Arctic Ships

Introducing the Douglas Mawson, Aurora Expeditions' latest small ship for global exploration. With sustainability features and luxurious amenities, it accommodates up to 154 adventurers, offering unique itineraries including East Antarctica and Subantarctic Islands explorations.

Designed for low-impact voyages featuring a fuel-efficient Ulstein X-Bow®, reduced air emissions and light pollution, and virtual anchoring for protection of the sea floor. The ship honors the highly accomplished marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer, Sylvia Earle. This ship will channel her marine-conservation ethos into a fully immersive on-board guest experience, not only in the Polar regions but in other destinations as the ship sails between the Arctic and the Antarctic.

With only 132 passengers on board, Greg Mortimer reimagines Arctic expedition, tropical, and European cruises for the future. Modern, comfortable, and designed with guests in mind, this ship represents a significant increase in sailing capability.

The Ultramarine is designed with an ice rating of 1A+, PC6, making it one of the most capable polar exploring vessels on the planet. Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size.

Explore polar regions in style and comfort aboard the all-suite Sea Spirit. Providing spacious accommodations for a maximum of 114 passengers, the Sea Spirit also features the maneuverability and friendly atmosphere of a small ship.

The MV Hondius is designed to sail to the polar regions while impacting them as little as possible, accommodating 174 passengers cruising to Antarctica.

Built in 1976 and reconstructed in 2008, the MV Plancius is fully equipped for polar expedition cruises to the Arctic and Antarctica, and accommodates 112 passengers in 54 comfortable cabins.

The Aqua Lares is a 77-meter icebreaker superyacht designed for small-ship exploration. This 30-guest vessel sails on scheduled expeditions to the remote islands of East Africa and the Norwegian Arctic.

Ocean Explorer, purpose-built for polar exploration, is a striking vessel accommodating 138 passengers. This modern and elegant ship boasts state-of-the-art technologies, including the innovative ULSTEIN X-BOW® for a smooth and stable ride in challenging seas. Enjoy panoramic ocean views in the two-story bow library, and experience modern Scandinavian-designed cabins with verandas for most. The ship offers a spacious gym, sauna, two outdoor Jacuzzis for relaxation, ample outdoor viewing areas, and multi-height outer decks. With 15 Zodiacs for off-ship adventures and sustainability features like fuel-efficient Rolls Royce engines, Ocean Explorer is an eco-friendly choice for polar exploration.

The ice-strengthened vessel Ortelius is an excellent ship for polar expedition cruises in the Arctic and Antarctica, providing us with possibilities to adventure to remote locations such as the Ross Sea in the Antarctic and Franz Josef Land in the Arctic.

Designed to deliver a safe, comfortable and deeply immersive experience, Ocean Albatros offers an array of attractive onboard features and cabin choices – most with balconies, and even a large suite that can accommodate a family of five!

National Geographic Resolution is a polar expedition passenger ship (Polar Code PC5) designed for remote exploration. This 138-guest ship features a patented X-Bow® for a smoother ride, large viewing windows, and a modern Scandinavian interior ideal for polar adventures.

Embark on an exhilarating adventure aboard the National Geographic Endurance, a marvel of maritime engineering designed specifically for year-round expeditions into the heart of the Antarctic's icy embrace. With an impressive PC5 Category A ice class rating, the highest ever achieved by a cruise ship accommodating just 126 guests, this vessel promises unparalleled access to some of the planet's most remote and pristine environments. The ship's revolutionary sloping X-bow cuts through the choppiest of seas with remarkable grace, significantly reducing onboard movement and ensuring a smoother, more comfortable voyage. This innovative design not only enhances the journey but also boosts fuel efficiency and reduces emissions, underscoring a commitment to preserving the delicate ecosystems it explores. Experience the thrill of navigating through towering icebergs and witness the untouched splendor of the Antarctic, all while enjoying the intimate, luxurious setting of the National Geographic Endurance. This is more than a cruise -- it's a gateway to epic landscapes and an intimate encounter with the wild.

The polar explorer ship Le Commandant Charcot travels to remote regions of the Arctic and Antarctic. This expedition ship is unique because of its revolutionary and environmentally friendly design.

The L'Austral, sister ship to the Le Boreal, is the fruit of Italian expertise and French sophistication. A superb mega-yacht with 132 cabins, the L'Austral links tradition and innovation, cruising to worldwide destinations in luxury.

Ocean Victory, built for polar exploration, blends cutting-edge innovation with comfort. Its X-Bow design ensures a smooth, stable voyage with a 50% lower carbon footprint. Guests enjoy balcony staterooms, Jacuzzis, a spa, and easy Zodiac access for immersive Arctic and Antarctic adventures.

Arriving in early 2023, SH Diana will be the largest ship in our fleet, providing elegant and spacious 5-star accommodation for 192 guests in 96 spacious staterooms and suites, the vast majority with large balconies. Operated by an onboard team of 140 she will provide the highest levels of personal service and take Swan Hellenic back to its roots when she launches, exploring the Mediterranean and its famous sites of antiquity. Now sit back, relax and take a moment to get to know this amazing new ship, purpose-designed for our unique cultural expedition cruises.

Experience the luxurious settings that Le Laperouse offers while you enjoy the authenticity and passion for travel on each itinerary. Its contemporary decor and comfortable, fully equipped suites make it the ideal small cruise ship for exploring the Arctic, Mediterranean and even the Seychelles Islands.