Quark Expeditions Launches Arctic 2028 & Antarctic 2028/29 Itineraries

In its earliest-ever Arctic and Antarctic season launch, Quark Expeditions is introducing a guided photography program, its first-ever Expeditions Extensions, a new Canadian Arctic voyage, and the return of the Tundra to Table program.

The release of its Arctic 2028 and Antarctic 2028/29 is the earliest season launch in the company’s 35-year history.

“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 2028/29 and Arctic 2028, the Guided Photography Program builds on Quark’s long-standing commitment to photography and field-based learning in the polar regions.

Developed with support from Quark’s experienced expedition team, 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 dedicated 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

As part of its commitment to offering travelers more ways to explore, Quark is introducing its first-ever Expedition Extensions. Available before and after select voyages, the curated experiences showcase the landscapes, cultures, and communities that serve as gateways to the polar regions.

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.

Antarctica 2028/29

Quark’s Antarctic 2028/29 season explores five regions, including 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

New for 2028, a Canadian Arctic voyage explores the remote Northwest Passage, continuing Quark’s tradition of bringing travelers to some of the most remote and least-visited regions on Earth. 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, showcasing extraordinary wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and diverse cultures.

Returning for four Arctic 2028 voyages aboard Ultramarine, Tundra to Table explores Indigenous food traditions and culinary storytelling. Co-developed with Quark’s partners at Igapall, the program highlights regional ingredients, local perspectives, and the cultural traditions that shape life in the North.

All bookings across both regions are now open for booking.