Travelmarvel and Quark Sign 10-Year Expedition Ship Charter
APT Travel Group described the project as one of its largest investments, and the ship will be its first ocean vessel purpose-built for Travelmarvel.
Travelmarvel and Quark Expeditions have agreed a 10-year charter partnership for an unnamed 99-suite expedition ship scheduled to enter service in spring 2029. Travelmarvel will operate the vessel in the Mediterranean, while Quark will deploy it in Antarctica beginning with the 2029-30 season.
The ship will be APT Travel Group’s first ocean vessel purpose-built for Travelmarvel, which has previously used chartered ships for ocean cruises but remains primarily focused on river cruising. APT described the project as one of the largest investments in the group’s history, although it did not disclose a value.
David Cox, chief executive of APT Travel Group, said the partnership would allow the companies to “maximise the potential of this incredible vessel year-round.”
Mediterranean and Antarctic roles
Travelmarvel plans to use the ship for premium Mediterranean itineraries as part of its expansion in the UK and Ireland.
“With just 99 suites, the new ship will combine a more intimate and relaxed style of cruising with access to ports that larger vessels cannot reach,” said Paul Melinis, APT Travel Group managing director for the UK and Europe.
Travelmarvel joined APT in 1996, and its current river fleet includes Travelmarvel Polaris, Capella and Vega.
Quark will take over the vessel for its Antarctic program and contribute polar operating expertise during development. Founded in 1991, the company currently lists four expedition ships, including Ultramarine, delivered in 2021 as its first fully owned vessel. Quark has also continued to use chartered capacity within its seasonal fleet.
Polar requirements shape development
The new ship is being developed with a Polar Class 6 hull. Under the International Association of Classification Societies’ polar-class framework, PC6 covers summer and autumn operations in medium first-year ice, which can include old-ice inclusions.
The plans include spacious mudrooms and dedicated areas for passenger embarkation and disembarkation.
Sam Seward, president of Quark Expeditions, said the development process would help produce a vessel with “the capabilities and operational features needed to help guests get off the ship efficiently and experience more of Antarctica.”
No construction cost has been disclosed. The companies said the shipyard, vessel name, accommodation plan, complete technical specifications and inaugural Mediterranean and Antarctic itineraries will be announced closer to launch.
