Overview

Built in Finland in 1969, the 100 passenger Polar Star was originally part of the Swedish Maritime Administration's fleet of icebreakers. Refurbished in 1988, she served as a working icebreaker in the Baltic until April 2000 when she was converted to an expedition vessel.

As a comfortable ice class vessel, she is ideally suited for exploration in polar environments. She is capable of pushing into the pack ice where few other ships dare to sail, while providing a relaxed atmosphere for everyone on board. The bridge is always open, so you are able to observe Captain and his Officers as they navigate to your next destination.

The Polar Star carries a fleet of zodiacs that are used for shore excursions and exploring the coastline.

Specs

Amenities

Observation Lounge
Our observation lounge is the perfect place to unwind in between activities. Here you can enjoy a pre-dinner drink, meet with new friends, play cards or simply enjoy the views from our large, panoramic windows. The observation lounge is also the epicenter of onboard activities, the location for daily recaps, lectures, briefings, film screenings and other events. There is a 24-hour self-serve refreshment station which includes coffee and tea.
    
Dinning Room
Located on deck 3, our dining room is equipped to seat all our passengers at one time and operates on an open seating policy, creating an informal setting. Here, you will be treated to a varied and delicious international cuisine prepared by our talented chefs and served by our friendly stewardesses. A selection of entrees is offered at each meal with vegetarian option available.
    
Bar
The cozy Polar Bar can be found on deck 4 and is usually open from shortly after dinner until the wee hours – a great place to mingle with fellow passengers in a casual atmosphere. Passengers can also utilize our bar in the observation lounge, open before dinner each evening and at times during the day.
    
Library
Sometimes it is nice to have some quiet time to soak up the experiences of the day or curl up with a good book. Our charming library provides just that opportunity. The library is located on deck 5 and is stocked with board games for leisure hours at sea, reference materials, novels and paperbacks. Our paperback section operates on a “leave and lend” basis.
    
Gym
For those extra energetic passengers, we have a mini gym on deck 4, equipped with a treadmill, bicycles, rowing machine, weight machine, mat, exercise ball and towels.

Shop
Located on deck 3 next to reception, the shop is stocked with a variety of souvenirs, including clothing, postcards and jewelry and a selection of basic personal items to help you through the trip.
    
Treatment Room
We have a doctor onboard each expedition who is on-call 24 hours a day. The treatment room is located on deck 3 and is equipped with basic medications and medical equipment.

Wet Room
On deck 3, our wet room provides a place to dry and store lifejackets, boots and jackets when you return from your landing ashore. It is located next to the gangway where Zodiacs are loaded and unloaded.

Email
The ship is equipped to send and receive email. For a fee, you must set up an account which you will use to send and receive emails while on board.

Phone/Fax
If you need to make a telephone call or send a fax, you can do so for a fee using the Iridium satellite phone and fax machine on the bridge.

Laundry
A laundry service is available onboard. Each cabin is supplied with laundry bags and forms. Bags will be collected each morning with clean items returned within 48 hours.

Zodiacs
The ship carries a fleet of zodiacs that are used for cruising and shore excursions.