The first indication that you are approaching South Georgia is the sight of birds around a group of rocky spires called Shag Rocks. Shags and prions often rest here, and due to the nutrient-rich upwellings around the rocks, it is a great place to spot whales.

By Zodiac, travel to shore and witness wildlife encounters unrivalled anywhere else on earth. South Georgia is one of the most fertile breeding grounds in the world for sub-Antarctic wildlife, with beaches blanketed with penguins and seals. Seabirds, albatross, and petrels can be seen in abundance as well.

South Georgia is also the final resting place of Ernest Shackleton. You can visit the grave of the great explorer at the settlement of Grytviken, which is also home to a whaling station, plus a museum, gift shop, church, and small research station.

Continuing the journey, explore the stunning Antarctic Peninsula. On Zodiac craft, keep an eye out for leopard seals, humpback whales and penguins. Witness calving glaciers, waddling Chinstrap and Gentoo penguins along with Weddell, fur and crabeater seals. Keep an eye out also for Minke whales. This environment is raw Antarctica, home to the midnight sun and your best chances of encountering sea ice – the foundation of the Antarctic marine ecosystem. Pursue your passions with a choice of rewarding activities such as Zodiac sailings, paddling excursions, hiking and an extensive educational program.

Quark Expeditions is uncompromisingly polar, specialising in expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctica. Quark Expeditions have been the leading provider of polar adventure travel for over 25 years. With a diverse fleet of specially equipped small expedition vessels and ice breakers, they offer travellers unparalleled access to the most remote places on the planet. The spirit of exploration runs deep, with a talented, knowledgeable, and experienced expedition team aboard all expeditions.

Comprising seasoned veterans with rich backgrounds in marine biology, geology, glaciology, and history, they offer informed commentary. With the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the industry, Quark’s expedition teams will maximise the safety and enjoyment of your polar adventure each day. Prepare to be amazed by an environment different to anything you might have seen before. Witness towering fjords, giant glaciers, soaring sea stacks and coastal cliffs teeming with seabirds and sprawled pinnipeds of the seal kind. Watch or partake in the Quark Expeditions classic Polar Plunge. This fun activity is scheduled once during each polar voyage.

Onboard World Explorer, or Ocean Adventurer, savour gourmet meals served with selected beers and wines, formal and informal presentations by the resident expedition team and guest speakers. Enjoy comfortable accommodation with a hairdryer and bathrobes in each cabin. You’ll be loaned a pair of waterproof expedition boots for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions, and the official Quark Expeditions® parka issued to you is yours to keep as a lasting souvenir of this incredible travel adventure.