Antarctica is the least -known continent, and only an icebreaker ensures access to its most remote regions. Onboard helicopters take you closer to historic sites, distinctive wildlife, and frozen landscapes unchanged by the march of time. The sheer scale of the surrounding landscape inspires awe, while the power of Kapitan Khlebnikov leaves you breathless with excitement.

Eight million miles of white.
Everything is big in the Antarctic. The ice sheet on Antarctica is bigger than Europe, measuring 13 million sq km (eight million square miles). It is 4770 m (5200 yards) thick in places. Should it melt, the world's oceans would rise by up to 70 m (230 feet). There are an estimated 300,000 icebergs in the southern ocean, and some of them are the size of a small state. They're an awe-inspiring sight. It is a pristine paradise, virtually unchanged over the centuries.

Important reminder: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy ' and excitement ' of expedition travel. There are no guarantees that Quark can achieve everything they set out to accomplish. A measure of flexibility is something all of us must bring to a voyage.

Start /Finish Locations
25th October to 7th November & 6th to 19th November: Ushuaia, Argentina/Ushuaia, Argentina
18th November to 1st December: Ushuaia, Argentina/Stanley, Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)

In Antarctica, everything is extreme. It is the most remote and least -known continent on earth. You will see icebergs larger than Luxembourg, spectacular mountains of rock 140 million years old, and wildlife thriving in some of the most severe conditions on earth. Exploring here with Quark, you will see why Antarctica holds a special place in our imagination. It is a transforming experience.

The Essence of Adventure.
Quark Expeditions is the leader in polar travel. They offer unrivalled technical expertise, the most talented Expedition Team, the best equipment, and the highest standards of operation. Their passion for the polar regions defines their style: informal, exciting and fun! Still, their voyages are not for everyone: their expertise is adventure, not luxury. They offer exhilarating Zodiac rides, not silk sheets and chandeliers. They are very good at spotting whales but hopeless at ballroom dancing. They can fly helicopters but slot machines baffle them. In short, they are the essence of adventure and they want to share it with you.

Quark's People.
Quark Expeditions has assembled an extraordinary team of polar experts. They are some of the most recognized scientists, naturalists, historians, athletes, ornithologists, geologists, zoologists and biologists anywhere. But more than that, like you, they share a passion for exploration and adventure. They are members of some of the most select and distinguished institutions around the globe, including The Explorers Club, the Royal Geographic Society, the Arctic Club, and the British Antarctic Survey Club. One of our Expedition Team members wrote the chapter on Antarctica for the Encyclopedia Britannica. They have established many, many firsts in their fields. Several have mountains named after them. They are a fascinating group. Enthusiastic. Accomplished. Totally dedicated. You will enjoy travelling with them. Leaders in Polar Adventure for More than 16 Years. It is their experience that will make your experience a truly unforgettable one. Everyone at Quark is committed to ensuring that you are comfortable during your voyage. From the experienced officers that operate the ships to the smiling attendants bringing you fresh towels, they are there to take care of you. We understand that comfort is as integral to your enjoyment as the scenery.

Quark Firsts.
Quark Expeditions has set many firsts for expedition travel by passenger vessel. Here are just a few of them:
- August 1991: First -ever transit of the Northeast Passage, the historic route across the Russian Arctic.
- November 1992: First expedition to the Far Side of Antarctica. First to visit an Emperor Penguin rookery.
- November 1996: First circumnavigation of the Antarctic continent.
- July 1999: First circumnavigation of the Arctic Ocean.
- January 2006: Broke Roald Amundsen's record, set nearly 100 years ago, attaining the most southerly latitude of any surface vessel.

Helicopters. Zodiacs. Rubber Boots.
Everything you need for the adventure of a lifetime. Travelling to these remote corners of the world requires a high level of expertise and extreme attention to detail. At Quark Expeditions, their experience and passion for planning ensure your comfort. You can relax and enjoy the journey, knowing that they have taken care of everything for you. The price of your expedition includes a lot more than passage on the ship. Zodiac excursions, hotel stays and transfers come with your package. They are also renowned for their cuisine: Three exemplary meals a day, including a generous breakfast buffet, hearty lunch, afternoon tea and a five-course dinner featuring an appetizing international menu.

Quark Expeditions Polar Arts Programme.
Throughout history, great voyages have been captured on paper and film. From Edward Wilson's watercolours of Scott's Antarctic expeditions to Amundsen's famous photographs of his trek to the South Pole, the visual record of a journey is an integral part of great exploration. Selected expeditions will include Quark Expeditions' 'Polar Arts Programme' featuring artists-in-residence who will record the journey. They will also conduct lectures and lead photography and painting workshops for travellers. These artists have been selected from all over the world for their outstanding talent and familiarity with the polar regions. They will enhance the way you see and experience your expedition. You will see things differently through their eyes, and your own.

Savings Opportunities.
- Back-to-Back Travellers save 5%. Join us for two or more consecutive expeditions and you will save 5% on the second voyage.
- Solo Travellers can save by sharing. If you are traveling alone, you can realize significant savings by taking advantage of Quark's Request-Share Programme. They will assign you to a cabin with another solo traveller of the same gender. If, on the day of embarkation, there is no one with whom you can share, you do not pay the single supplement.
Some conditions apply; discounts cannot be combined.

PLEASE NOTE THAT AIRFARES ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PROGRAMME. TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS CAN BE BOOKED THROUGH NOBLE CALEDONIA.

The Kapitan Khlebnikov is a stellar example of advanced icebreaker technology and was built to a Russian-Finnish design and launched in 1981 by the world's leading builder, Wartsila Corporation of Helsinki. Originally designed for the challenging conditions of northern Siberia, the Kapitan Khlebnikov was refurbished in 1992 and since that time has carried adventurous travellers to the remotest corners of the world.

The vessel has 54 first-class outside cabins and suites, all featuring private facilities, large windows and ample storage space. Twin cabins have one fixed berth and one convertible sofa bed and suites have a sitting room separate from the bedroom and a television. There are two dining rooms onboard with unreserved seating. Breakfast is buffet-style, and lunch and dinner are table service with main choices from a changing daily menu. Facilities on board include a small heated indoor swimming pool, exercise room and sauna, theatre-style auditorium for expedition team presentations, shop, library, lift and clinic with doctor.