From the Med to Antarctica: APT & Quark team up on new small ship

APT Travel Group and Quark Expeditions are joining forces on a new purpose-built small ship that will split its time between the Mediterranean and Antarctica.

Scheduled to enter service in 2029, the yet-to-be-named vessel will be operated by Travelmarvel in the Mediterranean, while Quark Expeditions will deploy the ship in Antarctica beginning with the 2029-30 season under a 10-year charter agreement.

Currently under development, the vessel will feature 99 suites, combining the manoeuvrability of a small ship with features designed for expedition cruising in remote regions.

A PC6 ice-class hull will allow the ship to operate in Antarctica, while spacious mudrooms and efficient embarkation and disembarkation areas are being incorporated to help guests move between the vessel and destinations more quickly.

Quark Expeditions will work alongside APT Travel Group during the ship's development, contributing its operational and polar expertise as the vessel is prepared for Antarctic expedition travel.

For Travelmarvel, the ship represents one of the largest investments in the brand's history and will be its first ocean vessel designed and built specifically for the company.

Its smaller scale will also allow Travelmarvel to access smaller ports and destinations in the Mediterranean that are beyond the reach of larger cruise ships.

“Partnering with Quark Expeditions allows us to maximise the potential of this incredible vessel year-round, pairing our strengths in relaxed, enriching ocean cruising with Quark’s unmatched expertise in polar expedition travel” said David Cox, CEO of APT Travel Group, in a release. “This is about giving guests access to two extraordinary experiences on one ship, backed by two of the best names in travel.”

For Quark Expeditions, the vessel will add to its expedition fleet and provide another option for travellers exploring Antarctica, with an emphasis on active experiences both aboard and away from the ship.

“This partnership brings together complementary expertise and a shared commitment to thoughtful small-ship exploration,” said Sam Seward, president of Quark Expeditions, in a release.

“By collaborating with APT Travel Group during the development process, we have an opportunity to help prepare a ship that is truly built for exploration, with the capabilities and operational features needed to help guests get off the ship efficiently and experience more of Antarctica.”

The partnership announcement coincides with Seward's visit to Australia, where he is meeting with the APT Travel Group team, travel trade partners and media.

The companies said additional details, including the vessel's name, full specifications and inaugural Mediterranean and Antarctic itineraries, will be released closer to its launch.

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