APT Travel Group and Quark Expeditions have announced a partnership for a new purpose-built small ship that will operate in both the Mediterranean and Antarctica.
Scheduled to enter service in 2029, the yet-to-be-named vessel will feature 99 suites and become the first ocean ship designed and built specifically for Travelmarvel.
Travelmarvel will operate the ship in the Mediterranean, while Quark Expeditions will take it to Antarctica under a 10-year charter agreement beginning with the 2029–30 season.
The ship is currently under development and is being designed to combine the manoeuvrability and access of a small vessel with the capabilities required to operate in some of the world’s most remote regions.
Its PC6 ice-class hull will enable Antarctic operations, while expedition facilities will include spacious mudrooms and efficient embarkation and disembarkation areas. These are intended to help guests move quickly and comfortably between the ship and their destination.
Quark will work closely with APT Travel Group throughout the vessel’s development, contributing more than three decades of polar and operational expertise.
For Travelmarvel, the ship represents one of the most significant investments in the brand’s history and a major expansion of its ocean cruising ambitions.
Its smaller scale will allow Travelmarvel to visit Mediterranean ports and destinations 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,” APT Travel Group CEO David Cox said.
“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 another purpose-built ship to its polar fleet and support its focus on giving guests more time exploring away from the ship.
“This partnership brings together complementary expertise and a shared commitment to thoughtful small-ship exploration,” Quark Expeditions President Sam Seward said.
“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 announcement coincides with Seward’s visit to Australia to meet the APT Travel Group team, travel trade partners and media.
The vessel’s name, complete specifications and inaugural Mediterranean and Antarctic itineraries will be announced closer to its 2029 launch.
