MV Ortelius Sets New Polar Cruise Record in the Weddell Sea
In February 2026, the ice-strengthened expedition vessel MV Ortelius made headlines by setting a new record for the southernmost latitude reached by a non-icebreaker passenger ship in Antarctica’s Weddell Sea. On February 5, the ship achieved a remarkable position at 78°05.60′ South in Vahsel Bay, surpassing its own previously set record of 78°03.471′ South from the previous season, as detailed by operational reports from Oceanwide Expeditions.
The Weddell Sea, known for its dense pack ice and harsh weather conditions, has historical significance as a pivotal location for Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition in the early 20th century. The challenging navigational conditions not only test the capabilities of the vessel but also the expertise of its crew. MV Ortelius, with its ice-class hull, is designed to navigate these remote waters, allowing it to explore latitudes that most commercial ships cannot access.
This milestone was achieved during the 27-night Remote Weddell Sea Explorer voyage, which retraces significant elements of Shackleton’s historic route and includes landings in rarely visited locations, such as Queen Maud Land. The latitude reached illustrates the vessel’s exceptional polar navigation capabilities and the crew’s proficiency in operating in one of the most extreme marine environments on the planet.
With its repeated record-breaking achievements, MV Ortelius and its operator are now among the few commercial expeditions capable of venturing deep into Antarctic waters, thus broadening the geographical boundaries of non-icebreaker navigation and enhancing the offerings of high-latitude exploration for passengers.
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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.
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