Globaltravelbook, a licensed travel agency in Malta covered by the Insolvency Fund TRA/G/32.
Why you should join our trip to Antarctica:
Embark on the ultimate bucket-list journey to Antarctica aboard the state-of-the-art Ultramarine. This 12-day expedition takes you from Buenos Aires to the untouched wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula, crossing the legendary Drake Passage and exploring stunning landscapes, wildlife, and pristine ice-filled waters.
Experience the raw beauty of the 7th Continent with expert guides, luxury accommodations, gourmet dining, and the chance to witness penguins, whales, seals, andglaciers up close.
The Ultramarine is perfectly designed to deliver the ultimate polar expedition experience. The Ultramarine is designed to go beyond the familiar polar exploration to immerse guests in parts of the Polar Regions where few humans have ever set foot.
The season
Sail into the heart of Antarctica during the enchanting late summer season. This is the best time to witness whales feeding in great numbers, penguin chicks growing curious and playful, and breathtaking sunsets that paint the ice in gold and pink hues. With milder temperatures and long daylight hours, February and March offer the perfect balance of adventure and comfort — a remarkable finale to the Antarctic summer.
What about flights?
The flight schedule has not been issued yet, however approximately 11 months prior to the departure date we will aim to secure a group flight booking. More information will be shared once this is secured.
Why don’t we include flights in the package price?
How to Proceed:
You can view more images and explore detailed brochures about the ship and full expedition itinerary [here].
Accommodation Pricing:
Pricing includes the expedition cost, a charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, and one night of hotel accommodation in Buenos Aires prior to the charter flight. Anyone who would like to opt for the return charter flight this would come at an additional cost of €610.
See Cabin Options below:
Explorer Suite – €12,556.00 (per person)
Located on Deck 3 and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a picture window. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Suites 319 and 322 offer modified layouts and bathrooms for wheelchair accessibility.
Balcony Suite – €13,756.00 (per person)
Located on Decks 4 & 6 and approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 sq. m) balcony*. The balconies in suites 421, 422, 423, and 424 are partially enclosed. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower and heated floors. Some suites in this category offer interconnecting rooms.
Deluxe Balcony Suite – €16,156.00 (per person)
Located on Decks 4 & 6 and approximately 299 sq. ft. (28 sq. m) in size, this suite has one double or two single beds, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 sq. m) balcony*. Other amenities include a refrigerator, safe, TV, and a private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
* Please note that balcony doors may be locked during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
If you’re interested in a single cabin, feel free to reach out to us for more details on pricing.
Arrival Airport
Buenos Aires International Airport
For those travelling from Malta more information will be provided about flights closer to date
For those not travelling from Malta, it is important that we meet in Buenos Aires on the 28 February 2027 alternatively if you are meeting us in Ushuaia you need to be there by no later than 1 March 2027. We highly recommend use of transfer package one way as the flight is chartered by Quark and any delays are catered for by the boat.
Departure Airport
Buenos Aires International Airport
Dates
28 February – 11 March 2027
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Requirements
You can view more images and explore detailed brochures about the ship and full expedition itinerary [here].
We’ll confirm the exact departure date once flight schedules are announced, usually around 11 months in advance. For the group leaving from Malta, this will likely be on 26 or 27 February 2027.
If you prefer, you’re welcome to arrange your own travel, just make sure to arrive in Buenos Aires by 28 February so you’re ready to join the group. Please keep in mind that on the 1 March our chartered flight leaves in the morning, so it’s important to be on time as we won’t be able to wait for delays.
Upon arrival in the splendid city of Buenos Aires, famous for its vibrant Argentinian culture, European architecture and cosmopolitan vibe.
Since there is still time before the group trip officially begins, we will provide flexible options for your arrival:
Group Departure from Malta
Participants can choose to depart together from Malta.
In this case, we will arrange a shared transfer from the airport to the hotel, and the cost will be split among the group.
Independent Arrival
If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements and arrive independently, you can do so.
Transfers can still be organised separately upon request.
Closer to the date, we will also provide optional activities and excursions depending on your arrival dates and times, so you can make the most of your first days in Buenos Aires.
Hotel: Emperador or similar
Included: Hotel Accommodation
Not Included: Transfers – once the group is determined and arrival dates are determined, we will organise a private transfer and share the cost.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner Transfers, Internal Flight.
The Drake Passage is both unpredictable and exciting – an adventure all on its own! During the crossing, you’ll be well looked after by Quark’s expert staff and Expedition Team. There will be plenty of time to enjoy the ocean views, capture photos of seabirds in flight, and get to know your Expedition Team and fellow travellers.
While motion sickness medication is available onboard, we recommend speaking with your doctor before the trip to ensure you’re well prepared. An onboard doctor will also be available should you need any assistance during the voyage.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Once the Drake Passage is behind us and the South Shetland Islands appear on the horizon, your Antarctic adventure truly begins. It’s easy to see why this extraordinary region has fascinated explorers and travellers for generations. Every journey to Antarctica reveals something new and unexpected, making your expedition a truly unique and personal experience.
Each day brings exciting opportunities to head out on Zodiac excursions, exploring bays, channels, and landing sites. You might visit penguin rookeries, spot humpback and minke whales, and search for seals, including the elusive leopard seal.
Please note that all daily excursions and activities depend on weather and safety conditions, ensuring the best and safest experience for every guest. Below are some of the possible excursions you may enjoy in the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
South Shetland Islands:
Antarctic Peninsula:
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Excursions as detailed in included activities section
The journey back across the Drake Passage offers a final chance to breathe in the fresh Southern Ocean air. You might spend time out on deck watching seabirds soar or keeping an eye out for whales, or relax indoors and enjoy the engaging presentations from your Expedition Team. It’s also the perfect time to reflect on your adventure and celebrate the unforgettable moments you’ve shared while exploring the remarkable world of Antarctica.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
We will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning and disembark after breakfast. We will then make our way towards your group charter flight to Buenos Aires.
Optional extension packages will be offered in Ushuaia and Buenos Aires more information to follow in coming weeks.
Included: Breakfast.
Each Quark Expedition voyage offers a variety of immersive off-ship activities to enhance your polar experience.
Flightseeing
When polar landscapes are spectacular from the sea, they are even more striking from the air. On board Ultramarine you will experience remarkable aerial perspectives on a 10-15 minute flightseeing excursion.
Hiking
Hiking in Antarctica is free-form and supervised by our expert staff, who set out a perimeter or paths at each landing site within which you are free to explore. While you hike staff will be available to enhance your experience by answering questions about the wildlife, history and geography of the area.
Zodiac Cruising
Zodiacs – rugged inflatable watercraft – are the workhorses of polar expeditions taking you to places the ships can’t access, allowing you to reach remote shorelines, explore shallow inlets and search for unique wildlife.
Polar Plunge
This rite of passage gives you the chance to jump safely into the bracing Antarctic waters.
Photography
A professional photographer is part of Quark’s expedition team. Their role is to help you capture the very best images during your journey. Throughout the voyage, the photographer will:
As part of your voyage, you’ll also receive a digital photographic journal – a curated selection of the photographer’s images from your expedition, included at no extra cost. This way, you’ll return home with both your own treasured shots and a professional visual record of the journey.
Presentations
Enjoy daily chats and presentations by our world-class onboard polar experts.
These activities cost extra and need to be booked in advance.
Stand Up Paddleboarding – Cost €280 (pp, 1 per paddleboard)
Combining a surfboard with a kayak stand-up paddleboarding will give you a very personal and unique perspective on Antarctica. Conducted in small groups, in calm bays and harbors, in good weather conditions and accompanies by a safety Zodiac.
Paddling Excursion – Cost €390 (pp)
If you’re interested in kayaking but would like to try something a bit less demanding than Sea Kayaking, you’re the perfect candidate to sign up for a one-time paddle on our stable sit-on-top kayaks—perfect for anyone with minimal or no kayaking experience. Small groups of paddlers will be taken out on calm days, with our expert guides always present to provide instruction and help you connect with the polar sea. Pre-book into one of two priority groups. Any subsequent excursions can be booked on board, and groups will be assigned via a lottery as spaces are limited.
Heli-Landing – Cost €950 (pp)
Imagine setting foot in an area of the Antarctic that can only be safely accessed by helicopter. With fellow passengers and expert guides, you’ll board one of Ultramarine’s two twin-engine helicopters to soar off to an exclusive polar site where no ships can navigate. Expect stunning bird’s-eye views during your flight, and then, upon arrival, simply sit back, relax and take in the splendor of the Antarctic from “the best seat in the house”: glacial amphitheaters, breath-taking summits, and more. At your landing, you’ll have time to relax and quietly reflect on the beauty of your polar surroundings, after which you’ll be picked up by the helicopters in the same location and returned to Ultramarine.
Sea Kayaking – Cost €1,900 (pp, this is for multiple voyages, as many as the weather permits)
Imagine gliding across the surface of a bay in the presence of icebergs and glaciers. The Sea Kayaking program is a great way to intimately explore your surroundings. A small group of kayakers will plan to go out multiple times per voyage as an alternative to shore landings or Zodiac cruises. Prior Kayaking experience is required for this tour must be able to do a wet exit to participate. Beginners interested in kayaking should consider participating in the Paddling Excursion.
Yes, of course – you’re welcome to arrive in or depart from Buenos Aires whenever you wish, as long as you’re there in time to catch the charter flight on the trip dates. For this expedition, it’s very important to use the charter flight connection to the ship, as it is designed to accommodate any potential delays. Please note that delays on independent flights to Ushuaia cannot be accommodated.
For those who wish to extend their adventure, we’ll also be offering optional extensions in both Ushuaia and Buenos Aires.
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation coverage, is mandatory for all guests traveling to Antarctica.
Proof of this insurance will need to be provided to us.
Most travellers do not need a visa to visit Antarctica itself. For Maltese passport holders, no visa is required for stays of up to 90 days in Argentina or Chile.
Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
Daily excursions are scheduled twice a day — once after breakfast and again after lunch. This includes both included and optional activities.
Optional Excursions
Spaces are limited, so we recommend reserving any optional activities you’re interested in as soon as possible. Payments can be made at a later stage.
All excursions are led by expert expedition staff, with strict safety briefings and equipment provided. Guest safety is always the top priority.
Expect penguins, seals, whales, and a variety of seabirds. Wildlife sightings can vary, but late summer is especially good for whale encounters and penguin chicks.
Layers are essential! Bring waterproof outerwear, warm base layers, gloves, hats, and sturdy boots. A detailed packing list will be provided before departure.
Yes — cabins are cozy and heated, with modern amenities. Public areas include lounges, a dining room, and observation decks.
For safety, alcohol is generally served after the final excursion of the day (late afternoon/evening). Wine or beer may be offered during lunch, but guests must remain mindful: if staff suspect overindulgence, you may be refused participation in excursions.
Yes, but connectivity may be slower than you’re used to, free access will be provided for messaging, social media and basic needs. Premium Packages can be purchased onboard for more detailed access for 50USD per day.
Onboard purchases are charged to your cabin and settled in USD (or specified cruise currency) at the end of the voyage. Credit cards are widely accepted.
The Drake Passage is known for its challenging waters. Motion sickness medication is available onboard, and a doctor is always present. We advise visiting your GP before departure to ensure you have any personal medication you may need.
Still relatively mild: Temperatures hover around -2°C to +4°C (28°F to 39°F) along the Peninsula, cold, but manageable.
Sea ice is at its minimum, so ships can reach farther south and access remote areas that are often inaccessible earlier in the season.
Penguin chicks are growing fast and becoming more active, you’ll see them molting and learning to swim.
Whales are at their peak: February and March are the best months for whale watching, as humpbacks, minkes, and orcas feed before heading north.
Seal sightings (especially leopard seals) are also common.
To secure your spot, a 25% payment is required either via bank transfer or through our online payment system (select the 25% option) after completing the booking form.
Please click here to view the payment plan options: (Click here).
To secure a booking for any optional excursion, a 25% payment is required at the time of confirmation. We strongly recommend making bookings as early as possible to guarantee availability. In the event of a optional excursion cancellation, the amount paid will not be lost, instead, it will be credited towards the overall cost of your travel package.
For the flight more information will be provided closer to date.
BANK TRANSFER: MAKE SURE TO WRITE THIS REFERENCE: (GTB022 “Name & Surname”)
