Quark Ultramarine Assessment – Finest Polar Expedition Ship [2024]

Having spent 6 weeks throughout 3 completely different journeys onboard this stunning ship (with yet another journey developing quickly), we’re thrilled to share all of our expertise on this complete Quark Ultramarine evaluate.

The thriller of the polar areas has been charming explorers for hundreds of years, with intrepid seafarers navigating treacherous seas searching for the good unknown onboard questionable vessels.

It wasn’t that way back, comparatively, {that a} journey to the Arctic or Antarctic could be shrouded in uncertainty of whether or not the ship would survive the journey.

This uncertainty is now not a priority, and in the previous few years the usual polar expedition ship has developed to turn into a grasp of the seas, full of the very best expertise obtainable and onboard luxurious that rivals even the best 5-star inns.

Some would say that this has taken away from the romance of a distant expedition, with a couple of corporations now taking huge cruise ships to the furthest reaches of the planet.

Just a few core operators have caught to the concept of journey although, opting as a substitute to remain true to their values and solely run small-ship excursions with capped passenger numbers, whereas upgrading the general expertise and luxury.

One such firm is Quark Expeditions, the leaders in distinctive and accountable polar journeys.

Boasting a small but spectacular fleet of rugged, research-style ships, they’ve now welcomed into their arsenal the world-class MV Ultramarine, arguably one of many most interesting vessels to sail the Antarctic and Arctic oceans.

Commissioned completely by Quark and constructed in 2021, the MV Ultramarine is a purpose-built polar exploration ship to provide company and crew the perfect, most secure and most snug experiences, to an extent beforehand unseen within the expedition trade.

We have been fortunate sufficient to spend a complete month onboard the Ultramarine on its inaugural season within the western Arctic, and having travelled the world on quite a lot of small-group ships, from luxurious yachts to Russian analysis vessels, we are able to attest that the Ultramarine lives as much as its status.

READ MORE: Take a look at our complete journey evaluate of the Northwest Passage: Within the Footsteps of Franklin journey we did onboard the Ultramarine.

In our complete Ultramarine evaluate we share our ideas on the ship, discover each cabin and deck and decide whether or not this new fashion shouldn’t be solely appropriate however useful for polar adventures.

Introducing the MV Ultramarine

With expertise working within the polar areas since 1991, the Quark Expeditions workforce drew up a dream listing of what would make the proper polar ship and set to work designing the final word vessel.

Contracting the naval architects LMG Marin in Norway and the shipbuilders Brodosplit and Viktor Lenac Shipyard’s in Croatia, Quark have been concerned in each facet of the method to deliver this dream to life.

The top result’s the Ultramarine, the latest, ice-strengthened polar tour ship designed particularly for navigating the Arctic and Antarctic, with a precedence on maximising visitor expertise on this a part of the world.

The MV Ultramarine can maintain a most of 199 passengers (200 folks is the utmost quantity that may go away any ship on the similar time within the Antarctic in response to IAATO laws) and 140 crew, so not solely does it move this necessary passenger restrict rule, there’s substantial workers obtainable to cowl all wants and necessities for high-end cruise executions.

With a deal with environmentally accountable tourism, Quark ensured that the Ultramarine additionally utilises essentially the most sustainable tech obtainable to function, together with particular methods to transform waste to vitality, minimise gas consumption and navigate slender passages with out impacting the land or seabed.

Luxurious is paramount onboard, and each nook blends spacious performance with high-end facilities and tasteful decorations.

EXCLUSIVE – We’ve got partnered with the world’s prime polar tour operator, Quark Expeditions, to supply readers of NOMADasaurus a really particular deal on any journey to Antarctica or the Arctic! Contact us (hi there@nomadasaurus.com) in case you’d wish to study extra.

There are 8 decks with completely different fashion cabins, lounge, two bars, two eating places, presentation room, gymnasium, spa, reception, prepared room and a fully-stocked retailer.

The most recent addition and controversial spotlight is the 2 twin engine helicopters that enable for off ship experiences comparable to scenic flights and landings in locations few folks have ever seen.

Let’s dive deeper into every cabin and deck in our Quark Expeditions’ Ultramarine evaluate.

The Cabins

There are 9 kinds of cabins onboard the Ultramarine catering for all types, teams and budgets.

These vary from the decrease Explorer Cabin proper via to the unbelievable Extremely Suite, however fact be instructed there’s no ‘lesser’ cabin on the Ultramarine.

Each cabin, no matter class, consists of:

• Comfy beds with top quality pillows, mattress and thread-count sheets
• Flat-screen TV with films, documentaries and stay streaming of displays
• Non-public toilet with full-size bathe and heated flooring
• Baggage and clothes storage
• Lockable secure
• Sitting space
• Small fridge
• Wifi entry

READ MORE: Our detailed Greenland Journey cruise evaluate with Quark Expeditions is now stay! Don’t miss it in case you’re searching for extra unbelievable Arctic tour concepts.

The Explorer Cabins have massive home windows (not portholes), Solo Panorama has flooring to ceiling home windows, and each cabin above that has their very own non-public balcony.

When you’re travelling solo and don’t thoughts sharing with one other adventurer you possibly can go for the Explorer Triple, or in case you’d like your personal solo cabin the Solo Panorama means you received’t must share.

Stepping as much as the Suites company can get pleasure from a personal additional large balcony, remoted bathroom, bathtubs and even a separate sitting space.

Many cabins have a selection between a big queen or king-sized mattress, or twin beds, so whether or not you’re travelling with a partner or buddy/member of the family you may be catered for.

We personally stayed in a Balcony Suite and located this to be the proper measurement for us, with ample room to unfold out, cost our digital camera gear and benefit from the balcony for a quiet drink whereas admiring the impeccable views of the Arctic.

The Panorama Lounge and Bar

Positioned on the bow on Deck 7 is the Panorama Lounge, the final word social hub on the Ultramarine.

It’s excellent place for company to loosen up and unwind on the finish if a giant day’s exploration or to relax within the morning with a cup of espresso whereas watching the landscapes move by.

You’ll discover a mixture of snug chairs and sprawling couches to unfold out on this spacious lounge, and plenty of electrical energy retailers in case you’d wish to plug your laptop computer in and edit images and movies.

There’s a fully-stocked bar providing boutique beers, wines, cocktails, mocktails, gentle drinks and snacks, and a espresso and tea station with a push-to-operate espresso machine.

On the again you’ll discover a library and studying space with numerous books centered on the wildlife, landscapes and historical past of the polar areas obtainable to borrow.

Show models showcasing native artwork and relics are scattered across the room, and a full-size reproduction of the bridge exhibiting real-time info is on the entrance.

Binoculars and scopes are offered freed from cost for visitor use too.

The rationale the Panorama Lounge will get its title although is the large home windows that wrap across the room, giving 180-degree views so you possibly can sit and stare out whereas protected against the weather.

This room additionally provides entry to the big Panorama Deck for the perfect out-in-the-elements vistas, which is the place you’ll discover all of the company hanging when navigating sea ice, slender passages or when recognizing wildlife.

After we weren’t sleeping, consuming or out on excursions, we spent nearly all of our time right here within the Panorama Lounge consuming espresso and making associates.

That is additionally the place we noticed our first ever polar bear and noticed a pod of 30 orcas encompass the ship, so it pays to all the time be prepared with digital camera useful.

The Balena Restaurant

The principle restaurant on the ship is the Balena Restaurant, which has quite a lot of completely different sized tables for company to take a seat at, from intimate two-person units and round cubicles to massive, spherical tables excellent for teams.

Positioned on Deck 5, there’s two sections to the Balena Restaurant – the entrance part which is extra like a lounge and the intense, again part which has extra of a diner really feel.

Within the center is an extended, double-sided buffet, devoted dessert station, small bar the place day by day particular meals themes are provided (comparable to stir fry or sushi) and a soup station.

The Balena Restaurant has self-serve meals in the course of the day, a-la-carte at night time, and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Bistro 487

When you’d desire a extra informal and quieter meal you’ll discover Bistro 487 on Deck 7.

That is the proper place to seize one thing fast and simple, and there’s each indoor and out of doors seating preparations.

The Bistro was closed to company throughout our Arctic journey and as a substitute was the devoted workers consuming space as a result of COVID restrictions.

As soon as the pandemic is over workers will eat with company and the Bistro 487 shall be open to everyone.

The Ambassador Theatre

One of many highlights of any journey to the polar areas is the chance to study from specialists within the trade, and Quark Expeditions has prided themselves on hiring the world’s greatest and most celebrated leaders.

From marine biologists and ornithologists to skilled photographers and polar historians, company are continually educated on each facet of their journey to make sure they’ve a deeper understanding of the locations they’re travelling.

The polar specialists aren’t simply discovered within the discipline sharing their data – they typically put collectively in-depth displays with slideshows, movies and details on sea days and between shore excursions.

The Ambassador Theatre on the Ultramarine is the place these lectures normally happen, and this large auditorium is supplied with sufficient house for each visitor to hitch.

There’s a excessive decision LED display on the entrance and extra TVs on the perimeters so everyone can see what’s being displayed, and a very good audio setup all through.

When you’re feeling thirsty there’s additionally a small bar and also you’re welcome to deliver your personal drinks too.

These displays are additionally broadcasted stay to each cabin, so if you wish to watch one of many lectures however don’t really feel like leaving your room you possibly can swap on the TV and never miss something.

Within the evenings the Ambassador Theatre is the place the end-of-day wrap-ups by the expedition leaders happen.

The Tundra Spa and Sauna

Simply since you’re in furthest reaches of the planet doesn’t imply your physique has to undergo, and the Tundra Spa on the Ultramarine ensures that you simply’ll be as refreshed and pampered as doable throughout your voyage.

Certified spa and sweetness therapists supply a spread of remedies, from full-body massages to facials, and these may be booked instantly on board.

There’s additionally a steam room, non-public showers, lounges and our private favorite facilities – the Tundra Sauna.

The Tundra Sauna is an impeccably-designed full-size timber sauna with panoramic home windows staring out to the strict facet of the ship.

We didn’t personally get any spa remedies right here (we did use the sauna and steam room although), however the company we chatted to who did all raved about it.

Health Heart

Don’t do what we did and placed on weight throughout your voyage (hey, the desserts and meals have been simply too good).

As an alternative hit up the Health Heart, full of cutting-edge gymnasium tools together with weights, treadmills, a rowing machine and bicycles.

The Prepared Rooms

Down on Deck 2, the place you hop on and off the ship, are two massive ‘Prepared Rooms’ for company to retailer their moist climate and chilly climate expedition gear and prep for excursions.

You’ll be assigned a locker if you test in, and that is the place you’ll discover your private floatation machine (PFD), mosquito head nets and equipped muck boots to alter into earlier than heading out for zodiac adventures.

By having these Prepared Rooms company will guarantee they don’t trek mud via the ship, whereas additionally stopping cross contamination, and you can too preserve your waterproof pants and jacket right here in case you’d wish to preserve your cabins clear by not bringing in moist outerwear.

Visitors are break up into zodiac teams to make sure the Prepared Rooms are by no means too crowded.

Reception

When you ever have any questions on your cabin, voyage or expertise, head right down to the reception on Deck 3 the place the pleasant workers can reply something in your thoughts, or immediately monitor down one other member of the workforce to assist.

Throughout from the Reception can be a small media centre with two public computer systems the place you possibly can edit your images and movies, or dump your content material into the shared folders for different company to make use of.

Polar Boutique

The Polar Boutique on Deck 3 is the Ultramarine Store the place you should buy absolutely anything you want, or need, in your journey.

This isn’t only a memento retailer with t-shirts and plush toys. It’s additionally a fully-stocked journey gear store, with gloves, beanies, pants, jackets and digital camera tools in case you’ve forgotten something at house.

It’s fairly priced as nicely. We purchased some pairs of Icebreaker thermals they usually have been the identical worth as what we’d pay again house in Australia.

The Bridge

The Bridge on Deck 6 is the place the captain and his officers spend all their time controlling the Ultramarine via the Arctic and Antarctic.

Usually the ship has an ‘open bridge’ coverage, that means company are welcome to return in and hand around in the bridge each time they’d like (aside from in troublesome sea or navigating circumstances), however throughout out journey it was closed as a result of COVID insurance policies.

We’ll replace this text when there is no such thing as a longer a restriction on company visiting the bridge.

The Decks

To date you’ve heard all about how superb it’s contained in the ship, however let’s be sincere – when one thing thrilling is occurring outdoors the final place you’re going to be is sitting in your cabin watching TV.

You’re going to wish to be out on the decks watching the expertise unfold, and fortunately the Ultramarine has 360-degree views due to its three predominant public decks.

Entrance View Decks

On decks 5 and seven you’ll discover large open-air decks on the bow of the ship, which is the proper place to hold when the ship is pushing its manner via locations just like the Lemaire Channel or Disko Bay.

Rear Decks

Behind the Ambassador Lounge is the rear deck, which has sufficient room to run round with cameras and watch the drama of the polar plunge unfold beneath you.

Wraparound Deck

If you need to do some strolling laps on the Ultramarine then Deck 5 is the place to do it.

With their full wraparound deck house you possibly can get pleasure from a stroll or view the panorama or wildlife from all angles.

They even have fastened chairs out the again so that you can sit and finish the view from the again of the ship.

The Ultramarine Expertise

The ship itself gives the final word base for distant journey in true consolation, however your complete expertise of being on board the Quark Ultramarine is what makes it the perfect polar expedition ship within the trade.

The Crew

Throughout our month travelling the Arctic with Quark Expeditions, there have been plenty of unbelievable recollections, incredible experiences and nice surprises.

The locations have been thoughts blowing, the ship was every thing we hoped it could be, however fact be instructed what actually made our journey as spectacular because it was got here right down to the crew onboard.

We’re not speaking in regards to the Quark Expedition Crew (who have been excellent), however the resort and restaurant workers of the Ultramarine who’re a everlasting fixture.

Quark’s Ultramarine crew are an incredible bunch of the nicest and most attentive folks we’ve ever come throughout in our greater than 15 years travelling the world.

Hailing from a complete number of nations, together with the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan, Bosnia & Herzegovina, the UK and lots extra, the workers took care of our each want with a stage of service we’d by no means seen earlier than.

Our room attendant, Nieves was like a caring sister who went out of her manner to make sure each a part of our keep was excellent. The identical was stated of each different company’ room crew too.

The reception workers all the time had a smile on their faces and no concern was too large to resolve.

The restaurant, cooks and bar workers…the place can we even begin?

From day 1 they memorised each single passenger’s title and dietary necessities, they usually have been a relentless supply of laughter and camaraderie for us.

They took the time to get to know all of us personally, whereas cracking jokes, checking on our journey expertise and catering to each want.

The ship officers, engineers and everyone else have been past something we ever might have anticipated.

By the top of the journey, these folks had turn into our associates, and we might journey onboard the Ultramarine once more only for them.

We might write a complete article nearly how particular the crew of the Ultramarine are, however belief us once we say they’re the guts and soul of the ship.

Meals

A ship of this calibre has delicacies to match, and the meals onboard was so good we really gained weight regardless of all of the actions.

Each meal has all kinds of choices to cater for all diets, necessities and wishes.

Breakfast included every thing from totally cooked spreads and pastries (ready by the devoted pastry chef) to wholesome muesli and fruits.

Lunches have been buffet fashion, and they might typically have meals themes comparable to Mexican, sushi, stir fries and extra.

For dinner the meals are a la carte, and the menu normally covers dishes with crimson meat, hen, fish and vegetarian choices.

The meals might be as fancy or so simple as you need, and in case you simply felt like a steak and chips for instance that was made to order and not using a second’s hesitation.

Each single day was a unique menu, and excluding breakfast we hardly ever got here throughout the identical factor twice.

And the desserts…

At lunch there’s a full dessert station with ice cream, gelato, pastries, cookies and different delicacies, and at time for dinner you’ll discover basic fare comparable to crème brûlée or tiramisu (with ice cream and brownies all the time obtainable.

Each single meal we’d say to ourselves ‘no dessert’ after which we’d see what was out and we’d collapse.

Drinks

You’ll discover each sort of drink you’d ever need within the restaurant and bars, from cocktails and craft beer to effective wine and gentle drink.

Throughout meal instances wine and beer is included, and out of doors of meals you possibly can cost these to your room.

The costs are fairly cheap too (USD$3.50 for a bottle of native beer for instance), which is the exact opposite of what you discover on regular cruise ships.

There’s a espresso machine and tea station within the Panorama Lounge that’s open 24 hours a day, and filter water machines on each deck.

Embarkation

Deck 2 is the place you get on and off the ship, and since the Ultramarine was designed from the bottom up for optimum passenger expertise, this might not be any simpler.

The ship has 4 embarkation factors at water stage – two on the strict, one on the starboard and one on the port.

This ensures that the expedition workforce can load and unload zodiacs on whichever facet is calmest for minimal danger.

Whenever you’re on the embarkation factors a number of Ultramarine crew are all the time there to carry onto, and they’re absolute specialists at getting the zodiacs safe.

For landings the place you possibly can stroll off the ship they’ve an extended, ramped gangway such as you’ll discover on different cruise traces.

Zodiac and Kayak Launch

The strict of deck 2 is the place all of the zodiacs and kayaks are saved in an enclosed, safe setting.

There are two hydraulic lifts on both facet of the ship to assist deploy the tools in a short time, which implies if one thing particular occurs (a pod of whales seems for instance) and the expedition chief needs to get execute some spontaneous off ship adventures, the zodiacs may be dropped into the water in a matter of minutes.

The Helicopters

After all the primary drawcard of the MV Ultramarine are the 2 helicopters they’ve onboard, which permit for off ship adventures have beforehand been all however not possible for the common particular person within the polar areas.

The 2 twin engine Airbus H145 helicopters are model new, cutting-edge and gas environment friendly choppers, flown by skilled ex-British army pilots and maintained by military-trained engineers.

These helicopters are used for quite a lot of progressive itineraries and actions, together with sightseeing flights, heli-skiing, -hiking, -kayaking and -mountain biking, direct entry to distant polar wilderness and extra.

Seeing locations just like the Antarctic Peninsula or southern coasts of Greenland by air is one thing you’ll always remember, and Quark are pioneering any such expertise within the expedition cruising trade.

Know-how and Security on the Ultramarine

The MV Ultramarine is supplied with the very best requirements in ship expertise and superior security methods making it one of the vital sustainable and safe vessels within the sea.

The ice strengthened hull can set sail at a gentle 16 knots with innovative security options permitting the captain to navigate even the narrowest of passages.

Dynamic positioning is feasible through GPS, that means the Ultramarine doesn’t must drop its anchor to remain in the identical spot.

Model new evacuation life rafts are fully-equipped to maintain each visitor and crew member secure within the unlikely occasion of an emergency.

MAGS Waste System

One closing aspect of the Ultramarine we wish to point out is the revolutionary Micro Auto Gasification System, or MAGS.

MAGS are the onboard waste dealing with methods which flip the waste produced into extra vitality to energy the ship electrical energy.

In cruising an enormous quantity of wast is produced, and fortunately accountable operators like Quark have profoundly dedicated to not dumping it into the ocean (not like another cruise ship corporations in recent times).

However somewhat than retailer it till they’ll unload on a distant group within the Arctic or South America, the Ultramarine can use that waste in a cost-effective and sustainable manner.

With sustainable and accountable tourism extra necessary than ever, particularly when travelling to essentially the most remoted locations on this planet, it’s refreshing to see Quark Expeditions main the way in which and bettering trade requirements with methods like this.

Ultimate Ideas – 9/10

That’s it for our Quark Ultramarine evaluate, and we hope we’ve managed to reply all of your questions on this contemporary expedition ship.

Whereas not excellent (for instance we want correct bow entry was obtainable like on different vessels somewhat than simply decks 5 and seven), it’s carved its solution to be the best, most superior ship navigating the polar areas.

Having travelled on Russian analysis vessels in Antarctica, luxurious yachts within the Galapagos, schooners within the Chilean fjords and huge cruise ships within the Pacific, we are able to actually say we’ve by no means cruised on a vessel as stunning and sumptuous because the Ultramarine.

Whereas Quark Expeditions nonetheless have the rugged fan favourites of Ocean Adventurer, Ocean Diamond and World Explorer (the previous we’re travelling on for our NOMADasaurus Tour of Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands), the Ultramarine will quickly turn into the usual that different expedition corporations look to match.

With its subsequent stage cabin comforts, excessive finish security options, off ship journey potentialities due to the 2 helicopters and huge vary of amenities just like the Tundra Spa and Ambassador Theatre, you’ll be exhausting pressed to seek out something higher for expedition travelling.

When you’re attempting to decide on a visit within the Arctic or Antarctic, and you’ve got the selection of which ship you may be on, we extremely advocate the Ultramarine.

Quark Ultramarine Assessment – Finest Polar Expedition Ship [2023]

We spent a month travelling on Quark Expeditions’ latest polar exploration vessel. In our Quark Ultramarine evaluate we share what it is like onboard.

Product Model:
Quark Expeditions

Professionals

• Excessive-end luxurious in a small ship
• Twin helicopters onboard
• Excellent ship crew
• Trendy, sustainable design