Our History of Polar Exploration

In 1991, Quark Expeditions' co-founders, Lars Wikander and Mike McDowell, achieved a groundbreaking milestone by leading the inaugural group of commercial travelers to the North Pole. This transformative expedition marked the first-ever tourism transit of the Northeast Passage, setting Quark Expeditions on a trajectory that positioned us as pioneers at the forefront of polar exploration.

Travel in Good Company

Embarking on an expedition into the unexplored realms of the Arctic and Antarctic requires an exceptional team, and with Quark Expeditions, we proudly boast the very best. Join our elite guides, graduates of the prestigious Quark Academy, setting unparalleled standards for safety and preparedness in the challenging Polar Regions. Immerse yourself in direct interactions with world-class polar experts, gaining profound insights into the unique ecosystems and wildlife that define these polar landscapes.

Quark Expeditions Destinations

Set sail on a journey to come of the world's most captivating and remote destinations with Quark Expeditions. Explore the pristine landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula, where towering icebergs and awe-inspiring wildlife create a mesmerizing tableau. Immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, where penguins and seals thrive against a backdrop of stunning scenery.

Venture into the untamed beauty of Patagonia, a region that marries dramatic landscapes with unique wildlife encounters. Quark Expeditions offers a gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Snow Hill Island, where pristine ice fields and colonies of Emperor penguins await your exploration.

With Quark Expeditions, every destination becomes an opportunity for unparalleled adventure and discovery. Join us as we navigate through these extraordinary regions, crafting experiences that will linger in your memory for a lifetime.

Quark Expeditions Fleet

Your choice of expedition ship profoundly shapes your journey to the Polar Regions, and at Quark Expeditions, we take pride in offering the industry's most extensive fleet of polar-class vessels. From intimate expedition ships to authentic icebreakers, each vessel in our fleet accommodates less than 200 passengers, ensuring an exclusive and personalized experience.

Step aboard the Ocean Adventurer, a vessel designed for nimble exploration. Join us on the Ultramarine, a ship equipped for unprecedented adventure with its two twin-engine helicopters. Experience the World Explorer, combining luxury and capability for a truly immersive polar expedition.

In the true spirit of exploration, our fleet is agile enough to take you wherever the adventure unfolds. Quark's ships are your gateway to the most isolated and breathtaking wildernesses on the planet—the Arctic and Antarctic. We prioritize your safety and comfort, ensuring that your expedition is not only a thrilling adventure but also a secure and memorable exploration of Earth's most remote corners.