G Adventures has announced plans to charter a new, “more fuel-efficient” expedition cruise ship for its upcoming Antarctica season

The ship, which will replace the company’s current vessel, Expedition, is currently named Ocean Adventurer and has been chartered through Danish maritime company SunStone.

The vessel will be renamed Expedition and will embark on its first Antarctica cruise in October 2025, having undergone major renovations to its engine to make it more fuel-efficient than its predecessor.

G Adventures founder, Bruce Poon Tip, said the new ship “marks an exciting step” for G Adventures’ polar programme, securing the future of its small-ship expeditions and allowing room for expansion.

“Expedition has operated over 270 departures, taking over 30,000 travellers to some of the most remote regions of the world, and holds a very dear place in our hearts at G Adventures,” he added.

“And, while we all wanted to continue to operate our little red ship, it became apparent that doing so would not be good for the environment, or the business. As a company, we are always looking for ways to evolve, improve and lead from the front, so when the opportunity for this new ship presented itself, we knew we had to take it.”

Initial calculations by the company estimate that the overall carbon footprint per person per day will drop by up to 30 per cent with the new ship.

The 102 metre vessel features a restaurant and bar, a presentation lounge, a library, fitness area, observation and sun deck and outdoor jacuzzis. The 70 cabins on board feature either an ocean-facing porthole or window and ensuite bathrooms.

Suites will include a double bed and larger sea-view windows, while multi-share twin and triple cabins provide travellers with a more sociable option.

The new ship is built with an Ice Class 1A for reinforced safety and manoeuvrability, as well as a refurbished propulsion system and updated stabilisers, offering a smoother ride and helping to reduce motion sickness during rough crossings.

“Demand for our polar offering continues to be incredibly strong, as travellers are drawn to our small-ship offering and a more immersive, expedition-style adventure in this truly unique part of the world,” said Ben Perlo, CEO of G Adventures.

“Expedition has allowed us to deliver once-in-a-lifetime trips, at a great price, and we are excited to continue offering incredible experiences and value to our travellers as we enter this next chapter of our polar offering.”