By
Alex Smith |
Polar Latitudes Expeditions has added a new expedition vessel to its fleet with the introduction of Discoverer, formerly known as Exploris One.
The vessel will join the company’s Antarctic programme for the 2026/27 season, replacing Seaventure, which will transition to full operation under 66 Expeditions. The addition follows a majority acquisition of Polar Latitudes Expeditions by its parent company.
“By replacing a chartered with an owned vessel, we again underline our vision, having superior control of our expedition product and therefore also creating the best potential expedition experience for our customers,” said Anders Kristensen, chief commercial officer of Polar Latitudes Expeditions.
Discoverer will operate under the Polar Latitudes Expeditions brand in Antarctica and will also sail under the Heritage Expeditions brand in other regions.
The vessel was built at the Rauma Marine Constructions shipyard in Rauma and has previously operated under several names, including Silver Explorer and Prince Albert II. A refurbishment completed in 2023 introduced upgrades to public spaces, technical systems and guest accommodation. Polar Latitudes Expeditions plans further refurbishment before the start of the 2026/27 Antarctic season, including additional upgrades to onboard amenities and technology.
From the 2026/27 season, Discoverer will operate all Antarctic departures previously scheduled for Seaventure. Guests booked on Seaventure voyages will be transferred to Discoverer in the same cabin categories as originally reserved. Seaventure has operated under the Polar Latitudes brand since 2021.
“We have had many successful seasons with Seaventure, and we wish nothing but the best for 66 Expeditions as they go forward with her,” said John McKeon, founder of Polar Latitudes Expeditions. “That said, I couldn’t be more thrilled with the addition of Discoverer as the next step in our multi-year programme of building the most comprehensive expedition cruise company in the industry.
The addition of Discoverer will enable Polar Latitudes Expeditions to expand its Antarctic programme for the 2026/27 season, including additional departures in December 2026 featuring the company’s ‘Crossing the Antarctic Circle’ itinerary. In March 2027 the vessel is also scheduled to operate voyages through the Chilean Fjords, introducing Chilean Patagonia to the company’s expedition portfolio.