Quark ExpeditionsReviews of quarkexpeditions.com

Quark delivers on everything you want from a polar expedition: a comfortable state-of-the-art cruise ship (we were on the Ultramarine) with stabilizers for rough waters; easy access to excursions with adjoining dressing rooms for putting on/storing waterproof clothing, muck boots, life jackets, etc.; the absolute best naturalists, guides and zodiac pilots that I've encountered; excellent lectures about the flora & fauna; and people that are passionate about what they do from cabin stewards on up to the captain. Everyone wants you to have the trip of a lifetime--and it shows. These people like each other so it feels like you are part of an extended family. The visits to local villages were very organized so that passengers could experience what life is like in a harsh but beautiful climate. The helicopter flights were executed with military precision and the utmost safety, so we felt extremely confident when taking off, viewing the gorgeous landscapes and landing. The chef prepared an array of cuisines with something for everyone's palate and food allergies. The main lounge was comfortable for holding all-passenger briefings and talks. Our Expedition Leader (Colin) was in constant communication with the captain and weather reports to select optimal landing points for excursions, sea kayaks, and the helicopter flight. He made excellent decisions to pivot from the targeted sites to more weather-friendly areas as needed all the while keeping passengers informed of any changes. My cruise was Gems of West Greenland: Fjords, Icebergs and Culture. Quark delivered on all three! Note: we were fortunate to have a slide talk from a local who brought samples of homemade smoked char/bread. It was a first for Quark and shows that they continue to look for ways to provide a unique experience.

Staff are amazing: all the way from housekeeping to waiters to expeditions staff. It felt like they were all in sync, great teamwork. The presentations were very engaging and the expeditions out of this world!

This was our second Quark trip - the first was to Antarctica about 20 years ago. Like the first, we felt safe and comfortable about all aspects of this expedition. Quark has very knowledgeable staff on board but also is a well-run and organized operation. This cannot be over-stated - the whole Expedition staff was well-coordinated and communicates the structure effectively. They "have their act together". In addition, nearly all of the staff have a good sense of humor and camaraderie; this amounts to an entertainment aspect that makes it not just interesting (emphasis on fact and science based knowledge) but fun. In addition, the hotel staff (rooms, meals, bar) are all exceptionally professional, very friendly, and courteous, with great food. I was impressed with knowledge and skill of the ships captain and the maintenance of the vessel, too. To go to the polar regions, we will use Quark again and highly recommend them.

The ship was well designed and comfortable to live in.The staff were excellent: friendly, helpful and very knowledgable. The whole experience was well organised and enjoyable

The expedition team is very professional in every aspects. They together had provided us a genuine polar experience that is also educational and to some extent, even spiritual!

Great views, staff was amazing.

The expedition team and crew are a humble breed of human that have a special gene in their DNA called adventure. You have a fabulous mix of people all wanting to create spectacular memories for your passengers.

It was the journey of my life