Antarctica Vessels

The newest addition to Aurora Expeditions' fleet, Douglas Mawson continues the X-BOW tradition of Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle with the same 132-guest capacity and expedition DNA. Named for the legendary Australian polar explorer, it brings the same program of kayaking, camping, and Zodiac landings, with updated cabin interiors and sustainability improvements over its predecessors.

Aurora Expeditions' flagship, Greg Mortimer was designed from the keel up for polar expedition travel, with the X-BOW hull that reduces pitching in heavy seas and improves fuel efficiency. Carrying 132 guests, it operates a strong kayaking and camping program, and the small passenger count means generous time ashore at every landing site. A solid choice for travelers prioritising expedition depth over onboard luxury.

The world's first luxury hybrid-electric polar icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot reaches destinations inaccessible to conventional expedition ships — including the North Pole and deep Weddell Sea. PC2 ice class, twin helicopters, a submarine, and an extraordinary Blue Eye underwater lounge set it apart from every other vessel in Antarctic travel.

Lindblad's most capable Antarctic vessel, National Geographic Endurance carries 126 guests and holds a PC5 ice class rating — among the strongest of any expedition passenger ship — giving it access to the Weddell Sea, Ross Sea, and remote high-latitude routes that few other ships can reach. A resident team of National Geographic photographers, naturalists, and undersea specialists provides a science and storytelling dimension that sets Lindblad voyages apart.

Sister ship to National Geographic Endurance, Resolution shares the same PC5 ice class, 126-guest capacity, and full Lindblad expedition team — including resident National Geographic photographers and naturalists. The two ships run complementary Antarctic schedules and are equally capable across the full range of Lindblad itineraries, from classic Peninsula crossings to high-latitude Ross Sea and Weddell expeditions.

Scenic's ultra-luxury expedition ship offers one of the most comprehensive onboard capability sets in Antarctic travel — twin helicopters, two Discovery submarines, kayaks, and a fleet of Zodiacs, all included in the voyage fare. With 228 guests across spacious all-balcony suites, Scenic Eclipse combines genuine expedition access with a level of comfort that rivals a boutique luxury hotel.

A classic Antarctic expedition vessel, Sea Spirit has been operating polar voyages for decades and carries 114 guests in a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. Poseidon Expeditions focuses on expedition quality over onboard luxury — strong naturalist teams, excellent Zodiac access, and competitive fares make it a practical choice for experienced polar travelers and those prioritising time in the field over premium amenities.

Sister ship to Seabourn Venture, Seabourn Pursuit offers the same ultra-luxury expedition formula — 264 guests in all-suite accommodation, two custom submarines, kayaks, and a dedicated Zodiac program — with the same emphasis on pairing genuine polar access with Seabourn's signature service and cuisine. The two ships operate complementary Antarctic schedules, providing more departure options across the season.

Seabourn Venture brings the brand's hallmark ultra-luxury service to expedition travel, with 264 guests in all-suite accommodation, two custom submarines, kayaks, and a full Zodiac program. The ship is designed to access remote landing sites while maintaining the standard of comfort and cuisine Seabourn is known for, with an expedition team that operates alongside the luxury experience rather than in spite of it.

Silversea's flagship Antarctic vessel, Silver Endeavour carries just 100 guests in all-suite accommodation, delivering an intimate luxury expedition experience. PC6 ice class, twin helicopters, and a fleet of Zodiacs give access to the full range of Peninsula and South Georgia itineraries, while the low passenger count ensures exceptional time ashore.

Named for the legendary marine biologist, Sylvia Earle is Aurora Expeditions' second X-BOW vessel, sharing the same expedition-focused design as Greg Mortimer. With 132 guests, the same active excursions program — kayaking, camping, snowshoeing — and a science-minded expedition team, it offers an immersive polar experience with particular appeal for travelers drawn to wildlife and the natural history of the region.

Quark Expeditions' flagship vessel, Ultramarine is built around activity — twin helicopters, 20 two-person kayaks, and an active excursions program that includes camping, snowshoeing, and mountaineering, all included in the voyage fare. With 199 guests and a strong expedition team, it suits travelers who want a rigorous, adventure-first Antarctic experience without sacrificing comfort.

Quark Expeditions' second flagship, World Voyager carries 196 guests and runs a strong activity program including kayaking, camping, and snowshoeing. Purpose-built for expedition travel with a Zodiac-first approach, it focuses on maximising time ashore across Peninsula and South Georgia itineraries. A fly-the-Drake option is available on select departures for travelers who prefer to skip the open-ocean crossing.