Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake | World Explorer

Offer only available on 10 Dec 25 & 15 Dec 25 departures only

Applicable on select standard cabin types only.

Cabins limited, capacity controlled and subject to availability 
 
Valid until 31 December 24 unless withdrawn, sold out or varied prior

Combinable with in-market discount offers except past passenger offers

See Additional T&Cs Below

8 Days
Save Up To 19%

WAS From AUD 29,895   Now From AUD 24,140

STYLE: Small Ship Luxury Expediton Cruise 

Trip Code: ACTSWEFD

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Punta Arenas, Chile

Finish: Punta Arenas, Chile

SHIP: World Explorer

DestinationDestination

Antarctic Peninsula

MealsMeals

Breakfast at hotel. All meals & snacks on board. Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings

TransportTransport

Group transfers throughout & return charter flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island

TransportAccommodation

Hotel & Cabin on board ship

DEPARTURE DATES

Season 2024-25 Season 2025-26

15 December 2024



Enquire Now
map

Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Antarctica Excursions, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team.

 

NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions

OVERVIEW

See your first glimpses of the dramatic landscapes of Antarctica from the air, as you fly by charter plane across the infamous Drake Passage from Punta Arenas, to land only hours later on the South Shetland Island of King George. From here you cruise in style aboard the refined and luxurious World Explorer, to discover the wonders of the White Continent. Shore landings by Zodiac take you to beaches dotted with penguins and seals, to visit research stations and to hike to a penguin rookery. Zodiac cruises take you out in search of whales and seals and in amongst beautifully sculpted icebergs, set against spectacular landscapes of snow-capped peaks, icy plateaus and glaciers. This is the ideal cruise for those who are short on time but want to experience the wonders of Antarctica. 

ITINERARY

Punta Arenas, Chile

Your adventure begins in Punta Arenas, Chile, the most populated city in southern Patagonia. If you arrive early, there are many museums, restaurants and shops to keep you busy for days. By early afternoon, a Quark Expeditions representative will meet you at the official starting point hotel, where you’ll enjoy a welcome dinner and be briefed about preparing for your embarkation day.

Embarkation Day

Your charter flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica will have you crossing the legendary Drake Passage in only a few hours. Far below, the ship will approach King George Island for your arrival. Your first glimpse of dramatic Antarctic landscapes will be from a unique perspective, as your plane descends for landing in the South Shetland Islands. After landing, stretch your legs and spend time exploring the island before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula!

Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetlands - Day 3 to 6

There are few places in the world as evocative as Antarctica. As your ship approaches the White Continent, you may be overcome by feelings of excitement and awe. Much of Antarctica is indescribable and can only be fully appreciated through your own eyes.

As your captain and Expedition Team keep a lookout for whales and seabirds, you’ll be alerted to any new sightings. Our team of expert lecturers will also provide in-depth explanations of the geology, history and wildlife of the region.

Even more exciting are your daily land excursions. Your first Zodiac landing is something you’ll never forget! Walking up to a beach dotted with penguins and seals is the most intimate way to experience the unique wildlife of Antarctica.

Each landing is different and is dependent on weather, but every day presents new sightings and photo opportunities, and it won’t be long before you can tell the difference between an Adélie, gentoo or chinstrap penguin.

You may take a Zodiac cruise in search of whales and icebergs around Pleneau Island one day, followed by a hike to a penguin rookery the next day. From the booming sound of a calving glacier at Neko Harbour to the thrill of watching a leopard seal as it hunts a penguin, you’ll wake up early and welcome each day with a sense of excitement and a desire to explore that which is unrivaled by any other travel experience.

Your Expedition Team will be with you all along the way, providing insights into the places you visit.

Disembark and Fly to Punta Arenas

After your week of exploration, you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and disembark at King George Island. Your three-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, brings your adventure to an end. After your transfer from the airport to the hotel, you are free to explore and enjoy one final dinner to reminisce about the sights and sounds of Antarctica.

Depart Punta Arenas

After breakfast, you are welcome to continue on your own travels or make your way to the Punta Arenas airport for your homeward flights.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • Experience the quickest and most direct route to Antarctica by flying over the Drake Passage.

  • See iconic animals like penguins, whales, seals and many more.

  • Presentations on wildlife, history, glaciology & geology by experts onboard enhance the experience.

World Explorer

World Explorer

Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer. The ship is equipped with 2 Rolls Royce hybrid engines, which reduce it's environmental impact. 

The personal space is exceptional. Every cabin has either a private walk-out or Juliet balcony for direct ocean views. World Explorer also delivers plenty of public areas to unwind in after a day outdoors, including the glass-domed Observation Lounge for quiet contemplation and full skyline views, the Explorer Lounge for a drink and a chat, and the library for more intimate relaxing and reading. Presentations and discussions are facilitated in a dedicated lecture theatre.

Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor running track, a small gym and a sauna, plus a spa with change rooms, showers and lockers. For the active adventurers, add-ons include kayaking, camping and stand-up paddle boarding.

Blending high design with total functionality, World Explorer is all set to be your home away from home while exploring the polar regions.

The ship takes a maximum of 172 guests (140 in Antarctica) and has 130 onboard crew, including an industry leading expedition crew of naturalist guides. 

Ice Class: Length: 126 meters
Breadth: 19 metersMax
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: 220v Passenger
Capacity:172 (140 in Antarctica)

View Ship Details

Accommodation

We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Optional Activities vary for each itinerary. Limited spaces available. Contact your Destination Specialist for pricing & availability.

Stand-up Paddle Boarding

Stand-up Paddle boarding, commonly known as SUP originated in Hawaii and is now available as an optional activity in Antarctica. What a way to explore! 

Learn More

Kayaking

Experience the unforgettable thrill and serenity of kayaking in Antarctica as part of a small, expertly guided paddling group.

Learn More

Pricing per person

Triple

Features:-

Located on Deck 6, and approximately 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet is around the corner, and a refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 29,895 AUD 24,140

Available

Enquire Now
  • Triple (3 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Infinity Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 35,095 AUD 28,339

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Veranda Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 35,095 AUD 28,339

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Superior Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 45,595 AUD 36,818

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Deluxe Suite

Features:-

Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 48,995 AUD 39,564

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Owner's Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 52,595 AUD 42,471

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Triple

Features:-

Located on Deck 6, and approximately 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet is around the corner, and a refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 29,895 AUD 24,140

Available

Enquire Now
  • Triple (3 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Infinity Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 35,095 AUD 28,339

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Veranda Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 35,095 AUD 28,339

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Superior Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 45,595 AUD 36,818

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Deluxe Suite

Features:-

Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 48,995 AUD 39,564

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Owner's Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.

19 % off

AUD 52,595 AUD 42,471

Available

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Triple

Features:-

Located on Deck 6, and approximately 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet is around the corner, and a refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

25 % off

AUD 27,600 AUD 20,700

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Triple (3 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Owner's Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.

25 % off

AUD 47,800 AUD 35,850

Available

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

Infinity Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

25 % off

AUD 33,600 AUD 25,200

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Veranda Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

25 % off

AUD 33,600 AUD 25,200

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Share, Male (1 berth)
  • Share, Female (1 berth)

Superior Suite

Features:-

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

25 % off

AUD 41,800 AUD 31,350

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Single (1 berth)
  • Double (2 berths)

Deluxe Suite

Features:-

Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

25 % off

AUD 45,200 AUD 33,900

Unavailable

Enquire Now
  • Double (2 berths)
  • Single (1 berth)

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Important Information

  • **Solo No Single Supplement Offer on select departures

    Offer only available on 10 December 2025 & 15 December 2025 departures only
    Solo travelers will be able to book double-occupancy standard cabins for the discounted price of a single berth. Only applicable on select standard cabin types with cabins limited and subject to availability. Cabins for this offer are very limited and capacity controlled so please contact us for most up to date availability for this offer.
    Discount is valid until 31 December 24 unless withdrawn, capacity reached, sold out or varied prior
    valid on new bookings only. Combinable with regular in-market promotional offer & shipboard credits only, not combinable with past passenger offers. 
     

    * Other Current Discounts, promotions and pricing are available until 31 December 2024, however discounts may be withdrawn or changed at any time and are subject to availability on selected cabins and departure dates. Some current in market offers may be combinable and Shackleton Club Past Passenger and multi trip discounts may be applied subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Prices are subject to change based on currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other external factors. No discount applies to any transfer packages, additional activities or pre/post services. The advertised prices may also include a 'Pay in full at time of booking' which is a 5-10% early payment discount, which requires the full balance to be paid at the time of booking to apply. Further conditions may apply.

    Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

    NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit. 

  • Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions. Contact us for more details

  • INCLUSIONS 


    Shipboard accommodation 
    All meals & snacks on board throughout your voyage
    Beer, standard wines & spirits, & cocktails during pre-dinner bar service, dinner & evenings
    Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
    All scheduled landings/excursions  
    Guiding and lectures by experienced expedition leader 
    A photographic journey documenting the expedition 
    Waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings
    Expedition parka to keep 
    Comprehensive predeparture materials, including a map and an informative Antarctica Reader
    All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges 
    All luggage handling aboard the ship 
    All gratuities 
    Return charter flight from Punta Arenas, Chile
    Free WiFi

     

    EXCLUSIONS 
     

    Airfares to/from embarkation and disembarkation city/cities 
    Passport and visa expenses
    Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above 
    Meals ashore unless otherwise specified 
    Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance 
    Excess baggage fees on international flights
    Laundry and personal expenses incurred onboard 
    Phone and internet charges
    Additional overnight accommodation 
    Optional adventure activities

  • 2 (light adventure)

  • Available upon request, a supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Please contact us for more information.

  • Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.

FROM PRICE & PROMOTIONAL DETAILS

  • See 'Pricing & Dates' tab for detailed departures, pricing and availability


Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

See detailed promotional T&Cs below

NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.