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Solo explorations of the Arctic and Antarctic with Quark Expeditions

Once thought to be inhospitable, the allure of the polar regions has existed since Viking times. But only in the last century has it become possible to visit these stark landscapes and marvel at the abundant wildlife in relative comfort. And whilst adventurers have pushed the boundaries of human endurance and polar exploration, today Quark Expeditions offers a remarkable opportunity to delve into these remarkable frozen wastelands.

Why choose Quark Expeditions?

At the time of writing, Quark Expeditions has 200 reviews on Tripadvisor, with more than 80% of these giving a 5-star rating. With over 30 years of expertise in polar travel, and a fleet that includes purpose-built expedition vessels capable of navigating remote ice-packed regions, it’s no wonder they are regarded as an ideal choice for polar adventurers.

With Quark you’ll enjoy access to some of the most pristine and untouched places on Earth. Not only that but the small group sizes and the high ratio of experienced guides to guests provides travellers with a more personalised experience, whilst their “Polar Promise” that the fragile polar ecosystems are preserved for future generations.

Traveling solo with Quark Expeditions

Quark Expeditions also excels when it comes to looking after solo travellers. The ships are designed to foster a sense of community – whether that be through dinner discussions or small group excursions. But there is also plenty of time for quiet moments of reflection on deck should you prefer your own personal space.

As a solo traveller with Quark Expeditions you will be able to connect with like-minded adventurers, engage in activities that collectively challenge and inspire you, and yet still find solitude in the beauty of polar nature. These joureys can also help solo travellers to step out of their comfort zone and explore landscapes that few have seen.

Arctic expeditions

Imagine a landscape of vast tundras, towering glaciers and elusive wildlife. Sightings of polar bears, walruses and Arctic foxes are all possible, but the beauty of the trip is no adventure is the same. Quark Expeditions offer a broad range of Arctic itineraries, including voyages through Iceland, the Norwegian Arctic and Greenland.

On board, solo travelers will find flexible accommodation options: shared cabins for those looking to meet others, or private cabins for those seeking a more solitary experience. As a guest, you can find a balance between being alone with nature and enjoying camaraderie with like-minded adventurers, in a way that suits you. Kayak alone alongside a glacier or socialise with others during evening discussions led by polar experts… the choice is yours!

Everything you need to plan your trip in 2025

🌟 Luxury hotel deals from Booking
🏡 Vacation rentals from VRBO
✈️ Flights from KIWI
🛫 Private jets from Private Jet Finder
🅿️ Airport parking from ParkVia
🛋️ Airport lounges from Priority Pass
🚖 Airport taxis from Welcome Pickups
🚗 Car rentals from Discover Cars
🚐 Luxury RV rentals from RVshare
🚢 Cruises from Cruise Direct
🛥️ Ferries from Direct Ferries
🎫 Attractions tickets from Tiqets
🏞️ Tours from Viator or GetYourGuide

🛡️ Travel insurance from Safety Wing
🏥 Medical insurance from World Nomads
🧳 Luggage from Case Luggage
🛅 Luggage storage from Stasher
📚 Travel guides from Lonely Planet
📕 eBooks from Kindle Unlimited
🎧 Audiobooks from Audible
🎬 Movies from Prime Video UK
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💶 Travel currency from Wise
📱 SIMs from SimOptions
🌐 VPNs from ExpressVPN or NordVPN
🛂 Visas from iVisa

Antarctic adventures

The White Continent awaits for solo travelers exploring Antarctica with Quark Expeditions – a place where penguin colonies are dwarfed by towering icebergs, and small boat excursions allow you to set foot on this otherworldly landscape.

This is a frozen wilderness where solo travelers can immerse themselves in activities at their own pace, whether it be observing majestic whales breaching or trying your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. And for a rather thrilling (but also chilling!) experience, would you challenge yourself and take a polar plunge?

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by The Authentic Cruise Company.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.

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12 Comments

  1. Looking for a big tick on my bucket list soon next to an Arctic expedition. I’d love to do the Antarctic. I worry that that could be beyond my pocket money.

  2. There’s a definite art to travelling solo. I’ve made some great friends on cruises when I’ve been sat on the same table as some very interesting people. You soon find out that you’ve got more in common than the travels you’ve done on the cruise.

  3. Misreading that headline I thought it was about trekking across the ice plain on my own! I’m glad it isn’t.

  4. I had heard about these Antarctic expeditions and this is the first time that I’ve taken a serious look at one. It all looks very well throughout and very impressive.

  5. Still waiting to do my first cruise probably because I have doubts about being on a ginormous floating town. The promise of quieter moments of reflection on a smaller ship appeals to me.

  6. As everyone is wearing the same yellow coats it looks as if there’s some help from Quark on clothing. Most guests wouldn’t want to buy polar survival kit that they’d never use again.

  7. This sounds amazing! Exploring the Arctic and Antarctic solo with Quark Expeditions must be an unforgettable experience. Thanks for sharing.

  8. Suddenly as if from nowhere Arctic and Antarctic cruises and expeditions have soared onto my travel bucket list. They seem to have a much higher profile than they ever did before. I’m guessing that’s probably because the comforts they provide in challenging conditions are so luxurious.

  9. Companies who willingly accept that there are solo travellers always give themselves a big advantage.

    I’ve had some of the most interesting conversations of my life at dinner tables of solo travels. Somehow these situations encourage travellers to open up.

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