Proclaiming a “bold new chapter of polar exploration,” G Adventures will introduce a new expedition vessel for the upcoming Antarctica season. Currently chartered through Danish maritime company SunStone, the presently named ‘Ocean Adventurer,” will replace G’s ‘Expedition’ ship and take its name in tribute to the signature “little red ship.”

Accommodating 128 travellers and offering an enhanced onboard experience, the new ship will embark on its first G Adventures departure to Antarctica in October after having undergone major renovations, including installing new fuel-efficient engines.

G Adventures founder Bruce Poon Tip says the new ship marks an exciting step for G Adventures’ polar program, securing the future of its small-ship expeditions and allowing room for expansion.

“The Expedition has operated over 270 departures, taking over 30,000 travellers to some of the most remote regions of the world, and holds a very dear place in our hearts at G Adventures. And, while we all wanted to continue to operate our little red ship, it became apparent that doing so would not be good for the environment, or the business… Our initial calculations estimate that the overall carbon footprint per person per day will drop by up to 30% as we transition to the new ship.

The new 102-metre-long ship features a restaurant and bar, a large 170-sq.-m.m presentation lounge, library, fitness area, observation and sun deck and outdoor Jacuzzis.

Meanwhile, the 70 cabins on board will provide modern and stylish accommodation options with each featuring either an ocean-facing porthole or window and ensuite bathrooms. Suites will include a double bed and larger sea-view windows, allowing travellers to observe the sights and wildlife of the seventh continent from their room. And multi-share twin and triple cabins provide travellers with a sociable option at a more economical price.

G notes that while travellers on larger ships have their excursion time restricted, Expedition passengers will benefit through small-ship exploration, with 11 zodiacs hosting two daily excursions and all travellers having the opportunity to leave the ship at each stop.

In addition, with at least 14 expedition experts on board, specializing in everything from marine biology to ornithology, the passenger to expert ratio of 10:1 means travellers are able to spend time and connect with some of the region’s leading experts on board. Daily lectures will continue to take place, as will the popular kayaking and camping excursions in Antarctica, which see travellers paddle past icebergs and sleep under the stars on the ice.

The new ship is built with an Ice Class 1A for reinforced safety and maneuverability, as well as a refurbished propulsion system and updated stabilisers (Sperry Gyrofin), offering a smoother ride and helping to reduce motion sickness during rough crossings.

The new Expedition ship will operate five Antarctica itineraries, including the 11-day ‘Antarctica Classic,’ 21-day ‘Spirit of Shackleton,’ and 22-day ‘Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica.’

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