Anders Kristensen, Chief Commercial Officer at Polar Latitudes Expeditions, says the move to an owned vessel will allow closer control over expedition planning and onboard experience as Discoverer prepares for upcoming Antarctic seasons.
A shift in expedition planning is underway as a long serving polar vessel begins operating under Polar Latitudes Expeditions, marking a transition in how the company structures its future sailings.
The vessel, now named Discoverer, will begin Antarctic voyages from the 2026 to 2027 season, taking over scheduled departures previously assigned to Seaventure. The transition reflects a broader move by the company towards operating owned vessels rather than chartered ships.
Anders Kristensen, Chief Commercial Officer at Polar Latitudes Expeditions, said, “By replacing a chartered vessel with one that we own, we strengthen our ability to shape the expedition experience from start to finish. This allows us to refine every aspect of the journey, from expedition planning to onboard learning, ensuring travellers experience Antarctica in the most immersive way possible.”
The ship has a long history in polar exploration and has previously operated under names including Silver Explorer and Prince Albert II. Built at the Rauma shipyard in Finland, it has travelled through some of the most remote regions across polar waters.
A refurbishment carried out in 2023 introduced upgrades to guest accommodations, technical systems and shared spaces. Further modifications are planned before the vessel begins operations with Polar Latitudes Expeditions, in line with its small ship expedition approach focused on detailed exploration and guided learning.
From the upcoming season, all previously scheduled Antarctic departures assigned to Seaventure will be operated by Discoverer. Travellers with existing bookings will be accommodated in equivalent cabin categories.
The addition of the vessel is also expected to influence the company’s sailing calendar, particularly during peak travel months. Among the planned routes is the Crossing the Antarctic Circle itinerary, which remains a key experience for expedition travellers.
Outside the Antarctic season, the vessel will operate under the company’s sister brand, Heritage Expeditions, exploring destinations beyond polar regions. Planned routes include journeys through the Chilean fjords, with Patagonia set to be introduced into the company’s itinerary portfolio.
The development comes as interest in expedition travel continues to grow, including among Indian travellers seeking remote and experience led journeys in regions such as Antarctica and the Arctic.
John McKeon, Founder of Polar Latitudes Expeditions, said, “We have had many successful seasons with Seaventure, and we are grateful for the journeys we have shared. At the same time, Discoverer represents the next step in our long term vision of building one of the most comprehensive expedition cruise programmes in the industry. There is much more to come.”
Polar Latitudes Expeditions operates through a collaboration between Polar Latitudes and Albatros Expeditions, combining decades of experience in expedition travel across polar regions.
At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.
