Quasar's vision is to create authentic and meaningful tours & cruise experiences for our fellow travelers. Voted the #1 Intimate-Ship Ocean Cruise Line by Travel + Leisure for 9 consecutive years (2018–2026), and recognized as a Top Tour Operator in 2026, we’ve spent 40 years serving those who delight in travel, not tourism.Quasar's cruise and tour Guests come to us seeking layers of depth and contrast: meaningful interactions with humans and the earth, well-appointed accommodations, unparalleled adventures, five star cultural cuisine, and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters. In turn, Quasar travelers become not only expedition enthusiasts, but conservators.From hand-picked naturalist guides to the friendliest staff you’ll ever meet, our team is comprised of passion. Whether you’re exploring Galapagos, Patagonia, Chile, Ecuador, or Peru, we promise authentic experiences and lifetime memories.
Written by the business, not verified by us.
Is Quasar Expeditions legit?
Quasar Expeditions (quasarex.com) has a 4.9 out of 5 rating on OK.one, based on 100 user reviews collected here. It is listed under Travel & Vacation and its reputation is excellent. Praise is nearly unanimous, with 99% rating it 4 stars or higher; The business has replied to 100% of negative reviews; 15 of them were added in the last 12 months. Last updated 2026-08-12.
Truly a trip of a lifetime! From start to finish the entire cruise was a dream. The Schicke's made planning the trip easy with VIP entry, excellent recommendations for Quito hotel and day trip. The Evolution crew was superb as were the knowledgable and local guides providing informative and fun daily expeditions - hiking, exploring and snorkeling. The only thing I would change is limiting the time spent at Darwin Research Center in Santa Cruz. It could have been much shorter. All else A+++
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2025-04-21
Dear Elizabeth,
We’re so glad the trip felt like a dream from beginning to end! For us it's always wonderful to hear that the planning support and the crew aboard our yachts made everything smooth and memorable. Thanks for the honest note about the Darwin Research Center—we’ll definitely keep that in mind. We really appreciate you sharing your experience and hope the memories stay with you for a long time.
Warm regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
All of the quasar elements were very well organized and top quality. Diane's recommendations for pre and post trip excursions were very enjoyable and the guides and drivers were exceptional. I especially enjoyed the express customs clearance after a long travelling day. The Grace ship and crew were excellent, I really enjoyed the meals. To have such an excellent chef for only 16 passengers was a treat. The naturalist/guides on board were very professional and helpful and we especially appreciated Monica. The bar was not always manned, if there is a way to increase the coverage, that would be good. We were told there was a buzzer to summon the bartender but I did not find it.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2025-03-12
Dear Gary,
Thank you for your kind words—we’re so glad you enjoyed your time aboard Grace and that our guides, crew, and chef made your journey special! I appreciate your feedback about the small bar service issue and will be sure to pass it along to our team. If your travels ever bring you back to South America, we’d love to welcome you again on a Quasar adventure!
Best,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
The trip was amazing from start to finish, all elements were perfectly organised and exceeded our expectations in all areas.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2025-02-26
Thank you so much, Dawn! We're really happy to hear that your trip exceeded expectations and that everything was perfectly organized. We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and hope to welcome you on another adventure soon!
Warm regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
The Evolution was an amazing boat. We had a great week with the staff on the boat as well as our guides Len, Alejandro and Soto. They were all so knowledgeable on the wildlife and the islands that we visited. The guides were all very passionate about their jobs. The food was great, Cesar the bartender had a fun drink every evening when we arrived back on the boat and the bar area was very inviting to hang out. The evening educational talks before dinner were great as we reviewed our schedule for the following day and learned fun facts about the Galapagos. Would highly recommend.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2025-02-20
Dear Alecia,
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so happy to hear how much you enjoyed your time aboard the Evolution and the care and expertise of Len, Alejandro, and Soto. It’s great to know that the food, fun drinks from Cesar, and the evening talks added to your experience! Your recommendation means the world to us, and we hope to welcome you back for another incredible adventure in the future!
Warm regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
Great adventure, with wonderful food, knowledgeable guides and flexibility. We opted out of a few of the many interesting excursions just to enjoy the ambiance of the Evolution. Wonderful and educational holiday without being exhausting. Just what we needed!
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-12-02
Dear Ann,
Thank you for sharing your experience—it sounds like you found the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation! We're grateful for the compliments on the delicious food, knowledgeable guides, and the ambiance aboard our ultimate expedition yacht, the Evolution. We look forward to welcoming you on another Quasar adventure in the future.
Warm regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
Galapagos is great by iteself but Quasar made it above and beyond for your once-in-a-lifetime experience. From a clean & fully equipped yatch, to an accommodating itinerary, to fully stock and delicious meals, to knowledgeable naturalists, and to super attentive staff. Some sample thoughtful services include little towels for each wet landing, options of activity to support different constraints from each guest, and available hands reaching out to you every time you need.
If I were to plan for a Galapagos trip again, it will have to be Quasar.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-12-02
Dear Guest,
We’re very happy to hear that you loved the thoughtful touches of our crew and guides, from warm towels after wet landings to personalized activities. Your kind words mean so much to us—thank you! Knowing you’d choose Quasar again for another Galapagos adventure is the highest compliment we could ask for!
Warm regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
Both the Evolution cruise and the LaSelva Lodge were exceptional. The naturalists enhanced the sights, giving special note to Paul Merino at the lodge for his thorough knowledge and enthusiasm.
Quasar came through in every aspect of the trip planning both on land and at sea.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-12-02
Dear Joan,
Thank you for such a wonderful review and for recommending a Quasar holiday as the ultimate gift! We have to agree. :) We’re happy to hear that the Galapagos + Amazon Jungle combination exceeded your expectations. We hope to see you back on another Quasar adventure soon!
Warm regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
Wonderful experience. Amazing contact with nature and a learning experience. The crew was ver knowledgeable and the food was excellent. Highly recommended. Need to be physically prepared.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-12-02
Dear Gerardo,
It sounds like you truly embraced the Galapagos spirit—active, awe-filled, and full of discovery! We’re glad to hear that the amazing wildlife, learning opportunities, and, of course, those delicious meals made your experience so special. Thank you for the glowing recommendation—what an adventure!
Warm regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
One of those trips that you realize everything was perfect. A perfect place (galapagos is amazing) a perfect ship, a perfect crew (everybody was kind, warm and so professional) and a perfect service. No doubt that this experience has changed our lives forever. Next trip? Patagonia with Quasar. Gracias por todo!!!!
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-11-07
Dear Bombu,
Gracias for your wonderful review! Knowing that your Galapagos trip was life-changing and full of perfection brings us a lot of joy, and it's the reason we do what we do. We’re beyond excited to hear your next adventure will be Patagonia with Quasar. Get ready for more unforgettable moments and epic tales!
Cheers,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
We have the best cruising experience with Quasar. The cruise was intimate with only 25 guests. There were 21 (including 3 naturists) on the 7 days adventure. The staff was very attentive, ensuring safety and enjoyment of the guests. Our cabin was cleaned and tidied at least 3 to 4 times throughout the day. The chefs prepared wonderful and creative meals that were sourced locally. The daily activities were well organized which included nature walks and snorkeling. The naturists were with the guests at all times to provide information and guidance to interesting vistas.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-10-15
Dear Hong-Yuen,
It sounds like you had an amazing adventure with us, and we’re thrilled to hear it! I'm especially glad that the Quasar crew's attentiveness and the daily activities made your experience special. The locally sourced meals and detailed care of your cabin are things we take pride in, so it's great to know they stood out for you. We can’t wait to welcome you back for another unforgettable journey.
Best regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
Our experience Quasar exceeded my expectations; From our initial discussion with Diane to experiences with naturalist and interactions with entire crew. Truly an amazing vacation
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-10-15
Dear Jeannette,
I'm so happy to hear that your experience with Quasar exceeded expectations! It’s wonderful to know that our people made your trip truly special. They are indeed our greatest asset! We can’t wait to welcome you back for another amazing adventure.
Warm regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
Amazing trip of a lifetime. Naturalists (Bolo, Christina, and Hernan) each amazing, kind and patient. Their own excitement in seeing the animal/ sharks made it even more special. Great balance of very active and busy, but never feeling rushed.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-09-02
Dear Monica,
Thank you for sharing your incredible experience aboard the Evolution! We're thrilled to hear that Bolo, Christina, and Hernan made your trip special with their enthusiasm and expertise. Your feedback is truly appreciated and we look forward to welcoming you back for another unforgettable adventure.
Warm regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
This is the second time we have used Quasar. We did a Galapagos trip with them several years ago and it was so perfect we selected them for coordinating the land portion and the cruise portion of our trip to southern Patagonia. Best decision we ever made! Every aspect of the trip was flawless. All personnel were knowledgeable, professional, punctual and flexible in terms of making the trip work for us. In addition, everyone we spoke with who worked for or interacted with Quasar had nothing but positive feedback. Save yourself time and stress and work with Quasar
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-08-12
Dear Joan and Rick,
Your kind words truly made our day! Hearing that our team delivered another flawless experience for your Patagonia trip is incredibly rewarding. We’re grateful for your continued trust in Quasar and look forward to creating more unforgettable adventures with you.
Warm regards,
Natalie Balaresque
Customer Success Hero
We had a great time travelling with Quasar to Chilean Patagonia in July '22. From the moment we arrived in Santiago all went smoothly, our guides were good company to be with and the transfer drivers took us safely to first Torres del Paine and later the Atacama as well.
Seeing Torres del Paine in a thick layer of snow was just stunning. With respect for the natural environment and giving the animals the space they need, our knowledgable guides Christian and Junior went out of their way to show us many different pumas every day - with owls, condors, caracaras and more as a bonus. There were few other people which made for a quiet and memorable experience. We were well taken care of in Explora with a comfortable room and lovely warm shower after a day of spotting pumas in -15c. Great cocktails and good food were a perfect end to every day.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-08-12
Dear Guest,
Thank you for trusting Quasar to deliver a memorable adventure in Chilean Patagonia. Going out to spot Pumas in the winter can get a little chilly, especially in those early hours of the morning! However, we're glad you enjoyed your room, the cocktails and the food that awaited back at the lodge each day after your many adventures. We're excited about the possibility of planning more amazing journeys with you in the future!
Warm regards,
Natalie Balaresque
Customer Success Hero
Company recommended jeeps that were totally unnecessary. Offered “excursions” that we would have been better off using hotel. Feel like we spent way more than necessary. Tour guide nice but not needed and an unnecessary expense as well. Could have planned on our own better and cheaper at same resorts. In case you are wondering why I wrote this now, it is because I have received several emails asking me to review the company. I replied to them directly that they didn’t want me to do that. Two days later, I received another asking me again to review, so I did.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-08-07
Dear Guest,
Thank you for sharing your feedback. We are genuinely sorry to hear that your experience did not meet your expectations. We have identified your case and can confirm that you traveled with us in 2022, but did not book directly through Quasar, but instead through a Travel Agent. Nonetheless, we appreciate the opportunity to address your concerns.
Unfortunately we cannot speak to the information provided by your Travel Agent during the reservations process or the expectations set prior to the trip. Clearly, there was a misalignment, as 99% of our guests are extremely satisfied with their Quasar adventures and would highly recommend us to others.
After several changes to your dates and to your itinerary due to COVID-19, your trip was finally postponed to 2022, and your agent informed us that you were satisfied and ready to proceed with the proposed itinerary.
The flexibility of having multiple vehicles on a Quasar adventure allowed your group to split up and enjoy different excursions based on physical abilities, interests, and more. This convenience would not have been possible with fewer vehicles or by taking the hotel van tours. Our vehicles accommodate four guests plus a private guide, ensuring a personalized experience.
Our private guides serve as local naturalists, concierges, and navigators of remote areas inaccessible to larger hotel vehicles. Unlike hotel guides who conduct large group experiences, our private guides offer a bespoke and intimate experience tailored to your group's interests. We are pleased to hear that you found our guide friendly.
Quasar activities and excursions are planned and confirmed well in advance, providing a seamless and personalized adventure. This contrasts with hotel activities, which are subject to availability and may require waitlists. Our goal is to ensure you have the freedom to explore and enjoy the national parks at your own pace, without the constraints of hotel schedules.
We truly value your feedback and are dedicated to continuously improving our services. It seems this may have been an isolated case where your Travel Agent didn’t fully communicate the details of the program or set the correct expectations. As reflected in the many reviews across this platform, and on other platforms like Google, Facebook, TripAdvisor, and Reviews.io, the vast majority of our guests enjoy a 5-star experience, and we regret that this was not the case for you.
If you wish to discuss this matter further, or if anyone reading this response has questions, please feel free to contact us directly at [email protected] or by calling +1 415-738-8180. Our Expedition Designers and Customer Success team will be happy to answer your questions and address any concerns.
Sincerely,
Natalie Balaresque
Customer Success Hero
Quasar Expeditions
This trip was the most wonderful…vacation we have ever been on!
This trip was the most wonderful vacation we have ever been on! The boat,crew,food and all the wildlife very amazing. Quasar and the whole team really went out of their way to make our vacation the best we have ever been on !!
Rosemarie and Ben
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-07-12
Dear Rosemarie and Ben,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt review! It's incredibly gratifying to hear that you had such a wonderful vacation with us. At Quasar, our entire team strives to create unforgettable experiences, and it sounds like we succeeded in making this your best vacation ever.
We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and hope to welcome you back on board for another adventure in the future!
Warmest regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
This trip was truly a trip of a lifetime. Exploring the Galapagos islands by boat was the best way to really experience the area and all the inhabitants. It was a Safari on the Water. The ship, Evolution, gave a very casual feel but upscale like a luxury cruise. Every meal was memorable and the cabins were spacious and cleaned throughout the day. All the crew members were great, always there to help or make you laugh. The Naturalist/Guides were really awesome. They made each outing, whether to a beach or in the water more exciting than the previous one. They were not only very knowledgeable but also fun to be around. They seemed to get as excited as the guest whenever we’d come upon a new adventure and they were always adapting to what was going on when different events popped up. When a guest spotted something in the water in the distance our guides took us out in the pangas to check it out. It was actually a very large pod, about 150, of pilot whales. We rode in our inflatables with them for about 45 minutes. The whales were so graceful swimming in and out of the water right next to us. It was unbelievable to be one with them in nature. Hearing them blow air through their blowhole was mesmerizing and then watching them jump just took our breath away. We all took 100s of videos.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-05-27
Dear Jane,
Thank you for your spectacular review! It's wonderful to know that the journey felt like a "Safari on the Water", because that's exactly what our Safari-Style Yacht Adventures are all about! It makes us happy to hear that your trip aboard the Evolution was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thank you for all your vivid descriptions and we hope to see you back on another Quasar Safari adventure soon.
Warmest regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
Great customer service, great people, great food, great scheduling of daily activities....Did I say great?
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-05-27
Dear Peter,
Thank you for your enthusiastic review! We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed all the different aspects of your trip. Your kind words mean a lot to us. Come back soon!
Best regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
and Quasar exceeded them all. I was on the Evolution Yacht (Footsteps back in time, 8 days).
- Food on board was excellent (they took my strict dietary restrictions into account). The non-alcoholic (and alcoholic) cocktails were such a nice touch at the end of each day
- Our guides were doing their best during excursions so we can fully enjoy the trip and get all the pictures we want. From birds and iguanas to penguins, dolphins and sea lions, I saw everything thanks to Christina, Soto and Sofia. They went the extra mile for us.
- Same for the crew who was always friendly, positive and helpful. You do not feel like a guest, you feel like a member of the family.
- Snorkeling was out of this world !
- Excursions were great. We were busy from dawn to dusk. Quasar recommended to take a good book for the trip, I did not need it :)
- Facilities (included cabins) were always kept clean and were very cozy
- All passengers were relaxed and happy
8 days are more than sufficient to have a great tour of the Galapagos. That being said, I will certainly be back to enjoy this experience once more.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-05-15
Dear Amandine,
We are overjoyed to learn that your experience with us exceeded your expectations, and we appreciate your kind words about the attentive service and remarkable wildlife encounters facilitated by our guides. It’s wonderful to hear that our efforts to make each guest feel like family resonated with you. We eagerly await your return for another splendid adventure in the Galapagos.
Warm regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
Everything about this cruise was first-rate--the crew, the naturalists, the food and beverages, and the itinerary. The first night we were welcomed as family, and by the end of the week we hated to say goodbye. The Galapagos is a unique experience where you coexist with nature in a special way, and Quasar maximizes that experience through hikes, panga rides, and snorkeling, all with a sense of excitement. You will look forward to every day and every adventure.
Reply from Quasar Expeditions2024-05-14
Dear Guest,
Thank you for your glowing review! As we often say in Spanish, "mi casa es tu casa," and we're overjoyed to know you felt like part of our family. Your enthusiasm for the stunning natural landscapes and the exciting activities we offer, such as snorkeling and panga rides, truly touches us. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you back for more adventures!
Warm regards,
Diane Schicke
Customer Success Hero
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