Quark Expeditions announced that Sam Seward (pictured above, right) will take over the president role of the company as Andrew White (pictured above, left) will retire.

White had been in the president role since 2014, having driven innovation, the company said. He originally joined the company in the vice president of sales role in 2012.

White’s Presidency steered a new era for Quark Expeditions, which included the unveiling of the company’s Polar Promise, the most holistic sustainability policy in the polar expedition industry (according to the company), the building of Ultramarine, a purpose-built polar expedition ship equipped with twin-engine helicopters, and the company’s return to Snow Hill in November 2023.

“The polar regions are places of unparalleled inspiration,” said White. “Every journey over the last decade has deepened my appreciation for these regions and the incredible wildlife and people that call them home. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together, building on our legacy of meaningful exploration, and connecting so many to the transformative experience of the polar regions. As I pass the baton to Sam Seward, I am confident he will carry forward our core values of going beyond, going responsibly, and going together. I say for one last time, ‘Onward!’”

For the last seven years, Seward has led Travelopia Group’s Adventure Brands, including Exodus Adventure Travels and Sawadee Reisen, both of which promote and sell Quark in Europe.

The company said that throughout his career, he has passionately championed travel as a transformative force that fosters appreciation of the natural world, while emphasizing the pivotal role travel companies play in its conservation and regeneration. Seward brings a wealth of sustainability experience, having acted as Chief Sustainability Officer at Travelopia and led B Corporation (B Corp) certification for Exodus Adventure Travels earlier this year.

“Andrew’s leadership sets a high bar, and I’m deeply honored to carry his legacy forward,” added Seward. “The Quark team are simply obsessed with ensuring guests experience the best the polar regions have to offer. More time off the ship experiencing the terrain, more contact with our pioneering award-winning field team, and excellent itineraries aboard our fantastic fleet. Together with our exceptional team, I am excited to build on this strong foundation, driving new initiatives and inspiring impact as we continue to explore, protect, and celebrate the wonders of the polar regions.”