MS Expedition
- capacity
- 134
- year built
- 1972
- remodeled
- 2015
- crew members
- 55
- length
- 345 feet
- beam
- 61 feet
- draft
- 15 feet
- cruising speed
- 13 knots
- ice class
- Swedish/Finnish 1B
At a nimble 345 feet in length, with a capacity of 134 guests, the MS Expedition is an ideal vessel to ply polar waters. Her large outside decks offer panoramic views and her cabins are some of the largest in the industry, all boasting an ocean-facing window or porthole and private en-suite facilities.
Why Sail Aboard the MS Expedition
Choose the MS Expedition for one of the fastest, safest ships sailing the polar regions and for her large common spaces and viewing decks. Also choose her for a seamless expedition/operations experience, as the MS Expedition is operator-owned. The Expedition’s focus on top-of-the line safety, comfort and ability to meet the demands of polar travel, makes her one of the world’s leading polar expedition cruise ships. Her forward-looking sonar reduces the risk of grounding on uncharted reefs. This ship is equipped with new and regularly serviced lifeboats and life rafts. Its four partially enclosed lifeboats provide capacity for all passengers and crew. In addition, she has full cold-weather immersion suits for all. A 2009 renovation resulted in a $13 million refurbishment, and a $10 million upgrade in 2015 gave the Expedition new engines and a faster cruising speed.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the Expedition firsthand, and can help you compare the Expedition with other polar expedition ships that offer Antarctica cruises. Read our dedicated MS Expedition Ship Review written by one of our specialists, or consult this page further for a detailed description of the Expedition, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images and a photo gallery. We’ve been aboard many Antarctica ships and can be your ultimate resource to discover if this is the best ship choice for your travel needs.
Sustainability Aboard MS Expedition
Reusable bags on board enable beach cleanups while exploring polar shorelines, as part of Expedition’s Marine Debris program. A compactor on board the ship efficiently collects trash over the ship’s sailing season; the trash is then delivered to Svalbard to be recycled.
Common Areas Aboard MS Expedition
Unlike many expedition ships, where public space is at a premium, the Expedition has multiple large public areas, all providing superior views to enjoy during sea crossings and in between land excursions. Enjoy sweeping panoramas from the ship’s 360-degree upper decks, while a raised observation platform provides a great vantage point from which to spot unique wildlife and the large aft deck offers additional viewing options and hosts a sunny day barbecue.
Unlike many other ships, the Expedition also offers breathtaking views from its interior so passengers can relax in the warmth and comfort of the dining room, lounge or pub without being cut off from the remarkable environment. The Lonely Planet Library is stocked with iPads, the ship’s daily newspaper, books on the flora and fauna of the polar regions and an extensive selection of Lonely Planet guidebooks. The Discovery Lounge comfortably seats all passengers at once, providing an inviting space to take in on-ship lectures, briefings and recaps. The Polar Bear Pub offers a cozy spot to unwind and reflect and also provides music most nights and a wide selection of beverages and entertaining bartenders serving them up. The gym features state-of-the-art equipment alongside a soothing sauna.
Other common area highlights include a heated mud room, gift shop, medical clinic and a computer room with internet where available (additional cost).
Dining Aboard MS Expedition
A diversity of gourmet international cuisines are prepared and catered by professional chefs. Dining is casual, tables are unassigned and the Albatross Dining Room is capable of seating the full complement of passengers at one time. There is always a selection of different meals available and vegetarians will find plenty of options. Breakfast and lunch are buffets while dinner is served plated. Special dietary requirements, including celiac disease, can be accommodated with advance notice. Coffee, tea and water are all provided free of charge, with special afternoon tea service and snacks and coffee sourced from a partnership with Mi Cafecito. All other beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, can be purchased in the dining room, pub or lounge.
Crew & Guides Aboard MS Expedition
The ship’s crew is dedicated to ensuring every journey exceeds travelers’ expectations. From the Expedition captain who has successfully navigated over 100 ice cruises, to the ship’s expedition leader with over 30 years experience in polar expeditions, they are amongst the most experienced and skilled in their field. Experts in everything from geology to marine biology and photography to polar history, the members of the Expedition team are always eager to share their infectious passion for the plants, animals and historic figures of the polar regions. A 10:1 passenger-to-guide ratio means more on-hand experts, deeper access and greater understanding throughout the voyage.
Activities Aboard MS Expedition
The large fleet of Zodiacs are launched from a special platform, ensuring comfort and ease of accessibility for Zodiac cruises and shore landings. Citizen science opportunities abound on all of Expedition’s departures, encouraging guests to participate in key sample collections. The Expedition offers kayaks and camping gear for off-ship adventures. Swipe ID cards enable easy, swift access to the ship, with the entire passenger complement only requiring 30 minutes to load or unload from the Zodiacs. On board, the Expedition’s crew create a fun atmosphere with activities including game nights; performances by the resident musician; and an “Embrace the Bizarre” night featuring the crew band, strobe lights and a conga line. The onboard costume closet encourages guest participation in the fun. And for the adventurous wedding planner, an added-cost wedding package offers the option to be married by the captain.
MS Expedition Cabins & Deck Plan
Top-of-the-line cabins provide a variety of affordable doubles, triples and quads, as well as higher-end double cabins and luxurious suites. Dedicated single cabins are also available in category 2 and higher. All cabins provide views (window or porthole), a wardrobe, drawers, a nightstand, a writing desk and a full private en-suite bathroom with hairdryer. Daily cabin service makes sure the stateroom is clean, warm and inviting.
The electricity on board is 220AC electrical outlets, with European 2-pin round holes, as well as 110-volt shaving sockets in the bathroom for electric razors only. An international adapter may be needed. Electrical adapters are available to borrow free of charge at the Purser’s Desk.
