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

TECHNOLOGY & FUEL:

Dynamic water-ballast system and supplementary bilge keels improve stability and efficiency.
Machinery and technical systems were extensively overhauled during the vessel’s refurbishment.

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

CO2 Emissions

The vessel’s small-scale expedition model, with a maximum capacity of 52 guests, helps limit the overall operational footprint compared with larger expedition ships. Its machinery and technical systems have undergone a major overhaul aimed at improving efficiency and reliability.

Waste Management

Operations follow strict environmental protocols under IAATO and AECO guidelines, with a focus on minimising waste and environmental impact. The vessel’s refurbishment included upgrades to technical and monitoring systems, while responsible expedition practices are designed to reduce the impact on fragile polar environments.

Citizen Science Programs

The vessel has a strong research heritage, having originally been built as a polar research vessel. It is available for scientific work and research charters, providing access to remote polar environments for fieldwork. In 2026, it supported the Innu Nation Uinipekᵘ Expedition, combining ocean science, Innu knowledge and youth education, with partners including Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Students on Ice Foundation, Mastercard Foundation and Parks Canada.

Local First Initiative / Communities

The expedition model prioritises small-scale, low-impact travel and support for local communities. Operations are conducted under IAATO and AECO frameworks, while local partnerships in Patagonia include Weskar Patagonian Lodge and DAP Airlines. The vessel also supported the Innu-led Uinipekᵘ Expedition, which focuses on Indigenous coastal and marine management and youth leadership in Nitassinan.