Today Quark Expeditions announced a new addition to its fleet.

The 189-passenger polar expedition vessel will set sail in November 2012 for the Antarctic 2012-2013 season. Before commencing service with Quark, the ship, currently known as Le Diamant, will be renamed Ocean Diamond and undergo an extensive refurbishment. In addition to creating a contemporary environment, the enhancements will upgrade the ship’s equipment to the same safety and operational standards as the rest of the Quark fleet.

“Quark is very pleased to have this modern, stable super-yacht in our Antarctic fleet,” said Hans Lagerweij, President of Quark Expeditions.

“By reducing the transfer time at sea, Ocean Diamond will give our passengers an additional 12 hours to spend accessing all of the wildlife, rugged beauty, and adventure activities an Antarctic expedition has to offer.”