Incredible wildlife, legendary routes, ice-filled fjords, culture and history all feature prominently in Quark Expeditions’ Arctic 2015 expedition line-up. The operator, a leader in Polar adventures, will begin its Arctic season May 28, 2015, at the onset of the Arctic summer, on three ice-strengthened small expedition ships in addition to the world’s most powerful nuclear-powered icebreaker.
In addition to the five new itineraries, Quark’s season will also feature their popular Arctic Svalbard voyages in a variety of lengths, Greenland and Canadian High Arctic, as well as the award-winning Three Arctic Islands itinerary. Quark will be making a special announcement about its signature North Pole voyages later this week.
New Destinations
Northwest Passage: Franklin’s Legend – Aboard the nimble small ship the Sea Adventurer, Quark returns to the fabled Northwest Passage in August. This 18-day voyage visits Thule and Inuit communities of Greenland and the Canadian Arctic. Visit significant landmarks and learn about the rich history of this legendary sea route that has long been a source of mystery for explorers and historians. Seabirds, reindeer, Arctic fox, seals and large pods of walrus may pop out for viewing along the way.
Iceland Circumnavigation: Ultimate Fire and Ice – This 11-day voyage features all the highlights of the island of fire and ice. Departing from the capital city of Reykjavik, the small ship Ocean Nova will explore all the geological diversity of this small island, including volcanoes and lava fields, ice sheets, waterfalls, and geysers. Iceland’s people, their unique cultural heritage and the island’s birdlife also feature largely on this itinerary.
Scotland to Norway: Crossing the Arctic Circle – Beginning in Aberdeen, this 14-day expedition takes you along the Viking trail exploring the northern Atlantic, its ancient history and archaeology. Experience the culture and lush landscapes of Northern Scotland and Zodiac cruise amongst the classic landscapes of the Norwegian fjords.
Tromsø, Bear Island and Longyearbyen: Fjords and Bears – Follow Norway’s majestic fjord?lined coast from Tromsø to the North Cape, the nearest accessible location to Europe’s northernmost point, en route to the wildlife-packed Arctic Svalbard archipelago. This 12-day voyage features hiking across colorful tundra, exploring beautiful fjords by Zodiac and appearances by iconic Arctic wildlife like polar bears, walrus, reindeer and more. Combine this expedition with Scotland to Tromsø for a truly immersive Arctic experience voyage.
Greenland’s Far North: Ultimate Thule – A 14-day voyage that explores the Thule region, synonymous with ‘the true Greenland’ for its untouched icescapes and sparsely populated Inuit communities. Experience magnificent nature where seals, walruses, narwhals and humpback whales await.
New Ships
In fall 2013, Quark also announced two new small ships for its Arctic 2015 fleet: the M/V Sea Adventurer and M/V Ocean Nova’s Arctic seasons will run from June to October 2015. The high ice class and navigability of both these vessels will allow for easier passage through Arctic ice, providing optimal observation of polar bears on our northern itineraries.
Early Booking Bonus And Best Price Guarantee
Book by May 30, 2014, and receive up to 25% saving as an early booking incentive (some terms and conditions apply). Quark has also introduced a best price guarantee for Arctic 2015 voyages. Should Quark Expeditions® reduce the price of the cruise portion of the fare more than 60 days prior to departure date, previously booked clients may claim the lower rate.
Quark Expeditions, 888-892-0073, www.quarkexpeditions.com