Hebridean Sky
- capacity
- 114
- year built
- 1991
- remodeled
- 2016
- crew members
- 75
- length
- 297 feet
- beam
- 36 feet
- draft
- 15 feet
- cruising speed
- 12.5 knots
- flag
- Marshall Islands
- ice class
- 1C
Please note that Hebridean Sky is not actively sailing any cruises listed with Adventuresmith Explorations. Contact us for current information on this ship and comparable options, or browse all of our small Antarctica ships to filter by ship size.
Hebridean Sky is the rechristened version of the former Sea Explorer expedition ship. After a multi-million-dollar refit in 2016, the 114-guest Hebridean Sky continues her tradition of fine Antarctic exploration, combining effortless elegance, impeccable service and an atmosphere of charm and camaraderie. State-of-the-art stabilization, fuel efficiency and an upgraded communications system ensure a safe and seamless journey.
Hebridean Sky Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Hebridean Sky review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery, along with a dedicated Hebridean Sky Ship Review with insights from two of our specialists who traveled aboard different charters. Our polar experts have been aboard the Hebridean Sky firsthand. Please read our Hebridean Sky review below then contact our Antarctica cruise experts to compare the Hebridean Sky with other Antarctica ships and small cruise ships offering Antarctica cruises.
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Choose the Hebridean Sky if you are seeking an elegant, ship for your Antarctic expedition. Her relative small size compared to other polar vessels gives the feel of a private yacht, yet her cabins remain roomy, some with sliding glass doors and private balconies. Built in 1992 under the name M/V Sea Explorer then refurbished in 2016, Hebridean Sky underwent an extensive, multimillion-dollar renovation that transformed her into one of the finest small ships sailing the polar regions. All suites and public spaces were completely redecorated. With eight accommodation categories, Hebridean Sky provides options for all travelers.Her 75 members of expedition staff and crew offer service that is second to none on once-in-a-lifetime voyages, including the unique offering of participation in the Citizen Science Program, creating connection with the landscape through offering opportunities to contribute to the scientific knowledge base of the climate and Antarctica.
Common Areas Aboard Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky’s common areas include an excellent panoramic top deck observation platform and a sun deck with an outdoor cafe, for witnessing the iconic wildlife and landscapes. The bar and lounge provides live entertainment and a coffee and tea station including an espresso machine. The Promenade Deck’s lounge contains audiovisual facilities, a library with computers and a DVD movie library. Forgotten items needed for shore excursions can be purchased at the gift shop. Upgraded WiFi internet is available, with 100 free minutes given to every passenger. An elevator serves all passenger decks. A dedicated passenger service manager attends to guests’ needs, and an onboard doctor and medical room is available for health concerns.
Dining Aboard Hebridean Sky
The dining room serves world-class cuisine and complimentary wine with dinner. Breakfast and lunch are elaborately served buffet style while dinner is elegantly plated with options of an appetizer, soup, entrée and dessert. Weather-permitting, an outdoor BBQ may be served. A regular Cocktail Hour with hors d’ouevres encourages guests to share stories from the day’s explorations. There are delectable vegetarian, meat and fish options each night. All menus change daily.
Crew & Guides Aboard Hebridean Sky
The expedition team aboard Hebridean Sky consists of skilled and experienced polar veterans dedicated to making sure that every passenger has a safe, memorable and fun voyage. Guides range from historians and ornithologists to Citizen Science coordinators, marine mammal experts and geologists. These well-informed guides lead lectures and discussions throughout the voyage. Photography guides are available aboard this expedition ship as well as on Zodiac cruises and onshore landings, offering tips and suggestions for getting the best shots of the unique wildlife and landscape.
Activities Aboard Hebridean Sky
Uniquely, the Hebridean Sky invites passengers to take part in the Citizen Science Program. Citizen Science is a way to harness the power of thousands of travelers around the world to observe, record and report on natural phenomena. A variety of activities that support important research projects in five major disciplines are offered, including oceanography, glaciology, ornithology, marine biology and meteorology. The data collected contributes to a better understanding of climate change and how it’s affecting the Antarctic Continent.
This expedition ship also provides Zodiac excursions off the Zodiac launching platform located on the stern. On select departures, camping gear including insulated sleeping bags and pads, sleeping bag liner, dry bags, and four-season mountaineering tents or bivy sacks enables an off-ship overnight experience. Kayak excursions are also available with provided dry suits and neoprene gloves.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Hebridean Sky
There are eight different categories of suite accommodation aboard Hebridean Sky. All suites are spacious (at least 220 square feet), with premium appointments throughout and exterior views. Each suite features your choice of one queen-sized or two twin-sized beds, a sitting area with sofa and side chair (the sofa can be converted to a bed for a third person up to 5’10” in height), flat-screen TV, telephone, independent temperature controls, mini bar, marble-appointed bathroom with shower, fine toiletries and a hair dryer.
