Quark Expeditions

Quark Expeditions

Founded in 1991, Quark Expeditions is a leader in polar adventures. In fact, they ran the first-ever tourism transit of the Northeast Passage (to the North Pole). Quark takes their guests on polar expeditions to remote parts of the Arctic and Antarctic.

Small Ship Advantages

The vessels that make up the Quark Expeditions fleet accommodate under 200 passengers, taking their guests to remote areas that larger ships cannot reach. With less guests, Quark Expeditions often has significantly more time spent at each landing site, in comparison with larger ships that need more time to get their guests on and off their ships. With a more intimate group, guests get to know the expedition crew, onboard staff and feel passengers by name rather quickly. There are many more possibilities for one-on-one interactions during the cruise and while on land.

Expedition Team

A team of knowledgable and talented professionals is key to a successful expedition voyage, and you can count on Quark Expeditions to provide that. Their Expedition Team is made up of seasoned veterans with backgrounds in fields such as marine biology, history, glaciology, geology and more. With a high staff-to-guest ratio, Quark Expeditions will provide you with a truly memorable experience.

Valuable Inclusions

The following is included on Quark Expeditions voyages:

• All Zodiac transfers and cruising, per the daily program
• All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices onboard, throughout your voyage
• Select beer and wine during dinner; and coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
• Formal and informal presentations by their Expedition Team and guest speakers, as scheduled
• A photographic journal documenting the expedition
• A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
• An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep
• Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person*

* Emergency Evacuation insurance is complimentary for Quark Expeditions passengers, and is purchased on your behalf (by Quark Expeditions) through Repoint. The Emergency Evacuation Benefit maximum of up to $500,000 per paying passenger provides coverage while traveling with Quark Expeditions between the first and last day of ship-based travel. For land-based expeditions, coverage is provided between the first and last day of accommodation at Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge and at Barneo Ice Camp. For ship- and land-based trips, additional days of travel pre- and post-expedition are not covered. Benefits on this page are described on a general basis only. There are certain restrictions, exclusions and limitations that apply to all insurance coverages. This advertisement does not constitute or form any part of the Plan description or any other contract of any kind. Plan benefits, limits and provisions may vary by state and/or country jurisdiction. Contact us, prior to making a reservation, if you would like to review full plan details. Additional restrictions apply.

Amazing Off-Ship Experiences

Sea Kayaking

Offered on all of Quark Expeditions' departures, and requiring no previous experience. Guests can go kayaking around secluded coves, shores, beaches, and more, viewing the beautiful landscape and up-close encounters with wildlife such as Galapagos penguins, sea lions, and more.

Paddle Program

Available as a shorter-length excursion, a sit-on-top kayak provides guests with a more intimate view of the beautiful surroundings. This activity is highly weather dependent, and usually lasts an hour to hour-and-a-half. This is offered on most voyages, and space is limited. All equipment, guides and instructions are provided by Quark Expeditions.

Stand-up Paddleboarding

Popularly known as SUPing, Quark Expeditions is the first company to bring this watersport to the waters of Antarctica. Guests receive on-ship and on-water instruction form a qualified SUP guide, plus a safety driver (on a Zodiac) will be within range to offer help. This activity is usually around an hour to hour-and-a-half in length, and there are usually 10 guests in the group.

Camping

Antarctic Camping with Quark Expeditions is a truly remarkable experience. After enjoying dinner aboard the ship guests are taken ashore (by Zodiac) to camp out on the snow for the night, in a bivy sack (tents can be used upon request). Camping is limited to 50 participants. Quark Expeditions staff will prepare the site, including setting up a perimeter. You'll be provided with a mummy-style sleeping bag, bivy sack, insulted sleeping page, sleeping bag liner, Quark Expeditions Parka, and more.

Flightseeing

Helicopters can take guests to places Zodiacs and ships simply cannot reach. Flightseeing, by helicopter, usually includes 7 to 9 passengers and is typically around 10 to 15 minutes in length. Bring your camera!

Sustainability

Quark Expeditions is truly committed to being environmentally responsible. Their "Polar Promise" framework is made up of four pillars:

• Embedding Responsible Business Practices
• Reducing Our Footprint and Building Resilience
• Conservation and Impact in Polar Environments
• Building our guests’ Polar Legacy