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    MV Polar Athena

    Polar Athena takes you to the extreme. With the highest 1A super ice-class rating, she’s built to slice through heavy sea ice, while her compact size and just 42 guests on board—the smallest group size in Antarctica—make every journey feel personal.

    With a small group on board, there are no lines, no crowds — just freedom and flexibility. Unlike larger ships, we can quickly launch all our guests into Zodiacs at once and explore off the ship in minutes. This agility lets us seize every opportunity at a moment’s notice, meaning you don’t miss a thing.

    Born as a research vessel, she’s in a class that has built a legacy for exploration in the polar realms. Now, reimagined and refurbished for authentic, slow travel to the most remote corners of the Earth, enhancing the experience and fulfilling the needs of true explorers, while never compromising on comfort. 

    She’s the ultimate choice for true small-group exploration in the deep south.

    Specifications

    • Passengers: 42
    • Crew : 20
    • Cabins: 24
    • Length: 71 m
    • Beam: 13 m
    • Draft: 4.5 m
    • 1A super ice-class
    • Cruising Speed: 11 Knots
    • Year built/refurbished: 1982 / 2024

    Services

    • Personalized, attentive crew service (small-group feel)
    • Expert expedition guides for shore excursions and wildlife watching
    • Simultaneous Zodiac operations (no waiting time for shore landings)
    • Daily lectures, briefings, educational programs onboard
    • In-cabin amenities: WiFi (Starlink), toiletries, towels, bedding, hairdryer, etc.
    • Flexible, nature-led itineraries / ability to adapt to wildlife and weather conditions

    Facilities

    • Two bridge observation lounges with panoramic views
    • Guest lounge for relaxation, lectures, briefings, and library space
    • Restaurant / dining room
    • Sauna
    • Outdoor hot tub
    • Cabins with ensuite bathrooms (shower and toilet)
    • Open deck space, including raised viewing platform for photography/wildlife vistas
    • Advanced stabilisation systems + bilge keels to reduce motion and improve comfort

    Deck Plan

    Cabins

    Classic Twin

    • Deck 3
    • 12.5 m2
    • 2 guests
    • Sleeps two in two lower berths
    • Ensuite shower and toilet
    • Porthole

    Signature Twin

    • Deck 4 & 5
    • 12 m2
    • 2 guests
    • Sleeps two in lower berths
    • Ensuite shower and toilet
    • Window

    Classic Suite

    • Deck 5
    • 16.8 m2
    • 2 guests
    • Sleeps two in double bed
    • Lounge area with sofa, corner desk & chair
    • Ensuite shower and toilet

    Signature Suite

    • Deck 5
    • 22.5 m2
    • 2 guests
    • Sleeps two in double bed
    • Spacious lounge area with sofa, corner desk & chair
    • Ensuite shower and toilet

    Signature Single

    • Deck 4
    • 11 m2
    • 1 guest
    • Sleeps one in lower berth
    • Ensuite shower and toilet
    • Window

    Gallery

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