MV Ortelius Sets New Polar Cruise Record in the Weddell Sea
In early February 2026, the MV Ortelius, an ice-strengthened expedition vessel, achieved a remarkable milestone by establishing a new southernmost latitude record for non-icebreaker passenger ships in Antarctica’s Weddell Sea. On February 5th, the ship reached a latitude of 78°05.60′ South in Vahsel Bay, surpassing its previous record of 78°03.471′ South set in the prior season, as reported by Oceanwide Expeditions.
The Weddell Sea is renowned for its challenging conditions, characterized by shifting pack ice and severe weather. This area was historically significant, serving as the backdrop for Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition in the early 20th century. Navigating these waters requires both advanced vessel capabilities and skilled crew expertise. The Ortelius, with its ice-class hull, is designed to explore latitudes rarely accessed by commercial ships.
This achievement was part of a 27-night voyage called the Remote Weddell Sea Explorer, which follows sections of Shackleton’s historic route and includes landings in rarely visited locations like Queen Maud Land in the eastern Weddell Sea. The latitude reached illustrates both the vessel’s capabilities in polar navigation and the crew’s proficiency in one of the planet’s harshest marine environments.
Through consistently breaking its own records, the MV Ortelius and its operator have positioned themselves among a select group of commercial expeditions that can delve deeply into Antarctic waters, thereby pushing the boundaries of non-icebreaker navigation and enriching the options for passengers looking for high-latitude exploration experiences.
For more information, visit MV Ortelius and Oceanwide Expeditions.
Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.
At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising.
Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry.
Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
Editorial Team
At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
Leave a Reply