Explorer II

Specifically designed for cruising through icy waters, Explorer II is a exploration ship that can accommodate up to 300 guests. But in Antarctica we've chosen to limit her complement to a maximum of only 198 guests. The ship is stylish, yet unpretentious. With her gleaming brass, polished wood and works of original art, she's often likened to a country house hotel, and she brings a rare touch of comfortable, informal refinement to Antarctica travel.

• Luxurious adventure

• Five Star service & amenities of a traditional luxury vessel plus the hardware of an adventure ship

• 198 Guests

• 1A1 Super Ice Rating

• (highest possible for passenger vessel)

• Advanced environmental marine technology

• Fleet of Zodiac landing craft

• Extensive lecturer program

• Crew to guest ratio: 1 to 1.5

• Luxuriously appointed, ocean-view staterooms

• Single seating dining

• Beverages included

• Gratuities included

Ship Statistics:

• Overall Length: 436

• Beam (Width): 66 feet

• Draft: 19 feet

• Guests: 394 (198 for Antarctica)

• Officers: European

• Crew: 146 European/International

• Guest Decks: 6

• Gross Tonnage: 12,500

• Cruising Speed: 16 knots

• Shipyard: T. Mariotti, Genoa

• Ship's Registry: Bahamas

Activities
Your days at sea can be as active as you choose. When you're not out on the Promenade Deck whale watching and glacier-gasping, you can work out in the gym, unwind in a sauna, enjoy a massage or a movie at the cinema. Each day you'll meet for informal pre-shore briefings or post-excursion wrap-ups in the ship's lounge or theater-style auditorium. Mid-morning bouillon and afternoon tea are served daily. The gracious, wood-paneled Library with its 4,000+ volumes is one of the largest at sea.

Expedition Team
An expedition staff of respected naturalists, geologists, zoologists, historians and ornithologists accompany each expedition. These experts brief guests about the natural wonders, wildlife and history of the White Continent, escort each zodiac foray and recap the day's discoveries at informal get-togethers.

Zodiac Cruising
Zodiacs are the workhorses of any Antarctica expedition. Explorer II has a fleet of ten rubber motorized boats, safe and stable rubber rafts that make it possible to explore remote Antarctic shores and cruise through the narrow channels for a close-up view.

The Lounge & Bars
The Lounge is the social heart of the ship, where you can chat with newfound friends and enjoy informal lectures. Two open bars, the Shackleton and the South Cape, provide additional corners where you'll probably spend a good deal of time socializing with fellow guests and mingling with members of the expedition. The atmosphere is informal and unregimented, with a warm sense of camaraderie. Liquors, wines and beverages are complimentary on board.

Other Diversions
The Bridge stays open 24-hours-a-day. There's a small fitness room with sauna, a sundeck and pool. And there's also a gift shop for sundries and souvenirs, a photo lab, a card room, and a dedicated Smoking Room on the Bridge Deck.