Ocean Explorer
Ocean Explorer
Ocean Explorer is a modern, elegant, luxury-expedition vessel purpose-built for polar exploration. With its sleek design and the innovative ULSTEIN X-BOW®, it delivers remarkably smooth passage through the Drake Passage and challenging polar seas. Designed with a boutique capacity of just 138 guests, the ship offers immersive, high-end experiences—panoramic verandas, two outdoor Jacuzzis, a two-story light-filled library, and ample observation decks—perfect for adventure without sacrificing comfort. Fueled by sustainability technology like fuel-efficient Rolls‑Royce engines and a MAGS waste-to-energy system, Ocean Explorer blends luxury with conscientious exploration.
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Ship Statistics
2010
Launch Year
10944
Gross Tonnes
142
Length
18
Width
EUR
Currency
14
Max Speed (Knots)
264
Capacity
145
Crew
132
Cabins
Facilities
Accommodation
Ocean Explorer delivers a Scandinavian-inspired onboard living experience, seamlessly integrating comfort and functionality. Almost all staterooms feature private verandas, expansive windows, and thoughtful amenities to create a serene retreat.
Suite and Stateroom Categories
- Owner’s Suite (≈ 41 m² / 443 ft²) — Most expansive suite with separate living area, ensuite with bathtub, and large balcony; largest cabin aboard.
- Junior Suite (≈ 27.7 m² / 298 ft²) — Two-room suite forward on Deck 6 with bedroom and lounge, bathtub, and extended balcony.
- Penthouse Suite (≈ 25 m² / 269 ft²) — Elevated two-room suite on Deck 7 with living space, bathroom, and balcony; includes powder room.
- Balcony Suite (≈ 26 m² / 280 ft²) — Spacious suite with sizable balcony and living area; located aft on Deck 4.
- Veranda Stateroom (≈ 19.3 m² / 208 ft²) — Well-appointed cabin with walk-out balcony, seating area, and picture window.
- Deluxe Veranda Forward (≈ 16.9 m² / 182 ft²) — Bow-positioned stateroom with walk-out balcony and compact layout.
- Studio Veranda Single (≈ 16.1 m² / 173 ft²) — Solo cabin with private balcony, slightly larger than Studio Single.
- Studio Single (≈ 15.4 m² / 166 ft²) — Cozy solo cabin with porthole window located on Deck 3.
Dining
Culinary Philosophy
Ocean Explorer’s culinary ethos balances practical expedition needs with luxury dining. Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style with made-to-order stations, while dinner shifts to refined à la carte service featuring global influences and locally inspired ingredients.
Onboard Restaurants & Bars
- Main Dining Room: Elegant buffet and à la carte dinners serving sophisticated entrées like lamb chops and locally inspired dishes.
- Top-Deck Bistro: Cozy venue with panoramic views—ideal for light meals and relaxed dining.
- Main Lounge & Bar: Social lounge offering curated wines, cocktails, and spirits amid panoramic polar scenery.
Onboard Facilities
The ship’s design places guest comfort and experience at the forefront, with seamless indoor-outdoor flow and standout communal spaces.
Indoor & Outdoor Common Areas
- Two‑Story Discovery Library: A serene bow-facing retreat with sweeping floor-to-ceiling windows.
- Explorer Lecture Lounge: Dedicated space for expert-led presentations and films.
- Observation Lounge: Cozy, panoramic area for informal gatherings and polar scenery viewing.
- Gym & Spa Sauna: Fully equipped fitness center and sauna with large windows.
- Outdoor Jacuzzis (x2): Located on Deck 7, providing luxurious relaxation with views.
- Zodiac Mud Room (Ready Room): Practical spaces for expedition gear and swift boardings.
- Polar Boutique: Onboard shop offering expedition-ready gear and souvenirs.
Deck Plans
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More Information About Ocean Explorer
Ship Overview
Entertainment & Onboard Activities
Health, Fitness & Wellness
Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship
Testimonials & Passenger Reviews
Brand Heritage
Quark Expeditions, founded in 1991 and headquartered in Seattle, is a renowned pioneer in polar travel, operating under recognized sustainability bodies including IAATO and AECO. Ocean Explorer, launched in 2021 and integrated into the Quark fleet in early 2023, reinforces the line’s commitment to innovative, responsible, and immersive luxury-expedition voyages.
Design Description
Built on the ULSTEIN CX103 platform, Ocean Explorer features the signature X-Bow for stability and efficiency. Interiors reflect subtle Scandinavian elegance—soft wood tones, cool icy-blue accents, and spacious communal areas designed for immersive polar views.
Unique Features
- ULSTEIN X-BOW®: Enhances ride stability and fuel efficiency in rough seas.
- Two‑Story Library: Floor-to-ceiling windows in a breathtaking bow lounge.
- 15 Zodiac Boats: Essential for flexible, close-up adventure landings.
- Kayaks & Paddleboards: Optional excursions for active exploration.
- MAGS Waste‑to‑Energy: Converts onboard refuse into energy.
- Fuel‑Efficient Rolls‑Royce Engines: Aligned with the line’s sustainability ethos.
Ocean Explorer´s itineraries
Emblematic Antarctica
Discover the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula on this 10-night luxury expedition aboard L’Boreal.
- 8 days
- Le Boréal
