South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari
18 days aboard the Ocean Explorer, with Quark Expeditions
Duration: 18 Days / 17 Nights
Itinerary: South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari
Departing/Returning: Ushuaia, Argentina
Passengers: 138
Ship name: Ocean Explorer
Departures:
January 24 - February 10, 2026
Dates and Details.
Our South Georgia and Antarctica: Penguin Safari itinerary is the fastest way to get to the seldom visited South Georgia Island while also setting foot on the 7th continent. As we set sail, photograph massive albatross and beautiful pintado petrels as they swoop and soar around the ship, guiding us toward South Georgia. Beaches teeming with king penguins and elephant seals greet us on this fabled island, where we’ll pay our respects to famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Antarctica awaits, with its soaring peaks and staggering expanse. Go further into the Antarctic sea on a Zodiac, experience the rugged peninsula from a sea kayak, undertake an exhilarating hike up a sparkling glacier, or share an endearingly comical moment with an inquisitive gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguin. In these ways and countless others, Antarctica will amaze, surprise and delight.
Trip Description.
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Day 1: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina
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.
Day 2: Embark
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!
Day 3 to 6: At Sea
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.
Day 7 to 9: South Georgia
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.
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.
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.
Day 10 & 11: At Sea
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.
Day 12 to 15: Antarctic Peninsula
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.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.
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.
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!
Day 16 & 17: Crossing the Drake Passage
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.
Day 18: Disembark in Ushuaia
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, which allows you to continue your adventure onward or catch your flights home.
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Specialist Expedition Leaders
Our team is comprised of the most professional and passionate Expedition Leaders in the world, who bring a wide range of experience and expertise to every adventure.
Immersive Off-ship Activities
Itineraries are packed with adventure options designed to immerses travelers in the polar wilderness, enabling them to connect with the natural wonders of their surroundings.
On-Ship Experiences & Facilities
Designed for comfort and adventure, each ship accommodates no more than 200 guests. Facilities include comfortable cabins, exceptional dining options, wellness treatments, and breathtaking panoramic views of the polar landscape.
Food & Beverages
Premium dining, with a wide selection of options that accommodate a variety of dietary preferences.
Quark Expedition Perks
Complementary Wi-Fi, alcohol on all voyages, and the Official Quark Expeditions parka to take home.
Transfers
Select voyages include essential transportation and accommodation arrangements for guests, ensuring seamless travel to and from the expedition starting point.
International airfare & visa expenses, travel insurance, mandatory expedition gear, on-ship expenses, adventure options and trip extensions are not included.
World Explorer guests will receive a free 1GB data card for limited Wi-Fi access. (Additional data can be purchased on the ship.)
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Inclusions
• An official Quark Expeditions parka to keep
• Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Team, 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
• Complimentary beer and wines during bar service hours and dinner
• Complimentary 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 your expedition
• A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
• Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
• World Explorer guests will receive a free 1GB data card for limited Wi-Fi access (additional data can be purchased on the ship)
• 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
• Group arrival transfer in Ushuaia from airport to pre-expedition hotel on Day 1
• One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia with breakfast (Note: The number of guests per room is the same as cabin occupancy on the ship. Due to limited availability, travelers who reserve a suite on board are accommodated in standard rooms at the hotel. Triple rooms may not be available)
• Group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day
• Group departure transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from ship to local airport or to luggageExclusions
• 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
• Our complimentary alcohol and bar service does not include spirits
• Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights
• Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac landing and cruising excursions, or any other gear not mentioned
• Laundry, spa services, and other personal charges, unless specified
• Phone charges may vary by location
• Our complimentary data card does not include Premium packages which enable more data-intensive applications
• 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
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A non-refundable deposit of 25% per person is required within 7 working days of booking.
Final payment is due at least 90 days prior to the departure date of the expedition
Voyage Map.
Your expedition begins at the southern tip of South America in Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city, nestled between the Andes and the Beagle Channel. From here, you embark on your vessel and sail through the Beagle Channel, leaving Tierra del Fuego behind. Over several days at sea, you journey across the South Atlantic toward the remote island of South Georgia, encountering dramatic seabird sightings and possibly whales near Shag Rocks. In South Georgia, you explore rugged bays, wildlife-rich beaches, and historic whaling stations, including Grytviken, the final resting place of explorer Ernest Shackleton. Leaving the sub-Antarctic, you set sail deeper into the Southern Ocean toward the icy majesty of the Antarctic Peninsula, where breathtaking glaciers, penguin colonies, seals, and whales await. After days of unforgettable polar encounters, you cross the legendary Drake Passage, a sailor’s rite of passage, before returning to Ushuaia, completing a once-in-a-lifetime polar voyage.
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Will we get off the ship?
Yes!!! After leaving Antarctica, it will be the ultimate goal of the Captain, Expedition Leader, and the Expedition Team to make sure we get off the ship as much as possible.
We will always do our best to provide you with your first preference of shore excursion; however, we may occasionally need to place you on an alternative excursion for operational reasons.
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Are there additional taxes and fees?
The price shown is the "all-in” price after all taxes, fees, port fees, and permits required; which are handled by the tour operator. The only main additional costs will be mandatory travel insurance, optional gratuity, canned beverages and alcohol, and additional activities. See the full list of inclusions/exclusions for more.
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Do I pay extra if I'm a solo traveler?
Not necessarily, no! Our trips are usually made up of around 50% solo travelers! Prices are always per person, per bed. If you’re a solo traveler, we will match you with a same-gender roommate from our group to share your cabin with. There is also the option for solo cabin availability on certain trips. Please send us a message about solo cabins if that’s your preference.
Available Add-on Activites
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Sea Kayaking
A small group of kayakers will plan to go out multiple times per voyage as an alternative to shore landings or Zodiac cruises. The number of opportunities to kayak is weather dependent, and will be conducted only during calm conditions.
Prior kayaking experience is required, and you must be able to do a wet exit to participate. Beginners interested in kayaking should consider participating in the Paddling Excursion.
$1,995 per person -
Paddling
If you’re interested in kayaking but would like to try something a bit less demanding than Sea Kayaking, you’re the perfect candidate to sign up for a one-time paddle on our stable sit-ontop kayaks—perfect for anyone with minimal or no kayaking experience. Small groups of passengers will be taken out on calm days, with our expert guides always present to provide instruction and help you connect with the polar sea. Two groups of 10 will be pre-booked, and once successfully completed, any subsequent outings will be offered via lottery on board.
$395 per person
Pricing
All prices are per person and include all taxes, fees, port fees, accommodation and meals.
Please refer to the full list of inclusions and exclusions for more details.
Save up to 15% on selected cabins + 5% when Pay in Full!
Veranda Stateroom
Approximately 208 sq. ft. (19.3 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus separate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. The floor-to-ceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Stateroom is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 are notfurnished with club chairs and reading table.
was $31,195
now $26,516
Deluxe Veranda Forward
Approximately 182 sq. ft. (16.9 sq. m.), these Deck 4 cabins are furnished with one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles. Guests in these elegant suites enjoy front-of-ship privacy, as well as sweeping views from their very own veranda.
was $29,695
Sold out
Veranda Suite
Approximately 205 sq. ft.(19.2 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus separate sitting area furnished with a sofa bed. The floor-toceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Suite is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as a private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
was $33,095
now $28,131
Junior Suite
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. These two-room suites feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles in the inner bedroom. The outer sitting room is set up with a sofa-bed, as well as an activity table for two. The bedroom is designed with floor-to-ceiling glass that opens onto a doublesized walkout balcony. The Junior Suite also includes two TVs, a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, and a private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.
was $38,995
now $33,146
Owner’s Suite
This palatial 2–room suite (443 sq. ft/41.2 sq. m.) on Deck 7 offers stunning views from its large veranda on the highest cabin level. The suite encompasses a triple–sized balcony, master bedroom, living room, dining area and two large master bathrooms. The inner bedroom, with a double bed that can be made into two singles, features an en suite with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. The outer room contains a sofa bed, club chair and 4–seat dining table. Additional amenities include two TVs and a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system.
was $48,395
Sold out
Penthouse suite
This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. ft (25.0 sq. m.) in size. 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. There’s an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.
was $45,295
Sold out
Studio Single
DESIGNED FOR ONE: These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, 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.
$38,995
SOLD OUT
Cabins may vary and may not be exactly as depicted. Please consult the deck plan and contact your booking agent for further information.
Ship Details.
Ocean Explorer, the newest addition to our 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.
With its distinctive X-Bow design and remarkable two story forward lounge, Ocean Explorer sets a striking stage for your expedition of a lifetime.
Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design, and almost all have verandas. You can relax and find comfort in our signature Tundra Spa & Sauna (with large windows), well-equipped gym and two outdoor Jacuzzis.
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SHOWERS AND TOILETS
Each cabin has a private bathroom with shower and heated floors, toilet and wash basin. Shampoo, conditioner and shower gel are provided for your use.
ELECTRIC CURRENT
The electrical supply on board is 220 V (European). Guests from Canada and the United States may require an adapter in some areas of the ship; most provided cabin outlets are universal plug-types but only supply at 220 V. Voltage Converters may still be needed depending on your device requirements. The outlets are located near the television, in the desk, and there are USB-A ports in the night lights. The bathroom outlets are suitable for shavers only. (Before you purchase a converter, ensure your electronics, cameras, computers, and devices are compatible with 220 V.)
Please be aware that the electricity supply may not be sufficient to power your electronic devices at all times. It is recommended that you check the voltage of your device before plugging it in, as the device may be damaged if the incoming voltage is higher than that for which it is manufactured.
Please see QuarkExpeditions.com/en/terms-and-conditions for more information.
HAIRDRYERS
There is a hair dryer included in each cabin.
BATHROBES
The bathrobes in your cabins are on loan for you to enjoy for the duration of your expedition.
VALUABLES
Please store your valuables in the safe in your cabin. We recommend you travel with as few valuables as possible.
LAUNDRY
A complete list of laundry fees will be provided on board. Laundry is collected each morning; please allow 48 hours for your laundry to be returned. Ironing services are also available at a minimal charge. We encourage you to take advantage of the laundry services, as it will mean you can pack fewer articles of clothing. If you prefer to hand wash small items in your cabin, please remember to bring environmentally friendly detergent.
WATER
All passengers receive an eco-friendly, reusable water bottle in their cabin upon arrival. There are water filling stations throughout the ship.
ONBOARD ACCOUNTS
To make things as stress-free as possible, items you purchase from the Polar Boutique, lounge or specialty drinks not included in our complimentary beer and alcohol offering are charged to your ship account. Cabin charges can also include spa, laundry, postage, any communication charges beyond our complimentary Wi-Fi service (see chart on opposite page), and adventure options booked on board (space permitting).
Payments of shipboard accounts are made towards the end of the expedition, at the reception area. The US dollar is the standard currency on board. You can use cash, Visa, MasterCard or American Express credit cards to pay your shipboard account. Personal checks are not accepted.
Note: If you are sharing a cabin and would like separate accounts, you must advise reception.
GRATUITIES
We understand this is a very personal subject and whatever amount you give is at your own discretion. At the end of the voyage you will have the option to charge a gratuity amount to your onboard account, or to place cash in
an envelope. Gratuities are shared among our hotel and expedition team members.
BRIDGE VISITS
During your voyage you may be given access to the Bridge, where you can observe how the Captain and officers sail and navigate the ship. However, the Captain and Bridge officers do restrict access during arrivals and departures from port and during times of complicated navigation. As the Bridge is an important working area on the ship, we ask that you keep noise to a minimum to avoid distracting the officers from conducting their jobs efficiently. Understandably, Bridge etiquette includes a ‘no eating, drinking or smoking’ policy.
DOCTOR
Quark Expeditions provides an English-speaking doctor on board who manages a medical clinic stocked with a supply of common prescription medicines and basic first aid equipment. If you are under regular treatment for any ailment, you must bring a sufficient supply of medicine. We recommend that you pack an extra two weeks’ supply of medication in case of emergency. We cannot accept responsibility for not having a specific brand or type of drug on board. Should you fall ill, the doctor will refer to the medical forms that you completed and returned to us; therefore it is vital that the information you provide is complete and accurate.
MAIL (Only available on Antarctic Expeditions)
Sending polar mail is still a rare and memorable way for loved ones to receive a memento from your voyage. Mail may be posted from the ship and will be charged to your on board account. Please deposit your mail at reception with your cabin number and name noted clearly in the upper right-hand corner of each card or letter.
If your voyage visits a research base, we may be permitted to leave mail. If we are unable to post the mail during your voyage, staff will attempt to do so on subsequent voyages.
Please note, delivery can take many months and cannot be guaranteed.
STAYING IN TOUCH WHILE ON BOARD
When you are not busy exploring the natural beauty of the Polar Regions, you may wish to connect with family and friends back home to share some of your voyage highlights. Guests on Quark Expeditions can now enjoy free Wi-Fi as part of our “Raise a Glass and Stay Connected Free” program. This complementary Wi-Fi service permits basic Internet browsing and voice applications.
To access email or internet on your personal computer, tablet or smart phone, connect to the network on your device, where you can access our complimentary plan, or purchase Priority Wi-Fi.
If you would like to make phone calls from the ship, Voice credits are also available for a small fee, and allow calling from your cabin to shore telephones at various rates per minute, depending on location and type of phone you are dialing (calling mobile phones tend to be more expensive).
Current prices for these optional services will be posted on board your ship. Please note we cannot provide refunds for unused voice or pay per minute calls.
ONBOARD WEBSITE
Our free onboard Web site is an excellent resource for daily programs, expedition team biographies, and other voyage information. Visit MyQuarkVoyage.com during your expedition to take advantage of the materials. Access to this site is available free of charge, even if you have not purchased data. Contact Guest Services if you experience any difficulty logging on.*
* Wi-Fi terms and conditions apply.
POLAR BOUTIQUE
If you forgot any essentials or need a little souvenir from your voyage, the Polar Boutique on Deck 5 is our onboard gift shop. Opening hours will vary based on the daily expedition activities.
Gifts and souvenirs are great to bring home as mementos of your polar expedition. In addition to small souvenirs, our Polar Boutique offers a selection of expedition gear, including base layer clothing, waterproof pants, gloves and more.
RECEPTION AREA
A crew member is available at reception to assist you or answer any questions during posted hours. You can arrange for a wake- up call or settle your accounts at the end of the voyage.
LOUNGE AREAS
GUESTS HAVE FOUR OPTIONS ON OCEAN EXPLORER.
OBSERVATION LOUNGE & BAR: The stylish Observation Lounge & Bar at the top of the ship guarantees incredible views. Guests also frequent this spacious lookout on Deck 8 to enjoy cocktails and conversation with fellow travelers. Seats 63.
LATITUDE BAR & LOUNGE: Popular social hub on Deck 5. The beautifully-lit bar—with its lush sofas and faux marble-topped end tables—is large enough to seat 46 and is ideal for enjoying a quiet drink on your own or hanging out with friends.
THE DISCOVERY LIBRARY: Light-filled interior library on Deck 6 at the top of the gorgeous atrium staircase—at the bow of the ship—allows up to 47 guests to sit and relax indoors while taking in the surrounding polar landscapes through the floor-to-
ceiling glass. The Ocean Explorer library collection includes books in multiple languages covering subjects such as wildlife, history, marine biology, ecology and geology.
EXPLORER LECTURE LOUNGE: Located on Deck 5, the Explorer Lecture Lounge can seat every guest on the ship, and features the best in A/V equipment, including state-of-the-art systems for on-board presentations.
ELEVATOR
The onboard elevator system is available for travel between decks. However, for your safety this elevator will be shut down during any periods of inclement weather.
OUTDOOR OBSERVATION DECKS
Observation areas on Decks 7, 8 and 9, longer-view landscape photography while contending with less sea spray.
POLAR DECK & BAR: The Polar Deck & Bar on Deck 7 is an excellent spot to enjoy a drink—and the incredible polar views—at the same time.
GYM
Located on Deck 5, gym hours are posted at the door, with facilities available on a first come, first served basis. Please refrain from bringing glass bottles into the gym. We kindly ask that you take care using these facilities and when you leave, please ensure the equipment is as clean and tidy as when you arrived. Bring comfortable clothing and footwear if you will be taking advantage of the facilities.
TUNDRA SPA & SAUNA, AND JACUZZIS
After a day of exciting off-ship adventures, guests can head to our Signature Tundra Spa and Sauna on Deck 7 to unwind. Relax on traditional wood benches in our Dry Sauna, which accommodates 15 people, while gazing at the polar wilderness
through the large sauna windows. Guests can also enjoy a variety of massage, body and facial treatments in Quark Expeditions’ signature Tundra Spa, also located on Deck 7. We have partnered with Voya, an industry leader in organic wellness and beauty products. All treatments use products made from organic hand- harvested seaweed.
Two outdoor Jacuzzis on deck 7, at the ship’s stern, mean you can relax alfresco while soaking up the breath-taking polar views.
Bring your bathing suit so you can join us in the Polar Plunge, or to use in the sauna. You might also appreciate having some waterproof shoes. It is recommended to wear closed-toed shoes while moving around the ship, but as long as your water shoes have a heel strap and fit securely, they can be safely worn while using the wet facilities.
READY ROOMS
The Ready Rooms on Deck 3 offer a designated open storage locker for each cabin, where you can store and dry your gear between excursions. Benches are available to help you gear up for Zodiac embarkation.
MEDICAL FACILITIES
The Medical Facilities are located on Deck 3. In case of emergency, the doctor is available 24 hours a day, and can be contacted through reception or any member of the Expedition Team.
DINING
THE OBSERVATION BISTRO: with its marine blue and
off-white colors—is your go-to spot for lighter fare and grab- and-go snacks. This relaxed eatery seats up to 44 guests, who can take in full views of their polar surroundings and wildlife while enjoying a light bite.
MAIN DINING ROOM: Contemporary meets cozy in this modern dining room with its stylish lighting and contemporary art.
Located on Deck 5, the Main Dining Room seats 144 guests, and features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto the spectacular polar wilderness.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS AND ALLERGIES
All guests—including vegetarians, meat-eaters, as well as those who follow a gluten-free diet—will be equally impressed with the dining options on our ships. Quark Expeditions® is able to cater to most special dietary requests, as long as you clearly indicate your needs on the required expedition forms when you book your voyage. Menus will be clearly labeled for vegetarian and gluten free options, but please do notify your server of the dietary restrictions you indicated on your form. We regret that kosher food cannot be prepared.
FOOD PREPARATION
Breakfasts and lunches are normally served buffet style, while dinners are served plated. À la carte meals are made at the time of your order, allowing our chefs to prepare each dish to your individual needs. Working in a small kitchen, our chefs are able to monitor and control the quality of food being served, ensuring you receive top quality meals during the course of your expedition.
DRESS CODE
The dress code on the ship is casual, though some may choose to dress up a little for the Captain’s Welcome Reception.
PERSONAL ALCOHOL POLICY
Consuming personal alcohol is prohibited anywhere on the ship.
BAR AND WINE SERVICE
Guests on all Quark Expeditions voyages enjoy complimentary bar service as part of our “Raise a Glass and Stay Connected Free” program. Standard beer, wines, spirits and cocktails will be available to you at no charge during bar service hours and dinner. Specialty alcohol, such as champagne and premium spirits, costs extra. Due to safety reasons and off-ship excursion activity, our
on-board bar service hours are typically limited to pre-dinner and evenings. Soft drinks, juices, and water are also available at no cost.
During days at sea, you’ll enjoy lectures and workshops presented by our Expedition Team and spend time on deck looking for seabirds and cetaceans. Other days are packed full with multiple landings, Zodiac cruises and activities.
Exhausting or relaxing, smiles abound as do great meals from your onboard chefs!
We have a number of policies and procedures that help make sure things run smoothly on the Ocean Explorer, so take a look below to help get the most out of your time aboard.
SCHEDULE CHANGES
While a daily program will be posted, sometimes new opportunities present themselves on short notice – so expect the unexpected and enjoy knowing that staff members are always here to make sure your expedition is as memorable and enjoyable as possible!
SAFETY ON BOARD AND ASHORE
Your safety and security are a top priority for our Expedition Team and crew members. Knowing how to safely move about your ship, act ashore and handle both wet and dry landings will help ensure you have a hassle-free expedition. Please take time to read the instructions in this important safety section.
SAFETY WHILE ON DECK
Be careful while walking around the outer decks, as footing can be slippery. Always use the handrails and wear proper closed-toe, nonslip footwear. Slip-on sandals, slippers or flip flops are neither safe nor suitable for wearing on board.
STAIRS AND DOORS
There are high steps in many doorways that lead to the outer decks, please watch your step and proceed with caution. When passing through doorways or walking in your room, do not place your hands around the edges of doors. Be aware that if doors are not closed or latched open properly, they present a danger and can open or close violently and unexpectedly as the ship moves across the sea.
SAFETY BRIEFING AND LIFEBOAT DRILL
By international maritime law, you must participate in an emergency drill prior to leaving port. Upon embarkation, you will have a safety briefing to outline appropriate behavior on board, and emergency procedures. Afterward, a drill will be conducted to familiarize you with your lifeboat, life vest and emergency evacuation route. This mandatory drill will be scheduled as soon as possible by the Expedition Leader. You will be provided with full details after you embark.
CONDUCT ASHORE
• For safety reasons, never walk alone while ashore. Always travel with someone else, or as part of a group.
• If weather conditions deteriorate the Captain will sound the return to ship signal. If you hear this, immediately return to the landing area or follow instructions from staff members.
For further information on onboard safety, please refer to our safety card here, or review the copy in your cabin.
