| Welcome
Aboard The Explorer II
Explorer II brings a rare touch of comfortable, informal refinement
to Antarctic travel. Cross her threshold and you feel instantly
at home. Here the glow of fine burnished woods, gleaming brass
and handsome works of original art create an atmosphere that
is elegant and stylish, yet unpretentious. But there is strong
steel beneath her graceful exterior. Explorer II is well equipped
to handle the open-water cruising and icy channels of Antarctic
seas. Her speed, ice-strengthened hull, stabilizers and bow
thrusters give her the power, stability and agility necessary
to ensure a safe, smooth passage for all on board.
A New Standard
of Style in Expedition Cruising
The Lounge is the social heart of
the ship, where guests can chat with new-found friends and
enjoy informal lectures. There’s a concert pianist to
entertain during cocktail hours or after dinner. Two open
bars – the Shackleton and the South Cape – provide
additional corners where a good deal of time socializing will
probably be spent. Fellow guests are likely to be some of
the most interesting people you’ll ever meet, and members
of the expedition team mingle with guests in an atmosphere
that is informal and unregimented, and with a warm sense of
camaraderie.
Days at sea can be as active as you choose. When not out on
the Promenade Deck glacier-gasping or whale-watching, guests
can work out in the gym, unwind in a sauna, enjoy a massage
in the full-service beauty salon or a movie at the cinema
or in their stateroom. The gracious, wood-paneled Library
with its 4,000+ volumes is particularly impressive, one of
the largest at sea. The Bridge stays open 24-hours-a-day,
and there’s also a gift shop for sundries and souvenirs,
a card room and a smoking room.
International Cuisine
Guests can sit where, when and with
whom they please in the Main Dining Room with its panoramic
windows. They can select from imaginative international menus
that also include a choice
of cuisine and vegetarian dishes. House wines as well as all
bar drinks are included in the fare. For breakfast and lunch,
you can enjoy a buffet in the alternative Verandah Restaurant.
And as far as the dress code goes, relax. After a full day
exploring, guests will probably want to change their clothes
for dinner. But the Captain’s Welcome and
farewell Dinners are the only evenings designated “Informal”
instead of “Country Club Casual” where a jacket
and tie is suggested.
Stylish Outside Staterooms and Suites with Balconies
Explorer II’s staterooms are
comfortable and inviting. They’re even equipped with
a pair of binoculars for use during the expedition. All staterooms
are ocean view, and the twelve suites – including the
two Owner’s Suites on the Bridge Deck – have private
balconies.
Warm, Personal Service and Every
Convenience
To ensure the highest quality of service, Explorer II carries a staff and crew of 146 to accommodate just 199 guests. There’s a launderette as well as laundry service. We’ve also set up a convenient boot changing room right on B Deck at Red Expedition, where the zodiacs are boarded. All guests receive a complimentary parka and backpack.
Top Rated
Explorer II has consistently been voted the world's top-rated expedition
ship by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler.
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