Quark Expeditions hosts more than 50 agents for Lake District 'polar retreat'

Quark Expeditions hosted more than 50 agents at the cruise line’s first ‘This Is Polar Retreat’ at Ullswater in the Lake District.

 

Designed to showcase polar cruises to agents, the overnight event aimed to be a “powerful alternative” to webinars or in-store training.

 

The programme featured a blend of education and experience, with stories from a member of Quark Expeditions’ expedition team, a panel of agents who have previously travelled with Quark and outdoor activities designed to mirror the brand’s adventure options onboard.

 

Participants chose from hiking, canoeing, kayaking and a scenic boat trip on Ullswater.

 

The day concluded with a three‑course dinner, inspired by the line’s “Tundra to Table” concept.

 

It was created with Quark Expeditions’ Inuit chefs, who helped design a menu rooted in polar regions, sustainability and storytelling.

 

A shanty band performed traditional maritime folk songs with a modern twist, to show agents the kind of onboard camaraderie and cultural moments that guests can experience on an expedition cruise.

 

Lynsey Ridwell of Travel Counsellors won the top prize in the draw – a trip for two to the Arctic in May 2026.

 

Becky Francis, senior director at Quark Expeditions, said: “This retreat represents exactly what Quark Expeditions stands for – being truly ‘polar obsessed’ and bringing people together through meaningful, shared experiences.

 

“We know we can’t take every agent to the polar regions, so experiences like this allow us to bring the essence of expedition travel to them.

 

“As a people‑centric business, strong relationships with our partners are fundamental to our success, and this retreat was a fantastic way to strengthen those connections.”

 

Nick Hindle, national business development manager, added: “The feedback has been outstanding and gave agents the opportunity to learn in a truly immersive setting – not only about Quark Expeditions, but about the expedition sector as a whole.”

 

Agent James Pettitt, from Curated Escapes, said: “The retreat was very informative and rewarding; it was great to meet in person and share your passion for all things polar.”

 

And Travel Counsellors agent Stacey McCourt added: “I loved the mix of information, insider knowledge and personal stories – such a great way to learn about Quark Expeditions and it was great fun on the lake too.”

 

Quark Expeditions said it aims to build on the “resounding success” of this retreat with other events in the future.