Ocean Explorer Joins Quark Expeditions for Svalbard and Greenland Cruises

Quark Expeditions has officially introduced its newest polar vessel, Ocean Explorer, to the High Arctic, commencing its inaugural season in Svalbard on May 8, 2025. The 140-guest Infinity-class ship replaces the retiring 1976-built Ocean Adventurer on the company’s signature Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway itinerary. According to Quark Expeditions President, Joseph Van Os, “Our Ocean Explorer opens up new possibilities for polar travel by combining modern expedition technology with an intimate guest capacity.”

Arctic Operations and Itinerary Highlights

Departing from Longyearbyen in Norway, the Ocean Explorer embarks on ten days of exploration around the island of Spitsbergen. Stops include the 14th of July Glacier for panoramic ice-face viewing, Smeerenburg’s historic 17th-century Dutch whaling station, Alkefjellet’s towering seabird cliffs, and the wildlife-rich Hinlopen Strait. Over the course of 11 scheduled departures in Svalbard, passengers can expect close encounters with Arctic wildlife such as polar bears, walruses, and various bird species.

Mid-Season Transition to Greenland

In mid-August 2025, the Ocean Explorer repositions to Greenland for Quark Expeditions’ 11-day program that highlights remote glaciers, open fjords, and the potential to witness the northern lights over drifting pack ice. Company representatives have described these Greenland itineraries as gateways to some of the last truly unspoiled wilderness areas on Earth. Following its final northern voyage in late September 2025, the vessel sails empty to South America to begin its Antarctic season.

Vessel History and Fleet Integration

Originally built at the CMHI shipyard in China and launched in 2021, the 8,000-ton Ocean Explorer was previously operated under charter by Vantage Deluxe World Travel until that company ceased operations in 2023. After a brief period of inactivity, Quark Expeditions chartered the vessel in October 2024 to replace the aging Ocean Adventurer.

Equipped with strengthened ice-class hull construction and twin-engine diesel-electric pods, the Ocean Explorer is designed for safe navigation through pack ice and remote fjords. Its 20 Zodiac crafts facilitate frequent shoreline landings for up-close exploration. Alongside the company’s Ultramarine and World Explorer, it enables Quark Expeditions to offer immersive, small-group polar expeditions on a year-round basis. Quark Expeditions President Joseph Van Os further emphasized, “Introducing Ocean Explorer to our fleet underscores our leadership in sustainable polar expeditions and enhances guest access to the planet’s most remote regions.”

Sustainability and Passenger Experience

Quark Expeditions maintains strict environmental protocols on all sailings, highlighting educational opportunities and stewardship across Arctic and Antarctic voyages. The Ocean Explorer is designed to reduce ecological impact through modern engineering that minimizes emissions and lowers fuel consumption. Its streamlined passenger capacity of just 140 guests promotes meaningful, low-impact encounters with delicate polar habitats. Onboard features include lecture spaces for daily briefings and scientific presentations, panoramic observation decks, and comfortable lounges that balance warmth with an expeditionary feel.

By integrating advanced technology, conservation education, and expanded itineraries, Quark Expeditions aims to grow sustainably in the competitive polar cruising market while offering adventurous travelers access to some of Earth’s most remote landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the capacity of the Ocean Explorer?

The Ocean Explorer can accommodate up to 140 guests, fostering an intimate expedition atmosphere ideal for navigating pristine Arctic and Antarctic regions.

What makes the Greenland itineraries unique?

Quark’s Greenland programs showcase expansive glaciers, remote fjords, and the chance to witness the northern lights. These itineraries target areas characterized by minimal human presence, creating a highly immersive wilderness experience.

Why was the Ocean Explorer laid up before joining Quark Expeditions?

The ship was previously chartered to Vantage Deluxe World Travel, which ceased operations in 2023. After a period of inactivity, Quark Expeditions chartered it in October 2024 to replace the retiring Ocean Adventurer.

Which itineraries does Ocean Explorer now cover?

The vessel operates the ten-day Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway itinerary, then moves on to 11-day voyages in Greenland, followed by a winter season in Antarctica after repositioning to South America.

When did the Ocean Explorer begin operating under Quark Expeditions?

The vessel joined Quark’s fleet in late 2024 following the charter agreement, launching its first Arctic season on May 8, 2025.

As demand for small-group expeditions continues to grow, Quark Expeditions emphasizes eco-conscious cruising, scientific learning, and unparalleled access to remote polar destinations with the Ocean Explorer as a key part of its advanced fleet.