Antarctica Luxury Gay Adventure Cruise
Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake

February 9–16, 2020
Quark Expeditions World Explorer

Experience the fastest, most direct way to Antarctica, flying over the Drake Passage. Explore King George Island and the Antarctic Peninsula!

You’re ready to explore King George Island and the Antarctic Peninsula—and no Drake Passage crossings are required! With a spectacular aerial view, included charter flights between Punta Arenas and Antarctica have you experiencing the majesty of the 7th continent before transferring you to your ship in no time.

Keep your camera ready as you cruise in a Zodiac in search of whales, seabirds and astounding icebergs. Beaches dotted with leopard seals and penguins give way to icy plateaus, with snow- capped mountain peaks looming behind. You’ll find yourself thankful for the near-constant sunlight by which you can continue to take it all in.

The Ship

Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer.

The personal space on the World Explorer 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 theater.

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 on the seas.

World Explorer will be an environmentally friendly polar expedition ship, incorporating advanced marine technology with a hybird propulsion fuel-efficient Rolls Royce Diesel Electric engine.

Aboard
• Chef-prepared meals (all meals and daily snack included)
• One dining room with unreserved seating
• Included alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served at Dinner
• Bar staffed by a professional bartender serving a selection of soft drinks, juices, liquors, spirits, beer and wine, which can be charged to your shipboard account
• Comfortable lounge area for reading or relaxing with a cup of coffee
• Observation decks for spotting wildlife and enjoying the ever-changing polar landscape
• Polar library stocked with a large collection of polar books, and games
• Gym
• Pool & sauna
• Spa facilities and wellness program
• Lecture theatre
• Polar Boutique
• Ship-to-shore satellite communications with email and wireless Internet access

Activities
• Zodiac Cruising (included)
• Kayaking (additional charge)
• Camping (additional charge)
• Standup Paddleboarding (additional charge)

Cabins
• All cabins have exterior views and private bathroom facilities
• TV and safe in every cabin
• Individual temperature controls
• Electrical supply: 220v

Inclusions

• Arrival Transfer upon arrival on February 9, 2020 Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport to Dreams Hotel, Casino & Spa, Punta Arenas, Chile

• One Pre-Cruise overnight accommodations at Dreams Hotel in standard room with Breakfast included February 9 – 10, 2020

• Group dinner and briefing approx. 6pm at Dreams Hotel on February 9, 2020

• Group Transfer from Dreams Hotel to Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport February 10, 2020

• Group charter flight aboard DAP airlines Punta Arenas to King George Island, Antarctica February 10, 2020

• Group land transfer to and from King George Island to World Explorer via zodiac February 10 and 15, 2020

• Group charter flight aboard DAP airlines King George Island to Punta Arenas February 15, 2020

• Group Transfer from Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport to Dreams Hotel, February 15, 2020

• One Post-Overnight accommodations Dreams Hotel in standard room with breakfast included, February 15-16, 2020

• Shipboard accommodation with housekeeping

• Shipboard breakfasts, lunches and dinners

• Included alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served at Dinner

• Brand g Exclusive – shipboard credit of $100 per guest for use in the On Board Boutique and Bar

• Professional Expedition Leadership

• All Zodiac excursions and transfers included in daily program

• Formal and informal educational presentations by the Expedition Team

• Photographic Journal online link provided

• An official Quark Expeditions parka to keep

• The loan of a pair of waterproof boots for the duration of the voyage

• Toiletries, Towels, Hair dryer and Bathrobes in each cabin

• Comprehensive pre-departure package including Quark’s Antarctic Reader and map

• All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program

• All shipboard luggage handling

• Emergency Evacuation Insurance to a maximum benefit of $500,000 USD per person

Not Included

• International and Domestic airfare not mentioned

• Passport and visa expenses (if required)

• Meals ashore, other than specified above

• Baggage, cancellation and medical travel insurance

• Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned

• Excess baggage charges

• Phone and Internet charges

• Shipboard communication charges, laundry and other personal charges

• Optional adventure activities

• Voyage-end gratuities for Crew, Hospitality and Expedition Team members

FAQ - Preparations for the trip

What to pack
All Quark voyages include an expedition parka to keep and a loan of appropriate polar footwear.

For shore landings you should plan to bring base layers (wool, synthetic or a blend); mid layer – warm fleece top and pants; wool and synthetic socks (3 – 4 pair); glove liners; neck warmer or balaclava; warm hat that covers the ears; waterproof pants; waterproof gloves; suncreen; sun glasses with UV protection.

Other suggested items include: waterproof lightweight backpack or drysack; swimsuit for polar plunge; binoculars; camera with extra batteries; extra memory cards; sea sickness, indigestion, headache and other over the counter medications as well as prescriptions.

For land and on board the World Explorer: comfortable, casual clothing (pants, jeans, shirts, sweaters and sweatshirts); lighter shirts in case the ship gets warm; comfortable non-slip, close toed, unheeled shoes; swimwear and gym clothes.

Photography Suggestions
If you’re planning to bring a serious camera we’d suggest you consider the following: telephoto and wide angle lens; extra batteries; polarizing filter to help with reflections off the water; tripod; waterproof camera bag; zip lock bags to protect the camera and lens from condensation; laptop to store/edit photos.

Electricity
The electrical current in Chile and on board is 220V. Guests should be sure to bring the appropriate converter for devices that are not dual voltage. The plug configuration on board the World Explorer and in Chili is type C (standard round two-pronged plug).

Gratuities
Gratuities are customary expressions of appreciation for a job well done. It is our goal to ensure that the service you receive is as wonderful as the sites you visit. Gratuities have not been included in your program fare, and have not been added to your reservation. At your own discretion you may choose to provide tips at the end of the cruise.

Smoking
The comfort and safety of our guests is our first priority. Smoking is not permitted in the suites or enclosed, public areas on board the ship. Smoking will only be permitted in designated areas on open decks. Land properties will have designated smoking areas.

Vaccination & Health Information
There are no required vaccination requirements for citizens of most countries entering Chile or Antarctica. However, we suggest each guest make an appointment with a Travel Medicine Specialist to discuss your individual needs and health concerns.

Travel Insurance
An Emergency Evacuation insurance policy (maximum benefit of $500,000) is included in the rate. However, it does not provide coverage for cancellation, medical expenses, or baggage. Quark Expeditions requires that all passengers provide proof of out of country medical insurance which must include a minimum USD $50,000 of emergency medical coverage and in addition, strongly recommends they purchase a comprehensive policy to cover themselves for cancellation and baggage.

Travel Itinerary

Day 1 - Sunday, February 9, 2020
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. (Welcome Dinner)

The first official activity today is a mandatory trip briefing and dinner at 6:00pm. However, Quark Expeditions (the cruise line) reserves the right to send guests on the charter plane this evening if they see a weather system that could cause a delay on subsequent days. It is for this reason that we request all guests to arrive in Punta Arenas (PUQ) no later than 3:00pm today. There will be no refunds for those who miss the charter plane departure due to an arrival in Punta Arenas airport (PUQ) after 3:00pm.
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner

Day 2 - Monday, February 10, 2020
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!
Meals Included: B, D

Days 3 - 6 - Tuesday, February 11, 2020 - Friday, February 14, 2020
Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands
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 Ade´lie, 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.

Be sure to check out the “Add Ons” for Sea Kayaking and Stand Up Paddle Boarding options. These optional excursions are very limited and are on a first come-first serve basis.

Your Expedition Team will be with you all along the way, providing insights into the places you visit.
Meals Included: B, L, D

Day 7 - Saturday, February 15, 2020
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.

Important reminder: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy – and excitement – of expedition travel. There are no guarantees that we can achieve everything we set out to accomplish. A measure of flexibility is something all of us must bring to a voyage. There are nearly 200 recognized sites in the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetlands and the places mentioned above may be changed to others equally as interesting.
Meals Included: B, L, D

Day 8 - Sunday, February 16, 2020
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.
Meals Included: B

Add-Ons

Sea Kayaking
$795 pp
Kayaking in Antarctica is probably one of the most intimate and inspiring ways you can explore this incredible region. Glide through the quiet waters and take in the beauty of Antarctica. Paddle through astounding icebergs, watch penguins, seals and possibly whales swim around your kayak.

Kayaking in the Polar Regions is highly weather-dependent, however we guarantee at least one outing during your voyage. Your kayak guides will always attempt to take you out as many times as possible throughout your voyage.

Offered on most Antarctic voyages, spaces are limited and require some kayaking experience. All equipment, guides and instructions are provided by Quark.

**Limited Availability (only 8 spots are available on a first come – first serve basis.

Stand Up Paddling
$195 pp
Explore the ocean from a more intimate vantage point on a stand-up paddle board. No experience is required to maneuver these very stable boards, allowing you to enjoy an unforgettable experience on the water, taking in breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. Whether it’s your first time on a paddle board or you want greater flexibility to try other Adventure options, this shorter excursion is for you.

Paddling in the Polar Regions is highly weather-dependent and a one-time experience. Your kayak guides will attempt to take you out on the water for 1-1.5 hours of paddling. Offered on most voyages, spaces are limited. All equipment, guides and instructions are provided by Quark.

**Limited Availability (only 8 spots are available on a first come – first serve basis.

Trip Notes

Flight Recommendations
You should schedule your flights to arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile by 3:00pm February 9, 2020. The first scheduled activity will be a mandatory briefing dinner at 6:00pm. However, Quark reserves the right to send guests on the charter plane to King George Island this evening. This may happen when they see a weather system that could cause a delay on subsequent days. It is for this reason that we request all guests to arrive in Punta Arenas (PUQ) no later than 3:00pm on February 9th. You should plan to fly home from Punta Arenas, Chile on December 16th at anytime. However, due to the weather dependency of this program, Quark Expeditions advises all clients to book changeable airlines tickets along with cancellation and interruption insurance to assist with additional airline change fees. We also advise all guests to have flexible travel arrangements upon disembarkation of the voyage if delays arise.

Once you have booked your flights, please provide us with a copy of your flight itinerary so that we may arrange your pre and post airport transfers.

Luggage Restrictions
The included charter flights to and from the cruise allow a maximum of 20kg (44lb) per person. If you bring additional luggage, you will be required to store it in Punta Arenas until after the cruise.

Passport and Visa Requirements
A passport, which is valid for six months after your last date of travel, is required for this trip. No visas are required for US or Canadian citizens. Residents of other countries should check with the nearest consulate of each country visited on this itinerary.

Special Diets
The culinary team on board the World Explorer will make every effort to accommodate special dietary requests. Please inform us at least 30 days prior to departure of these requests.

Money Matters
Bank machines are widely available in Punta Arenas, Chile. The Chilean currency is the Chilean Peso and the US dollar and other currencies are not widely accepted. US dollars and credit cards are used on board the World Explorer.

Communication
The Dreams Hotel in Punta Arenas offers free WiFi. The World Explorer offers satellite internet for an additional charge.

Excursions
All shore excursions are led by expert guides and naturalists.