In July, I had the incredible opportunity to travel with my daughter on Quark Expeditions’ Ultimate Arctic Voyage: Svalbard – Jan Mayen – Iceland. Over 13 unforgettable days, we explored some of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on Earth aboard the Ultramarine—a state-of-the-art ship that carries just 199 passengers. It was an adventure that combined thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and moments of quiet reflection that I’ll treasure forever.
From the very start, the service on board stood out. Every member of the team was warm, approachable, and always ready to help. My daughter was on her first-ever voyage, she found it took a couple of days to get her sea legs, the onboard doctor was quick to put her at ease with sea sickness tablets that worked wonders. That kind of thoughtful care set the tone for the entire expedition.
One of the absolute highlights of the trip was seeing polar bears in the wild. I’ll never forget the moment we spotted one feasting on a sperm whale before wandering right up to the ship. To witness such raw power and beauty up close was humbling, and it felt like a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. We also sailed as far north as 83 degrees, deep into the Arctic ice, where the silence and scale of the wilderness made me appreciate just how unique this part of the world is.
Wildlife encounters were plentiful—on different days we saw blue whales surfacing gracefully, colonies of seabirds wheeling above us, and seals lazing on the ice. Each sighting felt like a gift. My tip for future travellers: bring a good pair of binoculars and keep your camera ready at all times, because you never know what you might see around the next corner of ice.
The daily excursions were another highlight. Most days we headed out on the zodiacs, which gave us a chance to get much closer to the coastline and wildlife. We also enjoyed guided hikes across pristine Arctic terrain. I really appreciated that the hikes were tailored to different paces—you could choose a faster, more challenging walk, or a gentler option depending on how you felt that day. This flexibility made it easy for everyone to enjoy the landscape in their own way.
On board, the food exceeded my expectations. Each meal felt like a celebration, with plenty of variety to cater for all palates and dietary needs. At lunch, I often chose from the excellent buffet—fresh salads, hearty hot dishes, and tempting desserts. In the evenings, we enjoyed ordering from the main menu, which offered three or four options for each course. I especially loved the seafood dishes, which were beautifully prepared and full of flavour. My advice here: don’t be afraid to try something new—you might just discover a new favourite.
Evenings on the Ultramarine were relaxed and low key, which was exactly what we needed after full days of exploring. We’d often enjoy a nightcap before retreating to our cabin, grateful for the chance to rest and process everything we’d seen. Entertainment wasn’t about glitz and glamour—it was about connection and learning. Each day featured fascinating talks from the expedition team, covering everything from Arctic wildlife to the effects of climate change and the unique cultures of the region. These sessions added so much depth to what we were experiencing outside; they turned incredible sights into meaningful stories.
Of course, the itinerary itself was remarkable. Exploring the volcanic island of Jan Mayen was a real highlight—its dramatic landscapes felt otherworldly. And ending the voyage in Iceland was the perfect finale, a country whose beauty is legendary for good reason.
Looking back, what struck me most was the balance this trip offered: the thrill of discovery, the comfort of the ship, and the knowledge that every detail had been thought of. The Ultramarine’s amenities—spacious lounges, cozy cabins, and panoramic views everywhere you turned—meant that even quiet moments on board felt special.
Traveling to the Arctic with my daughter reminded me how magical and humbling exploration can be. We returned home with a new perspective, countless memories, and a shared sense of wonder. If you’ve ever dreamed of venturing into the polar regions, I cannot recommend this experience highly enough.
The Arctic is calling—make sure it’s on your list. And if you’re thinking ahead, ask about 2026/27 departures.
Trust me, this is a journey you’ll never forget.
