Quark Expeditions has launched its Arctic 2028 and Antarctic 2028/2029 seasons, marking the earliest season launch in the company's 35-year history. Featuring more than 70 departures across the Arctic and Antarctica, the new season introduces new opportunities for exploration, including the Guided Photography Program, Quark's first-ever Expedition Extensions, a new Canadian Arctic voyage through the Northwest Passage, and the return of Tundra to Table, a culinary experience developed and delivered in partnership with the Greenlandic chef collective Igapall.
"What makes the polar regions so powerful is that no two experiences are ever the same," said Sam Seward, President of Quark Expeditions. "This season gives travelers even more opportunities to engage with these destinations through exploration, learning, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences, while staying true to the spirit of adventure that has defined Quark Expeditions for more than 35 years."
All-New: Guided Photography Program
Launching across both Antarctic 2028/2029 and Arctic 2028, the Guided Photography Program builds on Quark's commitment to photography and field-based learning in the polar regions. The program offers dedicated instruction and small-group access designed around the unique conditions of polar photography. Each excursion is capped at 16 participants, led by a Lead Photo Guide, and structured around four key elements:
- Priority Zodiac positioning for optimal field angles
- Slower-paced field time designed around shooting conditions
- Daily workshops and image reviews with the Lead Photo Guide
- A learn-shoot-share cadence throughout the expedition
All-New: Expedition Extensions
Quark is introducing its first-ever Expedition Extensions. Available before and after select voyages, the curated experiences showcase the landscapes, cultures, and communities. Highlights include guided exploration of Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, visits to Iguazu Falls, wellness experiences in Finland, and journeys through Iceland's volcanic landscapes.
Antarctic 2028/2029: Science, Wildlife, and the Sub-Antarctic
Quark's Antarctic 2028/2029 season explores five regions—the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, the Falkland Islands, Patagonia, and the rarely visited Emperor Penguin colony at Snow Hill Island. Accessible by helicopter from Ultramarine and subject to ice conditions, Snow Hill Island remains one of the most exclusive wildlife experiences in Antarctica.
Research and conservation remain central to the season. Ari Friedlaender of the Friedlaender Lab at the University of California, San Diego, returns for the Antarctic Marine Mammals voyage aboard World Voyager, where guests can engage directly with marine mammal research, contribute to citizen science initiatives focused on whale identification, and listen to whale vocalizations through portable hydrophones.
Across both seasons, Quark will provide 470 cruise nights to research partners and scientists conducting fieldwork in the polar regions, supporting ongoing wildlife, conservation, and climate research initiatives. Confirmed partners include Seabird Watch, SmartICE, Penguin Watch, and Saving Marion Island's Seabirds.
Arctic 2028: Five Regions, New Itineraries, and the Return of Tundra to Table
New for 2028, a Canadian Arctic voyage explores the remote Northwest Passage. The itinerary features visits to Arctic Bay and Lancaster Sound and expands access to one of the Arctic's most legendary expedition routes.
Beyond the new voyage, Arctic 2028 spans five regions: Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland, the Canadian Arctic, and Atlantic Canada.
Returning for four Arctic 2028 voyages aboard Ultramarine, Tundra to Table explores indigenous food traditions and culinary storytelling. The program highlights regional ingredients, local perspectives, and the cultural traditions that shape life in the North.
Past guests received exclusive early access beginning June 16, 2026, before public bookings open on June 23, 2026. An Early Booking Bonus will be available for travelers who reserve while inventory lasts.
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