
Plancius Antarctic and Arctic Cruises
A small expedition ship perfect for exploration and adventure
A polar cruise on board the Plancius
30 Reviews
What we love about the Plancius
The "Basecamp" expeditions on the Plancius provide several complimentary optional activities as part of the cruise package.
Children as young as 3 years old are welcome on board.
The ship has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with a quieter engine and a maximum of 109 passengers.



Originally built in 1976 for the Royal Dutch Navy as the research vessel Hr. Ms. Tydeman, the M/V Plancius has been expertly refurbished by Oceanwide Expeditions into a modern, comfortable expedition ship. Fully compliant with SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations and registered with Lloyd's Register, the ship sails under the Dutch flag and is ice-strengthened for polar exploration.
Accommodating up to 108 passengers, Plancius offers a variety of cabins: quadruple, triple, twin, and deluxe—all with private bathrooms except the shared-facility triple and quadruple cabins. Cabins range from 12.5 to 21 m², featuring twin or queen beds. While some cabins may have partially obstructed views due to ship structure, the real spectacle is outside—best enjoyed from the large outer decks or the panoramic observation lounge on Deck 5.
On board, you’ll find a restaurant and lecture room on Deck 3, and a welcoming lounge and bar above. Spacious decks on Deck 4 offer prime wildlife and landscape viewing. With 10 robust Mark V zodiacs and 2 gangways, landings are efficient and safe.
This is not a luxury cruise—it’s an authentic polar adventure. Plancius is designed for immersive exploration, supported by an experienced crew of 37 and an expert team of 8 expedition staff and an onboard doctor. A diesel-electric propulsion system ensures reduced noise and vibration, providing a smoother ride as you voyage into the heart of the polar regions.
Dates & Prices of Plancius
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Amenities on board the Plancius
Bar
Lecture Theater
Observation Deck
Zodiac Fleet
Observation Lounge
Medical Services
Library
Internet/Wifi
Mudroom
Plancius 's take on sustainable traveling
Sustainability is at the heart of every expedition. Plancius and its sister ships are committed to reducing their environmental impact through:
The use of low-sulfur marine gas oil (LSMGO) with under 0.1% sulfur content.
A water treatment and desalination system using reverse osmosis—eliminating the need for plastic bottles. Guests receive reusable water bottles.
Elimination of single-use plastics: no straws, plastic cups, or individually wrapped items.
Biodegradable shampoo and soap in recycled packaging in every bathroom.
Onboard waste sorting and recycling programs help reduce our footprint at sea.
Cabin Categories on board the Plancius





