G Adventures charters new ship for Antarctica sailings

G Adventures is chartering a new expedition ship for the upcoming Antarctica sailing season.

 

The vessel, currently named Ocean Adventurer, has been chartered through Danish maritime company SunStone.

 

It will take on the Expedition name in tribute to G Adventures’ much-loved ‘little red ship’ which had been operating for more than 15 years. 

 

The new 128-passenger ship will embark on its first G Adventures departure to Antarctica in October operating five itineraries.

 

The more streamlined vessel is “significantly more” fuel efficient than its predecessor, having undergone major renovations, including new engines

 

“This played a critical role in G Adventures’ decision to change ship operations as the small-group operator strives to reduce its environmental footprint across all operations,” the company said.

 

The 102-metre long ship features 70 cabins, a restaurant and bar, a large presentation lounge, library, fitness area, observation and sun deck and outdoor hot tubs. Eleven zodiacs will host two daily excursions and all travellers will have the opportunity to leave the ship at each stop. 

 

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

 

He said: “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. 

 

“As a company, we are always looking for ways to evolve, improve and lead from the front, so when the opportunity for this new ship presented itself, we knew we had to take it. 

 

“The new ship marks an exciting leap forward - one that will allow us to continue delivering life-changing expeditions for our travellers, aboard a more comfortable and efficient vessel, while making big advancements in our climate goals as well. 

 

"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. It will also give us the opportunity to evaluate our wider polar programme and opportunities for expansion - so watch this space,”

 

Poon Tip added: “Having just returned from Antarctica myself, where I spent time with our customers, it’s clear that people book with G Adventures because they are seeking a real expedition, not a cruise. 

 

“I really believe that we have created something special aboard the Expedition - a family which every guest becomes part of, alongside some of the most knowledgeable expedition leaders in the industry. 

 

“As we set sail on this new adventure, we are committed to continuing the Expedition’s legacy and tradition by retaining that ‘special sauce’ that makes each and every expedition departure with G Adventures so unique.” 

 

G Adventures chief executive Ben Perlo said: “Demand for our polar offering continues to be incredibly strong, as travellers are drawn to our small-ship offering and a more immersive, expedition-style adventure in this truly unique part of the world. 

 

"The Expedition has allowed us to deliver once-in-a-lifetime trips, at a great price, and we are excited to continue offering incredible experiences and value to our travellers as we enter this next chapter of our polar offering.”