Polar Experts Since 1991
Since 1991, Quark Expeditions has specialized in expedition cruising to the Arctic and Antarctica, in ships with ice-strengthened hulls or in icebreakers. Polar travelers will enjoy unparalleled technical expertise, leadership and passion for expedition trips to the Arctic and Antarctica.
Our first voyage – The Transpolar Bridge Cruise – began July 27, 1991, in Murmansk, Russia. The ship was the nuclear powered icebreaker Sovetskiy Soyuz, an older sister of 50 Years of Victory. She sailed across the top of the world via Franz Josef Land, the North Pole, the New Siberian Islands, the Wrangel Island area and the Chukotka Peninsula. That first group of adventurers disembarked in Provideniya. Our second adventure began in that same city on August 18, 1991.
Our Ships: Polar Adventure Ships and Icebreakers
We have the largest and most diverse fleet of adventure ships in the Antarctic and Arctic. Travelers choose from more departures and a greater variety of itineraries than is available anywhere else. Within the fleet is the only nuclear-powered icebreaker – 50 Years of Victory – sailing to the North Pole. Every ship is equipped with Zodiacs – inflatable landing craft – for shore transfers and ocean-level cruising.
Our Polar Adventure Ships are platforms for optional sea-kayaking, camping, mountaineering and cross-country skiing. Their small size enables them to sail channels and bays through which our icebreakers cannot sail. The ability to get close to landscapes and wildlife make these vessels extraordinary base camps for photographers.
None of our vessels carries more than 199 travelers from around the world – Europe, Asia, Oceania, North America and Africa. All share a preference for travel to remote wilderness areas accompanied by Expedition Team members eager to share their knowledge and love for the Arctic and Antarctica.
Our People: Technical Expertise, Leadership and Passion
Our Expedition Team members understand ice conditions and the impact of weather on ships and helicopters. Some are experts in polar history, marine biology and glaciology. All are experienced and understand the rigors of expedition travel. They drive Zodiacs for ocean-level cruising. They lead hikes to unnamed ridges. They tell stories about polar research station assignments and wildlife encounters. The Captains and their officers and crews are skilled at navigating through pack ice under extreme conditions. The Hospitality Teams prepare meals and pour beverages during gale force winds. There isn’t a more capable team of professionals.
Our talented people behind the scenes in IT, Finance, Operations, Administration and Management are equally passionate about the polar regions. Our team of Sales and Client Service people are who you meet before you travel.
From inception, the people who are Quark Expeditions have combined a spirit of adventure with a deep sense of environmental responsibility and a strong desire to educate others about the wonders of the Arctic and Antarctica. Making these remote regions accessible to travelers is our pleasure and passion.
Arctic Expeditions
The Arctic – still one of the last frontiers on earth. It is the place of Viking conquest and boasts a rich collection of wildlife, including the polar bear, walrus, musk ox and narwhal. Unlike Antarctica, the Arctic region is home to small communities of people who have developed some of the hardiest societies on the planet.
Quark Expeditions has been the world leader in polar adventures for over two decades and successfully operated many first-ever trips here, including the first Transpolar Bridge across the North Pole, and the first Northeast Passage.
Arctic 2018 Season
A whole new perspective is waiting for you north of the Arctic Circle. Here, you will discover the art and science of what real expedition is all about. Connect with new people, explore exotic environments and commune with wildlife in their natural habitats.
With 13 voyages, 5 brand new itineraries and our classic line-up of Canadian Arctic expeditions—Arctic 2018 offers more options and more flexibility than ever before!
The North Pole
Get a taste of the ultimate Arctic experience, by journeying to the top of the world with two very different expeditions. Whether you’re looking for the thrill of flying directly to 89° North, or would rather take some time to enjoy the ride, we’ve got something for every interest and ability.
Greenland
Voted one of the top destinations to see in 2015 by the New York Times, Greenland has been dramatically shaped — geographically and culturally — by the ice that dominates it and is one of the best places to witness the magic of the Northern Lights. The best way to experience the rugged beauty of this nature-lover’s paradise is by ship. Our East Greenland fly-in expeditions make this amazing destination more accessible than ever.
Svalbard Archipelago
Known as the realm of the polar bear, when it comes to viewing arctic wildlife, Spitsbergen is known as one of the most prolific destinations. Lying entirely within the Arctic Circle and the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago, Spitsbergen is rugged, wild, unspoiled—utterly unforgettable.
Canada: The True North
Cast the net wide and get a taste of the complete northern experience, comparing notes on the immensely different regions stretching across the Arctic Circle — vast, simple and pure. The variety is astounding, the beauty is arresting, and the memories will last a lifetime.
Land-Based Programs
Not all High Arctic Expeditions involve time spent on a ship. Journeys by air to unique and arresting destinations present ample opportunities to heed the call of the north, embarking on the self-discovery of a lifetime. Ice-camp and wilderness-lodge visits offer unequaled experiences across the board.
Courtesy of Quark Expeditions Arctic