Ocean Explorer is a 138-guest Quark Expeditions expedition ship, in service since 2021. This page lists 71 upcoming departures across 22 itineraries in South America, day by day and port by port. Its live AIS position is plotted on the map below and refreshed through the day.
Photos from Wikimedia Commons under their authors’ free licenses. Tap a photo for the credit and license.
A small expedition-size ship at 8,228 gross tons — #324 of 566 ships we track. 60 tons of ship per guest.
Currently on: Penguins of the Far South: Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica (18 nights) — En route to Ushuaia — last stop Ushuaia, Argentina
Position data may be outdated.
Position via AIS — updated periodically, not real-time.
Ocean Explorer is a modern, 138-guest polar expedition ship designed for Arctic and Antarctic sailing. Its Ulstein X-BOW hull, Polar Class 6 rating and compact size support comfortable operation in challenging waters while allowing access to smaller expedition destinations. The ship combines intimate-scale cruising with Scandinavian-inspired accommodations, extensive outdoor viewing areas, a two-story library, lecture facilities and a fleet of Zodiacs for shore landings and wildlife excursions.
The ship features an Ulstein X-BOW, high observation areas on Decks 7 and 8, a two-story forward library, 15 Zodiacs and Polar Class 6 ice capability. Its small size is suited to expedition landings and close-range wildlife viewing.
Ocean Explorer is primarily an adult-oriented polar expedition vessel. Zodiac operations, shore landings and educational programming provide active family experiences, subject to expedition suitability and operator requirements.
Wellness facilities include a gym, sauna, treatment or salon services and two outdoor Jacuzzis. The ship also provides open-air observation areas for relaxation and scenic viewing.
The ship has an elevator serving passenger decks and includes designated modified accessible cabins. Expedition landings, Zodiac transfers and some outdoor activities may involve mobility limitations and should be discussed with Quark Expeditions before booking.
Ocean Explorer uses fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce propulsion and a MAGS gasification system intended to convert waste into energy. Its design also incorporates energy-efficient hull technology and modern expedition-ship environmental systems.
Venues Cabins only Both · Tap a deck to see what's on it
View the official Ocean Explorer deck plans from Quark Expeditions →
| Category | Type | Cabins | Size | Sleeps | Decks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio SingleSingle-occupancy cabin with a porthole view; the ship book lists six cabins. | Studio (solo) | 6 | 146–186 sq ft | 1 | 3 |
| Veranda StateroomBooking codes are not separately listed in the published ship materials. | Balcony | 19 | 173–272 sq ft | 2 | 4, 6, 7 |
| Deluxe Veranda ForwardForward-facing veranda category; the ship book lists four cabins. | Balcony | 4 | 182–195 sq ft | 2 | 4 |
| Veranda SuiteSuite with a separate sitting area and sofa bed; the ship book lists 34 cabins. | Suite | 34 | 200–205 sq ft | 2 | 4, 6 |
8 included 0 extra cost in the fare, by the line's own published policy.
| Oct 26 |
Nov 26 |
Dec 26 |
Jan 27 |
Feb 27 |
Mar 27 |
Apr 27 |
May 27 |
Jun 27 |
Jul 27 |
Aug 27 |
Sep 27 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Europe | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 3 | 2 |
| South America | 0 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Jump from Ocean Explorer sailings into the broader destination network with cruise line and region hub pages.
Ocean Explorer is registered in Bahamas.
Ocean Explorer carries about 138 guests with roughly 105 crew.
Ocean Explorer entered service in 2021.
At 8,228 gross tons and 104 m long, Ocean Explorer is a small expedition-size ship — larger than 42% of the 566 cruise ships cruises.to tracks.
The onboard dress code is casual. Guests may choose to dress up slightly for the Captain’s Welcome Reception.
The ship’s regular dining venues and Observation Bistro are part of the expedition offering. Specialty alcoholic drinks, spa treatments and other onboard purchases may cost extra.
Gratuities are discretionary. Guests may add an amount to their onboard account or provide cash, and gratuities are shared among hotel and expedition team members.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for basic browsing and voice applications, but satellite service can be intermittent in remote polar regions. A paid Priority Wi-Fi option is also available.
The deck-plan legend identifies accessibility-modified cabins and advises guests to consult a travel professional for details. The ship also has an elevator serving the passenger decks, although it may be closed during bad weather.
The operator’s ship materials do not name a kids club, children’s pool or other dedicated children’s facility.
