How to choose between the Arctic and Antarctic for your Polar Voyage

The world of travel is evolving, with more people seeking the freedom that comes with solo travel. In 2025, this trend is reaching an exciting peak as adventurous spirits look to explore the breathtaking polar regions. Whether you find yourself wandering through the uncharted territories of Antarctica or taking in the unique landscapes of the Arctic, solo travel offers a fulfilling and personal experience that resonates with independent adventurers everywhere.  Embracing the Solo Journey  Traveling solo is not just a means to explore new places; it’s an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. In our fast-paced lives, many individuals seek experiences that foster reflection and offer a deeper connection to nature. The polar regions, with their pristine landscapes and extraordinary wildlife, attract those looking to escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.  Solitude in the polar regions can enhance one’s appreciation of the environment and provide a renewed perspective on our place in the world. Imagine standing atop a glacier, surrounded by silence, save for the sound of cracking ice. It’s a moment that transforms wandering into a meaningful journey of self-discovery.  Discover New Experiences  Part of what makes solo travel to the polar regions so appealing is the array of activities available and the opportunity they provide to meet new people. Kayaking among icebergs, hiking near glaciers, or even camping under the Northern Lights are just a few of the experiences awaiting explorers. For those looking for guided experiences, Quark Expeditions offers tailored itineraries designed for solo travelers.  Expeditions like the Three Arctic Islands: Iceland, Greenland, and Spitsbergen take travelers to a […]

An unforgettable journey to the remote Arctic landscapes few have seen—and even fewer forget. When you picture a remote escape far from crowds and traffic, do you imagine endless glaciers, surreal rock formations, and polar bears roaming free? If so, the Canada Arctic cruise might just be your dream come true.  In the Canadian High Arctic, you’re not just a visitor—you’re an explorer navigating a raw and untouched realm where nature still writes the rules. With each passing iceberg and windswept cliff, you discover a different kind of silence, one that resonates deep in your bones. This isn’t a vacation—it’s a rare opportunity to reconnect with the wild, and yourself.  Why Travel to the Canadian High Arctic?  One word: isolation. In an age where nearly every destination feels overdone or overcrowded, the Canadian High Arctic remains one of the last truly wild frontiers. Located far above the mainland, it’s a place of staggering beauty and profound stillness.  Imagine cruising through ancient waterways once navigated by daring explorers of the past. Here, in the polar wilderness, wildlife sightings aren’t rare—they’re a daily part of the adventure. From polar bears and muskoxen to walrus and Arctic foxes, every encounter is authentic and unscripted.  Then there’s the land itself. Stark mountain ranges, endless tundra, and glacial fjords form a dramatic stage for nature’s most resilient species. Sunlight lingers for 20+ hours in summer, illuminating rock-strewn coasts and mirrored bays in ways that defy photography.  A Deeper Dive into Arctic Wonders  A journey through this region isn’t just scenic—it’s […]

Embarking on a polar adventure is a thrilling choice for any traveler, particularly for those looking to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Arctic and Antarctic. However, with so many activities available, it can be challenging to choose the one that perfectly fits your interests and fitness level. This guide is designed to help first-time adventurers navigate their options and select the best polar activities suited to their wants and needs.   Understanding Your Interests  When planning your polar adventure, the first step is to identify the activities that excite you the most. The polar regions offer a diverse array of experiences, from wildlife observation and photography to thrilling outdoor activities.  Wildlife Enthusiasts  If you’re drawn to nature and the chance to see incredible wildlife, you have many expeditions to choose. For instance, the Snow Hill to the Peninsula: Shackleton’s Emperors expedition focuses on exploring the habitat of emperor penguins. Witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural environment is an unforgettable experience, especially for those passionate about wildlife. Adventure Seekers  For adrenaline junkies, the polar regions boast an abundance of thrilling activities. Think about hiking near glaciers or through snowy slopes, kayaking past icebergs, or biking across rugged polar terrain. If you enjoy a physical challenge and are excited about pushing your limits, these activities could be right up your alley.  Consider the Iceland to Greenland: Total Solar Eclipse cruise as an option for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines stunning natural phenomena with thrilling outdoor adventures. This expedition allows travelers to witness a solar eclipse while engaging in exciting activities and soaking in […]

Free Wi-Fi and alcohol on Quark Expeditions’ voyages includes beer, wine and cocktails, as well as basic Internet service while exploring the Arctic and Antarctic.

Business Development Manager Chris Hanna, Expedition Guide and Glaciologist Colin Souness, and Director of Helicopter Operations Felix Christians share highlights of Ultramarine’s industry-leading helicopter adventure program. Join the webinar to learn about Quark Expeditions’ heli-adventure program: • Unbeatable Polar Helicopter Experiences: Learn how our two twin-engine helicopters can take you further over the polar landscape than any other helicopter in its class, offering the largest portfolio of adventure options in the industry—including flightseeing, heli-hiking, alpine kayaking and exclusive heli-landing. • Most Experienced Crew: Learn what makes our helicopter crew the best in the Polar Regions. • Adventure Meets Luxury: Discover why these helicopters ensure guests will have a superbly comfortable flight—and are great for viewing the polar landscapes. • Industry-leading Polar Safety: Find out what makes our H145 helicopters the industry leaders in helicopter safety. • Advanced Sustainability: Learn about the sustainability features of the H145 helicopters.

Many countries support scientific research projects in Antarctica, ranging from biology and glaciology to oceanography and astronomy. These scientific studies explore such question as: How fast are the glaciers moving? How many seals are there? What lies under two miles of ice? Quark Expeditions ornithologist Jean Pennycook will highlight several new discoveries and current projects in this webinar that uncovers the secrets of the Antarctic.

Meet our state-of-the-art new ship, Ocean Explorer. Hear about the amazing features of this cutting-edge new ship, which elevates the polar experience in terms of guest comfort, sustainability, adventure and safety. Disclaimer: All promotions mentioned in our on-demand webinars were valid only during the original webinar timeframe. These promotions are not applicable indefinitely and may no longer be available. Please contact our Polar Travel Advisors for more details.

Do you want to learn more about one of the most recognizable penguin species, the macaroni penguin? Keep reading to learn more about this unique animal.