Antarctic Exploration with Kevin Dooley January 20-30 2025
Kevin Dooley is an award winning wildlife and portrait/wedding photographer who grew up in Placitas, New Mexico. The Interest of photography began at an early age of 14 with the Christmas gift of a 35mm camera. Working as an Assistent photographer and darkroom technician in his fathers portrait Studio was the beginning of a lifetime career in Photography. At the age of 18 he enlisted in the US Navy and served on an Aircraft carrier. After completing his service he returned to New Mexico and opened his own photography Studio in Albuquerque. During the 37 years the Studio has been in operation it has received numerous awards. His passion for wildlife photography and for Alaska and Africa, led to his safari adventures, he eventually opened Idube Photo Safaris. Kevin is a certified FGASA (Field Guide Association of South Africa), wildlife guide and takes guests from all over the world on amazing photographic and sight seeing Safaris in Africa, Alaska, India, South America, and other destinations. He teaches both wildlife photography and portrait photography workshops. Helping both the advanced and the beginner.
Africa has always had a special place in Kevin’s heart. He thrives on sharing this amazing place with others. Teaching about the wildlife, the trees, and the history of wild Africa. Everything from the sunrise to the safari camps and the adventurous stories that are shared around the evening campfires, hold a special place in Kevin’s heart. A special place that he loves to share and experience with the travelers and Photographers that accompany him.
Guest Host David Ziser
David Ziser’s career has spanned over 50 plus years. David is an internationally-renowned wedding/portrait
photographer/author/trainer and has shared his knowledge with tens of thousands of photographers in five languages and in 15
countries worldwide. But as he has wound down his regular businesses over these last few years he, along with his wife LaDawn, have
rapidly ramped up their travels worldwide – on average traveling 50,000 miles to more than 8 countries and shooting more than 45,000
photographs for nearly 7 months a year for the last five years.
Itinerary
Departure: January 20-30, 2025
World Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent
Trip Duration: 11 Days
Ship Nights: 9 Nights
DAY1|ARRIVE IN DAYS 3&4|CROSSING
Santiago
Buenos Aires
You will begin your journey in Ushuaia, a small but bustling port town at the tip of South America. This Argentine town is an ideal gateway for you to explore the southern extent of Patagonia while preparing for your adventure ahead. Get active in the mountains or enjoy handcrafted chocolate at a café in town.
DAY 2 | EMBARK
Embarkation will occur in the late afternoon, after which your vessel will sail down the historic Beagle Channel, which transects the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in the extreme south
of South America. Expect an air of anticipation as you depart—the next time you see land, you’ll be in the world’s most southern continent!
THE DRAKE PASSAGE
Your days at sea are filled with presentations led by your Expedition Team who will prepare you for the wildlife, glaciology and history that will greet you upon your arrival. In between presentations, spend time on deck looking for wildlife or chatting with your shipmates over a drink at the bar.
DAYS 5–8 | SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS & ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
(OR DAYS 5-7 OF 10-DAY VOYAGE)
The most common reaction upon reaching the White Continent is a sense of reverence and awe. The experience is beyond words, since few places are as untouched and enduring as Antarctica. You will begin to appreciate why this region has long captivated the attention of explorers and travelers alike. Every time we visit Antarctica, we witness something new or unexpected, which means that your expedition will be unlike any other—creating a unique, personal experience. Each day, you will take Zodiac excursions from the ship to explore glaciated bays, channels and landing sites. Your Expedition Team will take care of you at each landing, whether you are hiking the Antarctic landscape, visiting a research station or consorting with chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins, all of which can be found here. Keep an eye out for Weddell, fur, crabeater and leopard seals as well as curious whales, such as humpbacks, minkes, or perhaps orcas while on a Zodiac cruise. Each excursion will present a new collection of creatures to delight you and keep your camera busy.
Amid the serene silence of Antarctica, noisy interludes become indelible memories, such as penguins squabbling over prized pebbles, or the boom and crack of a calving glacier. Every day will be different, having been carefully crafted by your Expedition Team to inspire and educate you about this wonderful part of the world.
DAYS 9 & 10 | CROSSING
THE DRAKE PASSAGE
(OR DAYS 8 & 9 OF 10-DAY VOYAGE)
The journey back across the Drake Passage provides final opportunities
to enjoy the crisp Antarctic air
Spend time on the deck, watching
for seabirds and scouting for whales, enjoy presentations by your Expedition Team and celebrate the experiences shared exploring Antarctica.
DAY 11 | DISEMBARK IN USHUAIA (OR DAY 10 OF 10-DAY VOYAGE)
You will arrive in Ushuaia in the morning, which allows for you to continue your adventure onward or catch your flights home.
The Ship
The Ocean Diamond will be your home away from home during your expedition. This booklet will help you get acquainted with your new home. Give it a read as it does include important information about the facilities available to you and the procedures everyone adheres to while at sea.
The passionate Expedition Team and crew aboard this ship can’t wait to show you around and take you to places most people only dream about. Every day presents a new adventure. An early wake-up call may signal the sighting of nearby whales, while an afternoon Zodiac cruise may present you with the intense blues of passing icebergs. Polar travel is unlike any other type of travel, so please take a moment to get to know your ship.
Below you’ll find some information about your expedition vessel.
ABOUT THE OCEAN DIAMOND
The Ocean Diamond is a luxurious vessel with spacious cabins. All cabins have private bathroom facilities and exterior views. Please feel free to enjoy the flat screen TV and DVD player in your cabin. The Ocean Diamond is Quark Expeditions®’ modern, stable super-yacht. Carrying a maximum
of 189 passengers, this outstanding vessel features numerous adventure options plus on board amenities for you to enjoy such as a well-stocked polar library.
Staff & Crew 144
Guests 189
Length 407 feet (124 meters)
Breadth 52.5 feet (16 meters)
Draft 16 feet (4.9 meters)
Propulsion 2 Wichmann Engines, 7,375 horsepower Ice Class 1D
Cruising speed 14 knots in open water
Registered Portugal
Lifeboats 2 fully enclosed
Cabins and suites are outfitted with the essential amenities you’ll need to feel comfortable throughout your voyage. If you need extra items such as extra pillows or towels, please contact reception or your cabin attendant.
Cabin Configurations
TRIPLE: Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, this cabin has a two twin beds and an upper bed, and two portholes. Located on the Lower Deck, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
TWIN OBSTRUCTED VIEW: Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, and a picture window (the view is obstructed). Located on the Captain’s and Upper Decks, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
TWIN WINDOW: Between 183 and 200 sq. ft. (17 and 19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, and a picture window. Located on the Upper, Main and Captain’s Decks, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
SUITE: Approximately 400 sq. ft. (37 sq. m) in size, these suites have one double bed or two twin beds, and two picture windows. Located on the Main Deck, these suites have two private bathrooms, and a separate sitting area with a sofa, chair, and small table. Two refrigerators, TVs, and DVD players are included in each cabin.
SINGLE PORTHOLE: Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed and two portholes. Located on the Lower Deck, these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin. Please note that porthole covers may be closed during sea days or during inclement weather as a safety precaution.
SINGLE OBSTRUCTED VIEW: Approximately 200 sq. ft. (19 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double bed, and a picture window (the view is obstructed by the lifeboats). Located on the Captain’s Deck these cabins have a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
BALCONY SUITE: Approximately 325 sq. ft. (30 sq. m) in size, including the balcony, this suite has one double bed or two twin beds, and a full-size window with a sliding glass door that leads to a private deck with chairs. Located on the Observation Deck, this suite has a private bathroom with shower. A refrigerator, TV, and DVD player are included in each cabin.
SHOWERS AND TOILETS
Each cabin has a private bathroom with shower, toilet and wash basin. Shampoo and shower gel are provided for your use. The toilet system is very sensitive and can only handle toilet paper. Please do not deposit any tissues, paper towels, feminine products, etc. in the toilet.
ELECTRIC CURRENT
The electrical supply on board is 220 volts, 50 Hz. Passengers coming from the USA and Canada may need to bring a small 220v/110v converter. Before you buy a converter, check your electronics as most modern cameras, computers and devices are already compatible to use 220/110 volts.
The electrical outlets found in your cabin and around the ship accept standard European two round pin plugs, so you may need to bring a travel adapter.
Please be aware that the electricity supply may not be sufficient to power your electronic devices at all times.
It is recommended that you check the voltage of your device before plugging it in, as the device may be damaged if the incoming voltage is higher than that for which it is manufactured. Please see www.quarkexpeditions.com/en/ terms-and-conditions for more information.
HAIRDRYERS
There is a hair dryer included in each cabin.
BATHROBES
The bathrobes in your cabins are on loan for you to enjoy for the duration of your expedition.
VALUABLES
Please store your valuables in the lockable drawer in your cabin. There are also a limited number of safes available at reception. We recommend you travel with as few valuables as possible.
CABIN TEMPERATURE – CLIMATE CONTROL
You may control your cabin temperature by adjusting the thermostat. If you are sharing a cabin with other travelers, please be considerate of their temperature preferences as well.
SHARED CABIN COURTESY
Many travelers elect to share a cabin with passengers they may not have previously met. All passengers have their own schedules and preferences. Please be courteous towards the needs of your fellow cabin mates.
HOUSEKEEPING SERVICE
Your cabin will be cleaned on a daily basis. Your towels will be changed along with your bed sheets every third day, subject to the length of the voyage and in accordance with Quark Expeditions®’ sustainability practices. If you would like your towels changed more frequently, please inform your cabin attendant. Leaving
a towel on the rack indicates you will be using it again, while putting a towel on the floor or in the shower or sink means you would like it to be washed.
LAUNDRY
A complete list of laundry fees will be provided on board. Request forms and bags are provided in your cabin. Laundry is collected each morning; please allow 48 hours for your laundry to be returned. Ironing services are also available at a minimal charge. We encourage you to take advantage of the laundry services, as it will mean you can pack fewer articles of clothing. If you prefer to hand wash small items in your cabin, please remember to bring environmentally friendly detergent.
SPRINKLER SYSTEM
The sprinkler heads located throughout the ship, and in your room, are very sensitive. They can be activated by even the slightest touch. Please do not hang any items from the sprinkler heads, or smoke anywhere on the ship outside the designated smoking area. Guests activating the sprinkler system may be responsible for damages that occur.
LIFE JACKETS
Each cabin is equipped with orange SOLAS life jackets. These life jackets are to be used in case of a ship emergency and during emergency lifeboat drills.
WATER
All passengers receive an eco-friendly, reusable water bottle in their cabin upon arrival. The Expedition Team will brief you on the location of filling stations on the ship.
ON BOARD ACCOUNTS
To make things as stress-free as possible, items you purchase from the Polar Boutique, lounge or bar (including drinks) are charged to your ship account. Cabin charges can also include laundry, postage, communication charges and adventure options booked onboard (space permitting). Payments of shipboard accounts are made towards the end of the expedition, at the reception area. The US dollar is the standard currency onboard. You can use cash, Visa, MasterCard or American Express credit cards to pay your shipboard account. Personal checks are not accepted.
Note: If you are sharing a cabin and would like separate accounts, you must advise reception.
GRATUITIES
We understand this is a very personal subject and whatever amount you give is at your own discretion. As a guideline, we suggest the amount of US$15 to US$20 per traveler per day. At the end of the voyage you will have the option to charge a gratuity amount to your onboard account, or to place cash in an envelope. Gratuities are shared amongst our hotel and expedition team members.
