Ocean Explorer carries 138 guests and is purpose-built for polar expedition work, with an Ulstein X-Bow hull designed to cut through swell and pack ice more smoothly than a conventional bow. Based out of Ushuaia, Argentina, she sails round-trip into the Weddell Sea and Antarctic Sound, crossing the Drake Passage by sea in both directions rather than by charter flight.
Cabins and suites are arranged across multiple decks, the majority with private balconies or large picture windows looking out over the ice.
A Main Dining Room seating 144 guests for all meals, alongside the Latitude Bar and a panoramic Observation Lounge seating 63, both used for informal gatherings and lectures between excursions.
Twice-daily Zodiac landings and cruising through the Weddell Sea’s ice-choked waters, guided sea kayaking and inflatable-kayak paddling excursions, the Polar Plunge, and onboard expedition team presentations; wellness facilities include a two-storey library, dry sauna, fitness centre and jacuzzis.
Some of Antarctica’s largest Adélie penguin colonies, Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals hauled out on the fast ice, and humpback, minke and fin whales feeding along the pack-ice edge, all reachable directly from the ship’s Zodiac fleet.
The ship’s high observation decks and two-storey library windows give usable shooting positions in poor weather, when the Weddell Sea’s famously changeable ice conditions keep landings on hold.
Operated under IAATO guidelines governing visitor numbers, landing sites and wildlife distances in Antarctica.
To arrange a tailor-made journey to this lodge, speak with your Kipekee Journey Lead.
