Polar Adventure Activities
Whether you’re on the ship, water, land, or in a helicopter, we offer the most ways to explore during every expedition.
Immersive Experiences
Our team of expert guides are dedicated to providing you with truly immersive experiences. From kayaking that brings you closer to the ocean surface, camping that brings you closer to the polar terrain, or flightseeing that gives you a bird’s eye view of the epic landscapes, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the Arctic or Antarctic environment.
For Explorers of all Levels
Our adventure activities are geared to all ages and levels of fitness. Whether you’re up for an energetic outing on a mountain bike, paddling through calm polar waters, or just want to take a leisurely stroll to capture the perfect photo, there’s something for everyone.
Helicopter Innovation
Innovation is in our DNA. We introduced helicopters as more than just a means for flightseeing. You can choose from the largest selection of helicopter-supported activities in the polar regions, including flightseeing, exclusive heli-landings, and ice sheet landings.
Included Adventure Activities
These Adventure Activities are included in the base fare with space for all guests, but availability varies by voyage.
Exclusive to Ultramarine
Helicopter Flightseeing
Available in: Antarctic Peninsula, Patagonia, Snow Hill, Greenland, Canadian High Arctic
While polar landscapes are spectacular from the sea, they are even more striking
from the air. Thanks to Ultramarine’s twin-engine helicopters, you’ll enjoy remarkable aerial perspectives.
from the air. Thanks to Ultramarine’s twin-engine helicopters, you’ll enjoy remarkable aerial perspectives.
Exclusive to South Greenland Expeditions
Greenland Ice Sheet Experience
Available in: Greenland
Ascend high above the cascading coastal glaciers onto the immense polar plateau of the Greenland Ice Sheet (the second-largest ice mass in the world) and take in the immensity of this overwhelming landscape.
Exclusive to Ultramarine & World Voyager
Science and Discovery
Available in: All Antarctic Regions, Arctic Starting in 2027
We’re collaborating with leading scientists and researchers to enrich guest learning on and off-ship. Through researcher-led sessions, and interactive experiences with our expedition team, guests will gain a better understanding and appreciation of the polar wilderness.
Zodiac Cruising
Available in: All Regions
Zodiacs take you places that ships can’t access, allowing you to reach remote shorelines, explore shallow inlets and search for unique wildlife.
Polar Plunge
Available in: All Regions
This rite of passage, scheduled once per voyage, offers you the chance to jump safely into the bracing Arctic and Antarctic waters under the watchful eye of our trained staff.
Hiking & Walking
Available in: All Regions
Our organized hikes range from short walks to the top of lookouts, visits to observe wildlife, to longer excursions of several miles over ice and rock and snow.
Photography
Available in: All Regions
From stunning landscapes to wildlife in their natural habitat, there is no shortage of awe inspiring photography opportunities. Our photography guides will help you hone your skills to capture the beauty of the polar regions.
Polar Presentations
Available in: All Regions
Who says learning can’t be adventurous? All of our voyages include captivating presentations from a range of speakers that can include Ornithologist, Geologists, Glaciologist, or just some Polar explorers with great stories to share.
Please Note: All Included Activities are subject to weather and sea conditions.
Add-On Adventure Options
These Add-On Adventure Options can be added to your voyage at a cost. Adventure Option availability varies by voyage and space is limited. Some specialized voyages may include Adventure Options in the base fare.
Exclusive to Ultramarine
Exclusive Heli-Landing
Available in: Antarctic Peninsula, Patagonia, Snow Hill
Soar high above in one of Ultramarine’s twin-engine helicopters to an exclusive Antarctic site unreachable by ship. At your landing site, enjoy quiet time to reflect on the surrounding polar beauty.
Paddling Excursion
Available in: All Regions
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking Antarctic or Arctic wilderness during a paddling excursion on an easy-to-use sit-on-top kayak. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout your paddling adventure.
Sea Kayaking
Available in: All Regions
Join a small group of like-minded and experienced kayakers—on multiple outings—in this voyage-long program to explore the Antarctic or Arctic waters. Glide across quiet bays among icebergs and glaciers.
Tundra to Table Culinary Experience
Available in: Greenland, Iceland
Savor the distinctive culinary traditions of Iceland, the Faroe Islands, or the Inuit in Greenland with our Tundra to Table experiences, crafted in collaboration with renowned local culinary experts.
Available From November to Mid-January
Camping
Available in: Antarctic Peninsula
Drift to sleep outdoors beneath the indigo glow of an Antarctic night, surrounded by the calls of penguins, seals and whales. A mandatory onboard safety briefing gets you fully prepped for an unforgettable night that will take your expedition to the next level.
Mountain Biking
Available in: Greenland
Explore the spectacular terrain outside Sisimiut, Greenland, on guided mountain bike adventures led by local partners. It’s an unforgettable way to experience Greenland’s rugged beauty.
Greenland Camp Experience
Available in: Greenland
Enjoy a camp dinner and stay overnight with local guides at Tasermiut Camp, surrounded by the fjords and dramatic mountain scenery of South Greenland. Spend ample time, in small groups, walking through beautiful landscapes and pristine valleys.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Available in: Antarctic Peninsula, Patagonia, South Georgia, Falkland Islands
Experience the thrill of gliding across Antarctica’s icy waters on a stand-up paddleboard—an adventure like no other. Conducted in small groups—in calm bays and harbors, and in good weather conditions.
Please Note: All adventure options are subject to weather and sea conditions; guests will be refunded in the event Quark Expeditions must cancel any paid excursions.
