The leader in polar adventures for 3 decades, Quark Expeditions, celebrated the steel-cutting of line's pioneering newbuild on Monday, January 28, launching a new chapter in polar exploration.
The official ceremony took place at the shipyard of Quark Expeditions’ partner, Brodosplit, and was attended by companies' senior executives, including Andrew White, President of Quark Expeditions, and Tomislav Debeljak, CEO of DIV Group.
The new ship from the cruise line is the first of the kind, combining long-range operational capability, advanced safety systems, and leading-edge technology, to reach new frontiers in exploration.
The newbuild, at 128 meters long, with a 21.5-meter beam and at 13,500 GT which is due to set sail in 2020, will be able to accommodate up to 200 guests in spacious staterooms and public areas and offer an unparalleled array of adventures.
With an interior Zodiac hangar and 4 embarkation points, dual helicopters with simultaneously operable helidecks, and cutting-edge safety features, the ship is expected to help Quark Expeditions deliver the polar adventure's thrill in unmatched ways.
Travelers will benefit from 11 cabin categories, indoor and outdoor dining options, modern fitness and spa facilities, and a rapid helicopter and Zodiac deployment system which allows for efficient movement on and off the cruise ship.
The numerous innovations will minimize the environmental footprint to an extent that was previously unseen for a ship of comparable sizes, such as the use of entirely recyclable materials to build it, state-of-the-art waste handling, leading-edge heat recovery system which recycles excess energy back into the vessel, and a sophisticated water treatment system. The dynamic positioning technology also means no need to anchor thus avoiding damage to the sensitive seabed ecosystems.
The newbuild goes on sale in Spring 2019, with the launch of an inaugural Antarctic 2020-2021 season.