Galapagos Cruise
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Achieving the highest ice-class rating (equivalent to A-1), the sturdy and functional design of the 116-passenger Ortelius makes it one of the safest and most stable polar ships today – suitable for navigating in solid one-year sea ice and loose multi-year packs. Built in Gdynia, Poland in 1989, this expedition vessel previously served as a special purpose ship for the Russian Academy of Science.
Travel on board the Ortelius emphasizes spending as much time as possible ashore on exploratory wildlife excursions, with activities that include polar diving, camping, hiking & snowshoeing, kayaking, mountaineering, photo workshops, shore-based walks, ski mountaineering, Antarctica ski trekking. Access to more remote areas for these activities is ensured not only by the ship’s powerful engines, but also its on-board helicopters as well as its own fleet of 10 safe and sturdy zodiacs that are normally capable of landing all 100+ passengers at the same time.
Complementing its quality exploratory wildlife program, Ortelius offers comfortable 3-star hotel standards, with cabins that are surprisingly large, while a recent overhaul has improved the original research-vessel decor immeasurably. All of these spacious cabins have their own en suite bathrooms, and the generous twin-window cabins measure 190 square feet. The Ortelius’ social facilities include two restaurants, a bar/lecture room, and extensive open-deck space that maximizes wildlife viewing, while the spacious bridge is a great place to hang out.
The vessel is operated by a highly experienced 22-member international nautical crew, 8 expedition crew members (consisting of 1 expedition leader, 1 assistant expedition leader and 6 guides/lecturers), in addition to an international hotel crew of 19 and 1 doctor.
On board the Ortelius, you can encounter Arctic foxes, reindeers, walrus and polar bears as you travel to one of the most spectacular regions on earth.
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The voyages are primarily developed to offer passengers a quality exploratory wildlife program, giving them a chance to spend as much time ashore as possible. As the number of passengers is limited to 116 on the "Ortelius", flexibility assures maximum wildlife opportunities.
“The Galapagos experience was absolutely amazing. Not just the abundant sea life and incredible spots, but also your professionalism and passion for your work turned my trip into an unforgettable holiday.”
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“The trip was excellent from beginning to end. The Isabella II was a fine ship and the crew and guides were all of the highest quality. I would recommend them to others. For us, the ship was the perfect size – not too small and not too large.”