Oceanwide Expeditions has made history with an extraordinary achievement in polar exploration. The team aboard M/V Ortelius has reached the southernmost point ever recorded by a non-icebreaker passenger vessel in the Weddell Sea. On February 26, 2025, the M/V Ortelius reached an unprecedented latitude of 78°03.471’S, marking a groundbreaking milestone in Antarctic navigation.
The Weddell Sea is one of Antarctica’s most formidable regions, renowned for its dense pack ice and extreme conditions that have challenged explorers for over a century. Exactly 110 years ago, in February 1915, Sir Ernest Shackleton and his team found themselves icebound during the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition, just a few nautical miles from where M/V Ortelius recently set a new record. Shackleton’s journey exemplified the pioneering spirit of exploration — one that continues to inspire adventurers today, including those at Oceanwide Expeditions.
Pushing beyond expected limits, M/V Ortelius and her crew together with the expedition team once again demonstrated the daring spirit of Oceanwide Expeditions. Being an ice-strengthen vessel, M/V Ortelius has one of the highest ice-class notations for non-icebreakers, enabling her to navigate the challenging Weddell Sea and reach this historic milestone. This journey underscores Oceanwide Expeditions’ commitment to venturing into the most remote polar regions while upholding the highest safety standards.
Oceanwide Expeditions extends its deepest gratitude to the dedicated crew of M/V Ortelius, including Captain Remmert Koster and the expedition team for their exceptional skill and leadership in making this remarkable achievement possible.
Exploring the Eastern Frontiers
Earlier in the same voyage, M/V Ortelius also reached the easternmost point of the expedition at Princess Martha Coast, Queen Maud Land — a region historically referred to as Neuschwabenland. The ship recorded its farthest eastern coordinates at 70°48.156’S, 009°45.839’W, further solidifying this journey as a pioneering expedition into uncharted waters for passenger vessels.
A Testament to Oceanwide’s Pioneering Spirit
Both achievements reflect Oceanwide Expeditions’ pioneering spirit. The company continues to venture into remote regions where no other cruise operator goes. With over 30 years of experience in polar exploration, Oceanwide remains committed to discovering new destinations and offering extraordinary experiences to its guests.
“While setting a world record is a proud moment for our team, our true motivation lies in sharing these beautiful experiences with our passengers. This voyage reaffirms our passion for exploration and our relentless pursuit of new frontiers in the polar regions,” said Michel van Gessel, Director at Oceanwide Expeditions.
This historic achievement symbolizes dedication, teamwork, and the spirit of adventure that defines Oceanwide Expeditions. While records may be broken, the memories and experiences shared with passengers will remain unparalleled.
A Unique 27-Night Remote Weddell Sea Explorer Voyage
This exceptional 27-night expedition is an unprecedented itinerary for any expedition operator. This new voyage provides passengers with an unparalleled opportunity to explore the most remote and untouched regions of the Weddell Sea, making this journey a truly one-of-a-kind adventure in polar travel history.
