TORONTO — G Adventures is ushering in a new era of polar exploration with the launch of a new expedition ship for the 2025-26 Antarctica season.
The vessel will replace the current Expedition and offer 128 passengers an upgraded onboard experience while staying true to the operator’s signature adventurous spirit and community-focused atmosphere that has defined its polar journeys for more than 15 years.
Chartered through Danish maritime company SunStone, the new ship is currently sailing under the name Ocean Adventurer and will be renamed Expedition in homage to G Adventures’ original “little red ship.” The vessel will depart on its first Antarctica sailing with G Adventures in October 2025.
The 102-metre-long ship has undergone extensive renovations, including the installation of brand-new engines. Its improved fuel efficiency played a key role in the company’s decision to switch vessels as part of its ongoing commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
According to Poon Tip, the company’s initial calculations estimate that the overall carbon footprint per person per day will drop by up to 30%.
“The Expedition has operated over 270 departures, taking over 30,000 travellers to some of the most remote regions of the world, and holds a very dear place in our hearts at G Adventures. And, while we all wanted to continue to operate our little red ship, it became apparent that doing so would not be good for the environment, or the business,” he said.
“As a company, we are always looking for ways to evolve, improve and lead from the front. So, when the opportunity for this new ship presented itself, we knew we had to take it.”
Poon Tip, who recently returned from Antarctica, added that the sense of camaraderie on G Adventures departures remains a defining element of the experience.
“Having just returned from Antarctica myself, where I spent time with our customers, it’s clear that people book with G Adventures because they are seeking a real expedition, not a cruise. I really believe that we have created something special aboard the Expedition: a family which every guest becomes part of, alongside some of the most knowledgeable expedition leaders in the industry.”
WHAT’S ON BOARD & INCLUDED
The refurbished ship features a restaurant and bar, a 170-square-metre presentation lounge, library, fitness area, observation and sun deck, and outdoor jacuzzis. The 70 cabins – all with ocean-facing portholes or windows and ensuite bathrooms – represent the most modern and stylish accommodation in the company’s polar program to date. Suites will include double beds and large sea-view windows, while multi-share twin and triple cabins offer more sociable and cost-effective options.
Unlike larger ships where passenger excursions can be limited, all travellers with G Adventures will continue to enjoy two daily outings via 11 onboard zodiacs, with access to shore excursions at every landing point.
The new ship will carry a team of at least 14 expedition experts, with specialities ranging from marine biology to ornithology, resulting in a 10:1 traveller-to-expert ratio. Daily lectures will continue, along with the popular kayaking and camping excursions that let guests paddle past icebergs and sleep under the Antarctic sky.
Built to Ice Class 1A standards, the vessel includes a refurbished propulsion system and modern stabilisers (Sperry Gyrofin), designed for enhanced safety and a smoother ride through polar waters.
The new Expedition will operate five Antarctica itineraries, including:
- Antarctica Classic: 11 days, starting from $10,999 per person
- Spirit of Shackleton: 21 days, starting from $28,199 per person
- Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: 22 days, starting from $20,899 per person
For more information, travel advisors can visit the G Adventures Expedition page.
