Basecamp voyages offer an exceptional selection of adventure activities, from camping to mountaineering in Antarctica. A unique feature is the onboard helicopter, available on select itineraries in the Weddell and Ross Seas—most famously for expeditions to see emperor penguins on Snow Hill Island.
Ortelius: Ship, Routes & Consulting
Possible expeditions, information about the ship and answers from our experts to all your questions about the cruises of the Ortelius
3 Reasons for a an Expedition on the Ortelius
- Built in Poland in 1989, the Ortelius originally served as a research vessel for the Russian Academy of Sciences and holds the highest ice class, 1A. It is perfectly suited for exploring the most remote corners of the Arctic and Antarctic.
- The ship has been fully modernized for expedition cruising. Its rugged exterior contrasts with a modern interior that offers the comfort of a three-star hotel.
- A wide range of adventure activities is available, especially on the active Basecamp voyages, including mountaineering. A unique feature is the onboard helicopter, used on select expeditions in the Weddell and Ross Seas.
What Awaits You on an Expedition on the Ortelius
Former Research Vessel
Ortelius was originally built in 1989 in Gdynia, Poland as a special-purpose vessel for the Russian Academy of Sciences. After a complete modernization, she has been exploring some of the most remote corners of Antarctica since 2011—from the Weddell Sea and the Ross Sea to the emperor penguins of Snow Hill Island.
Adventure-focused Expeditions
With a maximum of 108 passengers, the ship ensures smooth Zodiac operations and the ability for nearly all guests to go ashore at the same time. The spacious open deck provides an ideal viewing platform, and the ship’s bridge remains open to passengers. All roomy cabins include private bathrooms.
Wide Range of Activities & Helicopter Access
Questions About the ship?
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Cabins and Suites on the Ortelius
All cabins feature a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and a writing desk. The ship has seven decks, with passenger facilities located on decks 3 through 6.
| Superior | 18.4 M2 |
| Twin Deluxe | 17.7 M2 |
| Twin Window | 17.5 M2 |
| Twin Porthole | 11.5 M2 |
| Quadruple Porthole | 12.4 M2 |
Superior
- 18.4 to 20.4 m² Superior Cabins, all 6 cabins are located on the Upper Deck (5).
- Double bed, private shower & toilet.
- At least 2 windows (cabin 520 has 4 windows with a view of the bow).
- Cabins 509 & 529 have a connecting door. They are ideal for families.
- Seating area with flat-screen TV, sofa bed, mini-fridge, tea and coffee maker.
- Cabins 518 and 520 have a partially obstructed view.
- Cabin 521 has the advantage of having two windows (towards the bow and port side) and offers an unobstructed view.
- Telephone and Wi-Fi (extra).
Twin Deluxe
- 17.7 m² Deluxe Cabins, both located on Deck 5.
- Two single beds.
- Windows to the side and stern.
- Both cabins 510 & 528 have a partially obstructed view of the stern.
- Small sofa, flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, tea and coffee maker.
- Private shower & toilet.
- Table & chair, hairdryer, safe and ample storage space.
- Telephone and Wi-Fi (extra).
Twin Window
- 17.5 m² Double with Window Cabins, all 12 cabins are located on Deck 5.
- Double beds.
- 2 small windows.
- Small sofa.
- Private shower & toilet.
- Table & chair, hairdryer, safe and ample storage space.
- Flat-screen TV.
- Telephone and Wi-Fi (extra).
Twin Porthole
- 11.5 to 15.1 m² Double with Portholes, 24 cabins on Deck 4 and 4 cabins on Deck 3.
- 2 lower berths.
- Two portholes.
- Private shower & toilet.
- Table & chair, hairdryer, safe and ample storage space.
- Flat-screen TV.
- Telephone and Wi-Fi (extra).
Quadruple Porthole
- 12.4 to 14.1 m², four-person, with portholes, all located on Deck 3.
- Bunk beds.
- Two portholes.
- Private shower & toilet.
- Table & chair, hairdryer, safe and storage space.
- Flat-screen TV.
- Telephone and Wi-Fi (extra).
“I’m always pleased when travelers ask about Ortelius. She combines the character of a rugged expedition vessel with adventures in places that are truly off the beaten path—even by Antarctic standards.”
Meinhard Mooslechner
Polar Travel Expert
Ortelius Deck Plan
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Itineraries of the Ortelius in Antarctica
Frequently Asked Questions about Ortelius
Which services are included and excluded on the Ortelius?
Included:
• Antarctic voyage in the booked cabin category aboard Ortelius
• Group transfer from the ship to Ushuaia Airport on disembarkation day (immediately after the cruise)
• All shore landings and activities during the voyage, including Zodiac excursions
• Scientific lectures and onboard entertainment
• All meals onboard, including snacks, coffee, and tea throughout the journey
• Complimentary use of rubber landing boots
• Helicopter flights on select itineraries
• Comprehensive travel documents before and after the expedition
Excluded:
• International flights (we can arrange suitable flights upon request for an additional cost)
• Pre- and post-cruise land arrangements, such as a hotel night in Ushuaia
• Recommended gratuities for the crew at the end of the voyage
• Personal expenses, such as alcoholic beverages
• Personal travel insurance
• Optional activities: depending on the departure, all adventure activities may be included or some may carry an extra cost
Which activities are possible in Antarctica with the Ortelius?
Ortelius is one of the ships offering the widest selection of activities in Antarctica. On select itineraries, scenic flights and landings using the ship’s onboard helicopter are also possible. The following activities may be available:
• Shore landings
• Zodiac cruises
• Lectures from polar experts
• Photography workshops
• Polar plunge
• Camping
• Sea kayaking
• Snowshoeing
• Climbing
• Mountaineering
• Snorkeling
• Scuba diving
• Helicopter flights (selected itineraries)
All shore landings and Zodiac cruises are included, as are onboard lectures. On Basecamp departures, you’ll have access to the broadest range of adventure activities. The exact optional activities available depend on the specific sailing date.
How is the internet connection on the Ortelius in Antarctica?
With satellite internet available onboard Ortelius, you can stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues even while exploring Antarctica. The following communication options are available at an additional cost:
• Wi-Fi: connect your personal device anywhere on the ship
• Full internet access: available for a fee
• Phone cards: pricing varies depending on the call destination
• Ship-based email: available at an extra charge
Please keep in mind that internet coverage in remote regions like Antarctica may occasionally be slow or temporarily unavailable. As a result, video calls cannot be guaranteed to work reliably at all times.
Is my international flight included when booking the Ortelius?
When booking Ortelius through ArcticDesire.com, you can request a complete travel package that includes international flights, domestic flights, and any required pre-cruise hotel nights.
If desired, we are also happy to arrange a customized pre-trip or post-trip extension for you.
Can I ask another question about the Ortelius?
Yes, of course. Simply give us a call, or send us a message using the contact form. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have about traveling to Antarctica aboard Ortelius — free of charge.
How can I book a trip on the Ortelius?
To book a voyage aboard Ortelius, the easiest way is to call us directly. You may also send us a message through the contact form or request a callback. With an appointment, we are happy to speak with you outside regular office hours.