Are beverages included in Quark Expeditions packages?

When planning an unforgettable polar expedition with Quark Expeditions, travelers often focus on destinations, wildlife encounters, and adventure activities. However, one crucial yet frequently overlooked question is: Are beverages included in Quark Expeditions packages?

This comprehensive guide explores every aspect of Quark Expeditions’ beverage offerings—from soft drinks and coffee to fine wines and spirits. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what’s included, what’s extra, and how to make the most of your onboard experience.

Overview of Quark Expeditions

Before delving into the beverage details, it’s important to understand the essence of Quark Expeditions. The company is a pioneer in polar exploration, offering adventure cruises to the Arctic, Antarctic, and other remote regions of the world.

Their voyages combine comfort, education, and adventure, providing opportunities to see penguins, whales, glaciers, and icebergs up close—all while enjoying premium hospitality onboard. Every aspect of the experience is carefully curated to balance luxury and exploration, including dining and beverage services.

What’s Typically Included in Quark Expeditions Packages?

Quark Expeditions packages are generally all-inclusive, covering major essentials such as:

Accommodation aboard the ship
Daily meals prepared by expert chefs
Excursions and shore landings led by expedition guides
Educational lectures and presentations by scientists and naturalists
Transfers and logistics related to embarkation/disembarkation

While these inclusions make travel planning simple, beverages—especially alcoholic ones—can vary depending on the specific voyage and ship. Let’s explore that in detail.

Are Beverages Included in the Quark Expeditions Package?

The short answer is: Yes, but with exceptions.

Quark Expeditions provides a generous range of non-alcoholic beverages as part of the standard cruise fare. However, alcoholic beverages are generally not included in the base package and are charged separately.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the inclusions.

1. Non-Alcoholic Beverages – Included

All soft drinks, tea, and coffee are complimentary on Quark Expeditions voyages. These are available throughout the day at no extra charge.

Included options typically feature:

Filtered water (still and sparkling)
Soft drinks such as soda and juice
Freshly brewed coffee
Specialty teas (herbal, black, green, etc.)
Hot chocolate and other warm beverages

Passengers can enjoy these drinks both in the dining areas and lounge spaces, ensuring you’re never without a refreshing beverage while taking in the polar scenery.

2. Alcoholic Beverages – Available for Purchase

Quark Expeditions’ alcoholic beverage policy depends on the ship and the specific itinerary. Generally, alcoholic drinks—including wine, beer, and spirits—are not part of the standard package.

Guests can purchase these drinks individually from the ship’s bar, which offers a carefully curated selection of local and international beverages.

Typical alcoholic offerings include:

Wines (red, white, rosé, sparkling)
Premium beers
Spirits (vodka, gin, whiskey, rum, tequila)
Signature cocktails
Liqueurs and aperitifs

Bar prices are in USD and charged to your onboard account. A detailed beverage menu is available once onboard.

3. Wine and Beer Packages

While not every expedition includes complimentary alcohol, Quark Expeditions often provides optional beverage packages or wine pairings during dinner.

These packages vary by itinerary but can include:

Wine pairings with gourmet meals
Prepaid bar packages for unlimited house wine or beer
Special occasion bundles (e.g., champagne for celebrations)

If you prefer having alcoholic beverages included, you can request details about available drink upgrades or prepaid packages at the time of booking or once onboard.

4. Special Events and Occasional Treats

Certain voyages and special events may feature complimentary drinks, such as:

Welcome and farewell receptions
Captain’s cocktails
Holiday dinners or themed nights
Special lectures or celebration events

During these occasions, house wine, beer, or sparkling beverages are sometimes served at no additional cost, giving guests a chance to toast memorable moments with the crew and fellow travelers.

Can You Bring Your Own Alcohol?

Quark Expeditions’ policy on bringing personal alcohol aboard varies depending on local regulations and ship-specific rules. Generally:

Bringing alcohol aboard is discouraged or restricted.
If permitted, consumption of personal alcohol is typically limited to your cabin.
Corkage fees may apply if you want to drink your own wine in public areas or restaurants.

It’s always best to check the Guest Information Packet or ask the Expedition Team before your trip to clarify these rules.

Beverage Service Experience Onboard

Quark Expeditions ships feature elegant bars and lounges where guests can relax, socialize, and take in stunning views after a day of adventure.

1. Onboard Lounges

The lounges are designed with large panoramic windows—perfect for sipping your favorite drink while watching icebergs drift by.

Bartenders are friendly, knowledgeable, and can craft both classic and signature cocktails upon request.

2. Dining Room Beverage Service

During lunch and dinner, guests can order from the beverage menu or enjoy included soft drinks, coffee, or tea. On some voyages, house wines may be offered during dinner hours.

3. Cabin Service

Certain luxury cabins and suites may include complimentary in-room beverage options, such as bottled water, coffee machines, or minibar setups (depending on the ship).

Ships and Beverage Policies

Quark Expeditions operates several ships, and beverage inclusions can vary slightly among them. Below is an overview:

Ultramarine

Flagship vessel of Quark Expeditions
Non-alcoholic drinks included
Alcoholic beverages available for purchase
Occasional complimentary drinks at events

Ocean Adventurer

Complimentary tea, coffee, and soft drinks
Alcoholic beverages charged separately
Cozy bar with a selection of wines and beers

Ocean Explorer (new)

Premium dining and beverage service
Wine pairings available during dinners
Drink packages may be offered

Always check your pre-departure documentation, as Quark updates amenities and inclusions frequently to enhance guest experiences.

Budgeting for Beverages

To help you plan your expedition budget, here’s a rough estimate of beverage pricing onboard (subject to change):

Beverage TypeEstimated Price (USD)

Soft drinksIncluded

Coffee & teaIncluded

Beer (bottle/can)$6–$9

Glass of wine$8–$15

Cocktail$10–$18

Premium spirits$12–$25

Champagne (bottle)$60–$120

Tipping is usually included in your final bill, though you may choose to tip bartenders for exceptional service.

Beverage Experience Beyond the Bar

Beverage enjoyment with Quark Expeditions isn’t limited to bars and dining rooms—it’s woven into the polar experience itself.

1. Hot Drinks During Excursions

During Zodiac rides or shore excursions, staff often serve hot beverages like cocoa or coffee to keep guests warm after braving the elements.

2. Polar Picnics and Celebrations

On select expeditions, you may experience on-ice picnics or champagne celebrations, where drinks are served in breathtaking icy surroundings.

3. Sustainable Beverage Practices

Quark Expeditions promotes eco-conscious travel, which extends to its beverage service. The company reduces plastic waste by using:

Refillable glass bottles
Filtered water stations
Environmentally friendly straws and cups

This commitment ensures that your adventure remains both luxurious and environmentally responsible.

How to Upgrade or Customize Your Beverage Options

While Quark Expeditions provides a satisfying standard beverage experience, you can personalize it further:

Pre-Purchase Packages: Ask your travel consultant about wine or drink packages available for your voyage.
Cabin Upgrades: Higher-category cabins may include premium amenities, such as minibar setups or welcome champagne.
Request Special Beverages: Inform the staff if you have specific beverage preferences—many ships can accommodate unique requests.
Join Themed Voyages: Some expeditions, like holiday cruises, may offer special complimentary drink menus.

Comparing Quark Expeditions with Other Adventure Cruise Lines

When comparing Quark Expeditions with competitors like Lindblad Expeditions, Aurora Expeditions, or Scenic, Quark falls in the mid-luxury tier in terms of beverage inclusions.

Lindblad Expeditions: Often includes wine and beer with lunch and dinner.
Aurora Expeditions: Offers complimentary wine and beer during dinner.
Quark Expeditions: Includes non-alcoholic beverages, with alcoholic drinks available for purchase.

This approach allows Quark to focus on value flexibility, letting guests customize their onboard experience rather than paying for alcohol they may not consume.

Tips for Enjoying Beverages on Your Polar Expedition

Stay Hydrated: The cold, dry air in polar regions increases dehydration risk—drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Try Local Flavors: Some ships offer regional drinks or polar-themed cocktails inspired by the destinations.
Pace Alcohol Intake: Alcohol can worsen dehydration and cold sensitivity; moderation is key.
Enjoy Scenic Moments: Sip your favorite drink while observing icebergs, whales, or the Northern Lights—these are unforgettable experiences.
Ask About Specials: Daily drink specials or happy hours are sometimes available in the lounge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are all beverages free on Quark Expeditions?

No. Only non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, tea, juice, and soft drinks are included. Alcoholic beverages are charged separately.

2. Do I need to pay for bottled water?

. Filtered still and sparkling water are available free of charge at all times.

3. Can I buy a beverage package?

Yes. Some voyages offer optional beverage packages or wine pairings that can be purchased before or during your cruise.

4. Are there restrictions on drinking alcohol onboard?

Yes. Responsible drinking is encouraged, and the consumption of personal alcohol may be restricted to cabins.

5. Do cabins have minibars?

Some higher-category cabins have minibars or complimentary beverage setups, depending on the ship.

Are beverages included in Quark Expeditions packages?

The answer is partially yes. Guests enjoy complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, while alcoholic drinks are available for purchase or through optional packages.

This model offers flexibility—guests who prefer soft drinks and coffee are fully covered, while those who enjoy a glass of wine or cocktail can easily indulge without paying for an unnecessary all-inclusive plan.

Ultimately, Quark Expeditions strikes a perfect balance between comfort, sustainability, and personalized choice, ensuring every guest can enjoy their beverage of preference while surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.