Quark Expeditions

I was incredibly impressed with the expedition + expedition leader + captain + crew to pivot out of crappy weather to explore and make our trip a benchmark trip regardless of how crap the weather was. You cannot control cloudy (no aurora), but you can push the expedition to new heights by exploring new areas and getting amongst some very rare Ice and Ice Formations. They pushed to find some bear sightings which was very cool. The zodiac cruises were fantastic as I found the walks to be a bit lack-luster. They kayak and kayak guide Sharon were incredible! It was the only single physically active thing to do on the whole trip. She was very good with us, a great guide, very knowledgeable and did a great job! I think the trip didnt offer enough in the way of physical activity. the hikes and even the 'fast' hikes were a little weak. the kayak was great for that. I think the bar not being open between lunch and 5pm was a mistake. people are on vacation and if everything is cancelled due to weather...or even they just want to relax with a glass of wine rather than go on a hike, they paid several thousand(!) dollars to do so....im sure there are reason for shifts/etc. but perhaps train and ask a different bartender for that short period. youll make more money and it gives people more of a "vacation" option...especially when there are wake up calls and everything is so frantic. Having a chance to relax is an important option. (especially looking at the average age of your clients)

Great trip. 2-3 additional days would enhance it, giving the guests more time off the ship. Ice and rough seas slowed us down and we never quite made up for the lost time.

Great trip. I sunbitted my review on the last day of the trip. I forgot to mention one thing: the gym. The gym on our ship was unsatisfactory. No mats, lousy space, 2 machines which worked, one which didn't. The trip was excellent and had substantial periods of down-time. For passengers who need more exercise, a functional and well equipped gym would be greatly appreciated. Throw in a steam room or sauna and you have a great package!

The trip was such an incredible experience. The staff were professional, friendly, and a never-ending resource of knowledge. Our accommodation was comfortable, the food was delicious, and the ship was well designed for the trip. We hiked, did zodiac tours, attended information sessions, participated in games and did some relaxing. We look forward to the opportunity to travel with Quark again.

It was a fantastic voyage!