The world‘s finest diving

Mv Explorer

MV Explorer is a 46,5-meter (153-foot) ice strengthened, steel expedition vessel ideal for expedition cruising in the Polar regions. She comfortably accommodates up to 12 guests in 9 cabins for arctic expeditions.

MS Freya in pack ice ext opt 1

On Board Explorer

2 upper deck EXECUTIVE suites
double bed, seating area & floor to ceiling windows
2 upper deck SINGLE cabins
single bed, private bathroom with shower, seating area & picture windows
2 lower deck SUPERIOR suites
 twin or double beds & luxury private bathroom with walk-in shower & porthole windows
3 lower deck SINGLE DELUXE suites
twin or double beds, luxury private bathroom with walk-in shower & porthole windows

All cabins have a hair dryer, bath linen and bathrobes

Most Arctic expeditions, especially in areas with orcas, are for snorkeling and free diving.

Waterproof expeditions provides free rental dry suits.

Please note that these expeditions depend on the weather and wildlife for the snorkeling activities.

accommodation, sauna, diving & snorkel activity
full board, snacks, water, tea & coffee
miscellaneous service taxes and port charges

international & domestic airfare
excess baggage charges on flight
laundry, meals ashore, bar, beverages and telecommunication charges
gratuities

What To Expect

Whale Watching – Photography – Snorkeling

MS Virgo offers a ‘one of a kind’ wildlife experience in the Norwegian fjords, up close encounters with orcas and whales chasing herrings … with ever changing winter scenery and the Northern Lights dancing in the sky!  The best time of the year for this spectacular wildlife phenomena is November through February when the balance between light and access to herring and whales is at its best.  This is a snorkeling / free-diving opportunity rather than a scuba diving trip, as scuba bubbles seem to be generally annoying to whales.

Divers as well as non-divers can experience the underwater world of the polar regions and guests can also enjoy close whale encounters from the zodiac and from the ship.

A (Waterproof D9) snorkel dry suit and snorkel equipment will be provided to all guests who choose to snorkel. Be prepared for cold but rewarding days out at sea with spectacular sightings of Mother Nature in all her guises.

Take A Walk on the Wild Side....

MV Explorer, with the highest “ice class” certification, is a specialized vessel designed to navigate through icy waters and extreme weather conditions in the Arctic. The ship offers a luxurious and comfortable small ship cruising experience in the Arctic, with experienced and highly trained crew members.

The polar expedition yacht doesn´t only impress with the new and most cozy design of the interior, but also with its environmental sustainability to protect the fragile ecosystems of the polar regions.

The well-equipped and sturdy ship features a spacious panoramic lounge area for guests to relax and attend lectures, as well as a gym room, panoramic sauna, and jacuzzi for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Moreover, the fantastic outside lounge-bar on the after deck and large observation deck provide ample opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting. It is perfect ship for snorkeling with wild orcas or humpback whales and discovering the nature and wildlife of the Arctic.

Deck Plan ... Technical Specifications

Deck & cabin layout, yacht specs, equipment & safety features for MS Virgo
Freya deckplan opt 1

Specifications

Length: 46,5 meters

Breadth: 10,50 meters

Passangers: 12

Cabins: 9 cabins (11 to 20m²)

Built: 1994

Renovated: 2021

Zodiacs: 2

Facilities: 2 hottubs, 1 sauna, 2 lounges, polar diving equipment

Ship Registration: Lloyds, unrestricted trade, +100 A1 “Ice Class 1A”, UMS

Itineraries Winter Whales Of Norway Expedition Details

Winter Whales of Norway

Two expert guides will accompany you on your whale watching adventures. For five full days you follow the schools of herring and pods of orcas and humpbacks in the protected surroundings of the beautiful Norwegian fjords. If you choose not to snorkel, the zodiac excursions are great whale watching opportunities for excellent photography!  Add on a husky dog sledge adventure or a snow mobile safari from Tromso before or after your cruise.

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