Antarctica by Helicopter: Crossing the Circle and the Peninsula

Quark Expeditions
From
$19,890
p.p. in a Shared Cabin, Excludes Flights
Duration 14 Days|13 Nights
Departure Buenos Aires
Destinations Antarctic Peninsula

Antarctica by Helicopter: Crossing the Circle & the Peninsula is a 14‑day expedition aboard the Ultramarine, beginning with a charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, then sailing south to the Antarctic Peninsula. This voyage combines classic sea‑ice cruising with multiple helicopter flightseeing opportunities, offering access to remote coastal mountains, glaciers, and seldom‑visited parts of Antarctica, including the chance to cross the Antarctic Circle — a milestone reached by very few travelers.

Over the course of the expedition, travelers enjoy at least two helicopter flightseeing excursions plus one heli‑landing, providing breathtaking aerial views of ice‑filled seas, glacier‑sculpted coastlines, and snow‑capped mountains. Zodiac cruises and shore landings complement the helicopter experiences, offering up-close encounters with penguins, seals, seabirds, whales, icebergs, and rugged shorelines. This combination of air, sea, and land access ensures a full-spectrum Antarctic adventure rarely available on standard cruises.

Life onboard Ultramarine blends comfort, convenience, and expedition-style immersion. Guests stay in well-appointed cabins, enjoy full meals, and benefit from amenities including panoramic decks, lounges, a spa, and a sauna. Expert-led presentations cover wildlife, glaciology, polar history, and photography, helping travelers appreciate every ice-shelf, iceberg, and wildlife sighting. The ship’s modern facilities, small-group ethos, and professional expedition team create a balanced experience of adventure and relaxation.

The voyage explores some of the least-visited regions of the Antarctic Peninsula, including areas near Crystal Sound and Marguerite Bay, and provides the flexibility to adapt to weather and ice conditions for maximum exploration opportunities. Whether soaring above icefields in a helicopter, cruising among icebergs by Zodiac, or observing penguins from the deck, travelers experience Antarctica’s wilderness in a rare, immersive way.

For those seeking a polar journey that goes beyond the typical, combining aerial adventure, remote-region access, wildlife encounters, and comfortable shipboard living, this helicopter-enhanced 14-day expedition delivers. Not sure if this is your ideal polar match? Head over to our Destination Antarctic overview for guidance on when to go, what kind of expedition suits your spirit, what wildlife you’ll likely encounter, and how to choose the perfect voyage for your travel style.

Departures

Sort by: Price  |  Date
  • DateFeb 16 - Mar 01, 2027
    Duration14 Days|13 Nights
    SizeMedium (199 Guests)
    Stars5* Luxury
    Expeditions RatingExcellent
    Zodiacs & Embarkation20 Boats | 4 Points
    From$23,290USDp.p. in a Shared Cabin
    Cabin prices
  • DateFeb 17 - Mar 01, 2028
    Duration14 Days|13 Nights
    SizeMedium (199 Guests)
    Stars5* Luxury
    Expeditions RatingExcellent
    Zodiacs & Embarkation20 Boats | 4 Points
    From$19,890USDp.p. in a Shared Cabin
    Cabin prices

Overview

DAY 1
Arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina
DAY 2
Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
DAY 3
Crossing the Drake: A Polar Rite of Passage
DAY 4
At Sea with Polar Experts
DAY 5 - 6
South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula
DAY 7 - 9
Explore the Antarctic Circle and the Southern Peninsula by water, land, and air
DAY 10 - 11
Northbound Along the Peninsula
DAY 12 - 13
Crossing the Drake Passage
DAY 14
Disembark in Ushuaia and Fly to Buenos Aires

Itinerary

Inclusions

  • All Zodiac excursions and shore landings throughout the voyage
  • All meals, snacks, soft drinks, and juices onboard
  • Beer and wine during dinner; select alcoholic beverages depending on ship policy
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi (basic browsing and messaging)
  • Expedition parka to keep, plus loan of expedition boots
  • Experienced Expedition Team, naturalist guides, and onboard presentations
  • Accommodation in your selected cabin category
  • Photography assistance and wildlife spotting from the expedition team
  • All ship-based safety, navigation, and support equipment
  • Port charges, taxes, and service fees

Exclusions

  • International airfare to and from Ushuaia
  • Travel insurance (mandatory), including emergency medical evacuation
  • Pre- or post-trip accommodation unless otherwise stated
  • Adventure options such as kayaking or paddle excursions (if offered)
  • Laundry services, gift shop purchases, and minibar charges
  • Premium alcoholic beverages not included in the ship’s standard offering
  • Visa fees or government entry/exit requirements
  • Tips for the expedition team and crew (recommended but not included)
Remko

Hello and welcome!
Thank you for reaching out. How can I assist you with your inquiry about Antarctica?