Polar Athena takes you to the extreme. With the highest 1A super ice-class rating, she’s built to slice through heavy sea ice, while her compact size and just 44 guests on board—the smallest group size in Antarctica—make every journey feel personal.
With spacious decks and two observation lounges in the bridge, she offers the best platform for observation and versatility in the polar regions. There are no queues, no crowds—just freedom and flexibility. Unlike larger ships, we can quickly board all our guests into Zodiacs at once and explore off the ship in minutes. This agility lets us seize every opportunity at a moment’s notice, meaning you don’t miss a thing. Ever.
Born as a research vessel, she’s in a class that has built a legacy for exploration in the polar realms. Now, reimagined and refurbished for authentic, slow travel to the most remote corners of the Earth, enhancing the experience and fulfilling the needs of true explorers, while never compromising on comfort.
She’s the ultimate choice for true small-group exploration in the deep south.

FACILITIES AND AMENITIES:
Ice-class 1A Super hull designed for heavy pack-ice navigation
Intimate experience with a maximum of approx. 42-44 guests
Large open decks and elevated bow observation platform
Fast and efficient Zodiac embarkation for all guests at once
Stabilizers and additional bilge keel for smoother sailing
Spacious lounge and observation areas, including bridge-level viewing lounges
Open-bridge policy for guest visits and wildlife watching
Panoramic dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows
Sauna and outdoor hot tub
Library and quiet relaxation spaces
All cabins exterior, with window or porthole and private bathroom
Cabin types: Classic Twin, Signature Twin, Classic Suite, Signature Suite, Signature Single
SHIP SPECIFICATIONS:
Ice Class: 1A Super (ice-reinforced)
Passenger Capacity: approx. 42-44 guests
Crew & Expedition Staff: small, specialized polar team
Length: approx. 69 m / 226 ft
Beam: approx. 12.8 m / 42 ft
Draft: approx. 4.5 m / 14.7 ft
Speed: up to approx. 14-15 knots
Zodiacs: multiple rapid-deployment expedition boats
Stabilization: active stabilizers + enhanced bilge keel
Electrical Power: modern energy-efficient systems (per refit)
Refit: extensively refurbished for modern polar expedition standards

