G Adventures introduces Ocean Adventurer, a new expedition ship

G Adventures enters a bold new chapter of polar exploration, with the introduction of a new expedition vessel for the upcoming Antarctica season. The ship will replace G Adventures’ “Expedition”, and will offer 128 travellers an enhanced onboard experience while preserving the adventurous spirit and warm, community-driven atmosphere that have defined G Adventures’ polar journeys for over 15 years.

The new vessel, currently named Ocean Adventurer, has been chartered through Danish maritime company SunStone, and will take on the Expedition name in tribute to G Adventures’ much-loved “little red ship”. It will embark on its first G Adventures departure to Antarctica in October 2025. Having undergone major renovations- including brand-new engines- the more streamlined vessel is significantly more fuel-efficient than its predecessor. This played a critical role in G Adventures’ decision to change ship operations as the small-group operator strives to reduce its environmental footprint across all operations.

G Adventures founder, Bruce Poon Tip says the new ship marks an exciting step for G Adventures’ polar program, securing the future of its small-ship expeditions and allowing room for expansion.

“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. 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.

The new ship marks an exciting leap forward – one that will allow us to continue delivering life-changing expeditions for our travellers, aboard a more comfortable and efficient vessel, while making big advancements in our climate goals as well. Our initial calculations estimate that the overall carbon footprint per person per day will drop by up to 30% as we transition to the new ship. It will also give us the opportunity to evaluate our wider polar program and opportunities for expansion – so watch this space!”

“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. As we set sail on this new adventure, we are committed to continuing the Expedition’s legacy and tradition by retaining that ‘special sauce’ that makes each and every expedition departure with G Adventures so unique,” he continues.

The new 102 metre long ship features a restaurant and bar, a large 170sqm presentation lounge, a library, fitness area, observation and sun deck and outdoor jacuzzis. The 70 cabins on board will provide G Adventures’ most modern and stylish accommodation options to date, with each featuring either an ocean-facing porthole or window and ensuite bathrooms. Suites will include a double bed and larger sea-view windows, allowing travellers to observe the breathtaking sights and wildlife of the seventh continent from their room. Multishare twin and triple cabins provide travellers with a sociable option, that allows them to enjoy an expedition adventure of a lifetime.

Superior Cabin (Photo: Rogelio Espinosa).

While travellers on larger ships have their excursion time restricted, passengers with G Adventures will continue to enjoy the benefits of small-ship exploration, with 11 zodiacs hosting two daily excursions and all travellers having the opportunity to leave the ship at each stop.

In addition, with at least 14 expedition experts on board, specialising in everything from marine biology to ornithology, the passenger to expert ratio of 10:1 means travellers are able to spend time and connect with some of the region’s leading experts on board. Daily lectures will continue to take place, as will the popular kayaking and camping excursions in Antarctica, which see travellers paddle past icebergs and sleep under the stars on the ice.

The new ship is built with an Ice Class 1A for reinforced safety and maneuverability, as well as a refurbished propulsion system and updated stabilisers (Sperry Gyrofin), offering a smoother ride and helping to reduce motion sickness during rough crossings.

“Demand for our polar offering continues to be incredibly strong, as travellers are drawn to our small-ship offering and a more immersive, expedition-style adventure in this truly unique part of the world. The Expedition has allowed us to deliver once-in-a-lifetime trips, at a great price, and we are excited to continue offering incredible experiences and value to our travellers as we enter this next chapter of our polar offering,” says Ben Perlo, chief executive officer at G Adventures.

The new Expedition ship will operate five Antarctica itineraries, including:

The article G Adventures introduces Ocean Adventurer, a new expedition ship first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.