The Vessels, Information
Adventure Cruise Ships
These vessels are small - carrying anything between 46 and 110 like-minded adventurers - extremely manoeuvrable, and capable of reaching areas that larger ships simply cannot access. Frequent shore landings by Zodiac inflatable, plus - on some - a variety of adventure options such as camping, kayaking, diving, cross-country skiing and mountaineering, plus a photography course, make these ships ideal for active travellers.
Akademik Ioffe, Akademik Shokalskiy, , Ortelius, Ocean Nova, Plancius, Polar Pioneer, Rembrandt Van Rijn, Ushuaia
Expedition Cruise Ships
Expedition ships offer a relaxed, comfortable adventure and a perfect introduction to expedition cruising. The on board team of experts will bring the destinations to life through a full programme of informal talks, walks and hikes ashore, as well as regular Zodiac excursions to see wildlife.
Luxury Expedition Cruise Ships
Retaining the concept of small-ship cruising, these luxury vessels accommodate between 12 and 120 passengers. They offer a high standard of comfort and service in a relaxed and informal atmosphere, and operate along strict environmental principles. These vessels have outstanding facilities and equipment - all ships carry Zodiac inflatables for shore excursions, while some have helicopters, jet boats and scuba-diving gear.
Icebreakers
These powerful yet comfortable icebreakers have a massive reinforced hull capable of breaking thick ice. Their highest possible international ice class ratings enable them to navigate safely and efficiently through ice-choked waterways into very seldom explored parts of the world. Icebreakers carry both Zodiac inflatables and helicopters for shore excursions.
Under Sail
These sailing vessels are large enough for comfort, privacy and safety, yet small enough to create a good rapport between passengers and crew. With all the safety equipment, electronic navigation aids and features you would expect from high-standard sailing, these vessels offer an opportunity for you to get involved with sailing them.
What is included in the voyage price?
The price of your voyage includes practically everything you need while on board. However as there are minor variations from ship to ship, and trip to trip, please refer to individual itineraries, and contact us with any questions.
- Voyage including all guided shore excursions by Zodiac inflatable
- Helicopter excursions (on some trips these may be incur an additional cost)
- Flights as indicated in the itinerary
- Pre and post-cruise accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
- All meals and non-alcoholic drinks while on board; some ships even include all alcoholic drinks
- Lectures and presentations by expert naturalists and guides
- Comprehensive pre-departure materials
- Expedition log
- Some (most) ships loan rubber boots for shore landings
- Some ships provide a complimentary parka; others may have cold weather clothing gear for loan, hire or purchase
- Camping, snorkelling and scuba-diving and other specialist equipment as indicated in the itinerary. NB: this may involve payment of a supplement.
About the itineraries
The itineraries shown should always be read as a guide only. These are voyages to remote and rarely visited parts of the world, so the exact route and programme will vary according to ice and weather conditions - and, of course, the wildlife encountered along the way. Flexibility is the key to a successful expedition cruise. Visits to research stations, private reserves and protected areas will depend on being able to obtain the necessary permission.