Quark Expeditions is Polar Obsessed, and proud of it. In this edition of Take 5, David Marathakis, Quark’s Director of Sales, Americas, shares why 2026-2027 will be a banner year (in more ways than one) for the Polar Expedition specialist.
- The 2026-2027 season marks a milestone for Quark Expeditions, starting with ananniversary. Can you tell us about that?
“Our Antarctic 26/27 season is a landmark moment, as it marks 35 years of pioneering exploration in Antarctica. Since our inception, we’ve continually pushed the boundaries of polar adventure, and this season is no exception.
“In fact, one of groundbreaking expeditions in Antarctica dates back to 1992,when Quark Expeditions made history by departing from Cape Town on thefirst-ever passenger voyage to the Far Side of Antarctica – the most remote coastal region of the continent.
“This spirit of innovation and deep-rooted expertise continues to define our Antarctic journeys today, offering travellers unparalleled access to the world’s most remote wildernesses.”
- The 2026-2027 season will also see the debut of Quark’s brand new ship World Voyager. What do you want travel advisors to know about the new vessel?
“As the newest addition to our fleet, World Voyager is purpose-built for science and discovery. With all-balcony suites offering direct views of the polar wilderness, a dedicated Science Hub, and cutting-edge Rolls-Royce propulsion for a smooth, efficient voyage, the ship embodies the spirit of exploration.
“Guests can also enjoy wellness amenities – including a spa, sauna, swimming pool, and Jacuzzis – alongside beautifully designed lounges and dining spaces, making every moment of the journey both enriching and rejuvenating.
“With the World Voyager joining the fleet in 2026, Quark Expeditions will continue to maintain one of the most modern fleets in polar expedition ensuring the latest technology, safety and comfort that we can provide.”
- So many travellers are looking to make their bucket list travel dreams come truewith an expedition to the Arctic or Antarctica. For those truly ready to make thetrip memorable, what feedback can you share about Quark’s helicopter adventures in the polar regions?
“Innovation drives everything we do at Quark Expeditions. As pioneers in polar adventure, we’ve consistently pushed boundaries of exploration, from our voyages to the North Pole, to circumnavigating Antarctica, Quark has been utilizing helicopters in the polar regions for over 30 years.
“All guests aboard Ultramarine can choose from an unparalleled range of helicopter-supported activities, making it possible to explore the Polar Regions from entirely new perspectives. Whether it’s camping under the northern lights in Greenland, trekking to remote high-altitude peaks in the Arctic and Antarctic, or soaring above the polar skies, we provide the most diverse and immersive helicopter experiences in the Polar Regions.
“We’ve also just launched an incredible new adventure – Antarctica by Helicopter: Crossing the Circle & the Peninsula (Feb. 16–March 1, 2027). This one’s for travellers who want to experience Antarctica from every angle. Guests will get the rare chance to cross the Antarctic Circle while soaring over breathtaking landscapes in Ultramarine’s twin-engine helicopters. The trip includes at least two flightseeing experiences and one heli-landing below the Circle – all included in the expedition price – making it an unforgettable mix of aerial and on-the-ground exploration.”
- What other unique product do you want advisors to know about?
“Launching in the Antarctic 2026-2027 season, the Science & Discovery Program will be a key part of all World Voyager departures, giving guests hands-on opportunities to engage with world renowned scientists and participate in citizen science.
“As part of our commitment to scientific research, we’ve partnered exclusively with the Friedlaender Lab at UC San Diego, led by marine mammal expert Dr. Ari Friedlaender. On the Antarctic Marine Mammals expedition, guests can observe real-time research, track whales, listen to underwater sounds via hydrophones, and contribute to conservation efforts with Happywhale.
“With access to our onboard Science Hub, it offers guests a rare chance to connect with experts, deepen their knowledge, and be part of something bigger, all while experiencing the Antarctic in luxurious comfort aboard World Explorer.”
- The Quark Expeditions Partner Portal is full of resources for advisors. Can you tell us more?
“The Partner portal is a wealth of information that our advisors have been asking for and we listened to, delivering an easy to navigate portal designed to help nurture and grow their confidence and business.
“Within the portal, advisors can find additional training to understand as to why Quark is Polar Obsessed, and why we are the leaders in Polar Expedition. Marketing and promotional material to help inform their guests of the amazing offers we have in the market, and an ordering tool to get the latest brochures delivered right to your door.
“The most hidden gem in our portal is Parker the Polar Bear, our dedicated online resource if you have a question about anything to do with our product Parker can answer in real time to help you feel confident in providing the correct information to your guests.”
The Quark Expeditions Partner Portal, exclusively for travel advisors, can be found here.
