Why we like this design:

1. Low Environmental Impact

80% lower emissions into the air and sea with advanced ‘Tier 3’ engines with lower energy consumption, high fuel efficiency. The ship uses state-of-the-art virtual anchoring technology, meaning the ship can hold its position using its own propellers and thrusters while launching Zodiacs and kayaks without disturbing the seafloor and the organisms living there. The design also reduces light pollution for minimal wildlife disruption and there is a policy in place to minimize the use of plastics.

2. Safety

The most up-to-date safety technology. This starts with the ‘return-to-port’ equipment – not compulsory on a ship of this size – which duplicates the propulsion system. This enables the ship to maintain operating systems and comfort in the event of engine failure. Furthermore, it is ice-strengthened (Ice Class 1A and Polar Code 6 compliant),  holds Bureau Veritas classification and is fully compliant with the latest SOLAS requirements. It’s also built with a Rolls Royce stabiliser system.  If there’s an incident or accident during your adventure, the ship has an onboard, fully-stocked medical centre – where our trained medical team can provide necessary treatment in a timely fashion.

3. Seaworthiness

Polar expeditions face some of the worst Mother Nature can throw at us. However, this won’t be problem with a patented X-BOW™, created by Norwegian ship designer ULSTEIN. This bow concept that’s been built on over 100 vessels in the shipping industry and allows for more gentle sea crossings, improved comfort and reduced emissions.

4. Custom Platforms for Wildlife Viewing and Transferring to Zodiacs and Kayaks.

With the use of hydraulics, parts of the hull magically transform into platforms that make it easy to get into attendant boats and to view wildlife.

CUSTOM-BUILT ACTIVITY PLATFORM

Depending of your destination, a number of additional activities to allow you to see more of the environment. From kayaking and diving to climbing and ski touring, it’s these optional activities that often leave the biggest impression on your trip as a whole. Onboard the ship, there is a spacious activity prep area and loading platform for these activities and more – designed in consultation with expert activity guides.

HYDRAULIC VIEWING PLATFORMS

To ensure you get the best views possible, the ship features unique viewing platforms on the bow. Accessed from Deck 5, the two platforms fold out hydraulically for unobstructed views of passing marine life and seabirds – make sure your camera is locked and loaded!

ZODIAC LAUNCHING PLATFORM

Zodiacs are a vital part of getting up close and personal on your adventure – sneaking into areas that the ship c an’t reach. Specially designed launching platforms enable the expedition team to load Zodiacs easily and quickly, allowing you to spend more time exploring on the two to three daily landings.

4. Accommodation

Creature comforts and well-being are a big consideration of the overall design. All staterooms have private bathrooms, personal storage options, twin and double-bed configuration options, ample storage, international power outlets and a daily cabin service, as well as all the basic amenities that you’ll need onboard.

Of course, the prospect of unexpected wildlife encounters is always on the table so your accommodation needs to have a view as well! Across four of the five stateroom categories, you’ll find large floor to ceiling windows that offer prime observation opportunities around the clock. Additionally, there are private balconies in roughly 80% of the staterooms, allowing you to watch the world float past and take in the salty air of the open ocean.

Another great feature of the accommodation are the interconnecting staterooms. If you’re part of a family or group who want some privacy, but still want to be close to each other, these staterooms are the perfect option.

BALCONY SUITES AND STATEROOMS

Located on Deck 4, the Balcony Suites feature private balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area and seating areas.

STATEROOM TWINS AND TRIPLES

CROSSING THE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE

If you are the type who wants to go further than others, if you crave a unique adventure that few others have experienced, we highly recommend this expedition. In February when the sea ice has receded, the ship will chart a course through the Drake Passage and along the Antarctic Peninsula with the ambition of crossing the Antarctic Circle.  The farther south the ship goes, the more sea ice you are likely to encounter. The aim is to cross the Circle before getting stopped by this ice. Should you arrive at 66°33’S, you will become members of very small band of explorers and adventurous travelers who have made it this far south. The big difference to the “Exploring the Antarctic Circle” is that you spend proportionally more time on the Great White Continent and are part of a true an exploratory adventure.

THE LONG TRIP: SOUTH GEORGIA, ANTARCTICA  AND THE FALKLANDS,

This is the ultimate polar experience. It encompasses three diverse destinations, each with distinctly different ecosystems and wildlife spectacles. The Falkands and South Georgia are home to albatrosses, fur and elephant seals and huge colonies of penguins. Both have a fascinating human history as well, and South Georgia is where one of the most heroic stories of exploration unfolded: Ernest Shackleton’s crossing of the island in a bid to save his shipwrecked crew. As a grand finale you visit the Antarctic Peninsula, marvelling at its frozen splendor and the myriad species thriving on the ice and in the water.