Antarctica - DESTINATIONS & HOTELS

• Introduction
• Destinations & Hotels
• Info & facts
• Itinerary Ideas
• Oasis Highlights
• Price Guide
• Themes

MV Ortelius

Built in Poland in 1989, the MV Ortelius ex “Marina Svetaeva” is a 298 foot expedition ship, purpose designed for polar research by the Russian Academy of Science. 

Strong and manoeuvrable, her Russian heritage is visible throughout from the functional clean spaces to the class A1 ice-strengthened hull, the highest classification of its kind – perfect for navigating the glacier choked channels of Antarctica. 

She carries a maximum of 106 passengers in 48 unfussy cabins across 3 decks all featuring private facilities and either a porthole or a window. Categories start from quadruple cabins with portholes and lead up through wood-beamed twins with windows to comfortable superior cabins and one spacious suite which have an additional sitting room attached.

There is plenty of space inside and out from the 2 restaurants and bar/lecture room to the outside decks and bridge.

The Ortelius offers a range of 9-22 night cruises which cover shorter peninsula trips as well as polar circle and longer South Georgia and Falkland Island adventures. Expeditions are led by highly experienced staff and ever cater to the most adventurous with exciting “Basecamp” departures which offer hiking, snowshoeing, kayaking, camping and even diving. 

The MV Ortelius is no beauty yet subsequent overhauls have softened the original, stark Russian design. Yet perhaps this is why we like her so much! Stripped bare of frills, she is equipped for serious expeditions whose main aim is for passengers to spend as much time away from the vessel as possible immersed in the pristine splendour of the Antarctic.

This is just one of the cruises that we recommend in this area. If your favourite is not featured just let your consultant know - we will be happy to book it for you.