Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake
on the Ocean Explorer

8 day expedition
    /media/s4zhaf0m/ship-icon.png

    Class of ship

    Midsize Expedition Ship
    /media/2flfscuh/leaf-icon.png

    Sustainability

    X-BOW, MAGS (Waste to Energy System), Green initiative program, Dynamic Positioning (DP)
    /media/uz3memek/bed-icon.png

    Passenger Berths

    138
    /media/n3mjsfr5/zodiac-icon_3867.png

    Zodiacs

    15
    /media/jzdbslpr/iceclass_2.png

    Ice Class

    1A, PC6
/media/s4zhaf0m/ship-icon.png
Class of ship
Midsize Expedition Ship
/media/2flfscuh/leaf-icon.png
Sustainability
X-BOW, MAGS (Waste to Energy System), Green initiative program, Dynamic Positioning (DP)
/media/uz3memek/bed-icon.png
Passenger Berths
138
/media/n3mjsfr5/zodiac-icon_3867.png
Zodiacs
15
/media/jzdbslpr/iceclass_2.png
Ice Class
1A, PC6

Expedition overview & highlights

  • Fly over the Drake Passage
  • Enjoy an intimate small-ship experience 
  • Encounter penguins, whales and seals in their natural habitat
  • Capture once-in-a-lifetime photographs of icebergs, glaciers, and dramatic polar seascapes

Experience the fastest and most direct route to the White Continent on this 8-day Antarctic fly-and-cruise expedition. After a charter flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, bypassing the Drake Passage, you’ll step ashore in the South Shetland Islands and begin exploring the dramatic landscapes and remarkable wildlife of the Antarctic Peninsula. Navigate by Zodiac through iceberg-strewn waters, landing on remote beaches where penguins waddle and seals bask. Enjoy expert-led talks on glaciology, wildlife, and the heroic age of exploration, deepening your understanding of this legendary wilderness. With opportunities for close encounters with whales, kayaking through icy bays, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, every moment is tailored to your curiosity. This voyage aboard the Ocean Explorer is ideal for travellers seeking an immersive Antarctic experience without the extended sea crossing.

Map & Cruise Itinerary

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.

Your charter flight from Punta Arenas to Antarctica will enable you to cross the legendary Drake Passage in only two hours, while 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 onto the South Shetland Islands. After landing, make your way to the shore, before being transferred by Zodiac to your ship to set sail for the Antarctic Peninsula!

There are few places in the world as evocative as Antarctica. The Antarctic Continent 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 presenters will deepen your experience with explanations of the glaciology, history and wildlife of the region, and presentations on photography to help you take memory- catching images.

Even more exciting are your daily excursions. Your first Zodiac landing is something you’ll never forget! Walking on a shore inhabited by thousands of penguins 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 Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap penguins.

You may take a Zodiac cruise in search of whales and icebergs one day, followed by a hike to a penguin rookery the next day. From the booming sound of a calving glacier to the thrill of spotting apex predators like leopard seals and orcas in action, you’ll wake up early and welcome each day with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore during this unrivaled wilderness experience.

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

After your week of exploration, you’ll say goodbye to your Expedition Team and disembark at King George Island. Your two-hour flight across the Drake Passage to Punta Arenas, Chile, brings your adventure to an end. After your group transfer to the hotel, you are free to explore and enjoy an evening on your own, in the city or at the hotel to reminisce about the sights and sounds of Antarctica.

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

Fares & Departure Dates

Showing all (5 cruises)
left chevron
right chevron

 Studio Single 

Ocean Explorer Studio Single Cabin 320
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Designed for one. These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 166 sq. ft. (15,4 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.

Capacity Up to 1
Beds Pne double bed
Rooms 1 room
Footage 166 sq ft.
Windows Porthole window
Balcony None
View Ocean view
Location Deck 3
Suitable for Solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Desk area, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system, private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor
More details

Show details

 Veranda Stateroom Cabin 

Ocean Explorer OEX Veranda Stateroom Cabin 703 3982
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Located throughout the ship and approximately 208 sq. f. (19.3 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and seperate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double or two single beds
Rooms 1 room
Footage 208 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling windows
Balcony Walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Decks 4, 6 & 7
Suitable for Couples, groups of two, solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Reading area, desk area, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Note: cabins 611 and 612 do not have the club chairs and a reading table.

Show details

 Deluxe Veranda Forward 

Ocean Explorer Deluxe Veranda Fwd Cabin 401
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Located on Deck 4 and approximately 182 sq. f. (16.9 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double or two single beds
Rooms 1 room
Footage 182 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling window
Balcony Walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 4
Suitable for Couples, groups of two, solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Desk area, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Show details

 Veranda Suite 

Ocean Explorer Veranda Suite Cabin
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Located throughout the ship and approximately 205 sq. ft. (19.2 sq. m,) in size, these cabins have one double bed that can be configured into two singles, and separate sitting area furnished with a sofa-bed. There is a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a walkout balcony. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double bed made up of two twin berths and fold out sofa bed
Rooms 1 room
Footage 205 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling windows
Balcony Walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Decks 4 & 6
Suitable for Couples, groups of two, families
Accessibility None
Amenities Separate sitting area, desk area, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Show details

 Junior Suite 

Ocean Explorer Junior Suite Cabin 4072
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Located on Deck 6 and approximately 298 sq. f. (27.7 sq. m,) in size. These 2-room suites have one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom and an outer sitting room furnished with a sofa-bed, and activity table for two. From the bedroom there a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a double sized walkout balcony. There are also 2 TV’s, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Rooms 2 rooms
Footage 298 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling windows
Balcony Double sized walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 6
Suitable for Couples, groups of 2, families, solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Sitting room, sofa-bed, 2 TV’s, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Show details

 Studio Veranda Single 

Ocean Explorer Studio Veranda Suite
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. f. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Capacity Up to 1
Beds One twin single
Rooms 1 room
Footage 162 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling window
Balcony Walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 7
Suitable for Solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Show details

 Penthouse Suite 

Ocean Explorer Penthouse Suite
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. f (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. And an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Rooms 2 rooms
Footage 269 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling windows
Balcony Double sized walkout balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 7
Suitable for Couples, groups of two
Accessibility None
Amenities Sitting room, sofa-bed, 2 TV’s, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.
More details

Features an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

Show details

 Owner's Suite 

Ocean Explorer Owners Suite
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

This palatial, airy apartment offers stunning views from its large private veranda on the highest cabin level. The luxurious suite features a large master bedroom, living room and dining area and two large master bathrooms, among other amenities.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double bed made up of two twin berths fold out sofa bed
Rooms 2 rooms
Footage 443 sq ft.
Windows Floor to ceiling windows
Balcony Triple–sized balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 7
Suitable for Couples, groups of two
Accessibility None
Amenities 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.
More details

Show details

About the Ocean Explorer

Ocean Explorer Quark X Gajan Balan Edits

Ocean Explorer is a modern, purpose-built vessel designed to take travellers deeper into the Polar Regions with comfort and style. Carrying just 138 passengers, the ship combines advanced expedition technology with elegant Scandinavian-inspired interiors. Its signature ULSTEIN X-BOW® ensures smoother sailing in challenging waters, while spacious staterooms—most with private verandas—offer a relaxing retreat after each day’s adventures.

David Merron

David Merron

Quark Expeditions Zodiac David Merron

Crafted for exploration, Ocean Explorer boasts generous outdoor viewing areas and multi-level decks perfect for photography and wildlife watching. The vessel’s fleet of 15 Zodiacs allows for quick and safe disembarkations, granting access to remote locations few ships can reach. A striking two-story forward lounge sets the scene for socialising and learning, while fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and other sustainability measures reflect a commitment to responsible travel. With an expert expedition team on board, every journey aboard Ocean Explorer promises discovery, comfort, and unforgettable moments in some of the most remote places on Earth.

Ocean Explorer Main Dining Room

Dining on board the Ocean Explorer is a blend of comfort, quality, and spectacular views. The main dining room, located on Deck 5, offers a contemporary yet cosy setting with stylish lighting, modern art, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the polar landscapes.

OEX Main Dining Room Ocean Explorer

Breakfast and lunch are usually served buffet-style, while dinners are plated, allowing the chefs to prepare each dish to order with care and attention to detail.

Ocean Explorer Main Dining Room (1)

The culinary team caters to a wide variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free, with clearly labelled menus and the ability to accommodate most special requests made in advance.

Main Dining Room Ocean Explorer

Guests can enjoy complimentary bar service during dinner and evening hours, with standard beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails included. Soft drinks, juices, and water are also available at no cost. Specialty alcohol, such as champagne and premium spirits, costs extra.

Discovery Library Ocean Explorer

Whether you want to socialise with fellow adventurers, take in the panoramic views or simply unwind after a day of exploration, Ocean Explorer offers a variety of public spaces designed to enhance every moment of your voyage. From stylish lounges and inviting wellness areas to expansive outdoor decks, each setting is designed to help you unwind and recharge, allowing you to fully embrace the spirit of your polar journey.

OEX Discovery Library Ocean Explorer

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.

Ocean Explorer Observation Lounge (1)

Observation Lounge

The stylish Observation Lounge & Bar, located at the top of the ship, offers incredible views. This spacious lookout on Deck 8 is also a popular spot for guests to enjoy cocktails and conversation with fellow travellers.

Ocean Explorer Latitude Bar

Latitude Bar & Lounge

A popular social hub on Deck 5. This beautifully lit bar, with its comfortable sofas and faux marble-topped end tables, is large enough to seat 46 people. It's the perfect place to enjoy a quiet drink on your own or hang out with friends.

Ocean Explorer Tundra Spa

Tundra Spa & Sauna, and Jacuzzis

Guests can unwind in the Tundra Spa & Sauna with panoramic windows, work out in the well-equipped gym, or enjoy the fresh air from two outdoor Jacuzzis.

Ocean Explorer Gym

Gym

The gym on Deck 5 of the Ocean Explorer features large windows that let in natural light and offer inspiring views, creating an energising setting for your workout. Equipped with a range of fitness machines and free weights, it’s the perfect place to stay active while at sea.

Ocean Explorer Deck 8

Deck 8

 

  • Observation Lounge & Bar
  • Observation Deck
  • Observation Bistro

 

Ocean Explorer Deck 7

Deck 7

  • Bridge Deck
  • Bridge
  • Gym
  • Tundra Spa & Sauna
  • Polar Deck and Bar
  • Jacuzzi
  • Veranda Staterooms (703-708)
  • Owner’s Suite (710)
  • Penthouse Suite (709)
  • Studio Veranda Single (711)

 

Swan Hellenic, MINERVA VEGA deck plans_Deck 6

Deck 6

  • The Discovery Library
  • Junior Suites
  • Veranda Suites
  • Veranda Staterooms

 

 

Ocean Explorer Deck 5

Deck 5

  • Main Dining Room
  • Private Dining Room
  • Reception
  • Latitude Bar & Lounge
  • Polar Boutique
  • Explorer Lecture Lounge

 

 

Ocean Explorer Deck 4

Deck 4

  • Expedition Desk
  • Veranda Suites
  • Veranda Staterooms
  • Deluxe Veranda Fwd

 

 

Ocean Explorer Deck 3

Deck 3

  • Studio Single Cabins
  • Ready Room
  • Zodiac Boarding
  • Medical Clinic

 

 

SAVE UP TO 30%
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
£17,195
Some operators may display $USD or £GBP as their lead currency on our site, even if you have selected a different currency flag. Your sales expert will usually be able to convert the fare into the currency of your choice. This includes $AUS and $CAN.
Rb 417 (1) Speak to an Expert!
ENQUIRE

Connect with an expert from ExplorEarth.

Rb 417 (1)

More Information

Our experts help you find the best cruise, ship, itinerary, and price for your adventure.