Quark Expeditions
Quark Expeditions specializes in adventure cruising to the Arctic, Antarctica, and now the Galapagos Islands, aboard a diverse fleet of purpose-built expedition vessels that provide unparalleled access to the most isolated and breathtaking wilderness areas on the planet.
Quark Expeditions Ships
| Ship Name | Star Rating | Year Built | Gross Tonnage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ocean Adventurer |  |
1976 | 4,376 |
| Ocean Explorer |  |
2021 | |
| Ultramarine |  |
2021 | |
| World Explorer | |
2021 |
4 Quark Expeditions Ships
Quark Expeditions: Arctic, Antarctic & Galapagos Islands Expedition Cruises
Twenty-five years ago, Quark Expeditions' founders, Lars Wikander and Mike McDowell, set out to explore the Arctic and Antarctica with a single ship and a dream of reaching the North Pole. Their passion for these remote and extraordinary regions led to the creation of Quark Expeditions. Today, Quark boasts the largest and most diverse fleet in polar expedition travel, with a team that embodies the founders' spirit of adventure and commitment to environmental responsibility. Every Quark Expedition Team Member is deeply knowledgeable, with expertise in marine biology, history, geology, and more. With one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in expedition travel, Quark ensures personalized guidance, enhancing your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Since 1991, Quark Expeditions has led the way in polar exploration, pioneering historic firsts such as the first-ever tourism transit of the Northeast Passage across the Russian Arctic, the first commercial circumnavigation of Antarctica, and the first circumnavigation of the Arctic Ocean. Recognized by National Geographic Traveler's "50 Tours of a Lifetime" for the "Three Arctic Islands" voyage and awarded "World's Leading Specialty Cruise Line" by the World Travel Awards, Quark continues to set the standard in expedition cruising.
Quark Expeditions Destinations
Quark's fleet transports you to some of the most remote and stunning wilderness regions on Earth, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Whether you're exploring the Arctic, Antarctica, or the Galapagos Islands, Quark's diverse fleet of small expedition vessels, icebreakers, and a specialized exploration ship offers the widest variety of polar itineraries and the most departures to Antarctica of any operator.
Antarctic Expeditions
Antarctica has fascinated explorers for hundreds of years. This vast, untouched wilderness is one of the last truly wild places in the world. The continent has the highest number of animals, including large groups of penguins, seals, and whales.
For over two decades, Quark Expeditions has been a leader in polar adventures, operating groundbreaking Antarctic voyages, including the first passenger circumnavigation of the continent and the first Weddell Sea expedition. Every Antarctic voyage includes daily outdoor activities such as Zodiac cruises and guided hikes, while select expeditions also offer snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, and mountaineering for thrill-seekers.
Prepare to be awed by towering icebergs, crackling sea ice, and the pristine beauty of the 7th continent.
Arctic Expeditions
The Arctic remains one of Earth's final frontiers. Rich in history and wildlife, this is the land of Viking conquests, towering glaciers, and a diverse array of Arctic animals, including polar bears, walruses, musk oxen, and narwhals. Unlike Antarctica, the Arctic is also home to Indigenous communities that have thrived in this extreme environment for centuries.
Spanning the Arctic Ocean and encompassing regions of Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Alaska, Sweden, and Finland, the Arctic offers an unparalleled exploration experience. Quark Expeditions has pioneered voyages here, including the first Transpolar Bridge across the North Pole and the first Northeast Passage transit.
Every Arctic expedition (except North Pole voyages) includes immersive daily activities such as Zodiac cruises and hiking, with select trips offering early-season snowshoeing.
Galapagos Expeditions
The Galapagos Islands are a living museum of biodiversity, best explored aboard the intimate expedition ship, Evolution. Experience encounters with iconic wildlife such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies.
- Snorkel with sea lions, sea turtles, and tropical fish, or kayak along secluded shorelines teeming with life.
- Explore the remote outer islands of the Galapagos for a more exclusive experience.
- Combine your Galapagos adventure with an Antarctic Explorer expedition for an epic journey across two incredible regions.
Quark Expedition Ships - Polar Adventure Ships and Icebreakers
Quark's fleet consists of specialized expedition vessels designed to navigate the harshest environments while offering modern comforts and amenities. Each ship is equipped with Zodiacs, rugged inflatable boats, for up-close exploration.
Committed to environmental preservation, Quark was the first polar operator to offer CarbonNeutral voyages, offsetting emissions through global reforestation and renewable energy projects.
Ice-Strengthened Vessels
Polar conditions demand ships built to the highest safety and environmental standards. Quark's fleet includes:
- Ocean Nova: A nimble Arctic vessel with 38 exterior cabins, an observation lounge, dining area, bar, library, and infirmary.
- Sea Adventurer: A value-packed expedition ship accommodating 117 guests, featuring en-suite cabins, a panoramic lounge, and open promenades.
- Ocean Diamond: A stable, eco-friendly super-yacht with 101 well-appointed cabins, spacious common areas, and CarbonNeutral certification.
- Ocean Endeavour: The only polar expedition ship focused on health and wellness, offering a spa, gym, yoga classes, and a saltwater pool.
- Hans Hansson: A 12-passenger exploration yacht designed for intimate, off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Icebreakers
Designed for navigating multi-year ice, Quark's icebreakers include:
- 50 Years of Victory: The world's largest, most powerful nuclear icebreaker, featuring a helicopter for aerial excursions.
- Kapitan Khlebnikov: A powerful icebreaker equipped with a plunge pool, sauna, library, and comfortable en-suite cabins.
Dining on Quark Expeditions
Meals onboard are prepared by internationally trained chefs, emphasizing fresh ingredients and creative menus. Breakfast and lunch are typically buffet-style, while dinners are multi-course meals featuring appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and heart-healthy options are available, as well as an extensive wine selection.
Afternoon tea, featuring freshly baked pastries, is served daily, and early risers can enjoy warm morning treats straight from the oven.
Quark Expeditions for Kids & Teens
Quark welcomes travelers aged 8 and up. Children under 16 require a signed waiver and must meet specific height and weight requirements. Those under 18 cannot participate in adventure activities, and a parent must accompany minors at all times.
Quark Expeditions Past Guest Loyalty Program
Honoring legendary explorer Ernest Shackleton, The Shackleton Club rewards repeat Quark travelers with exclusive benefits, including voyage discounts, onboard perks, and commemorative gifts.
