Exploring the Allure of Polar Travel

The North and South Poles have long captivated explorers and travelers. Now, more than ever, interest in polar travel has surged, with adventurers eager to explore these vast, pristine landscapes.

Over recent years, various tour companies and expedition cruise operators have significantly enhanced their efforts to fulfill this longstanding dream, using effective marketing strategies to attract curious travelers.

A recent discussion with Tenille Hunt, the Regional Sales Director for Quark Expeditions, highlighted how modern technologies have played a crucial role in increasing awareness of polar travel offerings, translating this knowledge into real bookings.

Innovating for Collaboration

Hunt mentioned, “We’re always looking for innovative new ways to work better together to achieve the end result, which is to safely and responsibly send more people to the polar regions.” To facilitate this, Quark Expeditions launched an online resource called the Quark Expeditions Partner Portal, which provides essential tools for travel agents to promote polar travel.

This portal includes PolarPRO, an interactive training program for agents aiming to become certified Polar Sellers. Additionally, it offers access to a BrandFolder with marketing assets including images and videos suitable for social media platforms and direct marketing efforts.

For a more engaging experience, Quark has introduced Parker the Polar Bear, an AI agent designed to answer queries like, “When is the best time to see penguins in Antarctica?” This tool has quickly become a valuable resource for agents promoting polar expeditions.

Changing Demographics of Travelers

Hunt noted that the profile of the polar traveler is evolving. Post-pandemic, the typical traveler was often in their mid-60s; however, younger professionals and multi-generational families are now seeking polar explorations, especially from countries such as India, Singapore, and Thailand.

Quark Expeditions is also seeing group bookings, with families often traveling together, reflecting a shift in travel preferences where shared experiences are prioritized.

“People are undertaking these trips now because they want to seize the opportunity to see these unique locations before it’s too late,” Hunt explained.

Focusing on the Asia Pacific Market

With a noticeable rise in interest from Asian customers, Quark Expeditions is launching a six-part webinar series tailored to local time zones, offering concise, digestible content for agents busy with their morning routines.

Hunt added that the company also has Polar Travel Advisors positioned in Australia, available around the clock to assist agents. For experienced sellers, a new Quote and Hold tool has been implemented, allowing agents to secure cabins online without having to navigate time zone differences.

In conclusion, Quark Expeditions emphasizes the importance of storytelling in marketing polar adventures, particularly through engaging visuals to attract potential travelers. Hunt encourages agents to connect with the development managers at Quark if they want to maximize their sales in this segment.