Polar Latitiudes Named
Best Small Expedition Cruise Operator
in 2024 by the Expedition Cruise Network!
Best Small Expedition Cruise Operator
in 2024 by the Expedition Cruise Network!
Polar Latitiudes Named
Best Small Expedition Cruise Operator
in 2024 by the Expedition Cruise Network!
Best Small Expedition Cruise Operator
in 2024 by the Expedition Cruise Network!
No One Knows Antarctica Better
Antarctica has been our only destination for 13 years. No one knows it more intimately, or can better seek out its elusive highlights. Our off-the-ship outings average 6 hours a day, among the most of any operator. Our expedition team averages twelve years’ experience, an invaluable asset in this unpredictable environment. And we’re still founder-owned and operated, so our commitment to every aspect of your experience is highly personal for us.
Photo credit: John Huet
An Emphasis on Discovery, Camaraderie, and Fun
We believe there is an explorer’s spirit in each and every one of us. So we make it our job to kindle that spirit and yes, to have a bit of fun along the way. Antarctica is an ever-changing, constantly surprising world of opportunity. So, while our daily landings and cruises are carefully planned, our unprecedented knowledge of the region allows us to embrace spontaneity, and create truly unforgettable experiences at a moment’s notice
Photo credit: John Huet
Two Purpose-Built Ships. One Purpose.
Our two ships, MS Seaventure and Ocean Albatros, might appear to be quite different. And there are, indeed, obvious physical differences. But more importantly for us (and we hope for you) are the things they have in common, starting with a strong emphasis on delivering a deeper, more unforgettable Antarctic engagement. Both ships boast the highest ice rating for any passenger ship, delivering a smoother, more comfortable voyage, even through the notorious Drake Passage, while enabling greater access to Antarctica’s more elusive corners – and secrets. Both ships provide a range of onboard pampering experiences; but perhaps more importantly, they are both designed to facilitate a remarkably seamless transition from onboard casual luxury, to off-ship exploration and discovery. And finally, both place the highest premium on sustainable practices and leaving a minimal carbon footprint in their wake.
A Trip for Every Dream
With two amazing ships and an expanded list of voyages, we’re sure to have the Antarctica adventure you’ve always dreamed of. And attention penguin lovers! This season, we’ll once again be hosting Oceanites on seven penguin-counting trips.
A Highly-Skilled Team
Here are the key players who will ensure that you have the experience of a lifetime onboard and off. As for their own Antarctic experience, it’s second to none, with an average of 12 years in the business.
Activities that Engage
From photography to kayaking to Citizen Science to sleeping under the stars, no passion need go unfed on a Polar Latitudes voyage, where your most immersive Antarctica experience awaits.
All Penguins are Created Equal – All Voyages are Not
Any number of ships can take you to Antarctica. And the incredible landscape, the wildlife, and Antarctica’s ethereal light – it will all be waiting for you regardless. Yes, even those adorable penguins! But how you experience this mysterious place and how deeply it touches you will depend in large part on who you travel with.
Consider traveling with Polar Latitudes if:
You Want the Most Immersive Antarctic Adventure
As luxurious as our ships are, our primary focus will always be on providing the “most Antarctica” on every day of this once-in-a-lifetime journey. Our off-ship excursions average 6 hours a day; our unique “silent Zodiac cruise” is said to be life-changing; and should the finicky Antarctic weather turn south, our expedition team’s extraordinary ability to counter with a “Plan B” means you’ll likely never miss a chance to explore.
You’d Rather Be With a Company That’s “Been There, Pioneered That”
Our experience and environmental leadership in these waters are second to none. We were the first to bring a Citizen Science program onboard every voyage; the first to join and support the Polar Science Collective; the first to adopt a rigorous third-party training and accreditation system for our entire team; and the first to create a position of onboard passenger service manager – all to ensure each voyager has the safest and most experiential journey possible.
You Prefer a Small Ship, More Personalized Experience
Maybe you’re one of those people who wants to feel part of a smaller, more like-minded team; who doesn’t like to wait, but does like a more personalized, stress-free adventure; and who likes the idea of being on a first-name basis with your expedition team. These are just some of the things that only a small ship experience can deliver.
You Want the Best-Performing Team Around You
With more ships entering Antarctic waters, staffing them has become a challenge for many, but not for Polar Latitudes. Our Expedition Team averages 12 years’ experience, and most of them return to us year after year. Their experience and ability to work as a team is a big reason why we can take advantage of every opportunity Antarctica presents us, and seamlessly improvise whenever necessary.
And Yeah, You’d Like It to Be Fun, Too
Our standards of excellence and performance are the highest in the industry. But we also place great value on the intangibles. We’re down-to-earth and fun to be around. You’ll come to know us by name, and we’ll undoubtedly share a few laughs (and maybe even a hug or two). People often say we make them feel like family. That’s something we’ve very proud of, since most of us really like our families.
Responsible Travel
We embrace our responsibility to do everything we can to care for this place that we cherish so much, and to support others who feel the same way. A few short years ago, we first introduced passengers to Seaventure, and reduced our per-person carbon impact by 20%. Starting in 2026-2027, we’ll also be flying our flag above Ocean Albatros, a sleek new ship that’s 50% more efficient than traditional expedition vessels. And through more than a dozen local and environmental partnerships, including our pioneering Citizen Science program, we look for every opportunity to be a force for global good, especially in our beloved Antarctica.