Axel Heiberg is the 32nd largest island in the world and so remote hardly anyone has ever reached it by sea or seen it air. Yet a Quark Expeditions Arctic voyage not only broke ice to reach it, but gave guests the opportunity to fly over its forbidding landscape by helicopter.
The expedition ship Ultramarine carried advanced twin-engine H145 helicopters to view spectacular piedmont glaciers and rugged terrain on the island that is virtually inaccessible. Part of a Canadian Remote Arctic voyage, the flights continue Quark Expeditions’ 33-year legacy of firsts and resolve to explore one of the most inaccessible places on the planet by air, said Colin Souness, Quark’s expedition leader.
“The challenges of getting there are immense—from unpredictable and often heavy seasonal pack ice to the harsh climate and weather, coupled with the sheer remoteness of the island. Yet, it’s these obstacles and the difficulty of the task that fuel our passion for pushing the boundaries of polar exploration. Soaring above the unique and spectacular glaciers of Axel Heiberg, absorbing the vast and unspoiled beauty of the place whilst knowing you’re the only ones up there…That’s why we do what we do.”
The team overseeing the journey included Souness and Captain Yuriy Oboychuck, and a seasoned group of veteran Arctic guides and a helicopter team, including pilots Steve Fischer and Steve Martin. Together, they navigated challenging Arctic conditions to offer guests a bird’s eye view of this extraordinary region.
The cruise line’s commitment to excellence in safety across polar seas, land and air is reinforced by Quark Academy—a rigorous training program that ensures each expedition team member receives expert instruction in polar navigation, wildlife safety and emergency preparedness.
Ultramarine will be exploring Antarctica during the winter season and returning to Iceland and Canada’s Arctic in 2025, with a return to Axel Heiberg.
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