Quark Expeditions

Fantastic - was treated like the queen.

The trip was stellar in every way! My only disappointment is that no Stand up paddle boarding photos were posted. Maybe it is yet to come. And the photos were not really part of the trip, it was an extra that I was really looking forward to.

This was our first cruise and it's going to be hard to beat this one! We certainly lucked out, from the fantastic weather, calm waters and all the penguins, whales and birds we saw. Not to mention the scenery. The guides and crew were very knowledgeable and friendly and it felt like we were a large family by the end of the trip! All the staff on the boat were so kind and helpful - and the food was excellent! I just can't say enough about this trip. It was a dream come true for us and Quark Expeditions certainly delivered. Having said this, Antarctica is an adventure frontier, one with many surprises. There were people on our trip who were making a 2nd and 3rd attempt. If the weather is really bad Quark may not be able to fly you out to King George Island. Buy cancellation insurance and be a little flexible so if this happens you are covered and can try again. Quark will do their best to get you out there, but weather is beyond their control. Carol & Rick, Ecuador

I had high expectations but the trip exceeded them all. I wondered what I was going to do on the ship for eight days but it seemed to be over before it started. Wonderful trip!

From the booking process to the disembarkation, this was the most well-planned, superbly-executed journey to the most amazing place on Earth. I was in a state of awe from morning til night, as each place was more breathtaking than the last. I felt like a kid on Christmas as I ran to the window on the morning we arrived at the Antarctic peninsula. I felt taken care of at each step of the journey. Pre-trip communication was excellent in addressing my concerns (what to pack, if the boots would fit me, do you have to be athletic to do this - you don't). The hotel in Buenos Aires was world-class (the best shower ever). The welcome to the ship makes you feel like the most important passenger they've ever had. The chef greets you personally at dinner every night. The expedition team leader and captain pore over weather charts every day to make sure we have the best places to have our excursions. The team of experts and guides makes you feel so safe and comfortable, and their efficiency at easily getting 200 people on and off the ship is mind-blowing. They've thought through everything you could imagine. I felt like the team had my back at all times, and they were so informative and friendly. I had my doubts about riding in a Zodiac, but honestly it's the most thrilling way to see this pristine place. It's a place you just have to experience. Seals, whales, penguins, birds ... it's a photographer's dream. I did things I never thought I could, and saw things I never thought I would. I can't say enough great things about this company, their team, this ship, and this itinerary. Just do it. It's worth every penny and more.