G Adventures reintroduces polar cruises with new ship and itineraries

   June 7, 2025 ,   Cruise Industry

G Adventures is set to resume its Arctic cruise operations in 2026, marking a return to the region after a hiatus since 2019. The tour operator will offer four distinct Arctic itineraries, totaling 10 departures, aboard the 128-passenger vessel, Ocean Adventurer.

The 1975-built ship, previously chartered by Quark Expeditions, will be renamed MS Expedition in homage to G Adventures' former vessel of the same name.

The vessel is recognized for its fuel efficiency and suitability for polar navigation.

MS Expedition's deployment will commence in Antarctica in October 2025, followed by a transition to the Arctic in the spring of 2026. The planned Arctic routes encompass regions such as Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland. Additionally, G Adventures has indicated forthcoming announcements of 5 more voyages, which will include destinations like Scotland, the Faroes, and Labrador.

Onboard, passengers will benefit from the expertise of specialists in marine biology, ornithology, geology, and history. The ship is designed to function as a "floating classroom," offering educational experiences alongside daily excursions, subject to weather conditions.

One highlighted itinerary, "Realm of the Polar Bear," offers an 8-day exploration of Norway's Svalbard archipelago, focusing on fjord landscapes and opportunities to observe polar bears in their natural habitat. Another itinerary, "Arctic Highlights Southbound," spans 15 days and includes visits to Northwest Spitsbergen National Park, the Greenland Sea, and Northeast Greenland National Park. This journey features a stop at the remote settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit, providing insights into the lifestyles of its inhabitants.

Bookings for these Arctic expeditions are currently open, with detailed itineraries expected to be released in the near future.