Our tip
You can finish off your cold weather shopping here, they have all the best stuff.
From Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
Antarctic Express: Sail South, Fly North
From Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
Antarctic Express: Sail South, Fly North
Voyage Itinerary
28 December to 29 December
Setting sail from Ushuaia
Ushuaia is sometimes described as 'the city at the end of the world', though its rugged beauty is far from apocalyptic. Perched on the ragged southern edge of Argentina, where the snow-capped Andes fall away into the churning sea, the city has a frontier town feel to it, and serves as the base for expeditions into the icy waters of Antarctica. There are also plenty of outdoor pursuits on offer here, including hiking, skiing and fishing, and the Tierra del Fuego National Park is home to spectacular scenery and wildlife including penguins, guanacos, sea lions and condors.
30 December to 31 December - At sea
1 January to 4 January
Antarctica: South Shetland Islands
Icy and remote, the South Shetland Islands are situated about 100 miles north of the Antarctic peninsula. The archipelago is home to a scattering of research stations, along with thousands of penguins, seals and sea lions, as well as the Endurance Memorial Site that commemorates Shackleton's famous expedition here on the south west shore of Elephant Island.
5 January to 6 January
Arriving in Punta Arenas
The weather-beaten city of Punta Arenas is a laid back and welcoming place, in spite of its inhospitable location on the shores of the Strait of Magellan. Nearby attractions include penguin colonies and the dramatic scenery of Torres del Paine National Park, while beyond the horizon lie the frozen wastes of Antarctica.
The ship
Ocean Explorer
- Capacity:
- 138 Guests
- Crew:
- 105 Staff
- Style:
- Bright, spacious and elegant interiors plus expansiveobservation decks and an expert Quark expedition team offerenriching exploration to the Polar regions.
Ocean Explorer is Quark's latest addition to the fleet, boasting a bright, elegant interior and an innovative X-Bow design for ultimate guest comfort.
What we love
Ocean Explorer joined the Quark fleet in 2024 and is a purpose-built expedition vessel designed for polar waters. Built in 2021, it showcases innovative expedition technology including a striking X-Bow design which improves efficiency and guest comfort when sailing in extreme envirnments. On board, guests will enjoy spacious cabins, almost all with private verandah, multi-height outdoor decks which are perfect for wildlife viewing, and a fleet of 15 Zodiacs for immersive exploration.
inclusions
- All meals, snacks, soft drinks, juices and water
- Beer and wine with dinner
- Tea and coffee available all day
- Lectures and talks in the Explorer Lecture lounge
- Zodiac excursions and shore landings
- Quark Expeditions parka
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Ushuaia
Los Cauquenes Resort and Spa is your best option, if you have time to stay.
Tours from Ushuaia
What you choose to do on tour will need to supplement whatever cruise you are taking. So if you are heading to Antarctica, whilst here you will want to go to the Tierra del Fuego National Park.
How can we help?
Our frequently asked questions
From expedition tips to travel protection, here are some of our most-asked questions.
visit our faqs
Can you help with pre and post-cruise arrangements?
Absolutely. Expedition cruises often start and end in remote destinations, and we're able to arrange everything from flights and transfers to hotels and tours. If you're keen to make the most of your time away with bespoke arrangements, we can help with all your travel needs to make sure your trip is exceptional. What's more, we are members of ABTA and we offer full ATOL protection, not to mention a 24-hour emergency contact, to give you complete peace of mind.
Will I save by booking with Mundy Adventures?
You'll save money and time by booking with us rather than directly with the cruise line, as well as enjoying more flexibility in your travel arrangements. We have access to preferential rates and exclusive offers, and we offer expert advice on how to get the best value.
How much time is spent ashore?
Itineraries are planned to deliver an unforgettable experience of the destination, so days are filled with landings ashore via the ship's fleet of Zodiacs (sturdy rubber boats) or exploration along the coastline. It will vary depending on itinerary and operators, so it's best to contact us to discuss but rest assured an expedition cruise is focused on the time you spend off the ship.
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Why Mundy?
Who we are
Mundy Adventures is the intrepid little brother of Mundy Cruising Ltd., the UK's very first cruise specialist, and one of the leading companies in its field.
We specialise in travel by ship and have been doing so for over 50 years. By providing expert, personal service, insightful ideas and fascinating add-ons we aim to make your adventure holiday truly unique and special.
We're happy to do all of that over the phone. But if you prefer to chat face to face, why not visit us at our comfortable offices on London's High Holborn - we'd be delighted to see you.
