Antarctic Explorer, Operated by Quark

Traveler Reviews

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  Adrish

  January 22nd, 2023
  5
  Trip of a lifetime from Quark. Couldn't ask for a better experience - The Ocean Adventurer was the perfect ship for...
  Trip of a lifetime from Quark. Couldn't ask for a better experience - The Ocean Adventurer was the perfect ship for the voyage; the expedition team was knowledgable, fun, and took great care of us; the dining crew and the food were amazing.Show more
  Traveled in January 2023
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  Antoinette Byrne

  February 13th, 2013
  5
  The whole trip was exceptionally well organised and was up there with my most inspriational trip ever (and I have...
  The whole trip was exceptionally well organised and was up there with my most inspriational trip ever (and I have done a fair bit of travelling!!)) Antarctica is definately a place you should experience a once in a lifetime experience. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? This is a hard one to answer as the whole trip was awsome, the most amazing moment was a close encounter (close enough to touch!) with a humpback whale.  We were in two zociacs and the humpback came and played with the boats for over half an hour it brought tears to your eyes that such a huge creature could be so interactive and gentle with boats that it outsized by many times.  Close up and personal.Penguins galore while you can stay the recommended 5 meters away from them dont be surprised that they dont pay the same attention to the rules!!!  If I am to use an analogy in the future for teams it will be to have the determination of a penguin getting to their nesting sites sometimes at the top of mountains.  Sheer resilliance and determination. It was inspirational to see the working and historical scientific/research sites that our guides could inform us of the great work that had been done to inform our future.  What did you think of your group leader? Group leader from exodus was very inmative and our leader and the ships tour leaders got as much out of the trip that was possible for the whole group.  Made sure we had the information we needed and were always on hand to give answers to quesitons and ensure our trip was safe and most importantly enjoyable.  As a photographer the opportunities were massive. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Yes go for it ensure you look at the guidelines on what to bring and what is available on ship, I took most of my camera kit and used it all there are sooo many opportunities for great photographs.  Remember to take the time to sit back be quiet and take in the sounds views and experiences of Antarctica put the camera down and experience the place.  Take lots of memory cards and a back up to ensure you have enough space for the images you will get. Plenty of layers and a spare pair of socks.If you get the chance tag an extra day on at Beunos Aires a great experience and if its summer there v. hot remember to take an outfit that will work in this temperature.  Is there anything else you would like to add? Dont hesitate to go for it, I had a wonderous time with fabulous like minded people and learnt so much from the guides and fellow travellers.Show more
  Traveled in January 2013
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  Enid Astley

  March 30th, 2012
  5
  What can I say?! The most amazing trip, far exceeding the expectations that I had held for a lifetime! Each...
  What can I say?! The most amazing trip, far exceeding the expectations that I had held for a lifetime! Each experience seemed to surpass the last , and I hold the memory in my head each day since returning home. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Zodiac cruising on a sublime cloudless day, encircling aquamarine icebergs, quietly observing a leopard seal casually lounging on an icefloe. The intense colours, the stark white of the ice and snow contrasting with the deepest blue ocean. The sound of penguin chatter and raucous calls,  the soft patter of penguin feet while I sat very still on the beach, listening, absorbing and watching the astonishingly beautiful scene before me. Humpback whales breaching and the whoosh of the sea as they played out the spectacle. Hourglass dolphins accompanying the ship as we approached Cape Horn. Listening to the group leader, Shane, reading a short poem about the wandering albatross and lost sailors  as we approached land at Tierra del Fuego.. Sitting with like minded people, conversing about our adventure. The feel of the ship under my feet as I stood at the bow, looking, watching and looking... What did you think of your group leader? Brilliant! Shane was professional, informative, kindly and always concerned for our safety, well being and enjoyment!! Cannot speak too highly of him. Inspirational. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Read up on Antarctica before you go, it will enhance your awareness of what to look for. Take more memory cards than you think you'll need. Sea sickness pills are provided and are effective( although we were very lucky - no Drake shake!). Take your time when on shore, stay still and the penguins will come to you. Take time to look, look and look... there is nowhere else on earth like this....you wont see anywhere like it and it deserves to be experienced fully. The ship is warm, you dont need outdoor gear inside! High factor suncream and moisturiser is necessary- the weather can be snowy, dry , windy, cold, sunny - protect your skin. Forget about your phone- no signal after the Beagle Channel. Its good to be able to email but dont get hung up on it- you can do that at home. And perhaps when taking photos- just put your camera aside sometimes and look around you... Is there anything else you would like to add? The yellow jackets from Quark are pretty much indestructible! Marvellous item of clothing, plus the interactive fleece is great! I cannot recommend Quark and Exodus highly enough. Every aspect of the trip was planned and executed without a hitch- the only thing that prevents you doing anything is the weather- control is an illusion..! Take every opportunity to absorb each minute of the trip- it is unique and totally unforgettable. Do not wait to go.Show more
  Traveled in February 2012
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  David Coustick

  February 14th, 2012
  4
  A wonderful experience - both wildlife and scenery - significantly helped by the efficient and knowledgable staff....
  A wonderful experience - both wildlife and scenery - significantly helped by the efficient and knowledgable staff. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Seeing penguins really close up - they came even closer to us than I thought possible; at times pecking (gently) at us. Also sailing through the Lemaire Channel in sea ice and sunshine - a great job by the Vavilov's captain.  What did you think of your group leader? Fantastic. "Woody" was so enthusiastic and able to modify the itinerary seamlessly when required due to weather etc. This gave us the opportunity to go through the Lemaire Channel and its sea ice in a zodiac - a great experience. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Bring plenty of memory cards, and sit down and be patient with the penguins and they'll come closer.Show more
  Traveled in January 2012
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  Mark Mills

  January 22nd, 2012
  5
  Having dreamt of visiting Antarctica since i was a child, a recent life-changing event inspired me to take the...
  Having dreamt of visiting Antarctica since i was a child, a recent life-changing event inspired me to take the plunge. I wish i had taken that plunge years ago, it was stunning. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? For me, the most awe-inspiring moment was when the captain of the ship announced land ahoy, my first sight of Antarctica made my heart race. I've been fortunate to visit many parts of the world in my flying career but the seventh continent feels like a trip to another planet. What did you think of your group leader? Our group leader was Doctor Lynn Woodworth, she is an authority on polar marine life and conservation, possesses a warm and welcoming nature, has a positive outlook on life and has the rare skill of making people feel special. Her team adore her and I strongly recommend her as your group leader. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? My only suggestion would be to pack lightly, our ship, the Vavilov, was extremely comfortable and warm with an excellent crew and delicious, copious food. My expectation was of living in a harsh environment so i took far too many layers of clothing. We were issued a technical jacket with zipped-in fleece which was ideal protection against the elements for our shore landings, the boots that were loaned to us were so comfortable and warm that i have now bought my own. Is there anything else you would like to add? There was a special atmosphere onboard the Vavilov, partly down to the adventure that we were embarking on and partly because it was a first 'cruise' for many onboard; in my opinion the atmosphere was created mainly by the team of marine biologists, geologists, historians, ornithologists and other scientists. It was an education in all things Antarctic; the knowledge, enthusiasm and welcoming spirit of this group of professionals made the experience unique. I heartily recommend that you wait no longer to discover the greatest wilderness.Show more
  Traveled in December 2011
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  Robert Payne

  January 3rd, 2012
  5
  my first thoughts goto kim christie, for rescueing my holiday when it looked doomed as the vessel went tech, she...
  my first thoughts goto kim christie, for rescueing my holiday when it looked doomed as the vessel went tech, she acted quickly and efficiently with getting me on another trip, sometimes it is not just the dream of making it on the greatest adventure in the world, but the great people behind the scenes who make it possible. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? I Think if it was the beautiful pristine landscape that took my breath away!! What did you think of your group leader? Chad was my group leader on one ocean, and he worked tirelessly to make everyone happy, even when he looked exhausted himself still kept on cracking the jokes and smiling Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Make sure your have a quality  camera with fast shutter speed to catch all the wildlife action Is there anything else you would like to add? only about 13000 people a year get this opportunity, and if there is one holiday you remember in your rocking chair days, it WILL be this ONE !!!!Show more
  Traveled in December 2011
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  Kathryn Morgan

  March 9th, 2011
  5
  I was expecting something special but nothing could prepare me for the absolutely breathtaking landscapes, turquoise...
  I was expecting something special but nothing could prepare me for the absolutely breathtaking landscapes, turquoise icebergs and such marvellous encounters with penguins, whales and seals. I was, and still am, overwhelmed by the beauty and remoteness of Antarctica! What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? This was my first ever trip where i have travelled alone and the sense of personal achievement was enormous.Watching a glacier calveThe captain of the Vavilov turning around to extend a whale watching encounterThe stillness and beauty after climbing a mountain ridge for phenomenal views...quite humbling! What did you think of your group leader? Absolutely fantastic. Demonstrated a professional but relaxed manner with all guests and always striving to maximise the experience with flexible itinaries Do you have any advice for potential travellers? I had some "wobbles" before i went re- travelling alone mostly, but i would say to anyone who is hesitating to go for it. The comradeship between passengers is heartwarming and there is nowhere on earth quite like it. I would go back in a heartbeat. By far the most stunning place on earth i have ever seen!The ship is warm and comfortable so take some light clothing for the evenings. I almost overheated in my thermal gear ;-) Is there anything else you would like to add? Thankyou to exodus. The support i had from the team in the booking office was invaluable. I almost missed out on this trip through self doubt but all my questions were answered honestly and gave me enough reassurance to go ahead. Because of this i look forward to my next adventure with them.Show more
  Traveled in February 2011
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  Helen Risdon

  February 4th, 2011
  5
  It's true what they say - nothing will prepare you for Antarctica. Not just in the don't-forget-the-sunscreen sort...
  It's true what they say - nothing will prepare you for Antarctica. Not just in the don't-forget-the-sunscreen sort of preparation but the sheer beauty, wildness and silence of the place. The ship, although it was only the second trip it had done for Quark, was brilliant and we honestly couldn't fault the crew, food, comfort (except we didn't have a window: if you're offered cabin 330 on the Sea Spirit, ask to change it!) and overall planning and preparation for the trip. The trip leaders oozed enthusiasm, they were knowledgeable and were able to make last-minute alterations to the schedule to allow us to make the most of every glorious moment of this holiday. I doubt if I will go to Antarctica again, but if I could, I would go again with Exodus and Quark. The free coat was pretty cool too. Only downside was the long journey with the stop at Sao Paulo and the overnight at Ushuaia. Aerolineas Argentinas was delightfully quirky but Exodus had the foresight to allow plenty of transfer time so we didn't miss any connections. And a special "thank you" to their out-of-hours service (and in-hours service too!) for sorting out a couple of minor hitches with all efficiency and politeness. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The moment in Paradise Bay when they cut the engine of the Zodiac, the camera shutters stopped and the silence was absolute. What did you think of your group leader? Brilliant.  A very people-person, knowledgeable, very safety conscious, and unfailing enthusiasm. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Take lots of layers.  We had sunshine and no wind and boiled in our thermals.  Take your swimming costume - it may well be needed.  And don't forget the sunscreen. Is there anything else you would like to add? Take plenty of books for the journey, go find the crazy houses in Ushuaia, have a go at everything that is offered and make sure you're fit. There's a lot more scrambling, slipping and sliding than you would expect and it's as hard to go down the mountains as up them. It's not glamorous, the penguins pong and the elephant seals make noises that have to be heard to be believed.  Just go for it. Enjoy.Show more
  Traveled in January 2011
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  Karen Eastwood

  February 4th, 2011
  5
  An absolutely amazing trip that surpassed all expectations. The cabin was bigger than expected, the food great, the...
  An absolutely amazing trip that surpassed all expectations. The cabin was bigger than expected, the food great, the wildlife plentiful and close, the crew were friendly, organisation was superb and there was so much to do I didn't even get to read my book! What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? My Highlights were a 2hr Zodiac cruise amongst the ice seeing some most amazing formations.The polar plunge .. where I jumped off the gangway into the Antarctic waters and was pulled back in again by Sergi the Russian sailor.Landing on my Seventh continent on Christmas Day and then celebrating later with a barbecue on the back deck.Watching the Humpback whales from the ship with the Captain making awesome maneuvers to make sure we got the best shots. What did you think of your group leader? The group leader and her team were incredible. They were all very knowledgeable and passionate about their jobs. They created a very relaxed atmosphere on the ship and nothing seemed too much trouble. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Do it!  Book early if you want to do any of the extra activities. I regret not picking a longer trip that went to South Georgia. I had an extra week in Patagonia walking and visiting the Purto Moreno Glacier which was awesome. Is there anything else you would like to add? I did have a problem with kayaking. Staff on board were suppotive but ultimately there was nothing they could do. I contacted Exodus on my return and was happy with the way they responded and the high level of customer service they demonstrated. I consequently would have no qualms travelling with them again or recommending them to others.The jackets we were given were excellent and did their job well. At the end we were given a dvd with a slideshow of the trip, all the timetables, menu's etc plus folders of other peoples photos. A great idea as it means I have some amazing photos of my trip that my little camera couldn't have taken. I also liked the idea of a cashless boat and the fact that the tip was divided up equally amongst all staff.Show more
  Traveled in January 2011
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  Alison Eales

  February 19th, 2010
  4
  Fantastic holiday. The numbers of penguins and seals were just what I'd hoped for but the large number of Whales were...
  Fantastic holiday. The numbers of penguins and seals were just what I'd hoped for but the large number of Whales were an added bonus. I cannot begin to describe the atmosphere and the surreal experiance of cruising in the Zodiacs through the giant icebergs. Sharing this with a great group of people from all over the world made it a dream holiday What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Difficult to choose, and I thought it would be being close to the penguins or the seals but infact just sitting on deck taking in the quiet, stillness and sheer size of the scenary is the moment I will cherish. What did you think of your group leader? Our group leader was good, keeping us fully informed of our plans with regular updates. The whole team were great and so knowledgeable with an obvious love of their topic and antarctica. The information lectures were delivered at just the right pitch for interest and entertainment especially Mickalow's. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? The fleece lined parka provided on this trip is great so don't take up room packing your own thick fleece or waterproof. Thin layers are best and I didn't find it too cold even on the zodiacs, 2 base layes and a thin fleece enough and inside the ship it is warm so you can soon thaw out if you do get cold.Sea sickness was not mentioned in any reviews I read but it is a big problem for a lot of people. We were lucky with an apparently smooth sail across the drake passage, but many were ill. Hyocine patches worked well for most of us, but put them on a few hours before you set sail so they start to take effect Check out the Quark website as this is who you will be travelling with and they have more information on there Is there anything else you would like to add? I pondered this trip too long and was repeatedly asked why go there?If it somewhere you would like to go then just do it. You will not be disappointed.Show more
  Traveled in January 2010