
Antarctic Peninsula Antarctic Peninsula 02/03/2026 The most common reaction upon reaching Antarctica is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is hard to put into words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica.	02/03/2026	02/03/2026
Antarctic Peninsula Antarctic Peninsula 02/04/2026 You will discover a land of extremes. One moment you’ll be overcome with a feeling of complete isolation and silence, and the next moment you’ll be inspired by nature as a calving glacier crashes into a brilliant blue sea or a curious penguin waddles by to observe you.	02/04/2026	02/04/2026
Antarctic Peninsula Antarctic Peninsula 02/05/2026 Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each excursion, whether you are Zodiac cruising, visiting a historical site or observing penguin colonies. Chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins are found here, along with Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals. Keep a lookout for Antarctic whales, such as minkes, while on a Zodiac cruise. Eachday and each excursion will present a new array of creatures to delight you and keep your camera busy.	02/05/2026	02/05/2026
Antarctic Peninsula Antarctic Peninsula 02/06/2026 As exciting as the Zodiac excursions and landings are, perhaps you’ll treat yourself to an extra-special Antarctic experience by booking an optional paddling excursion (at an extra cost) or cast reason aside and jump into Antarctic waters for the Polar Plunge!	02/06/2026	02/06/2026
Drake Passage Drake Passage 02/07/2026 After more than a dozen days of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage. Spend time on deck watching for seabirds and whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.	02/07/2026	02/07/2026
Drake Passage Drake Passage 02/08/2026 After more than a dozen days of unique wildlife encounters and remarkable landscapes, your journey home begins. Crossing the Drake is your unofficial rite of passage. Spend time on deck watching for seabirds and whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team, or simply relax and reminisce about your experiences.	02/08/2026	02/08/2026
Ushuaia Ushuaia 02/09/2026 You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, which allows you to continue your adventure onward or catch your flights home. Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Ushuaia – Tierra del Fuego National Park and End of the World Train - Half Day Meet your local guide at local pier and start with your visit. Begin the tour by driving along National Route N3, crossing the valley of the Pipo River and the foothills of Mount Susana, to the train station located in the area where the inmates of the old prison collected firewood. The little steam train will wind along the trail that the prison train used to follow over bridges, swampy areas, and green valleys, making a short stop at La Macarena waterfall. On completion of the train ride and already in the Tierra del Fuego National Park, drive through the most attractive landscapes of the park, such as Lake Roca and Bahía Lapataia (where the National Route N3, part of the Pan-American Highway ends). In different locations take short walks to appreciate the different species of the native forest and the protected fauna in the southernmost National Park of Argentina. After the tour you will be transferred back to the pier. Tour highlights: Beagle Channel Lapataia Bay End of the World train Inclusions Transfers to/from the pier English speaking guide Private vehicle Exclusions Gratuities for guide and driver Box-Lunch Entrance fee	02/09/2026	02/09/2026

Ocean Explorer, the newest addition to the fleet, is modern, elegant and purpose-built for polar exploration. The 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology. One of the ship’s key features is the ULSTEIN X-BOW®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to the inverted bow. Located at the bow is the two-story, light-filled library, which introduces a welcome airiness to the expedition ship.

Ship Highlights

Ocean Explorer features ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, perfect for long-view photography and wildlife observation
Guests can unwind in the spacious gym, sauna with large windows offering scenic views
The ship offers spacious cabins with a modern Scandinavian design
Ocean Explorer incorporates the latest in expedition ship technology, including the innovative ULSTEIN X-BOW® for a comfortable sailing experience
Ocean Explorer ship is designed for polar exploration, boasting modern elegance and purpose-built features for adventurous journeys.

Ship Statistics

Ship Length: 342 ft (104.2 m)
Beam: 17 ft (5.3 m)
Registry: Portugal
Number of Crews: 105

Passenger Capacity: 138
Number of Staterooms: 57
Number of Suites: 11

Dining

Bars & Lounges

Onboard Activities

Balcony

Studio Veranda Single Stateroom (StBS) Call for pricing

Category: StBS
Deck 7

Size: 238 sq. ft. Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Studio Veranda Stateroom (StB) Call for pricing

Category: StB
Deck 6

Size: 173 sq. ft. Located on Deck 6 and these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Royal Veranda Stateroom (RB) Call for pricing

Category: RB
Deck 6
Deck 4

Size: 189 - 272 sq. ft. This spacious, classic stateroom allows you to stretch freely. Centrally located on Decks 4 and 6.

Grand Veranda Stateroom (GB) Call for pricing

Category: GB
Deck 7
Deck 6

Size: 195 - 205 sq. ft. Near the center of the ship on Deck 6, this stateroom offers easy access to the lounge, dining room and a private veranda.

Deluxe Veranda Middle Stateroom (DBM) Call for pricing

Category: DBM
Deck 4

Size: 203 - 272 sq. ft. These classic staterooms ensure guests have easy access to all amenities the ship has to offer.

Deluxe Veranda Forward Stateroom (DBF) Call for pricing

Category: DBF
Deck 4

Size: 168 - 195 sq. ft. Enjoy privacy and elegance at the front of the ship where guests are treated to sweeping views from their private veranda.

Deluxe Veranda Stateroom (DB) Call for pricing

Category: DB
Deck 4

Size: 200 - 205 sq. ft. Revel in superior comfort of this stateroom on Deck 4 while taking in the panoramic ocean views from your private veranda.

Oceanview

Studio Single Stateroom (SS) Call for pricing

Category: SS
Deck 3

Size: 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m.) Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Studio Double Stateroom (SD) Call for pricing

Category: SD
Deck 3

Size: 175 -186 sq. ft. Enjoy the calm ambience of this stateroom which features a porthole window and every amenity essential for your polar voyage.

Suite

Owner's Suite (OS) Call for pricing

Category: OS

Size: 443 sq. ft. This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities.

Junior Suite (JS) Call for pricing

Category: JS
Deck 6

Size: 296 - 299 sq. ft. The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive.

Explorer Suite (ES) Call for pricing

Category: ES
Deck 7

Size: 269 sq. ft. This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and it has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony. There are also 2 TV's, state of the art 'infotainment' system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

Fares listed are per person, based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted.

All fares are per person, based on double occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and quoted in US dollars (US$). Rates for expeditions, flights, as well as optional pre-expedition and post-expedition extensions are based on tariffs and exchange rates in effect at the time of printing and are subject to change prior to departure. Substantial changes in tariffs, exchange rates and the price of fuel, services and labor sometimes increase the cost of expedition arrangements significantly. Quark reserves the right to alter prices or introduce surcharges accordingly, even if payment has been received in full. All travelers are required to pay for their excursion and additional purchases in conjunction with their excursion in the same currency. The fare does not include tobacco, alcoholic or special beverages (bottled or tap), miscellaneous extras, personal needs or medical care. Such goods and services, if available for purchase aboard the vessel/camp, are at the traveler's own expense. Payment for all such goods and services including any charges for extra baggage must be made in cash or by traveler's checks in US dollars (or other currency acceptable to the carrier) upon demand by the carrier prior to the traveler's disembarkation. Taxes, port charges, embarkation and loading expenses, stamps, health fees and any other charges whatsoever imposed by governmental authorities in any port or place shall be for the account of the traveler if not included in the fare paid to Quark.

To confirm reservations on all Quark products, a deposit of 25% (minimum US$1000 per person) is required at time of booking. The deposit may be paid by bank wire transfer, check, money order or major credit card. For any booking within 120 days of departure full payment is required. Final payment balances are due 120 days prior to departure.

Important reminder: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy – and excitement – of expedition travel. There are no guarantees that we can achieve everything we set out to accomplish. A measure of flexibility is something all of us must bring to a voyage. There are nearly 200 recognized sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned above may be changed to others equally as interesting.

Exclusions - Rates specifically do not include:

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 and domestic 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 (connectivity may vary by location)
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