Update on Voyages to Russia
Quark Expeditions is currently not operating or accepting bookings for trips that include Russia in the itinerary, as a consequence of the war in Ukraine. Trips that were scheduled to visit Russia have been rescheduled for alternate departures to other Arctic regions. Additionally, to ensure our guests have the most robust choice of Arctic voyages, we’ve introduced additional itineraries to Greenland, Iceland and Spitsbergen to our portfolio. You have plenty of options to explore the Arctic for an expedition of a lifetime.
It’s our ardent wish for peace to return to the region as soon as possible.
Travel well. Travel peacefully.
One of Earth’s least-explored frontiers and the newest destination to our portfolio, the sparsely populated Russian High Arctic is a place of isolated, rugged beauty that will leave you amazed. Few travelers have ever ventured into this near-uninhabited landscape. On Jewels of the Russian Arctic: Franz Josef Land and Novaya Zemlya, we follow the footsteps of early northern explorers to two of the most remote archipelagos on the planet, enabling guests to experience an in-depth exploration of seldom-visited regions in the stark and spectacular Russian Arctic.
From the ancient mountains of Novaya Zemlya to the wildlife sanctuary of Franz Josef Land, these secluded lands offer an exhilarating mix of unique sights and adventures. Marvel at ice-capped peaks soaring majestically out of the Arctic sea. Watch in hushed wonder at the unforgettable sight of a polar bear roaming its natural environment. Immerse yourself in a corner of our planet few humans ever to, with the operator that knows polar adventure better than anyone.
Included Activities
Hiking
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.
Polar Plunge
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.
Zodiac Cruising
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.
Pre- and Post-Trip Options
Helsinki, Finland
The city of Helsinki is actually an archipelago of 315 islands that contains scores of lush green parks and what seems like an endless string of dark blue lakes. Often called the “Daughter of the Baltic,” Finland’s capital sits on a peninsula in the Gulf of Finland.