Back

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
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

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

  • 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
  • Highlights were South Georgia – amazing king penguin colony, bathing in thermal pool and cooling off in Whalers Bay on deception island, the open air party as we left Paradise…

    HG, Surbition Feb 2010
  • Antarctica “Best holiday we have ever had.”

    MR, West Malling Dec 2012
  • 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
0 1 2 3 4 5

Our Expert's Opinion

Hannah
Hannah Waterhouse - Travel Expert

Hannah had an early introduction to Latin America when her family moved to Ecuador and she returned to study in Buenos Aires for a year before backpacking across the continent.

Papagaio

Your edit for Latin American inspiration

Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.

View Extraordinary Inspiration
Bartolome, Galápagos

Meet our team

Real Latin american experts

  • 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.

  • Hannah
    Hannah Donaldson - Travel Expert

    Having spent part of her childhood in Colombia and worked in Brazil and Costa Rica, Hannah's ties to Latin America run deep. Hannah is a much valued Travel Expert in our Tailor-made Holidays and Group Tours sales team.

  • Finn Clennett
    Finn Clennett - Travel Expert

  • 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.

  • Heloise
    Heloise Buxton - Travel Expert

    Heloise started her Latin American journey as an exchange student in Santiago, Chile. With extended summer holidays this was the perfect opportunity to backpack through Bolivia, Peru, Argentina and Brazil.

  • Ben
    Ben Line - Travel Expert

    Ben fell in love with Latin America on a six month backpacking trip from Colombia to Mexico in 1995. Since then he has explored most of South America, including living in Peru for a year. He is now Head of Sales.

0 1 2 3 4 5