This is the UK and European website
Our system has detected that you may be browsing from United Kingdom. So that we can give you the correct information please choose from the following:
Click here to view the United Kingdom website (www.explore.co.uk)
If we guessed wrong please select your location from the list below:
* By setting your location you will see prices in an appropriate currency, and may see content customised to your location.
 |
0845 291 4541 | ||
 |
Speak to us online | ||
 |
E-mail us |
Your short list is empty 
Dates and prices coming soon!
3 categories of cabin (all with private facilities) spread over 5 decks
Expedition ship M/V Ortelius
The Shetland Islands
A unique voyage taking in some of the lesser known island outposts in the North Atlantic Ocean. First to the Shetland Islands, where we visit one of the smaller islands - Mousa, famed for its circular stone towers plus grey seals, black guillemots and Arctic skuas.
Jan Mayen Island
The Norwegian island of Jan Mayen, situated 300 nautical miles north-east of Iceland, is a volcanic island of breathtaking beauty and mystique, dominated by Mt Beerenberg. From the slopes of the 2300m volcano, impressive glaciers spill into the sea. Until recently, the island was off-limits as it is a military base, and continues to be rarely visited by tourists. We will sail by Koksletta where thousands of Little Auks and Brünnich's Guillemots breed close to a glacier. Also an optional walk across the island to Kvalrossbukta to look at the remains of a 17th century Dutch whaling station and a substantial colony of Fulmars.
Spitsbergen
We cruise under the midnight sun deeper into the Arctic Circle towards the usually ice-bound outpost of the Svalbard archipelago, more commonly known as Spitsbergen. A rugged land of deep fjords, jagged mountains and ice sheets, we spend our time here searching for walrus, seal, reindeer, arctic fox and the mighty polar bear. Depending on ice conditions we aim to visit Raudfjord, Fuglesangen with thousands of breeding Little Auks, Fuglehuken, look for Walrusses at Sarstangen, Engelskmansbukta or Poole-pynten, Alkhornet with Reindeer and Arctic Foxes.
M/V Plancius
The M/V Plancius was built as an oceanographic research vessel for the Royal Dutch Navy. She was re-launched in 2009 after an extensive refitting and renovation programme and is an ice-strengthened vessel suitable for Polar waters. 110 passengers can be accommodated in 3 categories of cabin (all with private facilities) spread over 5 decks. Public areas include a restaurant/lecture room on deck 3 and an observation lounge (with bar) on deck 5 with large windows as well as open deck areas. The vessel is equipped with 10 Zodiacs (sturdy inflatable boats) for excursions and 2 gangways ensure a swift disembarkation. M/V "Plancius" is comfortable and nicely decorated, but it is not a luxurious vessel - primarily defined by an exploratory educational travel programme, spending as much time ashore as possible.
M/V Plancius is a member of the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO). The ship meets and exceeds the latest SOLAS, ISM & MARPOL regulations for safety and the environment.
Cabins
Prices are based on the use of outward-facing, twin-share cabins with private facilities. These are cosy and comfortable with a private toilet and shower, porthole or window. Please note that all cabins are outside facing and with private facilities. The ship also has triple bed cabins and superior cabins, subject to availability. It may be possible to upgrade to a superior cabin or single occupancy. Prices available on request.
