#USA #Seattle #Quark Expeditions #Arctic 2028 #Antarctic 2028

Exploring New Frontiers in Polar Travel

Quark Expeditions, a leader in polar travel since 1991, has made a significant announcement with the launch of its 2028 Arctic and Antarctic seasons. This marks the company's earliest season launch in its 35-year history, offering more than 70 departures aimed at adventurers keen on exploring the pristine landscapes of the poles. The new season introduces several exciting opportunities for travelers, including unique photography programs and curated expedition extensions.

Guided Photography Program

An innovative Guided Photography Program will debut this season, reflecting Quark's long-standing dedication to photography and field-based education in polar environments. Designed with input from the company's expert expedition team, this program includes small-group instruction, ensuring individual attention and tailored learning experiences. Each photography excursion is limited to just 16 participants, which allows for personalized guidance from a Lead Photo Guide.

The program emphasizes four foundational elements:
1. Priority Zodiac Positioning - This ensures optimal field angles for photography enthusiasts.
2. Slower-Paced Field Time - Participants will benefit from a more thoughtfully designed schedule that caters to the unique shooting conditions found in polar regions.
3. Daily Workshops and Image Reviews - Led by the dedicated photo guide, these sessions aim to enhance participants' skills through constructive feedback.
4. Learn-Shoot-Share Cadence - This approach fosters a rich learning experience throughout the expedition, allowing participants to refine their photography techniques in real-time.

Expedition Extensions

In its commitment to enhancing travel experiences, Quark is launching its first-ever Expedition Extensions. These specially curated experiences can be enjoyed before or after select voyages, allowing customers to explore surrounding landscapes, cultures, and communities that serve as gateways to the polar regions. Highlights of these extensions include:

• - Guided explorations of Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia
• - Visits to the magnificent Iguazu Falls
• - Wellness experiences set in the stunning backdrop of Finland
• - Adventurous journeys through Iceland’s volcanic landscapes

Antarctic 2028/2029 Highlights

The Antarctic season will explore five remarkable regions, including the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands, among others. Notable excursions will take guests to the exclusive Emperor Penguin colony at Snow Hill Island, a destination that remains challenging to reach and is only accessible via helicopter, depending on the ice conditions.

Engagement in research and conservation remains at the forefront of Quark's journey offerings. Collaborative opportunities abound for guests wishing to involve themselves in marine mammal studies, contributing to citizen science initiatives focusing on whale identification as well as listening to whale vocalizations using portable hydrophones.

Over both seasons, Quark will provide a robust total of 470 cruise nights to research partners engaged in vital fieldwork throughout the polar regions, aiding ongoing wildlife, conservation, and climate research. Confirmed partnerships include Seabird Watch, SmartICE, Penguin Watch, and the Saving Marion Island's Seabirds initiative.

Arctic 2028 Highlights

For the Arctic 2028 season, a new voyage through the Northwest Passage promises to bring travelers even closer to some of Earth’s most remote regions. This itinerary includes visits to Arctic Bay and Lancaster Sound, seamlessly expanding opportunities for adventure in iconic locations.

Additionally, Arctic 2028 will showcase five regions: Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland, the Canadian Arctic, and Atlantic Canada. This enabled travelers to experience extraordinary wildlife and diverse cultural traditions.

A highlight for food enthusiasts is the return of the Tundra to Table program, which explores Indigenous food practices and storytelling. Developed collaboratively with the Greenlandic chef collective Igapall, this culinary experience emphasizes regional ingredients and local perspectives, weaving cultural traditions into a enriching narrative.

With early booking opportunities already in favor among past guests, the public will have access to reservations beginning June 23, 2026. An exclusive Early Booking Bonus will encourage prompt reservations, ensuring travelers can secure their spots for a once-in-a-lifetime polar expedition.

For more information on Quark Expeditions' upcoming Arctic and Antarctic seasons, interested travelers can visit QuarkExpeditions.com.