Quark Expeditions, Arctic

Itinerary: Arctic Express Canada: The Heart of the Northwest Passage
Sailing: 2 September 2024
Ship: Quark Ultramarine
Author: Caroline Hitchen, General Manager – CruiseHQ                                                                                

Ready for an Arctic adventure that feels like a dream? I was lucky enough to set sail on Quark Expeditions’ Ultramarine, a fantastic voyage through the icy wonders of the High Arctic and Northwest Passage. From the jaw-dropping scenery to seeing polar bears up close, here’s my guide to the top highlights and a few tips to make your expedition journey unforgettable.

Top Highlights That’ll Make You Go “Wow”

1 Breathtaking Arctic Views: Picture this: you wake up, roll out of bed, and there’s a world of ice, glaciers, and mountains right outside your window. The Ultramarine makes it easy to enjoy these stunning views, whether you’re curled up in your cosy cabin or taking in the fresh Arctic air on deck.

2 Wildlife Galore: Get ready for some incredible wildlife sightings! From polar bears lounging on ice floes to muskox doing their thing, the Arctic is a wildlife lover’s paradise. 

The ship’s guides are experts at pointing out these amazing animals and making your encounters unforgettable.

3 Historic Northwest Passage: Sailing through the Northwest Passage is like stepping into an epic adventure story. You’ll be cruising the same waters that past explorers dreamed of, but with the modern luxury of the Ultramarine. It’s history and adventure all rolled into one!

4 High-Tech Expedition Gear: The Ultramarine is equipped with cutting-edge expedition tools like advanced Zodiacs and two helicopters, providing unique perspectives of the Arctic landscape. These gadgets let you explore remote spots, whether it’s landing on a hidden island or getting a bird’s-eye view of the Arctic landscape. A 10- to 15-minute flightseeing excursion is included in the cost of your voyage.

5 Exclusive Landings: You’re not just visiting the Arctic; you’re exploring it like a true adventurer. The Ultramarine takes you to some seriously off-the-beaten-path places, making each landing a unique and thrilling experience.

6 Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience: The Tundra to Table experience showcased the culinary traditions of the Inuit in Greenland and Nunavut. These beautifully presented dishes (one course was even served on fresh glacial ice) are prepared by Inuit chefs onboard and gave us a wonderful opportunity to learn about local Inuit culture and culinary traditions.

7 Ultimate Comfort Onboard: While the Arctic outside might be chilly, our cabin on the Ultramarine was a cosy retreat. With plush interior and Scandinavian style decor, delicious dining, and comfy lounges, you’ll be living the good life between your Arctic escapades.

8 Fun and Informative Talks: The onboard lectures are not only educational but also super engaging. You’ll learn fascinating things about the Arctic environment and its history, making your journey even more enriching and fun.

9. Photographer’s Dream: If you love taking photos, the Arctic is like a living postcard. The lighting and scenery are perfect for capturing incredible shots. Just remember to bring a good camera —you’ll want to document every magical moment!

10. Connect with Fellow Travellers: One of the best parts of the trip is meeting fellow explorers. You’ll create lasting memories and maybe even find a new travel buddy!