Quark Expeditions Policies: Everything in One Place
This page pulls together the Quark Expeditions policies our advisors get asked about most - cancellation rules, baggage limits, booking and deposit terms, dining, gratuities, and more. Each topic has its own dedicated page linked below with the full details.
Quark's cancellation terms scale with proximity to departure, with your deposit becoming non-refundable ahead of a set cutoff and penalties increasing in stages as the voyage approaches, reaching 100% in the final weeks before departure. Given the highly specialized, often once-in-a-lifetime nature of polar voyages, confirming the exact current schedule for your specific expedition is especially worthwhile.
Since the fine print on Quark Expeditions's policies can differ by sailing date and fare type, checking with one of our advisors before you commit is the most reliable way to know where you stand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find Quark Expeditions's cancellation policy?
Quark's cancellation terms scale with proximity to departure, with your deposit becoming non-refundable ahead of a set cutoff and penalties increasing in stages as the voyage approaches, reaching 100% in the final weeks before departure. Given the highly specialized, often once-in-a-lifetime nature of polar voyages, confirming the exact current schedule for your specific expedition is especially worthwhile.
Does Quark Expeditions charge for checked baggage?
As the operator of the largest polar expedition fleet, Quark doesn't enforce a strict baggage limit, though expedition parkas and boots are often provided or available for rent, reducing the specialized gear you need to pack yourself.
How much is the deposit to book Quark Expeditions?
A per-person deposit is due at booking, with the exact amount and final payment date varying by itinerary given the specialized nature of polar expedition planning.
Are gratuities included in the Quark Expeditions fare?
Gratuity expectations vary by voyage - confirming whether tips are included or left to guest discretion for your specific Quark expedition is worthwhile before you travel.
What's Quark Expeditions's Wi-Fi policy?
Wi-Fi is available but can be limited or unreliable on Quark's remote polar itineraries given the challenging satellite coverage in Antarctica and the Arctic.
Who can walk me through all of Quark Expeditions's policies at once?
Call +1-800-406-8495 and one of our advisors can go through cancellation, baggage, dining, and any other policy questions specific to your upcoming Quark Expeditions sailing.
How does Quark Expeditions's check-in process work?
Check-in and travel documentation are managed through Quark's guest portal ahead of your voyage, typically alongside a mandatory pre-departure briefing given the specialized polar logistics involved.
What documents does Quark Expeditions require for boarding?
A passport valid 6+ months beyond your return date is required, and Quark maintains the strictest insurance requirements of any major expedition operator: a minimum $500,000 medical evacuation coverage and trip cancellation coverage equal to the full cost of your trip.
Does Quark Expeditions have a loyalty program worth joining?
Quark doesn't run a formal points-based loyalty program, though repeat polar travelers are often extended goodwill perks and priority access to popular departures.
What's Quark Expeditions's policy on sailing with kids?
Quark's demanding polar itineraries generally set higher minimum ages than mainstream cruise lines given the physical requirements of zodiac landings and extreme climates - confirm the specific age requirement for your chosen voyage.