Quark Expeditions and APT Travel Group Partner for Newbuild Cruise Ship

Quark Expeditions and APT Travel Group are partnering to build a new purpose-built small ship scheduled to enter service in 2029. The ship will operate in the Mediterranean for APT’s Travelmarvel brand and, under a 10-year charter agreement, in Antarctica for Quark starting from the 2029/30 season.

According to an APT Travel Group spokesperson, the vessel will be marketed to the U.S. and Canadian market, despite it operating under the Travelmarvel brand, which is much more well-known in Australia and the United Kingdom.

Currently under development and not yet named, the vessel will feature just 99 suites. Its PC6 ice-class hull will enable Antarctic operations, while features designed for expedition travel, including spacious mudrooms, will help guests transition quickly and comfortably between the ship and the destination.

Quark will work closely with APT Travel Group throughout the ship’s development, contributing its operational and polar expertise to help prepare the vessel for Antarctic expedition travel.

For Travelmarvel, the premium small ship represents one of the most significant investments in the brand’s history and its first ocean vessel designed and built specifically for the brand. Its smaller size will provide access to smaller ports and destinations beyond the reach of larger cruise ships during its Mediterranean program.

“Partnering with Quark Expeditions allows us to maximize the potential of this incredible vessel year-round, pairing our strengths in relaxed, enriching ocean cruising with Quark’s unmatched expertise in polar expedition travel” said David Cox, CEO of APT Travel Group. “This is about giving guests access to two extraordinary experiences on one ship, backed by two of the best names in travel.”

For Quark Expeditions, the ship will expand its presence in Antarctica, while relieving it of the burden of off-season deployments.

“This partnership brings together complementary expertise and a shared commitment to thoughtful small-ship exploration,” said Sam Seward, president of Quark Expeditions. “By collaborating with APT Travel Group during the development process, we have an opportunity to help prepare a ship that is truly built for exploration, with the capabilities and operational features needed to help guests get off the ship efficiently and experience more of Antarctica.”

Further details about the vessel, including its name, complete specifications, and inaugural Mediterranean and Antarctic itineraries, will be announced closer to launch.