Ortelius

Specially built for polar exploration, the ice-strengthened Ortelius is equipped for expedition cruising in the Arctic and Antarctica, including helicopter-supported adventures. This rugged vessel offers rare access to remote regions such as the Ross Sea and Franz Josef Land, providing an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking true off-the-beaten-path exploration.

about the ship

Ortelius offers simple yet comfortable accommodations, featuring spacious outside cabins, each with at least two portholes or windows and a private bathroom. The ship provides a cozy, hotel-standard atmosphere with a welcoming restaurant and a combined bar and lecture room for socializing and learning. The staff-to-passenger ratio ensures an intimate onboard experience while maximizing flexibility for wildlife-focused exploration.

Passengers: 108
Cabins: 52
Staff & Crew: 52

Exterior Social Areas Cabins

EXPEDITIONS ACTIVITIES

Sailing aboard the Ortelius, you’ll witness pristine snowscapes, vast penguin colonies, and dramatic glaciers, guided by expert naturalists and photographers. Enjoy Zodiac excursions, wildlife encounters, and hands-on photo workshops—all while immersed in the raw, breathtaking beauty of Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falklands. Every moment promises awe, adventure, and inspiration.

Onboard Activities Additional activities

kayaking

Offering an unforgettable way to experience the serene beauty of Antarctica up close. Paddling through calm, icy waters, you'll glide past towering icebergs and along pristine coastlines, gaining a unique perspective of the polar landscape. This peaceful activity allows for quiet encounters with wildlife and a deep connection to the untouched wilderness surrounding you.

Shore-Based Walking

This activity allows you to explore the last true wilderness on Earth at your own pace. Step onto untouched polar landscapes and immerse yourself in the silence, scale, and beauty of the environment. Whether it's a gentle stroll or a more active hike, each walk offers a deeper connection to Antarctica’s raw and remote majesty.

Photo Workshop

On select voyages, join a photo workshop led by professional photographers who will help you make the most of your personal camera gear. Whether you're a beginner or experienced shooter, you'll learn techniques to capture the stunning light, landscapes, and wildlife of Antarctica—ensuring you return home with unforgettable images of this extraordinary icy world.

Helicopter Tours

Helicopter tours offer a thrilling aerial perspective of Antarctica’s untouched wilderness, granting access to remote areas unreachable by ship or foot. Soar above towering glaciers, icebergs, and dramatic coastlines for an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of this extraordinary landscape. These exclusive flights provide a rare opportunity to witness the grandeur of the polar regions from above.

Zodiac Cruising & Shore Program

Zodiac cruising and shore programs are at the heart of our exploratory voyages, designed to maximize time ashore and wildlife encounters. Flexible by nature, we adapt to conditions and sightings, using our Zodiacs for both landings and scenic cruises. Expert guides accompany each outing, enriching your experience with insights, supported by onboard lectures on wildlife, nature, and polar history.

Polar Diving