News
When Quark's first new-build vessel, Ultramarine, launched in 2020, the headline-grabbing feature was two twin-engine helicopters, operated from two helidecks, allowing guests to simultaneously experience new destinations accessible only by air and to enjoy unique aerial perspectives of the polar regions.
We were particularly excited to see Quark run a programme quite different from others. A flightseeing experience is included for all guests, providing no local restrictions preventing helicopter use, and the programme allows for a number of exciting adventure activities such as heli-landings, camping, and more, particularly in Greenland, where restrictions allow greater use.
Since its launch, Quark has had to contend with an ever-changing regulatory landscape, which rightly ensures the environments in which they sail are protected, whilst also delivering exceptional guest experiences. Now offering an impressive array of excursions in the Arctic on 2027 sailings, here we take a look at some of the most exciting.
Ice Sheet Experience
Understanding the scale of the Greenland Ice Sheet, the second-largest ice mass in the world, can only be truly done from above. On Quarks' South Greenland Adventure voyage, it is exactly this that can be achieved: flying over and then landing on the ice, learning about the dynamics of this environment from the team of glaciologists.
Greenland Camp Experience
The increased range of exploration that the helicopters provide is demonstrated superbly on the Greenland Camp Experience. Guests fly to join local hosts and camp by the 70km long Tasermiut Fjord. Available to a small group of guests and with ample time to enjoy this locally led activity, you can roam the tundra with a local chef who will showcase local ingredients and then prepare an incredible meal. You'll sleep in comfortable two-person tents enjoying the magnificent colours of the polar twilight in beautiful mountainous surroundings.
Exclusive Heli-Landing
The remoteness achieved on a polar expedition cruise and the overwhelming scale of the natural surroundings make for a humbling experience. So far removed from our day-to-day environment, it feels like you're on a different planet. This overwhelming feeling of isolation and insignificance is multiplied when setting foot in an area of the world that can only be safely accessed by helicopter. Quarks heli-landings operate with a small group of fellow passengers and expert guides. Soar off to an exclusive polar site where no ships can navigate. Expect stunning bird's-eye views during your flight, and then, upon arrival, simply take it all in - glacial amphitheatres, breath-taking summits, and more. Traveling in groups of 12 with no more than 4 groups at a time on each landing, you'll have time to relax and quietly reflect on the beauty of your polar surroundings, after which you'll be picked up by the helicopters in the same location and returned to Ultramarine.
Each heli-landing experience is uniquely curated by the expedition team, taking conditions and location capacity into consideration.
Of course, poor weather can restrict the use of helicopters, with safety being of paramount importance, but these excursions are in addition to more common ways to explore, including Zodiac cruising and landings, hiking, kayaking, and even mountain biking.
Meet the Author
Related articles
You may also like
Quark Expeditions review: Ultramarine in the Arctic
9 Best Small Ship Expedition Cruises to Antarctica
Extreme Antarctica Cruises: 7 of the most exciting expeditions for 2026 & 2027
