Quark Expeditions

Iceland to Greenland: Mountains, Glaciers and the Westfjords

Start date:

26 Jul 2026

Return date:

09 Aug 2026

Duration:

15

days

Embarkation:

Reykjavík

Disembarkation:

Reykjavík

Ship:

Ocean Explorer

Activities offered:

MORE INFORMATION

Trip Details

Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland, and explore the city before embarking on your voyage. Sail to the Westfjords to discover dramatic fjords, wildlife, and cultural heritage on Vigur Island. Cross the Denmark Strait with expert lectures onboard. Explore Southeast Greenland’s glaciers, remote villages, and historic Norse sites like Hvalsey and Qassiarsuk, with activities like Zodiac cruises, kayaking, and hiking. Continue to West Greenland, visiting Nuuk’s historic sites and Eternity Fjord’s rugged landscapes. Disembark at Kangerlussuaq, fly back to Reykjavik, and depart Iceland the next day.

Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrive at the international airport in Keflavik and transfer independently to your included hotel in Reykjavik. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore Iceland’s fascinating capital. Many cultural and historical landmarks are located in or near the walkable city center.

Day 2: Embarkation

Enjoy your complimentary breakfast at the hotel. Your transfer to the ship is scheduled for the afternoon, leaving you time to explore Reykjavik in the morning and have lunch on your own before you rendez-vous back at the hotel for the bus transfer to the port. Embarkation is scheduled for 4 pm. You’ll be notified of official welcome and safety briefings as we set sail for the Westfjords.

Day 3: Exploring Westfjords, Icelands Hidden Gems

Each region of Iceland has its own appeal for nature seekers, birding enthusiasts and history-lovers, and the seldom-visited Westfjords, where the land meets the sea in the most dramatic fashion, is no exception. Often referred to as “Iceland’s best-kept secret,” this rugged peninsula at the country’s remote northwestern tip is rife with fjords, and mountains that slope gracefully down to the sea. We spend our time exploring the fjords and shores of Iceland’s oldest region, enjoying its kaleidoscope of diverse land and seascapes. Here, tumbling cliffs and gushing waterfalls alternate with colorful beaches, and rolling green hills lead up to high moorlands dotted with rocky outcrops, small lakes, and the occasional shaggy Icelandic sheep or pony grazing in the distance. A few modest outposts of civilization, in the form small fishing communities nestled along the fjords and shores of the Denmark Strait, face out into the mighty Atlantic—keeping alive a maritime heritage that dates back to the Viking days.

One of today’s highlights is a chance to visit Vigur, a private island that provides guests with unique opportunities to delve into Icelandic culture and heritage as early as the 11th century. Vigur is widely regarded as a capsule of Icelandic heritage.” Upon arriving on shore by Zodiac, we will be welcomed by the people who own this incredible island. One of the co-owners is polar explorer Felicity Aston, the first woman to ski solo across Antarctica. You’ll learn about the Icelandic tradition of eiderdown harvesting, and the wide array of Arctic birdlife and seals that are found in Vigur. It’s estimated that the island is home to over 7,000 breeding ducks, 100,000 puffins, Europe’s largest colony of black Guillemot, and huge flocks of Arctic terns. You’ll also have opportunities to ramble about the island, taste local food and visit the island café. Today’s adventure options include Zodiac cruising, sea kayaking, paddle excursion program, and, potentially, a guided shore hike. Right across the bay is Mongufoss, one of Iceland’s most remote and beautiful waterfalls, which we’ll visit by ship after our onboard lunch.

Day 4 & 5: At Sea: Crossing the Denmark Strait

As we sail southwest across the Denmark Strait toward Greenland, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the exciting adventures ahead—both on and off-ship. Our team of polar experts will present on a wide range of topics, including the geology, wildlife, climatology and enthralling history of Greenland. The team will also search for (and identify) the seabirds soaring about the ship—and they’ll most certainly alert you whenever there’s a whale sighting.

Day 6 to 10: Exploring Southeast Greenland

Your exploration of Greenland begins with East Greenland, one of the leastvisited and most remote parts of the world’s largest island. Our journey along the coast will be influenced by weather and ice conditions, with each day—and each off-ship excursion—presenting new adventures. Expect glaciers, steep mountains and breathtaking fjords.

Transiting the 100–km long Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq)—one of the world’s most scenic fjords—will reveal incredible views. Guests can expect dramatic mountain and seascapes with glaciers tumbling down to the sea, and capitivating vistas stretching along the entire fjord. The South Greenlanders who live on this frontier are as unique as the region they inhabit. This is where the migrating hunting people from the east eventually settled around the European trading posts.

The handful of villages in this region are renowned for their inhabitants’ strong commitment to traditional hunting and fishing practices. We hope to visit Aappilattoq, perched on the shores of Prins Christian Sund (Ikerasassuaq), to introduce you to some of our local partners, listen to their stories, hear their music, taste local food, learn about the fishing and hunting heritage, and perhaps even join a friendly game of soccer—as a player or spectator.

If you are looking for the most iconic peaks of South Greenland, you’ll be in your glory when we reach Tasermiut  Fjord in the heart of what’s known as “Arctic Patagonia.”  We’ll offer Zodiac excursions and guided on-shore hikes (tailored for different levels of ability and interest) to view the jagged peaks, tumbling glaciers, ice-laden landscapes, alpine vistas and wildlife. Tasermiut Fjord is ideal for our sea kayaking and paddling programs, as well.

We continue on our quest to explore the wild fjords of the uninhabited southeast coast, one of which is Lindenow Fjord, also known by its Greenlandic name, Kangerlussuatsiaq. Thousands of years ago, groups of Paleo-Inuit hunters and f ish harvesters settled in these isolated f jords, living off the land, and surviving on food from the sea. This preceded the arrival of European explorers and the establishment of settlements whch prompted one of the biggest waves of migration in Greenland.

Marine mammals frequent the many f jords in this region. Humpback whales are often observed in the shallow waters at the entrance to the fjords where  nutrients are drawn up to the surface. Rare sightings of polar bears are possible as they drift down from the north on sea ice floes propelled by the EastGreenland current. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for other wildlife as we continue to explore the remote icescapes of the wild southeast, which is also ideal for hiking, paddle excursions, Zodiac cruises and shore landings.

The southern coast of Greenland is steeped in Norse history. We anticipate a visit to Hvalsey (Qaqortukulooq), the site of Greenland’s largest and best-preserved Norse ruins. Exploring the remains of the church (circa 14thcentury) will make you feel like you’re stepping back in time, as the building appears much as it did when it was abandoned in the 15th century. The surrounding fells and fjords remain similarly untouched.

Also on our planned itinerary is charming Qassiarsuk, one of the five sites that make up the Kujataa World Heritage Site. It’s a small sheep farming settlement where you can experience true South Greenland hospitality and gain insight into the fascinating lives of sheep farmers living at the edge of the massive Greenland Ice Sheet. We suggest you take time to explore the remains and replicas of Brattahlíð, Erik the Red’s estate, once the epicenter of the Greenland Norse Eastern Settlement. During or time in Qassiarsuk, guests will have opportunities to sample local food, enjoy a hike, and, if time and weather allow, we may take a Zodiac cruise amidst towering icebergs.

Day 11: At Sea

As our ship makes its way up the coast from South Greenland, we set our sights on the endless natural wonders—and small communities— along the rugged west coast of Greenland. We invite you to use this time to attend one of the expert-led polar presentations to learn more about this region of Greenland.

Day 12 & 13: Venturing Into West Greenland

The sheer beauty of West Greenland can overwhelm first-time visitors: spectacular glaciers, mountainous landscapes, and thriving, culturally-rich communities. As we head north, we hope to embark on Zodiac daily excursions to explore local bays, channels and select landing sites. We’ll also explore some of the quaint settlements throughout the picturesque islands and fjords.

Nuuk, the charming Greenlandic capital, is a must-visit destination on the west coast. You’ll have time to wander the streets of the historic Old Nuuk neighborhood and see the Hans Egede Church and Hans Egede statue near the waterfront, both named after the 18th-century missionary who founded the settlement. History buffs will make haste to the national museum to view the famous Greenlandic mummies, which were found under a rock outcrop in 1972. The remarkably preserved mummies of six women and two children date back to the 15th century.

Pride of place for our seasoned expedition team is Eternity Fjord, which is home to the tallest mountains in all of West Greenland. This a favorite spot for us to launch our Zodiacs into the water to explore in-depth—where larger vessels can’t navigate. There are few settlements in this long fjord—but you will quickly appreciate nature in its rawest form as you hike among the towering mountains, and photograph the colorful tundra and other dramatic landscapes.

Day 14: Exploring Kangerlussuaq and Disembarkation

Today we’ll explore 50 km (31 miles) above the Arctic Circle. Our destination is Kangerlussuaq, which is Greenlandic for “the long fjord.” At the end of this 180-km long fjord is a settlement bearing the same name. Fishing boats based in the town of Kangerlussuaq sail the full length of the fjord to access the ocean. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty— and for being the home of the largest airport in Greenland.

You will be ferried from ship to shore on one last Zodiac ride, then transferred to the airport where you will board your charter f light to Iceland’s Keflavik International Airport, approxmately 45 minutes from Reyjkavik. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your included hotel for the night.

Day 15: Departing Iceland

After breakfast in your included hotel in Reykjavik, transfer independently to the Keflavik International Airport for your onward journey.


Inclusions:

  • Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
  • An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep
  • All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program
  • All shore landings as per the daily program
  • Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
  • All meals, snacks, soft drinks, and juices on board throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible. Unfortunately, the ships’ galleys cannot prepare kosher meals.)
  • NEW Free beer, standard wines, spirits, and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
  • Complimentary coffee, tea, and cocoa available around the clock
  • Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
  • A photographic journal documenting the expedition
  • A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
  • Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
  • NEW Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media, and voice applications (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.)
  • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
  • All luggage handling aboard the ship
  • Emergency Evacuation insurance for all passengers to a maximum benefit of USD $500,000 per person
  • Greenland voyages cruise passenger tax

Exclusions:

  • Mandatory Transfer Package*
  • International airfare
  • Arrival transfers in Reykjavik
  • Passport and visa expenses
  • Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above
  • Meals ashore unless otherwise specified
  • Baggage, cancellation, interruption, and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
  • Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights
  • Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
  • Laundry, bar, and other personal charges unless specified
  • Phone charges may vary by location
  • Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew
  • Additional overnight accommodation
  • Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities

To confirm reservations, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the net, discounted rate (minimum US$1000 per person) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. The deposit must be paid by major credit card, wire transfer, check or money order. For any bookings within 120 days of departure full payment is required. Deposit amounts may vary for special promotions and are subject to the promotion terms and conditions. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.

All late payments are subject to a penalty of 1.5% interest per month, or 18% per annum. QEI reserves the right to cancel any booking that is not paid within 120 days of departure or deny boarding on any unpaid balances.

CABIN DETAILS

Rates Per Person

Veranda Stateroom

Veranda Stateroom

Approximately 208 sq. ft. (19.3 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus separate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. The floor-to-ceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Stateroom is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 are not furnished with club chairs and reading table.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

208 ft2 (19.3 m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 19,690
Deluxe Veranda Forward

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Approximately 182 sq. ft. (16.9 sq. m.), these Deck 4 cabins are furnished with one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles. Guests in these elegant suites enjoy front-of-ship privacy, as well as sweeping views from their very own veranda.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

182 ft2 (16.9m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 18,790
Studio Single

Studio Single

These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

1

Size

166 ft2 (15.4 m2)

View

Porthole view

U$ 24,290
Veranda Suite

Veranda Suite

Approximately 205 sq. ft.(19.2 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus a separate sitting area furnished with a sofa bed. The floor-toceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Suite is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as a private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

205 ft2 (19 m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 20,790
Junior Suite

Junior Suite

The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. These two-room suites feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles in the inner bedroom. The outer sitting room is set up with a sofa-bed, as well as an activity table for two. The bedroom is designed with floor-to-ceiling glass that opens onto a doublesized walkout balcony. The Junior Suite also includes two TVs, a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, and a private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

298 ft2 (27.7m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 24,290
Owner’s Suite

Owner’s Suite

This palatial 2–room suite (443 sq. ft/41.2 sq. m.) on Deck 7 offers stunning views from its large veranda on the highest cabin level. The suite encompasses a triple–sized balcony, master bedroom, living room, dining area and two large master bathrooms. The inner bedroom, with a double bed that can be made into two singles, features an en suite with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. The outer room contains a sofa bed, club chair and 4–seat dining table. Additional amenities include two TVs and a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

443 ft2 (41.2m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 29,890
Penthouse Suite

Penthouse Suite

This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. ft (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom, and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony. There are also 2 TV’s, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. There’s an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

269 ft2 (25m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 27,990
Studio Veranda Single

Studio Veranda Single

Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. ft. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

1

Size

162 ft2 (15.1m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 26,190
Veranda Stateroom

Veranda Stateroom

Approximately 208 sq. ft. (19.3 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus separate sitting area furnished with two club chairs and a reading table. The floor-to-ceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Stateroom is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. Note: 611 and 612 are not furnished with club chairs and reading table.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

208 ft2 (19.3 m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 19,690
Deluxe Veranda Forward

Deluxe Veranda Forward

Approximately 182 sq. ft. (16.9 sq. m.), these Deck 4 cabins are furnished with one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles. Guests in these elegant suites enjoy front-of-ship privacy, as well as sweeping views from their very own veranda.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

182 ft2 (16.9m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 18,790
Studio Single

Studio Single

These cabins are located on Deck 3 and approximately 177 sq. ft. (16.5 sq. m,) in size, with one double bed and a porthole view. There is also a desk and chair, TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

1

Size

166 ft2 (15.4 m2)

View

Porthole view

U$ 24,290
Veranda Suite

Veranda Suite

Approximately 205 sq. ft.(19.2 sq. m.), these cabins, located throughout the ship, feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles, plus a separate sitting area furnished with a sofa bed. The floor-toceiling window opens onto a walkout balcony. The Veranda Suite is equipped with a desk and chair, TV, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, as well as a private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

205 ft2 (19 m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 20,790
Junior Suite

Junior Suite

The decor and layout of this stately suite will amaze. The private veranda, convenient Deck 6 location, plus proximity to the lounge and downstairs dining room are equally impressive. These two-room suites feature one double bed that can be reconfigured into two singles in the inner bedroom. The outer sitting room is set up with a sofa-bed, as well as an activity table for two. The bedroom is designed with floor-to-ceiling glass that opens onto a doublesized walkout balcony. The Junior Suite also includes two TVs, a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system, and a private bathroom with bathtub, vanity and heated floor.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

298 ft2 (27.7m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 24,290
Owner’s Suite

Owner’s Suite

This palatial 2–room suite (443 sq. ft/41.2 sq. m.) on Deck 7 offers stunning views from its large veranda on the highest cabin level. The suite encompasses a triple–sized balcony, master bedroom, living room, dining area and two large master bathrooms. The inner bedroom, with a double bed that can be made into two singles, features an en suite with bathtub, vanity and heated floor. The outer room contains a sofa bed, club chair and 4–seat dining table. Additional amenities include two TVs and a state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

443 ft2 (41.2m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 29,890
Penthouse Suite

Penthouse Suite

This unique 2-room suite is located on Deck 7 and is approximately 269 sq. ft (25.0 sq. m.) in size. It has one double bed that can be configured into two singles in the inner bedroom, and the outer sitting area is furnished with a sofa-bed. Walk-out from either room to a double sized balcony. There are also 2 TV’s, state-of-the-art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor. There’s an additional powder room in the outside sitting area.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

2

Size

269 ft2 (25m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 27,990
Studio Veranda Single

Studio Veranda Single

Designed for one. This unique cabin is located on Deck 7 and approximately 162 sq. ft. (15.1 sq. m.). It has one twin bed with a floor to ceiling glass view that opens to a generous walkout balcony. There is also TV, state of the art ‘infotainment’ system and private bathroom with shower, vanity and heated floor.

Please note: All stateroom images of the Ocean Explorer are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.

Passengers

1

Size

162 ft2 (15.1m2)

View

Floor to ceiling windows, Walk out balcony

U$ 26,190

MORE INFORMATION

Adventure Options

Zodiacs are used for transferring you ashore, transporting your luggage when necessary and for taking you ocean-level cruising among icebergs, whales and seabirds. During the expedition, you will visit remote and isolated sites that are accessible only by Zodiac.

These large, heavy-duty inflatable vessels are extremely safe and were specially designed for expedition work. Zodiacs are the workhorses of Polar expeditions. Separate air compartments retain a large reserve of buoyancy even if these sturdy boats are damaged. Their flat bottom design permits the craft to land directly onto the cobble and ice-strewn beaches that you will encounter on your Polar expedition.

Hiking in the polar regions differs from your typical trail experience. Here, in a tree-less terrain, you are the tallest figure on the landscape as you walk over spongy tundra, crusty snow or sandy beaches in remotes parts of the Arctic and Antarctica. Stepping ashore anywhere in the polar regions means you’re not a distant observer.

Our organized hikes range from short jaunts to the top of lookouts or visits to see wildlife or longer walks of several kilometers over ice and rock and snow. Hiking excursions may last from two to three hours with plenty of time for photographs of wildlife, learning moments from your experienced guides, or just time to stand back and admire the incredible polar surroundings.

No experience is necessary but participants should be able to get in and out of a Zodiac and walk on uneven terrain. Hiking options are tailored to all interests and abilities, from those who want to contemplate the landscape in silence to photographers who want that perfect image to energetic travelers who want to summit a peak in the hopes of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat.

Enjoy daily chats with and presentations by our world-class onboard polar experts—expedition guides, specialists, photography guides and other special guests who will introduce you to the fascinating history, biology, ornithology, glaciology and geology of the region, and much, much more.

The Polar Plunge is scheduled once during each voyage. Throughout the journey, the Expedition Leader and Captain constantly monitor conditions in order to choose the optimal time and location. The Polar Plunge sometimes takes place onshore or, in many cases, from the gangway or Zodiac. All participants wear a tethered harness and plunge into the polar waters from the side of Zodiac or safety of the gangplank cheered on, of course, by fellow passengers and Expedition Team.

Safety is paramount—the onboard physician always attends the Polar Plunge. Guides in survival gear circle the area in Zodiacs as guests take their turn jumping or cannon-balling into the polar waters.

Documenting your voyage so you can take the memories home is a rewarding experience. Our photography guides will help you hone your skills to capture the beauty of the polar regions.

$295 Per Person

Every sweep of the paddle as your craft glides through the pristine polar waters creates an incredible soundtrack: the jostle of glacial ice, the lapping of waves against the rocky shore, the perpetual drip from your paddle, the call of seabirds, and the occasional splash as wildlife break the surface of the water.

Our Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you’ll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.

Excursions last a minimum of one hour and are offered to participants once per voyage. Each group includes 10 paddlers, 1 guide and 1 one safety Zodiac driver. The wind, weather and water conditions determine the timing and location of Paddling Excursions

$1,795 Per Person

Positioning yourself in the seat of a kayak is one of the most intimate ways travelers can connect with the polar regions—at water level, up close, where you can touch and feel every polar sensation imaginable. The Sea Kayak Program enables a small group of like-minded individuals to forge bonds as they explore fjords, glacial faces or mazes of sea ice.

Quark Expeditions Sea Kayak Program is a voyage-length program available in Antarctica, in which kayakers (those who have minimal experience as well as seasoned paddlers) will enjoy the polar regions from a unique perspective.

Conditions and logistics permitting, your kayak guide(s) will endeavor to have you paddling as often as possible throughout the voyage. Typically, sea kayakers are shuttled by Zodiac from the ship to an ideal starting point, where the kayak excursion begins. Guests return to the ship by Zodiac at the end of their paddling experience. Some kayak excursions are designed so guests can go ashore and explore.

In addition to the kayak guides, a safety driver in a Zodiac will always stay nearby to offer assistance if required. Excursions typically last one and a half to three hours.

MORE INFORMATION

Ship Details

Ocean Explorer, the newest addition to our fleet, is modern, elegant and purpose-built for polar exploration. The 138-passenger vessel has been designed with the latest in expedition ship technology. One of the ship’s key features is the ULSTEIN X–BOW®, a marine engineering innovation that ensures a comfortable and smooth sailing experience thanks to the inverted bow. With its distinctive X-Bow design and remarkable twostory forward lounge, Ocean Explorer sets a striking stage for your expedition of a lifetime. Spacious cabins feature a modern, bespoke Scandinavian design, and almost all have verandas. You can relax and find comfort in our signature Tundra Spa & Sauna (with large windows), well-equipped gym and two outdoor Jacuzzis. Ocean Explorer has been designed with ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks, which are ideal for long-view photography and wildlife viewing. The vessel is equipped with a fleet of 15 Zodiacs that enable guests to get off the ship quickly and safely for off-ship adventures. In addition to the well-appointed and spacious public areas, Ocean Explorer has an industryleading mix of sustainability systems, including fuelefficient Rolls Royce engines.

Type

Small Ship

Capacity

138

Year Built

Polar Boutique
Reception Area
Lounge Areas
Outdoor Observation Decks
Tundra Spa & Sauna, and Jacuzzis
Medical Facilities
Elevator
Gym
Ready Rooms

Two Story Library

Light-filled interior library—at the bow of the ship— allows guests to sit and relax indoors while taking in the surrounding polar landscapes from their choice of two levels.

Leading Edge Sustainability

With the latest sustainability technology in polar expedition, the ship features fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines and the ground-breaking MAGS gasification system that converts waste into energy, eliminating the environmental impact of waste transportation.

Ulstein X-Bow

In addition to forming the double-story library, the innovative X-Bow design ensures calm, energy-efficient sailing in rough waters.

High Observation Outdoor Decks

Observation areas on Decks 7 and 8 allow for higher, longer-view landscape photography while contending with less sea spray.

Quiet and Comfortable

Spacious and luxurious cabins ensure your quiet ambience with no sound disturbance from adjoining cabins—and almost all cabins feature a balcony for outdoor viewing.

Stunning Interior Design

Each interior element was carefully hand-picked by designers for you to enjoy, from the dramatic two-story forward lounge, the floor-to-ceiling glass refuge in the library, to the grand fixtures and luxe furnishings throughout the ship.

MORE INFORMATION

FAQ

Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.

Yes!!! After leaving Reykjavík it will be the ultimate goal of the Captain, Expedition Leader, and the Expedition Team to make sure we get off the ship as much as possible. You’ll participate in landings, zodiac cruises, and any additional activities you’ve signed up for. Check the “Detailed trip itinerary” for more details on each outing.

The price shown is the “all-in” price after all taxes, fees, port fees, and permits required; which are handled by the tour operator. The only main additional costs will be mandatory travel insurance, optional gratuity, and additional activities.

Not necessarily, no! Our trips are usually made up of around 50% solo travelers! Prices are always per person, per bed. If you’re a solo traveler, we will match you with a same-gender roommate from our group to share your cabin with. There is also the option for solo cabin availability on certain trips. Please send us a message about solo cabins if that’s your preference.

MORE INFORMATION

Trip Request Form

Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.

plugins premium WordPress