MS Expedition

MS Expedition is a small ice-strengthened expedition vessel carrying 132 passengers. Built in 1975 in the former Yugoslavia and originally named Alla Tarasova, she underwent a major refit in 2017 that replaced her engines and marine equipment, upgraded all cabins, and modernized her public spaces. She carries the character of a working expedition ship rather than a floating resort, with her focus squarely on the destinations rather than onboard luxury, and every space aboard reflects that purpose.

The ship has 6 passenger-accessible decks and features 63 staterooms, all with en-suite bathrooms and ocean-facing windows. Her spirit is embodied in spaces like the Polar Bear Bar and a heated mudroom where passengers can dry out gear after Zodiac excursions. There is a restaurant and bar lounge large enough to hold all passengers for lectures and presentations, along with a gym, sauna, library and gift shop, giving guests a few quiet corners to retreat to between outings.

Expedition work is the lifeblood of MS Expedition. She carries naturalist guides and an expedition leader who run daily Zodiac tours and landings through icy waters and ashore. When wildlife appears, guides are on deck adjusting telescopes and binoculars to help passengers get a clear view. Evening talks cover seabirds, marine mammals, historical sites and the landscapes encountered during the day, giving structure and context to each day's discoveries. The ship operates in both Arctic and Antarctic regions, sailing to some of the most remote polar destinations on Earth and reaching places few other vessels can access.

MS Expedition suits experienced travelers and wildlife enthusiasts who value access to remote polar regions above all else, and who are content with modest comfort in exchange for genuine exploration and a closer connection to the wild places she visits.

Visited the polar world aboard this working expedition ship? Log this expedition voyage on your account at The Cruise Globe to add it to your Passport stats and see your actual route!