Plancius

Plancius is a classic and reliable expedition ship, well suited for active polar voyages in both the Arctic and Antarctica.

Originally built in 1976 as a research vessel for the Royal Dutch Navy, she was completely rebuilt as a passenger expedition ship in 2009. Today, Plancius is ice-strengthened, SOLAS-compliant, and designed to operate safely in demanding polar conditions.

The ship features a diesel-electric propulsion system that reduces noise and vibration. Three engines, each generating 1,230 horsepower, allow for cruising speeds of 10 to 12 knots.

Plancius is equipped with 10 Mark V Zodiacs and two embarkation gangways, ensuring efficient and smooth shore operations. As with many expedition ships, a small number of cabins may have partially obstructed views; the best views are always from the outer decks or the bridge when open.

Plancius is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a genuine expedition experience, with a strong focus on time ashore and educational exploration.

♦ Cabin Amenities

• All cabins with private facilities and ample storage space
• Hair dryer
• Flatscreen TV
• Electrical supply: 220 V, 60 Hz (standard European outlets with two round pins)

♦ Onboard Facilities

• Restaurant (open seating)
• 24-hour beverage station (tea, coffee, and water available at no cost)
• Spacious observation lounge with large windows and panoramic views
• Large open deck spaces with full walk-around access on deck 4, ideal for enjoying scenery and wildlife
• Lecture room
• Bar
• Library
• Small souvenir shop
• Open bridge
• Laundry services
• Clinic with licensed, English-speaking doctor
• Ship-to-shore satellite communications

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.