Sylvia Earle Antarctic and Arctic Cruises

National Geographic Explorer

The flagship of the National Geographic fleet, the Explorer travels from pole to pole each year, spending winters in Antarctica and summers in the Arctic. The National Geographic Explorer is arguably the finest expedition vessel on the seas. A state-of-the-art, ice-class expedition ship, the Explorer comfortably accommodates 148 guests in 81 spacious cabins, each with outside views, private en-suite bathrooms, and a sleek, modern style. The ship carries kayaks and a fleet of zodiacs, as well as sophisticated video equipment that allows access to the underwater world. Public areas include a lounge and bar, a library, a spa, a fitness center, and a sauna. Services include a full-time doctor, a wellness specialist, and an Internet café.

National Geographic Endurance

The *National Geographic Endurance* was launched in 2020 and is one of the newest arctic and antarctic exploration vessels currently operating. She was named in honor of the ship of the famous polar explorer Ernest Shackleton. Built from the ground up to navigate remote polar regions year-round, she was also designed to provide exceptional comfort for her passengers. The *National Geographic Endurance* can safely explore notoriously difficult waters with ease, including passages off Northeast Greenland, journeying to the remote Jan Mayen island, navigating the infamous Northeast Passage, and more. The *National Geographic Endurance* offers accommodation for only 126 guests in 69 spacious cabins, all of which are outside facing and enjoy large windows or balconies, private bathrooms, individual climate control, Wi-Fi, and a state-of-the-art expedition command center with tablets and USB/mobile device docking. As well as a fleet of robust zodiacs, she’s also equipped with kayaks, snowshoes, and cross-country skis, allowing guests to explore areas on foot that can’t be experienced on other vessels. In addition, she is equipped with specialized equipment that allows the onboard naturalist guides unique access and ability to share the underwater world with guests. Public areas include a lounge with a relaxed bar, a gym, a yoga studio, an infinity-edge outdoor hot tub, saunas with ocean views, a well-stocked library, a spa, a state-of-the-art lecture room, and a photo workshop area. Services aboard the ship include a full-time doctor, a National Geographic photographer, a certified photo instructor, a video chronicler, a wellness specialist, a laundry service, and an internet café.

Ocean Explorer

Our Polartours team is very proud to introduce the wonderful Ocean Explorer, the latest addition to the fleet, purpose-built for polar expeditions. With a capacity for 138 passengers, this modern vessel boasts cutting-edge expedition ship technology, including the renowned ULSTEIN X-BOW®, ensures a smooth and comfortable sailing experience. We have been enchanted by the light-filled two-story library located at the bow, offering a welcoming ambiance for guests to unwind. The Scandinavian-designed cabins, most with verandas, providing luxurious accommodations, exceeded our expectations. We, at Polartours absolutely loved the spacious gym, the sauna with panoramic views, and the two outdoor Jacuzzis for relaxation. We enjoyed particularly the wildlife viewing from the ample outdoor viewing areas and multi-height outer decks that are also ideals for photography. With a fleet of 15 Zodiacs, you embark on off-ship adventures swiftly and safely.

Ocean Atlantic

Ocean Atlantic is the perfect vessel for expedition cruising in Antarctic and Arctic waters! Newly renovated in 2016 and with an international ice class rating of 1B, she is one of the strongest ships operating in Antarctica. Her high maneuverability, shallow draft and strong engines allow for extended voyages into isolated fjords, creating exciting adventures for any Antarctica and Arctic traveler. Ocean Atlantic is newly renovated (2016) with elegant common areas and accommodation for 198 passengers. The ship was built in 1985 and underwent an extensive rebuild in 2010. With a length of 140m, she has ample space on the multiple decks for several lecture halls, a relaxed restaurant serving 4-star international cuisine, professionally staffed bars, and observation platforms – and even a pool. All common areas on the Erickson Deck feature large panel windows, enabling passengers to quickly spot passing whales and photographic sights from the comfort of indoor lounges. All private cabins are stylishly appointed and feature individual bathroom facilities, phone for internal calls, individual temperature controls, and TV. Ideal for relaxation, the vessels’ accommodation ranges in size from 11 - 35 m2 and are designed with either portholes or windows. Daily shore landings at penguin rookeries, research stations, and other Antarctic wonders are made possible by her fleet of 20 Zodiacs.