Ortelius

Ortelius is a true polar expedition ship, solid and ice-strengthened for operating in some of the most remote regions on the planet. It is one of the most capable and respected vessels for deep exploration in both the Arctic and Antarctica.

Originally built for scientific operations in Poland in 1989 under the name Marina Svetaeva, the ship was later refitted for polar expeditions and renamed after the Dutch cartographer Abraham Ortelius.

Ortelius holds one of the highest ice-class ratings in its category, allowing it to safely navigate solid one-year sea ice as well as loose multi-year pack ice. Its design and strength clearly prioritize real exploration and operational capability.

Life on board is fully focused on maximizing time ashore, landings, and activities, supported by an efficient Zodiac fleet and a highly experienced expedition team. Onboard facilities are simple and functional, including a lounge, lecture room, and bar, all designed to support the expedition experience. Recent upgrades include the installation of a skylight, bringing more natural light into the bar and observation lounge and creating a warmer, more open atmosphere.

Please note that some cabins may have partially obstructed views due to the ship’s technical design. On expedition ships like Ortelius, the best views are always from the outer decks or the bridge, where the action happens in real time.

♦ Onboard Facilities

• Restaurant (open seating)
• 24-hour beverage station (tea, coffee, and water available at no extra cost)
• Large open deck spaces, offering excellent opportunities to enjoy scenery and wildlife
• Lecture room
• Observation lounge
• Bar
• Library
• Small souvenir shop
• Open bridge
• Laundry service
• Clinic with licensed, English-speaking doctor
• Ship-to-shore satellite communications
• Electrical supply: 220 V, 60 Hz (standard European outlets with two round pins)

Please note: there is no passenger elevator between decks.

♦ Notes

• Single supplement: 1.7x the Twin or Superior cabin rate.
• Request-share program: we match solo travelers of the same gender with others willing to share. Cabin sharing is available in Twin, Triple, and Quadruple cabins.
• Adventure options: must be pre-booked and paid for prior to departure. Availability varies by voyage and spaces are limited.
• Basecamp departures: all offered activities are included at no extra cost (camping, kayaking, snowshoeing/hiking, mountaineering, photo workshops, as well as standard shore excursions and Zodiac cruises).
• Mandatory medical evacuation and repatriation insurance: not included (USD 100,000 per person for Antarctica voyages / USD 50,000 for Arctic voyages / USD 300,000 for Ross Sea voyages).
• Fuel surcharge: may be applied to all bookings in case of a substantial increase in fuel costs.