Ortelius

• A sturdy former research vessel with lots of character offering small ship expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctica with a maximum of 108 guests.
• One of only a few ships offering helicopter flights to Snow Hill Island in Antarctica to view emperor penguins.
• An ideal choice for cost conscious travellers looking for an expedition cruise on a classic ship.

Why Sail Aboard Ortelius?

The M/V Ortelius, is a former research vessel built in 1989. It has been extensively refurbished for expedition cruises to the polar regions and offers 3-star comfort onboard.

MV Ortelius has the highest ice-class rating available, making it suitable for navigating solid one-year sea ice and loose multi-year pack ice. It is one of only a few ships offering voyages deep into the Weddell Sea and to Snow Hill island to view Emperor penguins with onboard helicopters. In 2025 it broke a record by reaching the most southerly point a non icebreaking ship has ever reached in the Weddell Sea.

The Ortelius can accommodate up to 108 passengers and is manned by 52 crew members. It’s small group size ensures speedy boarding of Zodiacs and the expedition team can maximise time exploring off-ship.

Dining On Ortelius

The dining area on Ortelius features open plan seating and a warm, communal atmosphere. Hearty meals are served buffet style with a large range of choices including meat, fish and vegetarian options. The menu features a mix of international and local cuisine. Dietary needs can be accommodated by the ships chef team.

Cabin Options on Ortelius

The MV Ortelius has various cabin options to suit your preferences and budget for your polar expedition cruises. Each cabin is designed with the explorer in mind, a cozy retreat after a day of adventure.

Superior Cabin

The Superior Cabin is a spacious 209 ft² (19 m²) with at least two picture windows to take in the polar views. It has a double bed, a sofa bed and a writing desk. En-suite bathroom.

Twin Deluxe Cabin

The Twin Deluxe Cabin has plenty of space for two people, two lower berths and a comfortable interior. Safe deposit box and coffee maker. Writing desk and en-suite bathroom.

Twin Porthole Cabin

The Twin Porthole Cabin has a porthole window to enjoy the sea views. Two lower berths, writing desk and en-suite bathroom. Cozy and functional.

Quadruple Cabin

The Quadruple Cabin is perfect for groups or families, up to four people with two bunk beds. Writing desk and en-suite bathroom.

Each cabin on the Ortelius has standard European electrical outlets for your devices. The cabins are designed to be a comfortable and relaxing space to unwind after exploring the remote polar regions.

Onboard Experience

The MV Ortelius offers a comfortable on-board experience with ample public areas, including two dining areas and a bar/observation lounge. The ship is also equipped with scientific research equipment, reflecting its origins as a research vessel.

The ship has a spacious bridge that is open to visits by guests and a theater-style lecture room for educational programs.

Complimentary internet access is available via a voucher for a daily allowance of 1.5GB of internet activity. Additional data can be purchased on board at varying prices.

Destinations

Ortelius offers a wide range of itineraries in the Arctic and in Antarctica along with specialist one of a kind voyages.

In Antarctica there are two voyages to see emperor penguins on Snow hill Island each year with helicopter flights included. Later in the season there is a deep exploration of the Weddell Sea. Other voyages include South Georgia, The Falkland Islands, the South Sandwich Islands and crossing the polar circle.

In the Arctic voyages explore spitsbergen and Svalbard for polar bear viewing and exploration.

The ship’s voyages focus on a quality exploratory wildlife program, aiming to spend as much time ashore as possible with maximum wildlife opportunities.

Activities and Excursions

The Ortelius has eight expedition specialists and one expedition leader who will take you out exploring on a daily basis. The emphasis is on maximising time off ship exploring which is one of the benefits of a small ship.

Ortelius has 10 zodiacs with 60hp Yamaha motors for Zodiac excursions and shore landings. Activities including kayaking, snowshoeing, mountaineering, skiing, scuba diving, hiking, camping and photography workshops are available on select voyages.

The activities on board are designed to give you maximum wildlife opportunities and many experiences.