So, you've decided to trade in your sandals and swimsuit for waterproof boots and a parka? You’re not sure where the idea originated. Perhaps a documentary narrated by the British master of nature documentaries, David Attenborough, or perhaps the notion was prompted by a stunning photograph that popped up on social media. Then again, maybe it was a travel tale recounted by an adventurous friend who suggested you—yes you—could travel to the polar regions. The colossal icebergs, diverse wildlife, and awe-inspiring landscape are waiting for you and now the only question remains: How do I get there? 

Pioneering small-ship, explorer voyages to the Arctic and Antarctica for three decades, Quark Expeditions always come to our minds when thinking Polar Adventures. From the very first voyage that brought travelers to the Geographic North Pole in 1991, to bringing guests to witness a total Solar Eclipse in Antarctica this coming December, Quark is the best-kept secret in the cruise industry.

The voyages are designed to maximize the experience in destinations such as Antarctica, Iceland/Greenland, Svalbard (Norway), Canadian High Arctic/Northwest Passage, Russian Arctic, and Patagonia. Guests onboard a Quark Expedition sail with experts including award-winning National Geographic photographers, marine biologists, ornithologists, glaciologists, historians, and more. For every seven passengers on board, there is one Polar expert. 

Unlike the pioneering voyage to the North Pole in 1991, modern-day explorers have the option to travel in the beauty of luxurious accommodation. Quark Expeditions has launched two luxury vessels in the last year: the all-suite, all-balcony World Explorer as well as the state-of-the-art Ultramarine. Launched in 2021, Ultramarine is a spectacular expedition ship offering incredible features such as two twin-engine helicopters, rapid Zodiac deployment, advanced safety and sustainability hardware, and more. Floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, panorama lounge, spa services are all amenities we love finding on the ships after a day of exploration.

For the truly adventurous, thrill-seekers or simply travelers that would prefer a more authentic experience, Quark also owns a working-class Ice breaker! All of Quark's ships have two things in common: purpose-built/ice-classification designed safely to navigate the Polar regions and under 200 guests. The ships are uniquely capable to bring guests to literally the top and bottom of the world, safely. 

So how does one choose the perfect polar voyage? We’ll always tell you that starting with a polar specialist like Quark Expeditions is a great first step as you have the confidence that no matter which itinerary, you will be in the hands of experts. The next step is to determine what you would like to get out of your Polar journey. We asked the experts at Quark to help guide us:

• Wildlife: Some animals can only be found in select areas such as penguins in Antarctica and Polar bears in the Arctic, however many marine animals such as whales and seals can be found in both regions. 

• Time of Year: The polar regions are seasonal destinations. Those looking to travel North to the Arctic can access destinations such as Iceland/Greenland, Svalbard, North Pole, and Canada during May-September. Alternately, those wishing to sail to Antarctica can visit November-March. 

• What to Pack? Many don't realize the temperatures are not as extreme as you imagined. During the Summer season in the Polar regions, temperatures typically range right around freezing (32 degrees F) but also up to 42 degrees F. Not only does Quark Expeditions provide a recommended packing list and have an onboard Polar Boutique, but all guests on a Quark Expeditions voyage receive a complimentary 3-in-1 parka as a gift to keep in addition to loaning waterproof Muck boots to use throughout the voyage.

Still unsure if this is the right trip for you? Over the years, we’ve seen many clients dream of visiting the Polar regions but not prioritizing the trip over fear that the experience may be 'too adventurous' or far outside of their comfort zone. Specialists like Quark Expeditions customize the experience for all guests onboard. Simply enjoying the beauty from the comfort of your private balcony or taking a light walk along a sandy beach with 1,000 of your new penguin friends, all guests have the opportunity to be as active or relaxed as they want on their expedition. Want to dial up the adventure? Choose from a wide menu of activity options including kayaking, camping, stand up paddle boarding, helicopter flight seeing, and more.

When you are ready, you know we’re here to guide you!

Guests of Huffman Travel enjoy extra VIP amenities when traveling on Quark Expeditions.