Antarctica Cruise - Ship Ocean Diamond - 11 Days Itinerary

OVERVIEW

Antarctica has been inspiring explorers for centuries. And this expedition offers you the chance to discover why, with an unforgettable journey through the spectacular wilderness of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll encounter a world where nature creates the rules, her unpredictable temperament making each trip unique, exciting and personal.

Imagine cruising in a Zodiac through crackling sea ice 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. You’ll enjoy iconic Antarctic highlights, exhilarating adventures and be rewarded with memories to last a lifetime.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover why this trip is perfect for first-time visitors to Antarctica.

• Explore highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula.

• Travel safely and comfortably aboard any of Quark Expeditions’ three small, ice-strengthened expedition vessels.

• Learn about the environment and wildlife from on-board lecturers and specialists.

• Experience abundant wildlife: penguins, seals, whales and more!.

• On select itineraries, arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the tango capital of the world, and let us take care of the rest of your journey.

ITINERARY IN BRIEF

Day 1: Arrive in Ushuaia, Argentina
Day 2: Embarkation day
Day 3 & 4: Crossing the Drake Passage
Day 5, 6, 7 & 8: South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
Day 9 & 10: Crossing the Drake Passage
Day 11: Disembarkation in Ushuaia

NOTE: All itineraries are for guidance only. Programs may vary depending on local ice, weather, and wildlife conditions. The on-board expedition leader will determine the final itinerary. Flexibility is paramount for expedition cruises.

ARRIVE IN USHUAIA, ARGENTINA

You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port town at the tip of South America. This Argentine town is an 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.
EMBARKATION DAY

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—the next time you see land, you’ll be in the world’s most southern continent!
CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE

Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team who will prepare you for the wildlife, glaciology, and history that will greet you upon your arrival.
CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE

In between presentations, spend time on deck looking for wildlife or chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.
SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

The most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every time we visit Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means that your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience.
SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore local bays, channels and landing sites. Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each landing, whether you are hiking the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or consorting with chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins, all of which can be found here. Keep an eye out for Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals as well as curious whales, such as humpbacks, fins, or perhaps orcas while on a Zodiac cruise. Each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to delight you and keep your camera busy.
SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

Amid the serene silence of Antarctica, noisy interludes become indelible memories, such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, or the boom and crack of a calving glacier.
SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND ANTARCTIC PENINSULA

Every day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your Expedition Team to inspire and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.
CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE

The journey back across the Drake Passage provides final opportunities to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air.
CROSSING THE DRAKE PASSAGE

Spend time on the deck, watching for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team and celebrate the experiences shared exploring Antarctica.
DISEMBARKATION IN USHUAIA

You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, which allows for you to continue your adventure onward or catch your flights home.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Staff and Crew 144.
Guests 189.
Length 124 meters.
Breadth (Beam) 16 meters.
Draft 9 meters.
Propulsion 2 Wichmann Engines, 7375 horsepower.
Ice Class 1D.
Cruising Speed 5 knots.
Registration Nassau, Bahamas.
Lifeboats 2 fully enclosed.

SHIP AMENITIES:

Chef-prepared meals (all meals and daily snack included).
Bar staffed by a professional bartender.
Massage therapy program.
Library with a large collection of polar books and DVDs.
Speed of vessel saves up to 12 hours on the Drake crossing, giving you more time to enjoy Antarctica.
Internet access (review a PDF of the Onboard Internet Guidelines).
Theatre-style auditorium.
Clinic with licensed doctor.

COMMUN AREAS ABOARD OCEAN DIAMOND

Highlights of the Ocean Diamond include a bar staffed by a professional bartender, theater-style auditorium, clinic with licensed doctor, photography program including the services of a resident photography instructor, Polar Library containing a large collection of polar books and DVDs, Massage and Wellness program offering yoga classes, aromatherapy treatments and massage therapy. A passenger elevator makes navigating decks easy and chefs pamper guests three times daily with delicious meals.

ACTIVITIES ABOARD OCEAN DIAMOND

Zodiac cruising and hiking are included on every departure. Optional camping, kayaking and one-time paddling excursions are also available aboard the Ocean Diamond. Each expedition is staffed with expert captains, officers, expedition leaders and guides who help passengers get the most out of every activity.

CABINS DETAILS:

Triple

Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, this cabin has a two twin beds and an upper bed, and two portholes. Located on the Lower Deck, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.

Twin Obstructed View

Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, and a picture window (the view is obstructed). Located on the Captain’s Deck, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.

Twin Window

Between 183 and 200 sq. ft. (17 and 19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, and a picture window. Located on the Upper, Main and Captain’s Decks, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.

Single Porthole

Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed and two portholes. Located on the Lower Deck, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.

Single Obstructed View

Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed, and a picture window (the view is obstructed by the lifeboats). Located on the Captain’s Deck these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.

Suite

Approximately 400 sq. ft. (37 sq. m) in size, these suites have one double bed or two twin beds, and two picture windows. Located on the Main Deck, these suites have two private bathrooms, and a separate sitting area with a sofa, chair, and small table. Two refrigerators, TVs, and DVD players are included in each cabin.

Balcony Suite

Approximately 325 sq. ft. (30 sq. m) in size, including the balcony, this suite has one double bed or two twin beds, and a full-size window with a sliding glass door that leads to a private deck with chairs. Located on the Observation Deck, this suite has a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.

DECKPLAN

INCLUDED

Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping.
All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board.
Beer and wine during dinner.
All shore landings per the daily program.
Leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leaders.
All Zodiac transfers and cruising per the daily program.
Formal and informal presentations by expedition team and special guests as scheduled.
A photographic journal documenting the expedition.
Waterproof expedition boots on loan for shore landings.
Coffee, tea, and cocoa available around the clock.
A hairdryer and bathrobes in every cabin.
Comprehensive onboard (2020-21 season) materials, including a map and an informative Antarctic Reader.
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program.
All luggage handling aboard the ship.
Group transfer in Ushuaia from airport to pre-expedition hotel on day 1.
One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia, with breakfast.
Group transfer from hotel to ship on embarkation day.
Group transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from ship to local airport, and/or to luggage storage facility in the 2020-21 season.

For itineraries beginning and ending in Ushuaia:

Group transfer in Ushuaia from the airport to the pre-expedition hotel on day 1.
One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Ushuaia, with breakfast.
Group transfer from the hotel to the ship on embarkation day.
Group transfer upon disembarkation in Ushuaia from the ship to the local airport.

EXCLUSIONS

International airfare.
Passport and visa expenses.
Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above.
Meals ashore unless otherwise specified.
Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance (strongly recommended).
Excess-baggage fees on international flights.
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, and any other gear not mentioned above.
Laundry, bar, massage services, and other personal charges unless specified.
Phone and internet charges.
Additional overnight accommodation.
Optional adventure activities.
Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew.
Arrival and departure transfers, except where explicitly stated.