The island of South Georgia is steeped in history, its claim to fame being the final resting place of early Antarctic Explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.

The islands have 63 breeding species of birds, including five breeding penguin species – gentoo, king, rockhopper, macaroni and Magellenic – as well as whales, dolphins, sea lions, and elephant seals. It was settled in the 1840’s, and was a busy ship repair port before the creation of the Panama Canal. Hiking trips are also offered and will always be an invigorating experience to explore the Antarctic Peninsula.Ī popular pit stop en route to the seventh continent includes the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and its capital Port Stanley. Icebergs of every imaginable shape and size litter the bays and inlets.Įxploring landing sites with penguins at every turn or participating in optional paddling programs with an experienced guide promises a personalized adventure. The landscape is on the Antarctic Peninsula is stunning, with snow and ice-covered mountain peaks up to 9,200 feet in height. For many people, it’s actually a rite of passage and contributes a great deal to the authentic expedition experience.ĭiscovering Antarctica, whether it’s from the deck of the ship or on Zodiac cruises, one may see orca, minke and humpback whales at close range. To get there, most Antarctic cruises begin and end with the crossing of the Drake Passage, a notoriously rough stretch of sea between South America and the seventh continent. And because the climate is milder here than further south, the highest density of research stations are located on the peninsula.

This is where people spend the bulk of their expedition time. The main aspiration of all visitors to Antarctica is the Antarctic Peninsula, made up of bedrock islands spanning 800 miles, joined together by the grounded ice sheet that covers it. Experience exhilarating adventures and be rewarded with memories that last a lifetime. Imagine cruising in a Zodiac through sea ice that crackles like shattered glass, witnessing penguins building their nests, or navigating through a maze of icebergs, each one uniquely shaped by its journey through the sea. Now you can encounter a world where Mother Nature creates the rules – her unpredictable temperament making each journey to Antarctica unique, exciting and personal. Ticking the 7th continent off your bucket list is an immersive experience you’ll savor for a lifetime.Īntarctica has been inspiring explorers for centuries. The pristine glaciers, glistening icebergs, arresting inlets and beguiling wildlife are staggering.

Diverse and mystifying, Antarctica is one of the last great frontiers on the planet, a place of stark contrast and indescribable beauty.

Quark antarctica