MS Expedition
- capacity
- 128
- year built
- 1976
- remodeled
- 2017
- length
- 332 feet
- beam
- 53 feet
- draft
- 15 feet
- cruising speed
- 11 knots
- flag
- Bahamas
- ice class
- 1A
Note: The former Ocean Adventurer (operated by Quark Expeditions) has been rechristened as the MS Expedition for sailings starting with the 2025-2026 Antarctica season. Images and details here reflect the MS Expedition in her new form, however our staff reviews discuss her former iteration.
At a nimble 332 feet in length, with a capacity of 128 guests, the MS Expedition is an ideal vessel to ply polar waters. Her large outside decks offer panoramic views, and an extensive 2017 refurbishment brought significant technical upgrades, two new engines, enhanced public areas and bathrooms, and the Deluxe and Owner’s Suite cabins.
Why Sail Aboard the MS Expedition
Choose the MS Expedition ship for her large common spaces and viewing decks, which create opportunities to both mingle with fellow travelers and find personal quiet time. Our experts who’ve been aboard recommend the nightly live music by the engaging house band, as well as any fun costume nights. Also choose MS Expedition for a seamless expedition/operations experience, as she is operator-owned.
OUR EXPERTS SAILED
You have questions.
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AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the MV Expedition firsthand, and can help you compare the Expedition with other polar expedition ships that offer Antarctica cruises. 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. The ship burns Marine Gas Oil (MGO)—a clean burning fuel with a low emission factor that conforms to all international regulations and policies governing disposal of waste at sea. Her 2017 refurbishment upgraded her technical specs to include two new engines, generators, gear boxes, drive systems and re-bladed propellers, resulting in fuel efficiency and a minimized carbon footprint.
Common Areas Aboard MS Expedition
The MS Expedition ship 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. The Expedition cruise ship 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.
A theater-style lounge accommodates everyone on board and serves as the main briefing and lecture hall with presentations, films and slideshows for education and enjoyment. Seating here is varied to offer booths, comfortable swivel chairs and stools at the bar. Enjoy a library with books and games, as well as a small onboard gym and staffed medical clinic. Shop for souvenirs in the Polar Boutique or spend time on the observation decks to view wildlife and enjoy the open ocean. Be sure to take advantage of the multi-leveled viewing on the bow when the captain opens up this sometimes-off-limits space.
An open bridge policy allows you to sail with a captain’s-eye view and see the operations of the captain and his crew; a few binoculars are available to use in this space for spotting wildlife and landing sites. Ship-to-shore satellite communications with email and wireless Internet access are available for purchase. Free intranet is available to access daily schedules and expedition staff bios on board.
Dining Aboard MS Expedition
A diversity of gourmet international cuisines are prepared and catered by professional chefs. Dining is casual, tables of four to eight are unassigned, and the window-lined dining room is capable of seating the full complement of passengers at one time. If weather allows, a barbecue buffet can be served alfresco on the Captain’s Deck for a unique polar dining experience.
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 vegan and celiac disease, can be accommodated with advance notice. Coffee, tea and water are all provided free of charge, with special afternoon tea service with snacks. 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 MV 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 MS Expedition ship offers kayaks and camping gear for off-ship adventures. The entire passenger complement only requires 30 minutes to load or unload from the Zodiacs, making for swift and efficient operations.
On board, the Expedition’s crew create a fun atmosphere with activities including game nights; performances by the resident musicians; 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
The 65 modern cabins offer a variety of affordable doubles and triples, as well as higher-end double cabins and suites. All cabins provide views (window or porthole), storage, a nightstand, a writing desk, in-room music, individual temperature controls and a full private en-suite bathroom with hairdryer. Daily cabin service makes sure the cabin is clean, warm and inviting. The electricity on board is 220v/50Hz electrical outlets, with European 2-pin round holes. An international adapter may be needed.
