It’s important to know about the different polar category ships and why choosing the right one is crucial for your Antarctic expedition.
The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) regulates the number of visitors allowed ashore at one time to protect the delicate environment. According to IAATO regulations, only 100 passengers are permitted onshore simultaneously.
Category A ships are designed for larger groups and can accommodate more passengers. These are typically larger cruise ships that sail from South America and close to the shore of the Antarctic Peninsula, very often without landing.
Category B ships are mid-sized, offering a balance between passenger capacity and a more intimate experience. They usually over 200 passenger capacity so you could typically expect 1 landing a day,
Category C ships are small, providing a cozy and immersive adventure with limited passenger numbers. Category C ships have a smaller passenger capacity, usually ranging from 100 to 200 people, which means you’ll have a better chance of stepping foot on Antarctica during each landing.
So, when choosing your polar category ship, keep in mind that going with a Category C vessel increases your chances of landing on Antarctica due to the restricted number of visitors allowed onshore at one time – typically you could expect 2 landings a day, depending on weather and conditions. For sure, this is what we recommend!
