Weddell Sea – In search of the Emperor Penguin, incl. helicopters
See the Antarctic from the vantage point of a true expedition leader – from the air. Our helicopter capability on the Ortelius provides you the unique chance to view an emperor penguin rookery numbering upwards of 4,000 breeding pairs, located just south of Snow Hill Island. Heavy ice may prevent entrance from the Weddell Sea, and ice at the rookery itself might break up and start to melt earlier than expected. With this in mind, the aim is to stop the vessel between the Antarctic Sound and James Clark Ross Island, close to the ice edge, and find emperor penguins on their way to the open water. The helicopters make this search possible – and thrilling – as you embark on scenic flights, as well as landings in places otherwise inaccessible so early in the season.
Experience the bird’s-eye-view of Antarctica
Experience the bird’s-eye-view of Antarctica! Our helicopter capability on m/v Ortelius gives you the rare chance to see the famed emperor penguin rookery south of Snow Hill Island, numbering around 4,000 breeding pairs. Heavy ice may prevent entrance to this area from the Weddell Sea, and ice at the rookery itself might break up and start to melt earlier than expected. With this in mind, the aim is to stop the vessel between the Antarctic Sound and James Clark Ross Island, close to the ice edge, and find emperor penguins on their way to open water. The thrilling helicopter flights make this search possible, enabling you to land in locations otherwise inaccessible this early in the season.
If ice conditions are favorable and the route to Snow Hill Island is free of multi-year pack ice, you have the chance for ship-to-shore helicopter transfers to Snow Hill Island (roughly 45 minutes walking distance from the emperor penguin rookery). If successful, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But please remember that nature writes the final itinerary out here: Attempts to reach Snow Hill Island during the voyages of 2012 – 19 did not always succeed. However, in 2013, 2017 until 2019 and 2022 until 2024 conditions were favorable to land by helicopter on Snow Hill Island and to visit the emperor penguin rookery.
Included in this voyage
- Voyage aboard the indicated vessel as indicated in the itinerary
- All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea.
- All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac.
- Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff.
- Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes.
- Ship-to-shore helicopter transfers (with no specific amount of helicopter time guaranteed)
- Luggage transfer from pick-up point to the vessel on the day of embarkation, in Ushuaia.
- Pre-scheduled group transfer from the vessel to the airport in Ushuaia (directly after disembarkation).
- All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the programme.
- Comprehensive pre-departure material.
- Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights
- Pre- and post- land arrangements.
- Passport and visa expenses.
- Government arrival and departure taxes.
- Meals ashore.
- Baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (which is strongly recommended).
- Excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges.
- The customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be provided).
| Outside | Balcony | Suite | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
$9,050.00
Cat: Quadruple Porthole $905.00 per night |
N/A | N/A | |
| More Pricing Information | |||
| Outside | |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
$9,050.00
Cat: Quadruple Porthole $905.00 per night |
|||
| Balcony | Suite | ||
| N/A | N/A | ||
| More Pricing Information | |||
- Helicopter Tours
- Safari, Animals, and Wildlife
About m/v Ortelius
Ortelius was originally the Marina Svetaeva. Built in Gdynia, Poland in 1989, it served as a special-purpose vessel for the Russian Academy of Science. Later it was re-flagged and renamed after the Dutch/Flemish cartographer Abraham Ortelius (1527 – 1598), who in 1570 published the first modern world atlas: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum or Theater of the World. At that time his atlas was the most expensive book ever printed. Ortelius is classed by Lloyd’s Register in London and flies the Dutch flag.
| Superior | Superior | $17,150.00 USD | |
| Twin Deluxe | Twin Deluxe | $16,350.00 USD | |
| Twin Window | Twin Window | $15,300.00 USD | |
| Twin Porthole | Twin Porthole | $10,300.00 USD | |
| Quadruple Porthole | Quadruple Porthole | $9,050.00 USD |
|
Upper/lower berth |
|
Lower berth |
|
Double bed |
|
Toilet |
|
Bathroom |
Perfect for Any Expedition
The vessel has the highest ice-class notation (UL1, equivalent to 1A) and is therefore suitable to navigate in solid one-year sea ice as well as loose multi-year pack ice. The m/v Ortelius can accommodate up to 108 passengers and has an abundance of open-deck spaces. It is manned by 24 highly experienced nautical crew members, 20 hotel staff, eight expedition specialists (one expedition leader, one assistant, and six lecturer-guides), and one doctor.
The m/v Ortelius: a Vessel with Comfort and Character
Please be aware that a small number of cabins may have a partially obstructed view due to the size of the windows and the design requirements of the ship. For example, some windows may be partly obstructed in the lower half by a gangway. The best view is always on the outer deck or the bridge. Though our voyages are primarily meant to offer our passengers an exploratory wildlife program with as much time ashore as possible, the m/v Ortelius offers all the comforts of a standard hotel ― along with a bar and lecture room. Flexibility assures maximum wildlife opportunities. As such, the m/v Ortelius carries 10 Zodiacs with 60hp Yamaha engines.
Age & Nationality
Passengers on a typical voyage range from in their 30s to their 80s, with the majority usually between 45 ― 65. Our expeditions attract independent travelers from around the globe who are characterized by a strong interest in exploring remote regions. The camaraderie that develops on board is an important part of the Oceanwide experience, and many passenger groups include several nationalities.
_hans_murre-oceanwide_expeditions_(5).avif)
What to Wear
In keeping with the spirit of expedition, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing for all activities, and keep in mind that much of the scenery can be appreciated from deck ― which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles, and make sure your parka is never far away in case one of our crew shouts “Whales!” over the loudspeaker and you have to dash outside in a moment’s notice. Opt for layers, as it is comfortably warm aboard the ship though often cold on deck.
_Elke_Lindner-Oceanwide_Expeditions_elke__dsc5314.avif)
How to Pay
Refreshments and souvenirs will be charged to your cabin. The day before departure you can settle your bill with the hotel manager, paying by credit card (Visa or MasterCard) or cash (euro, or in some cases dollar). We cannot, however, accept checks. Though the prices and standard currency on board is in the euro, other currencies may be accepted at the discretion of the hotel manager, at prevailing rates.
Electric Current
The electrical supply aboard ship is 220v, 60Hz. Electrical outlets are standard European with two thick round pins, so some passengers may need a 220v/110v converter.
Gratuities
The customary gratuity to the ship’s service personnel is made as a blanket contribution at the end of the voyage and is divided among the crew. Tipping is a personal matter, and the amount you wish to give is at your sole discretion. As a generally accepted guideline, we suggest 10 to 15 euros or US dollars per passenger per day. It is better for the crew if you give cash.
Non-Smoking Policy
We have a non-smoking policy inside all our vessels, though you can smoke in certain designated areas. We ask that you please respect the wishes of non-smokers.
_hans_murre-oceanwide_expeditions_(714).avif)
Your Physical Condition
You must be in good overall health and be able to walk several hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very demanding, but we spend as much time as possible on shore. You are, however, welcome to remain aboard the ship if you prefer. To join most excursions you must be able to get up and down the steep gangway ― from the ship to the water level ― to board the Zodiacs. Staff will assist you in and out of the boats, and boarding will become progressively easier with practice, but conditions on shore can be slippery and rocky. Remember, you will be traveling in remote areas without access to sophisticated medical facilities, so you must not join this expedition if you have a life-threatening condition or need daily medical treatment.
Why embark on an Oceanwide adventure? Because we're more than just a voyage; we're a gateway to the untamed heart of nature. With three decades of polar expedition under our belt, Oceanwide stands tall as a beacon of expertise and dedication to polar exploration. Our guiding principles lead the way as we navigate the Earth's most remote and breathtaking landscapes, inviting you on a journey where rugged beauty meets unparalleled expedition.
We bring guests closer to the heart of nature, to the polar wildlife, embracing the spirit of adventure for which the Arctic and Antarctica are known.
Our expeditions are designed to immerse you in the unparalleled beauty of the polar landscape. Get ready to witness breathtaking vistas, encounter majestic wildlife, and experience the raw power of nature like never before.
At Oceanwide Expeditions, our goal is maximizing your time on shore.
That is why our fleet consists of smaller vessels that give us an opportunity to land and explore. With minimal time spent onboard and maximum time exploring the polar terrain, every moment of your adventure is filled with awe-inspiring discoveries.
Kayaking, mountaineering, scuba diving, and so much more!
From thrilling Zodiac cruises to exhilarating hikes, our carefully curated activities ensure that you experience the polar environment in all its glory. Whether you're kayaking through icy waters or trekking across snow-covered landscapes, prepare to be fully immersed in the wonders of the poles.
At Oceanwide Expeditions, we are committed to offering the highest quality trips at the best value for money. With us, you'll enjoy a truly priceless polar experience without breaking the bank.
Our vessels are specifically designed to offer the 360 eye-level experience allowing you to walk around the ship and enjoy panoramic views of the polar landscapes from every angle. Our custom built vessels with highest ice class are designed for navigation deep into the pack ice.
Discover the Arctic and Antarctica from every perspective. Whether you're gazing across icy horizons from the deck, discovering by foot, soaring high in a helicopter, or diving beneath the surface, our programs ensure you don't miss a single moment.
Get ready to capture stunning moments and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Leave your worries behind as you step onboard our vessels. With a casual and welcoming atmosphere, you'll feel right at home among fellow adventurers who share your passion for exploration.
We aim to not only give you a warm welcome, but make sure your life on board will be as pleasant as possible by cooking fresh homemade delicious food and providing an exceptional service.
We value flexibility both on board and in the office.
We own the ships we operate: a thoroughly outfitted fleet of ice-strengthened vessels. Our small-scale vessels are able to go many places larger ships cannot, allowing our crew and staff on board to respond to each weather and wildlife opportunity as it occurs.
All departments at home are always eager to find a solution to any requests, making it possible for everyone to enjoy their trip, no matter the circumstances.
For over three decades, we've been cultivating our expertise, expanding our fleet, and handpicking top-tier experts to ensure unparalleled service and unforgettable experiences.
Oceanwide Expeditions pioneered the way to Spitsbergen, being the first company to organize commercial trips to the archipelago. By inventing Basecamp in Antarctica, we introduced activity-filled cruises to the White continent. We were the first offering the Atlantic Odyssey cruise to the remotest islands, crossing the migratory paths of a variety of birds and whales, as they make their annual expeditions north for the breeding season. Travel with Oceanwide Expeditions, let’s be the first together.
We are the pioneers of ship based, dynamic, innovative expeditions that optimize your polar experience. Our belief is that real explorers should always be innovative. We design our trips with innovation in mind and push the boundaries of existing itineraries to create unexplored new expeditions.
Our second-to-none expedition staff are the ones who deliver the highest quality experiences, backed by their unparalleled expertise and commitment to innovation. They continuously strive to enhance your polar adventure, ensuring each journey is filled with unforgettable moments of discovery and wonder.
How we PRESERVE the precious polar environment
We are all guests in the polar regions, which means we must do everything we can to leave these incredible areas as untouched by our passage as possible. Here are some ways we do this.
Promoting polar awareness
In 1983 the Arctic Centre of Groningen University in the Netherlands launched a research program to Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard.
Updating our vessels
Foremost among our sustainability goals is actively reducing the impact and emission of our vessels, investing in new technology and continuously improving our existing resources.
Waste reduction & removal
We limit onboard waste production by recycling as often as we can as well as banning single-use plastics on any of our vessels.
Supporting local, staying green
Buying our products locally whenever possible is our way of reducing transportation impact while also supporting local communities.
Protecting the wildlife
One of the chief reasons for visiting the polar regions is the exotic animals. And because it is such a privilege to watch undisturbed wildlife in its natural habitat, we dutifully and passionately adhere to all AECO and IAATO wildlife guidelines, avoiding any disturbance to these enchanting creatures.
Assisting scientists
Science is a central part of Oceanwide’s culture and history, starting with our roots in the Plancius Foundation. But it is also vital to our growing understanding of the polar environment.
Providing a positive polar experience
We have an unwavering belief in the long-term benefit of polar education and advocacy, and we feel there is no better way to accomplish this than through positive first-hand experience.
Our ultimate goal, then, is to create and contribute to an expedition industry that protects the polar regions as much as it reveals their transformative beauty to the world, because while these areas are too good not to share, they are also too precious not to protect.
Oceanwide is one of the longest-running expedition cruise companies in the world, and one of the reasons for our success is our guides.
Chosen from a variety of backgrounds, our guides will be the people leading you over land, ice, and water during your voyage. But they are also skilled lecturers with expertise in a variety of disciplines, such as biology, history, ornithology, geology, and glaciology, among others.
Many of our guides also come from field-based professions, such as mountaineers, boat handlers and field guides in the polar regions as well as working at Antarctic research stations. We have many loyal guides who work for us in varying capacities, and we always consider the environmental impact when scheduling staff.
As Oceanwide has grown over the years, we have invested in several training resources for our guides. We are a recognized training center by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and Qualsafe Awards, and we are also active corporate members of the Polar Tourism Guides Association (PTGA).
Our training team consists of Oceanwide staff who are actively working as guides and have a wealth of experience in their disciplines. Many also have search and rescue/emergency experience and have worked in extreme environments. All of our training is certified by external bodies.
Oceanwide Development Program
This concept was originally started in 2018 and has now become an established part of our development process. It is aimed at potential staff who have a strong education and background in the field as well as basic boat handling and firearm qualifications.
The program is held in Vlissingen and introduces candidates to the company. Over 10 days, participants are taught first aid, Zodiac piloting, kayak rescue techniques, VHF radio (and licensing), basic navigation on land and water, group management, and presentation/hosting skills.
This gives candidates an introduction to what we do and how we do it. It also allows us and the candidates to ensure we are a good fit.
Wales training
As the majority of our guides are busy during the northern and southern summers, there is a limited amount of time to train. We therefore run an annual training course in Wales for staff who commit to working a minimum number of voyages with us.
This course involves firearms training, navigational and hill skills, and first aid. Beginning in 2024, it will also include boat and kayak training on the Menai Straits, which will allow us to practice in a variety of conditions using our dedicated training boat (ex-RNLI D-class lifeboat).
Staff pre-season and continued training
Prior to the Arctic season, expedition leaders gather at our home office in Vlissingen for an update on the past Antarctic and upcoming Arctic seasons. Their training is run in partnership with the local maritime training center and live-fire indoor range using video technology.
The initial voyages begin in Vlissingen, and all staff scheduled for them are provided with training identical to the expedition leaders. We support our staff financially through PTGA recognition and offer them the chance to become part of our training team once senior guide status is achieved.
We prioritize onboard training as operations allow and have PTGA assessors on our vessels. To recognize staff that commit to Oceanwide, we began offering full-time contracts in 2023. For these guides, additional training and support opportunities are available.
Training Team
- Adam Turner (CXO, Head of Expedition Operations): Ex-police officer formerly with the British Antarctic Survey, volunteer lifeboat crewman, teaches Zodiac driving and first aid.
- Adam Burke (expedition leader): Former outdoor education instructor and member of British Antarctic Survey, teaches Zodiac driving, navigation, and guide safety skills.
- Pippa Low (expedition leader): Ex-commercial skipper and powerboat instructor, teaches Zodiac driving and guiding skills, volunteer lifeboat crew member.
- George Kennedy (assistant expedition leader): Licensed paramedic and medical student, teaches first aid.
- Adam Harmer (technical advisor for kayaking): Full-time kayak and mountaineering instructor, member of mountain rescue team.
PTGA Assessors
- Claudio Ghiglione
- Chloé Maréchal
- Paolo Bellezze
Ortelius was originally the Marina Svetaeva. Built in Gdynia, Poland in 1989, it served as a special-purpose vessel for the Russian Academy of Science. Later it was re-flagged and renamed after the Dutch/Flemish cartographer Abraham Ortelius (1527 – 1598), who in 1570 published the first modern world atlas: Theatrum Orbis Terrarum or Theater of the World. At that time his atlas was the most expensive book ever printed. Ortelius is classed by Lloyd’s Register in London and flies the Dutch flag.
| Superior | Superior | $17,150.00 USD | |
| Twin Deluxe | Twin Deluxe | $16,350.00 USD | |
| Twin Window | Twin Window | $15,300.00 USD | |
| Twin Porthole | Twin Porthole | $10,300.00 USD | |
| Quadruple Porthole | Quadruple Porthole | $9,050.00 USD |
|
|
Upper/lower berth |
|
|
Lower berth |
|
|
Double bed |
|
|
Toilet |
|
|
Bathroom |
Perfect for Any Expedition
The vessel has the highest ice-class notation (UL1, equivalent to 1A) and is therefore suitable to navigate in solid one-year sea ice as well as loose multi-year pack ice. The m/v Ortelius can accommodate up to 108 passengers and has an abundance of open-deck spaces. It is manned by 24 highly experienced nautical crew members, 20 hotel staff, eight expedition specialists (one expedition leader, one assistant, and six lecturer-guides), and one doctor.
The m/v Ortelius: a Vessel with Comfort and Character
Please be aware that a small number of cabins may have a partially obstructed view due to the size of the windows and the design requirements of the ship. For example, some windows may be partly obstructed in the lower half by a gangway. The best view is always on the outer deck or the bridge. Though our voyages are primarily meant to offer our passengers an exploratory wildlife program with as much time ashore as possible, the m/v Ortelius offers all the comforts of a standard hotel ― along with a bar and lecture room. Flexibility assures maximum wildlife opportunities. As such, the m/v Ortelius carries 10 Zodiacs with 60hp Yamaha engines.
Age & Nationality
Passengers on a typical voyage range from in their 30s to their 80s, with the majority usually between 45 ― 65. Our expeditions attract independent travelers from around the globe who are characterized by a strong interest in exploring remote regions. The camaraderie that develops on board is an important part of the Oceanwide experience, and many passenger groups include several nationalities.
What to Wear
In keeping with the spirit of expedition, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing for all activities, and keep in mind that much of the scenery can be appreciated from deck ― which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles, and make sure your parka is never far away in case one of our crew shouts “Whales!” over the loudspeaker and you have to dash outside in a moment’s notice. Opt for layers, as it is comfortably warm aboard the ship though often cold on deck.
How to Pay
Refreshments and souvenirs will be charged to your cabin. The day before departure you can settle your bill with the hotel manager, paying by credit card (Visa or MasterCard) or cash (euro, or in some cases dollar). We cannot, however, accept checks. Though the prices and standard currency on board is in the euro, other currencies may be accepted at the discretion of the hotel manager, at prevailing rates.
Electric Current
The electrical supply aboard ship is 220v, 60Hz. Electrical outlets are standard European with two thick round pins, so some passengers may need a 220v/110v converter.
Gratuities
The customary gratuity to the ship’s service personnel is made as a blanket contribution at the end of the voyage and is divided among the crew. Tipping is a personal matter, and the amount you wish to give is at your sole discretion. As a generally accepted guideline, we suggest 10 to 15 euros or US dollars per passenger per day. It is better for the crew if you give cash.
Non-Smoking Policy
We have a non-smoking policy inside all our vessels, though you can smoke in certain designated areas. We ask that you please respect the wishes of non-smokers.
Your Physical Condition
You must be in good overall health and be able to walk several hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very demanding, but we spend as much time as possible on shore. You are, however, welcome to remain aboard the ship if you prefer. To join most excursions you must be able to get up and down the steep gangway ― from the ship to the water level ― to board the Zodiacs. Staff will assist you in and out of the boats, and boarding will become progressively easier with practice, but conditions on shore can be slippery and rocky. Remember, you will be traveling in remote areas without access to sophisticated medical facilities, so you must not join this expedition if you have a life-threatening condition or need daily medical treatment.
Why embark on an Oceanwide adventure? Because we're more than just a voyage; we're a gateway to the untamed heart of nature. With three decades of polar expedition under our belt, Oceanwide stands tall as a beacon of expertise and dedication to polar exploration. Our guiding principles lead the way as we navigate the Earth's most remote and breathtaking landscapes, inviting you on a journey where rugged beauty meets unparalleled expedition.
We bring guests closer to the heart of nature, to the polar wildlife, embracing the spirit of adventure for which the Arctic and Antarctica are known.
Our expeditions are designed to immerse you in the unparalleled beauty of the polar landscape. Get ready to witness breathtaking vistas, encounter majestic wildlife, and experience the raw power of nature like never before.
At Oceanwide Expeditions, our goal is maximizing your time on shore.
That is why our fleet consists of smaller vessels that give us an opportunity to land and explore. With minimal time spent onboard and maximum time exploring the polar terrain, every moment of your adventure is filled with awe-inspiring discoveries.
Kayaking, mountaineering, scuba diving, and so much more!
From thrilling Zodiac cruises to exhilarating hikes, our carefully curated activities ensure that you experience the polar environment in all its glory. Whether you're kayaking through icy waters or trekking across snow-covered landscapes, prepare to be fully immersed in the wonders of the poles.
At Oceanwide Expeditions, we are committed to offering the highest quality trips at the best value for money. With us, you'll enjoy a truly priceless polar experience without breaking the bank.
Our vessels are specifically designed to offer the 360 eye-level experience allowing you to walk around the ship and enjoy panoramic views of the polar landscapes from every angle. Our custom built vessels with highest ice class are designed for navigation deep into the pack ice.
Discover the Arctic and Antarctica from every perspective. Whether you're gazing across icy horizons from the deck, discovering by foot, soaring high in a helicopter, or diving beneath the surface, our programs ensure you don't miss a single moment.
Get ready to capture stunning moments and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Leave your worries behind as you step onboard our vessels. With a casual and welcoming atmosphere, you'll feel right at home among fellow adventurers who share your passion for exploration.
We aim to not only give you a warm welcome, but make sure your life on board will be as pleasant as possible by cooking fresh homemade delicious food and providing an exceptional service.
We value flexibility both on board and in the office.
We own the ships we operate: a thoroughly outfitted fleet of ice-strengthened vessels. Our small-scale vessels are able to go many places larger ships cannot, allowing our crew and staff on board to respond to each weather and wildlife opportunity as it occurs.
All departments at home are always eager to find a solution to any requests, making it possible for everyone to enjoy their trip, no matter the circumstances.
For over three decades, we've been cultivating our expertise, expanding our fleet, and handpicking top-tier experts to ensure unparalleled service and unforgettable experiences.
Oceanwide Expeditions pioneered the way to Spitsbergen, being the first company to organize commercial trips to the archipelago. By inventing Basecamp in Antarctica, we introduced activity-filled cruises to the White continent. We were the first offering the Atlantic Odyssey cruise to the remotest islands, crossing the migratory paths of a variety of birds and whales, as they make their annual expeditions north for the breeding season. Travel with Oceanwide Expeditions, let’s be the first together.
We are the pioneers of ship based, dynamic, innovative expeditions that optimize your polar experience. Our belief is that real explorers should always be innovative. We design our trips with innovation in mind and push the boundaries of existing itineraries to create unexplored new expeditions.
Our second-to-none expedition staff are the ones who deliver the highest quality experiences, backed by their unparalleled expertise and commitment to innovation. They continuously strive to enhance your polar adventure, ensuring each journey is filled with unforgettable moments of discovery and wonder.
How we PRESERVE the precious polar environment
We are all guests in the polar regions, which means we must do everything we can to leave these incredible areas as untouched by our passage as possible. Here are some ways we do this.
Promoting polar awareness
In 1983 the Arctic Centre of Groningen University in the Netherlands launched a research program to Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard.
Updating our vessels
Foremost among our sustainability goals is actively reducing the impact and emission of our vessels, investing in new technology and continuously improving our existing resources.
Waste reduction & removal
We limit onboard waste production by recycling as often as we can as well as banning single-use plastics on any of our vessels.
Supporting local, staying green
Buying our products locally whenever possible is our way of reducing transportation impact while also supporting local communities.
Protecting the wildlife
One of the chief reasons for visiting the polar regions is the exotic animals. And because it is such a privilege to watch undisturbed wildlife in its natural habitat, we dutifully and passionately adhere to all AECO and IAATO wildlife guidelines, avoiding any disturbance to these enchanting creatures.
Assisting scientists
Science is a central part of Oceanwide’s culture and history, starting with our roots in the Plancius Foundation. But it is also vital to our growing understanding of the polar environment.
Providing a positive polar experience
We have an unwavering belief in the long-term benefit of polar education and advocacy, and we feel there is no better way to accomplish this than through positive first-hand experience.
Our ultimate goal, then, is to create and contribute to an expedition industry that protects the polar regions as much as it reveals their transformative beauty to the world, because while these areas are too good not to share, they are also too precious not to protect.
Oceanwide is one of the longest-running expedition cruise companies in the world, and one of the reasons for our success is our guides.
Chosen from a variety of backgrounds, our guides will be the people leading you over land, ice, and water during your voyage. But they are also skilled lecturers with expertise in a variety of disciplines, such as biology, history, ornithology, geology, and glaciology, among others.
Many of our guides also come from field-based professions, such as mountaineers, boat handlers and field guides in the polar regions as well as working at Antarctic research stations. We have many loyal guides who work for us in varying capacities, and we always consider the environmental impact when scheduling staff.
As Oceanwide has grown over the years, we have invested in several training resources for our guides. We are a recognized training center by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and Qualsafe Awards, and we are also active corporate members of the Polar Tourism Guides Association (PTGA).
Our training team consists of Oceanwide staff who are actively working as guides and have a wealth of experience in their disciplines. Many also have search and rescue/emergency experience and have worked in extreme environments. All of our training is certified by external bodies.
Oceanwide Development Program
This concept was originally started in 2018 and has now become an established part of our development process. It is aimed at potential staff who have a strong education and background in the field as well as basic boat handling and firearm qualifications.
The program is held in Vlissingen and introduces candidates to the company. Over 10 days, participants are taught first aid, Zodiac piloting, kayak rescue techniques, VHF radio (and licensing), basic navigation on land and water, group management, and presentation/hosting skills.
This gives candidates an introduction to what we do and how we do it. It also allows us and the candidates to ensure we are a good fit.
Wales training
As the majority of our guides are busy during the northern and southern summers, there is a limited amount of time to train. We therefore run an annual training course in Wales for staff who commit to working a minimum number of voyages with us.
This course involves firearms training, navigational and hill skills, and first aid. Beginning in 2024, it will also include boat and kayak training on the Menai Straits, which will allow us to practice in a variety of conditions using our dedicated training boat (ex-RNLI D-class lifeboat).
Staff pre-season and continued training
Prior to the Arctic season, expedition leaders gather at our home office in Vlissingen for an update on the past Antarctic and upcoming Arctic seasons. Their training is run in partnership with the local maritime training center and live-fire indoor range using video technology.
The initial voyages begin in Vlissingen, and all staff scheduled for them are provided with training identical to the expedition leaders. We support our staff financially through PTGA recognition and offer them the chance to become part of our training team once senior guide status is achieved.
We prioritize onboard training as operations allow and have PTGA assessors on our vessels. To recognize staff that commit to Oceanwide, we began offering full-time contracts in 2023. For these guides, additional training and support opportunities are available.
Training Team
- Adam Turner (CXO, Head of Expedition Operations): Ex-police officer formerly with the British Antarctic Survey, volunteer lifeboat crewman, teaches Zodiac driving and first aid.
- Adam Burke (expedition leader): Former outdoor education instructor and member of British Antarctic Survey, teaches Zodiac driving, navigation, and guide safety skills.
- Pippa Low (expedition leader): Ex-commercial skipper and powerboat instructor, teaches Zodiac driving and guiding skills, volunteer lifeboat crew member.
- George Kennedy (assistant expedition leader): Licensed paramedic and medical student, teaches first aid.
- Adam Harmer (technical advisor for kayaking): Full-time kayak and mountaineering instructor, member of mountain rescue team.
PTGA Assessors
- Claudio Ghiglione
- Chloé Maréchal
- Paolo Bellezze
About Oceanwide Expeditions
Oceanwide Expeditions, a 30-year veteran of polar expedition cruises, offers a unique combination of small, intimate vessel experiences with ship and land-based activities that get guests closer to the heart of nature and closer to the pioneering spirit of adventure that defines adventure travel in the polar regions. Aboard Oceanwide Expeditions' self-owned and operated fleet of four expedition vessels, s/v Rembrandt van Rijn and the ice-strengthened vessels m/v Hondius, m/v Ortelius, and m/v Plancius, guests can explore the edges of the world.
An expedition apart
It is our goal to take you off the ship and into the action as often as possible. Our sea routes are short and direct, allowing for maximum shore time, and our activities are designed to accommodate a wide range of experience and fitness levels.
Explore another world at the edge of our own
We strive for close-contact, twice-daily outings on land and at sea (and sometimes below it) in one of Earth’s most surreal environments. Our expert crew and nimble ships allow for safe passage, speedy disembarkations, and supremely flexible itineraries.
Your journey is our passion
Our friendly international staff will ensure your voyage is as comfortable as it is informative. Let us share our enthusiasm not only off the ship but on it, engaging you with presentations that illuminate everything from polar science to local history.
Nature – up close and personal
You want to experience something you can’t get out of a photograph. With us you will get that chance. Our aim is to help you realize your own personal polar adventure, taking you closer to the heart of the landscape than anyone else.
Meet a different social network
But it isn’t just the landscape you will experience, it’s also the immense and indelible world of wildlife that calls that landscape home. Allow us to acquaint you with the real polar survivalists that make these far-flung regions truly come alive.
All you can see, hear, and do
Kayaking, snowshoeing, mountaineering, camping, scuba diving, and much more – our activities are as exciting as they are numerous.
We provide much of the equipment you’ll need, and our fleet of Zodiacs will shuttle you to and from all outings with utmost speed and safety. Should you need more of a lift, we even bring our own helicopters on select Ortelius cruises.
Higher impact for you, lower impact for nature
It is our duty and pleasure to protect the environment we love so well. We are a responsible vessel operator and member of AECO and IAATO, organizations that promote environmentally friendly travel to the Arctic and Antarctic. Our ships comply with all the latest safety standards.
About Oceanwide Expeditions
Oceanwide Expeditions, a 30-year veteran of polar expedition cruises, offers a unique combination of small, intimate vessel experiences with ship and land-based activities that get guests closer to the heart of nature and closer to the pioneering spirit of adventure that defines adventure travel in the polar regions. Aboard Oceanwide Expeditions' self-owned and operated fleet of four expedition vessels, s/v Rembrandt van Rijn and the ice-strengthened vessels m/v Hondius, m/v Ortelius, and m/v Plancius, guests can explore the edges of the world.
An expedition apart
It is our goal to take you off the ship and into the action as often as possible. Our sea routes are short and direct, allowing for maximum shore time, and our activities are designed to accommodate a wide range of experience and fitness levels.
Explore another world at the edge of our own
We strive for close-contact, twice-daily outings on land and at sea (and sometimes below it) in one of Earth’s most surreal environments. Our expert crew and nimble ships allow for safe passage, speedy disembarkations, and supremely flexible itineraries.
Your journey is our passion
Our friendly international staff will ensure your voyage is as comfortable as it is informative. Let us share our enthusiasm not only off the ship but on it, engaging you with presentations that illuminate everything from polar science to local history.
Nature – up close and personal
You want to experience something you can’t get out of a photograph. With us you will get that chance. Our aim is to help you realize your own personal polar adventure, taking you closer to the heart of the landscape than anyone else.
Meet a different social network
But it isn’t just the landscape you will experience, it’s also the immense and indelible world of wildlife that calls that landscape home. Allow us to acquaint you with the real polar survivalists that make these far-flung regions truly come alive.
All you can see, hear, and do
Kayaking, snowshoeing, mountaineering, camping, scuba diving, and much more – our activities are as exciting as they are numerous.
We provide much of the equipment you’ll need, and our fleet of Zodiacs will shuttle you to and from all outings with utmost speed and safety. Should you need more of a lift, we even bring our own helicopters on select Ortelius cruises.
Higher impact for you, lower impact for nature
It is our duty and pleasure to protect the environment we love so well. We are a responsible vessel operator and member of AECO and IAATO, organizations that promote environmentally friendly travel to the Arctic and Antarctic. Our ships comply with all the latest safety standards.
