Antarctica Excursion Slated for February 2026
Embark on an exhilarating adventure to the icy wilderness of Antarctica with Quark Expeditions' Antarctic Explorer trip, scheduled for February 18-March 01, 2026. This once-in-a-lifetime journey offers a unique opportunity to explore rarely visited areas in eastern Antarctica, such as the Antarctic Sound, Erebus and Terror Gulf, and the Weddell Sea.
The 12-day itinerary features diverse activities, including helicopter flights, Zodiac cruises, and land-based adventures to spot wildlife such as seals, whales, and Emperor Penguins. The small ships used for the expedition have a high guide-to-guest ratio (6:1), providing expert-led excursions led by specialists in marine biology, glaciology, geology, and history, offering in-depth knowledge and personalized experiences.
One of the key benefits of this trip is the use of twin-engine helicopters for flightseeing excursions and landings, which maximizes exploration opportunities and offers aerial views of icebergs, mountains, and remote lands. The expedition also includes a helicopter for better viewing opportunities.
Travellers will stay aboard the state-of-the-art ship 'Ultramarine', which has a capacity of under 199 passengers. Onboard, you'll find a gym, bar, presentation theatre, two restaurants, a shop, and a 24/7 reception. The ship also boasts a spa and sauna, ensuring that you can unwind after a day of exploration.
The deal includes up to 35% off all cabins, including balcony ones, and special savings and value adds, such as possible promotions like free balcony upgrades, onboard credit, and Wi-Fi packages. Soft drinks and juices are available during meals and when the bar is open on the ship; beer and wine are served with dinner; coffee, tea, and water stations are available 24/7, all included in the cost of the package.
To participate in the trip, you need to be moderately fit and able to get into and out of the Zodiacs if you want to go ashore. You are not required to do all the activities on the trip; you can choose to skip any of them if you prefer. If you get seasick, there is a qualified expedition doctor onboard the ship to help you.
The package price does not include international airfare to and from Buenos Aires, meals ashore (unless otherwise specified), government arrival and departure taxes, passport and visa expenses, laundry, bar, and other personal charges on the ship, excess-baggage fees on international flights, arrival and departure transfers to the airport from the hotel outside of the mandatory package, additional travel/overnight accommodation, phone and Internet charges, and mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising or any other gear not mentioned.
Baggage, cancellation, interruption, and medical travel insurance is strongly recommended but not included in the package. Solo travelers can either share a cabin and will be put with someone of the same gender and similar age, or they can choose to pay a single supplement on any of the cabins.
Book your spot fast! Limited spaces are available at these prices on this trip. To book, call Quark Expeditions on 0808 258 3241 and mention that you are part of the Wandering Bird group and use code WANDER (they might also need code 158652) to get your exclusive Wandering Bird discount.
Passengers will have the opportunity to leave the ship every day once they've crossed the Drake Passage. The expedition offers expert guides for wildlife sightings, photography opportunities, and commentary. The trip includes an official Quark Expeditions parka for each passenger, complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device, and emergency evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person.
As the trip approaches, the author of this article will help with kit advice and any issues or questions and will organize a zoom call to get to know each other better and have a Whatsapp group for any last-minute issues or questions. You do not need to be a professional photographer to enjoy the trip; even an iPhone or a GoPro can capture beautiful images.
Join us on this unforgettable journey to Antarctica and create memories that will last a lifetime!
[1] Quark Expeditions. (2026). Antarctic Explorer. Retrieved from [website URL]
[2] Quark Expeditions. (2026). Antarctic Explorer: Fly the Drake. Retrieved from [website URL]
[3] Quark Expeditions. (2026). Special Offers. Retrieved from [website URL]
[4] Quark Expeditions. (2026). Wi-Fi Packages. Retrieved from [website URL]
[5] Quark Expeditions. (2026). Antarctic Explorer: Crossing the Circle. Retrieved from [website URL]
- If you're seeking an unforgettable experience that combines adventure-travel, lifestyle, and a touch of luxury, join Quark Expeditions' Antarctic Explorer trip, where you can help make memories that will last a lifetime.
- Embarking on this adventure-travel journey also grants you personalized help from Quark Expeditions' team of specialists in marine biology, glaciology, geology, and history, ensuring a unique and informative experience.
