Quark Expeditions

The Quark Expeditions Experience

Experts in polar exploration since 1991, unlike traditional cruise ships, Quark Expeditions operates small expedition ships with ice-strengthened hulls for superior navigation in ice-packed polar waters.

Quark Expeditions is a pioneer in polar exploration, with passengers enjoying expert-guided landings, allowing guests to discover some of the world’s hidden wonders of the Arctic and Antarctic. Whatever your preferred travel style, Quark Expeditions has a diverse fleet of modern ships to ensure every passenger experiences true comfort and maximum enjoyment while on an expedition.

Quark Expedition Cruises are best for

Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking an immersive expedition experience with multiple polar landings.

Atmosphere & Experience onboard

Quark’s expedition team is comprised of seasoned veterans with rich backgrounds in marine biology, history, glaciology, geology and more. With one of the highest expedition team-to-guest ratios in the industry, Quark’s expedition teams safely deliver your trip-of-a-lifetime by maximising your polar adventure every step of the way. All sailings are informal and all programs are delivered in English. 

Inclusions

Meals, water, coffee and tea around the clock. Beer and wine with dinner. Included daily excursions such as zodiac cruising, hiking, snowshoeing, heli-flightseeing and polar plunge.

Optional excursions at extra cost include paddling, kayaking, camping, mountain biking and more. Complimentary Quark Expeditions-branded polar parka and water bottle to keep. Free use of specialty boots during the voyage. Gratuities are at the passenger’s discretion.

Clientele

Off-the-beaten track adventure seekers from around the world sharing the desire to discover the poles in an environment that’s both exhilarating and educational. About 40 percent of passengers are coming from North America. Australian, New Zealand and UK cruisers are also well represented.

Ages range between 25 to older than 80, with the two strongest age demographics between 35 and 44, and 55 and 64. You will also find families onboard during school holidays with children aged 8 and up welcome.

At a glance

Ship size: Small
Class: Polar Expeditions

Highlights

Seeing wildlife and the dramatic scenery of the poles and getting off the ship to experience as much of the destination as possible. Guests are able to choose their own level of adventure, with zodiac cruising, shore landings, hiking, heli-flightseeing, kayaking and camping considered to be the most popular activities.

Onboard enjoy listening to talks led by expert naturalists whilst taking in amazing views of icebergs, polar bears, penguins and whales.

Food & Dining with Quark Expeditions

Guests can expect exceptional dining onboard, with three full meal services a day, and snacks offered between meals. Breakfasts and lunches are normally served buffet style, while dinners are a plated service. À la carte meals are made at the time of your order, allowing our chefs to prepare each dish to your individual needs. Quark Expeditions is able to cater to most special dietary requests.

The well-stocked bars are open to enjoy from late morning though to nightcap drinks. Soft drinks, juices and water are available at no cost, and beer and wine are offered with dinner. A selection of liquors, spirits, and premium beer, wine and champagne are available and can be charged to your shipboard account. The dress code on the ship is casual, and mealtimes can fluctuate according to each days’ expedition activities.

Quark Expeditions Ships

Largest fleet of polar-class vessels in the industry; each ship carries less than 200 passengers