The future of Antarctic cruising

New immersive experiences and improved comfort are being designed directly into purpose built, state of the art expedition ships. Gone are the days of being wedged into steel, polar expedition vessel designed for scientific expeditions and more adept at transporting crates rather than travellers. These newly launched or ‘still in production’ Antarctica cruise ships close the gap between expedition and luxury. Multiple restaurants, dining experiences and even your own personal butler are all part of the future of Antarctica cruising. You no longer have an excuse to skip your workout routine as gyms, spas and swimming pools are now a standard feature. New activities including paddle boarding, helicopter rides and camping can be enjoyed, and updated technologies bring further relief for seasickness sufferers. 

Cruise ship and a zodiac sailing between the glaciers

New Antarctica cruise ships

The Greg Mortimer, 2019

The Greg Mortimer launches in late 2019 as one of the first Antarctica passenger ships to tame the Drake Passage. Cutting-edge nautical technology, an inverted bow concept, is a real game changer. The patented Ulstein X-BOW® cuts through waves with more stability allowing the water to flow over the bow, reducing the impact and improving efficiency.

The ship has been built with expeditioners in mind, featuring custom-built features seen first on the Greg Mortimer. It features two custom-designed hydraulic viewing platforms, folding out from the bow of the ship, allowing photographers an unobstructed view of the marine life and seabirds. Sea level launching platforms on deck 3 enables quick and easy boarding of Zodiacs, allowing more time spent ashore. At the aft of the ship the activity platform activity preparation area will allow for easy access to adventure activities, whether it be kayaking, diving or snorkelling.

Greg Mortimer is available to book right here. Departs Ushuaia, Argentina.

Greg Mortimer cruise ship in Antarctica

MS Roald Amundsen, 2019

With climate change in the air, cruise ships are increasingly looking towards their energy efficiency. As a conscious traveller, you will be pleased to hear Hybrid propulsion is now possible. The MS Roald Amundsen, due to be launched in 2019, cuts emissions by 20% sailing on electric propulsion and using more effective uses of electricity. Although this is just the tip of the iceberg, it is hoped this ship will carve the way for a new future in shipping, one that is silent and emission-free.

The MS Roald Amundsen has also created a new experience called the Amundsen Science Centre or an 'edutainment' area. A space full of state-of-the-art technology, gadgets and science equipment dedicated to giving guests a deeper understanding of Antarctica. The expeditions team will use the latest technology, including VR, to give lectures and hands-on training.

The MS Roald Amundsen is available to book here. Departs Santiago, Chile.

Roald Amundsen in the background of the Zodiac in Antarctica

Le Lapérouse, 2018

Although, for a real 'immersive' experience below the icy waters, the Le Lapérouse launched in 2018, has a feature called the 'Blue Eye'. Two large oval portholes 2.5 meters under the water. You can relax in an innovative, submarine, multi-sensory lounge with blue lighting, curves and importantly, a bar. The lounge also gives an audio emersion using state of the art technology that captures sound across a 5km radius and subtly interacts with you through the furniture.

The Le Lapérouse is available to book to just contact Viva here.

Ponant cruise ship Le Leperouse sailing in the sunset

Crystal Endeavor, 2020

The Crystal Endeavor pushes the boat out on ultimate fine dining and luxury experience. Due to launch in 2020, it will be the most spacious luxury expedition yacht to operate in Antarctica. With six-star service that includes 6 stunning venues, Michelin-inspired food and a personal butler for nights in, it will also be the most luxurious.

The Crystal Endeavor is available to book here. Departs Christchurch, New Zealand

Bright Crystal Endeavor cruise ship sailing between glaciers

Magellan Explorer, 2019

To get away from the crowds rather than travel alongside them, the Magellan Explorer (due to launch in November 2019) is a purpose-built vessel with a low capacity of 100 passengers or 69 passengers for air-cruises.  If like many, you don't have the time to spare for an expedition to Antarctica the Magellan Explorer is the world’s first expedition ship perfectly designed for Antarctic air-cruise operations. Remaining in Antarctica for extended periods of time you can fly part of the journey increasing your time admiring Antarctica's dramatic coastlines.

The Magellan Explorer is available to book here. Air-Cruise, departs Punta Arenas, Chile.

Magelan Explorer cruise ship in Antarctica

New technologies are pushing the boundaries for Antarctica expeditions. Viva Expeditions believes the Antarctic experience will become cleaner, quieter, more immersive but less intrusive as efficiencies improve and hybrid technologies are introduced. Recent sobering studies have revealed the heart-breaking truth that Antarctica’s ice is melting faster than ever. Viva’s view is that the best way to protect this threatened destination is to become an Antarctica ambassador; fall in love with Antarctica by visiting. Tourists can potentially be the best Antarctic ambassadors of all and these cruise ships help pave the way through accessibility and new methods to encourage immersion and education.

For more information contact us.