At Intrepid we know that a polar expedition is a special kind of adventure. We're committed to providing the kind of itineraries that make your journey into the world's extreme north or extreme south the trip of a lifetime.

That’s why, in addition to the expeditions we run on our newly acquired vessel the Ocean Endeavour, we partner with Chimu Adventures and Quark Expeditions to deliver the best polar experiences ever.

Both Chimu Adventures and Quark Expeditions offer the highest level of polar expertise, state-of-the-art ships, rigorous safety standards and a commitment to responsible travel. Through partnerships with these operators, Intrepid has secured access to exclusive voyages.  

Meet our polar partners

Passengers stand in front of penguin colony

Chimu Adventures

Chimu invests heavily in finding and recruiting staff with firsthand knowledge of Arctic and Antarctic regions, ensuring consistent expertise with regular field trips and training. Chimu are an Associate Member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) and abide by all tourism regulations set throughout the Arctic. In addition, Chimu are committed to culturally responsible travel, employing local staff where possible and supporting Arctic communities. 

Passengers pretend to pull boat in the North Pole

Quark Expeditions

With the highest quality vessels, seasoned captains and experienced expedition teams and crew, Quark’s safety standards, training and equipment protocols are stand-out within the polar travel industry.  As a long-time, active member of both the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), and the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), Quark adheres to strict international guidelines to help minimise its impact to polar regions.

Browse our range of polar expeditions

Seal lays on ice in Antarctica

Antarctica

Antarctica is one of the few places in the world that still exists in pretty much its natural state. Venture to the southernmost tip of the planet to watch penguins courting as far as the eye can see, seals sleeping on ice floes and whales blowing water as they surface. Conquer the Drake Passage and set your eyes on dramatic contrasts while learning about a place that has united countries and belongs to no one.  

Browse our Antarctica expeditions

Cliff face is illuminated at sunset in the Arctic

The Arctic

Realm of the mighty polar bear and the renowned Northern Lights – the Arctic Circle is the final frontier before the long journey to the North Pole. It’s a challenging world populated by musk oxen, walruses and narwhals; where communities have a long history of surviving off the sea. Explore untouched coastal areas, icy oceans and tiny settlements and discover one of the most biologically diverse parts of the world.

Browse our Arctic expeditions