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Ocean Explorer

  • Ocean Explorer Ship
  • Antarctica – Quark – Ocean Explorer – Studio veranda state cabin
  • Antarctica – Quark – Ocean Explorer – Dining room
  • Antarctica – Quark – Ocean Explorer – Jacuzzi
  • Antarctica – Quark – Ocean Explorer – observation deck
  • Antarctica – Quark – Ocean Explorer – sauna
  • Antarctica – Quark – Ocean Explorer – restaurant
  • Antarctica – Quark – Ocean Explorer – Royal veranda state cabin
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A modern ship perfectly designed for Antarctic waters.

The Ocean Explorer, built in 2021, is a specialist Polar vessel whose unusual bow design enables passengers to enjoy a smoother, more relaxing journey than most other ships sailing in rough or icy waters. This not only makes crossing the infamous Drake Passage noticeably more stable, but also more fuel-efficient.

The Scandinavian-style cabins are completely sound-proofed, though most come with verandas if you want to enjoy the sounds or indeed silence, of your surrounds. Communal areas include a library, observation deck, sauna and gym, as well as two outdoor Jacuzzis. The dining room offers a relaxed and spacious environment to enjoy meals and there is a stylish bar where you can enjoy a drink alone or mingle with your fellow passengers.

The fleet size of 15 Zodiacs means that even when the ship is operating at its maximum capacity of 138 passengers, everyone is able to take part in off ship excursions at the same time.

Bartolome, Galápagos

What our clients say

  • Every bit was memorable from the rough sea crossings to the wonderful remoteness of the destination and the absolutely fantastic wildlife.

    HD, London Feb 2015
  • Highlights: “Setting foot on Antarctica and seeing the wildlife in its natural habitat.  The first part had always been an ambition of mine”

    SM, Dennie Jan 2010
  • This was a trip of a lifetime. The scale of the natural beauty of Antarctica is overwhelming.  The icebergs, penguins ,mountains and sunshine which reflected it all in the clear…

    AW, Stanmore Jan 2013
  • Most Memorable Experience: “The Awesome Beauty of a Sunny Antarctica!”

    AW, Nottingham Dec 2012
  • Most memorable experience: "The whales in Wilhelmina Bay. Our expedition leader said that this was the best he had seen in his 19 years of leading these trips."

    RW, Teddington Feb 2014
  • The whole experience of sailing across Antarctica was amazing, but being able to visit Scott's at Cape Evans was probably the pinnacle of the trip.

    JW, Bedford Jan 2020
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Our Expert's Opinion

Rosie profile
Rosie Kay - Travel Expert

During a career break, Rosie embarked on an unforgettable year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. Now back in the UK, she is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others, helping them discover her favourite place in the world.

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Bartolome, Galápagos

Meet our team

Real Latin american experts

  • Paul Winrow Giffin
    Paul Winrow-Giffin - Travel Expert

    After graduating in Computer Science, Paul spent seven months travelling from Colombia to Argentina and came home hooked on Latin America.

  • Alex
    Alex Walker - Travel Expert

    A globetrotter since her childhood, Alex spent a year studying abroad in Guadalajara and has returned to Latin America countless times since then.

  • Mary
    Mary Anne Nelson - Travel Expert

    Born in the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, Mary’s insider knowledge and dry sense of humour make her a highly valued member of the Tailor-made Holidays and Group Tour sales team.

  • Carrie
    Carrie Gallagher - Travel Expert

    A former JLA tour leader, Carrie brings a wealth of on-the-ground experience to our London-based Tailor-made and Group Tours department.

  • Sophie
    Sophie Barber - Travel Expert

    Sophie lived in Chile before joining us and has travelled extensively across Latin America, from Mexico to the furthest tip of Patagonia and beyond to Antarctica.

  • Chris
    Chris Rendell-Dunn - Travel Expert

    Anglo-Peruvian Chris grew up in Lima and spent much of his adult life in between London and Cusco as a tour leader, before settling permanently in our London-based Tailor-made and Group Tours sales team.

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