Quark Expeditions has announced its 2018-2019 Antarctica program which is being highlighted by the World Explorer, a new luxury expedition cruise vessel.

One of the biggest expedition operators by capacity confirmed to Cruise Industry News on Wednesday that the 176-guest ship was a complete newbuild, being built with input from Quark at a shipyard in Portugal. The building process is underway.

Quark, in a prepared statement, said the ship is an all-suite all balcony vessel that will embark on 10 voyages during the upcoming season. The ship has six premium suites.

The 1B ice-class hull is propelled through the water by twin Rolls Royce engines. The ship is 126 meters long. 

Note: This article has been updated to reflect new details.