Soar Above Antarctica in a Helicopter

Image: Group in Antarctica with Quark Expeditions (Photo Credit: Quark Expeditions/Michelle Sole)

by Guest Author
Last updated: 7:00 PM ET, Mon December 8, 2025

Imagine, just for a moment, what it would be like to soar beyond the ordinary to the rarely-visited east coastline of Antarctica. To witness unrivalled views you never dreamt possible: sculpted icebergs rising from the depths of the sea; massive glaciers stretching below you; and snow-capped peaks you feel tempted to reach out and touch as you fly past in a twin-engine helicopter.

Quark Expeditions’ cutting-edge 12-day Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains and Remote Lands itinerary maximizes guests’ opportunities to explore the interior of the magical 7th Continent, as well as Erebus and Terror Gulf, Antarctic Sound and the great Weddell Sea. These destinations aren’t just remote—they’re rarely visited by ship, let alone by helicopter.

You’ll experience the sensation of stepping out of a helicopter onto Antarctica and gazing upon polar landscapes previously seen by just a few fearless explorers. You’ll have the spine-tingling thrill of flying over the east side of the Peninsula only to discover it resembles the surface of Mars. Another welcome surprise: every guest on this itinerary will experience two Heli Flightseeing adventures and one Heli Excursion—all included in the price of the trip.

Why Travel with Quark Expeditions?
Quark Expeditions has carved out a unique niche in adventure travel by focusing exclusively on the polar regions—a distinction no other operator can claim. Their expedition team is the best—comprising the most seasoned, passionate and respected guides and helicopter operation specialists in the industry. Because the expedition team is also the largest in the industry, they’re able to get guests off the ship faster and more frequently—and by helicopter, too. The company also offers an unmatched variety of ways to explore. Whether you're on the ship, in a helicopter, Zodiac or kayak, biking, camping, hiking, or immersing in local culture, Quark Expeditions offers countless ways to explore on each voyage.

A History of Polar Firsts
Since 1991, the Quark Expeditions team has achieved more polar firsts than any other operator. They were the first to take consumer travelers to the North Pole, and the first to reach the rarely seen Emperor penguin colony at remote Snow Hill. In 2003, Quark Expeditions’ guests became the first to witness a total solar eclipse in Antarctica. In 2006, they surpassed explorer Roald Amundsen’s century-old record by reaching the most southerly latitude ever attained by a vessel. Quark Expeditions was also the first to successfully operate hot-air balloon rides in the Arctic.

When In Doubt—Just Ask the Pilot
Quark Expeditions’ chief Pilot, Niel Sierens, says it best: “The view from above is like no other—but the helicopter flight offers more than just a stunning vantage point. The landing sites we choose are accessible only by helicopter, meaning that along with breathtaking views, you may experience the thrill of being the first person ever to set foot in that area.”

Trust Quark Expeditions to deliver the polar expedition of a lifetime—by ship and helicopter. 