Luxury Expedition Ship

Greg Mortimer

Greg Mortimer, Expedition Ship
Greg Mortimer, Expedition Ship
Greg Mortimer, Expedition Ship

Highlights

  • Innovative X-Bow Design: This cutting-edge design ensures smoother sailing in rough seas, significantly reducing wave impact, fuel consumption, and providing enhanced stability and passenger comfort.
  • State-of-the-Art Technology: Equipped with the latest navigation and environmental protection technologies, the ship ensures safe and efficient travel while minimising its ecological footprint.
  • Spacious Cabins: The ship offers a range of comfortable cabins, each featuring en-suite facilities, large windows for spectacular views, and modern amenities for a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration.
  • Expansive Observation Decks: Multiple observation decks provide 360-degree panoramic views, ideal for spotting wildlife and enjoying the breathtaking polar landscapes.
  • Dedicated Expedition Team: A team of experienced and knowledgeable experts leads informative lectures, guided shore excursions, and provides valuable insights into the regions explored, enhancing the expedition experience.
  • Zodiac and Kayak Excursions: The ship is equipped with Zodiacs and kayaks, allowing passengers to get up close to wildlife and icebergs, offering immersive and thrilling exploration of remote areas.
  • Wellness and Fitness Facilities: Onboard wellness facilities, including a gym, sauna, and wellness centre, ensure passengers can relax, rejuvenate, and stay active throughout their voyage.
  • Gourmet Dining: The ship offers a gourmet dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The menu caters to various dietary preferences, providing a delightful and diverse culinary journey.
Costa Rica with the Greg Mortimer

Features

  • Constructed: Built in 2019, the Greg Mortimer is a modern expedition ship designed for polar exploration.
  • Capacity: Accommodates up to 130 guests, providing ample space and comfort for all onboard.
  • Guides: The expedition team includes specialist and local guides, such as historians, geologists, ornithologists, and glaciologists, each selected for their expertise relevant to the destination.
  • Crew: Staffed with a dedicated crew of approximately 85 members to ensure exceptional service and safety.
  • Speed: Travels at a cruising speed of 15.5 knots.
  • Ice Class: Certified with an Ice Class 1A Super rating for polar expeditions.
  • Size: Measures 104 meters in length and 18.2 meters in breadth.
  • Restaurants: Features a main dining room and a bar offering diverse dining options.
  • Leisure: Amenities include a library, lecture theatre, gym, sauna, Jacuzzis, observation lounge, kayaks, and snorkelling equipment.
  • Stabilisers: Equipped with the X-Bow design for smooth sailing in rough seas.
  • Cabins: There are 76 cabins with portholes or windows, private bathrooms with showers, climate control, in-room entertainment, twin or double bed configurations, some with balconies, and suites with living areas.

Country Highlights

Antarctic Peninsula

Entering the ice with the Greg Mortimer

November to March

The Greg Mortimer offers several trips to the Antarctic Peninsula, providing unique and immersive experiences. Guests can choose from a variety of itineraries, typically ranging from 10 to 20 days. These expeditions include highlights such as exploring pristine icy landscapes, observing diverse wildlife like penguins, seals, and whales, and participating in guided shore excursions and Zodiac cruises. Activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, and mountaineering are available for the adventurous. Expert-led lectures and onboard presentations enhance the understanding of the region’s ecology and history. These trips also often include visits to historic sites, such as former whaling stations and research outposts, providing a deeper insight into Antarctica’s past and present.

Ask us about the all-inclusive departures where you can try a range of adventure options.

Weddell Sea

March

This is one of the few ships to explore the Weddell Sea offering a stunning adventure into one of Antarctica’s most remote regions. Typically spanning 10 to 20 days, these expeditions feature stunning ice formations, abundant wildlife including seals, whales, Adelie penguins, the chance to spot emperor penguins, and historical sites, especially those linked to Ernest Shackleton’s Endurance expedition. There are both dedicated Weddell Sea expeditions as well as itineraries that include the Falklands and South Georgia.

Falklands + South Georgia

King penguins on South Georgia

March to April

These voyages aboard the Greg Mortimer offer a unique blend of wildlife and history. The expeditions, typically lasting 16 to 20 days, include visits to the rugged Falkland Islands, home to an incredible array of wildlife from southern rockhopper penguins to the beautiful black-browed albatross as well as giant elephant seals and a fascinating history.

The breathtaking landscapes of South Georgia take things to a new level. Giant king penguin colonies with 300,000 breeding pairs line the beaches while snowcapped mountains and glaciers make up the backdrop. Elsewhere abandoned whaling stations slowly rot as the wildlife reclaims them and ghost towns such as Grytviken where Ernest Shackleton was laid to rest lie in lonely silence. It truly is an epic place.

Costa Rica + the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal

April

The Costa Rica and Panama Canal expedition aboard the Greg Mortimer offers a 12-day journey through Central America’s natural and cultural wonders. Starting in San José, Costa Rica, the voyage includes exploring lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and pristine beaches. Highlights include visiting Corcovado National Park, Cébaco Island, and Coiba National Park, known for their rich biodiversity. The trip culminates with a thrilling transit of the Panama Canal. Activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, and guided hikes enhance the experience, while expert lectures provide insights into the region’s ecology and history, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching adventure.

Scotland

St Kilda, Scotland

May

You may not have considered an expedition to Scotland and it’s likely you are a bit surprised to see it here. However, this is one of the most captivating journeys on offer, reaching corners and islands that would take some serious effort to reach by any other means. You’ll sail through the inner Hebrides, to St Kilda and on to the Shetlands, Fair Isle and on to Aberdeen. There really is no better way that we know to explore this coast and discover the beauty and incredible history.

Iceland

Iceland

June

Circumnavigate the land of fire and ice aboard the Greg Mortimer, exploring Iceland’s rugged coastline and discovering its fascinating history. This 11-day expedition takes you to remote fjords, stunning waterfalls, and geothermal wonders. Visit iconic sites like the Westfjords, home to abundant birdlife, and the volcanic landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Experience the vibrant culture of Reykjavik, explore the dramatic cliffs of Grimsey Island, and relax in the serene waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Norwegian Arctic + Greenland

Polar Bear in Svalbard

July + August

During the summer months the Greg Mortimer explores the Norwegian Arctic with much of the time in Svalbard, known for its high numbers of polar bears. With a population of around 2,000 people it is said that there are many more bears than humans on this remote archipelago so while sightings can never be guaranteed, the chances are very high indeed. Even if it there were no bears, Svalbard is an incredible destination to explore. The otherworldly scenery, which spends much of the year trapped in ice is home to a vast array of wildlife. Colonies of guillemots line the cliffs, arctic fox can be spotted searching for food while reindeer wander across the frozen tundra. Walrus and ringed seals lounge on ice flows and whales feed in the rich waters, a good pair of eyes may even spot beluga whales among the ice.

At the end of the Svalbard season the ship will travel south along the East Coast of Greenland on an epic journey through some of the most uninhabited regions on the planet.

Country Highlights

Our tailor-made journeys include

  • A dedicated Destination Expert who will curate your itinerary from scratch, tailoring it to your preferences + interests
  • Private + extraordinary under-the-radar experiences
  • Access to the very best guides + experts to bring the destination to life
  • Private international airport transfers in destination
  • The MyCazLoyd app to view your itinerary offline anywhere, anytime
  • 24/7 support whilst travelling
  • ATOL protection to give you total peace of mind

Good to know

What are the cabin options on the Greg Mortimer?

The Greg Mortimer offers a variety of cabin types with different sizes and features:

  1. Captain’s Suite: The most luxurious option, featuring a separate living area, a private balcony, and expansive views, sized at approximately 44 square metres.
  2. Junior Suite: Spacious cabins with a private balcony, comfortable seating area, and large windows, sized at around 42 square metres.
  3. Balcony Stateroom: Mid-range cabins with private balconies, offering stunning views and a comfortable seating area, sized between 23 and 28 square metres.
  4. Oceanview Stateroom: Cabins with large windows that provide excellent views, but without a balcony, sized at about 17 to 19 square metres.
  5. Porthole Stateroom: More affordable cabins with portholes for natural light and views, typically located on lower decks, sized at approximately 15 to 18 square metres.
  6. Triple/Quad Stateroom: Designed for families or groups, these cabins have multiple beds and portholes for natural light, sized at around 22 square metres.

Are children welcome?

Yes, children are welcome onboard the Greg Mortimer. However, it is important to note that the expeditions are generally designed for adults and may not have specific activities tailored for young children. Families considering bringing children should check with the specific voyage’s guidelines and discuss any special needs or concerns with us at cazenove+loyd to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all ages.

Sustainable travel

The Greg Mortimer has a comprehensive sustainable program focused on minimizing its environmental impact and promoting conservation. Key aspects of this program include:

  1. X-Bow Design: The innovative X-Bow design reduces fuel consumption and emissions, ensuring more efficient and eco-friendly sailing.
  2. Energy Efficiency: The ship uses energy-efficient systems and practices, including LED lighting and optimized heating and cooling systems.
  3. Waste Management: A robust waste management system is in place, including waste reduction, recycling, and responsible disposal practices to minimize the ship’s ecological footprint.
  4. Single-Use Plastics: The ship actively reduces single-use plastics, providing reusable water bottles and avoiding plastic straws and cutlery.
  5. Water Conservation: Water-saving measures are implemented throughout the ship, including efficient water usage systems and the treatment and reuse of greywater.
  6. Wildlife Protection: Expeditions follow strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to wildlife and natural habitats. The ship’s operations are designed to be as non-intrusive as possible.
  7. Education and Awareness: The ship’s expedition team provides educational programs and lectures to raise awareness about environmental conservation and the importance of protecting polar regions.
  8. Sustainable Sourcing: The ship prioritizes the use of sustainably sourced food and materials, supporting local and environmentally responsible suppliers.

Giving back

The Greg Mortimer supports the remote communities it visits through various initiatives aimed at fostering positive interactions and contributing to local well-being. Key ways the ship supports these communities include:

  1. Cultural Exchange: The ship facilitates meaningful cultural exchanges between passengers and local communities, promoting mutual understanding and respect.
  2. Local Employment: Whenever possible, the expedition hires local guides and staff, providing employment opportunities and supporting the local economy.
  3. Sustainable Tourism Practices: The ship adheres to sustainable tourism practices that minimize environmental impact, ensuring that tourism benefits rather than harms local communities and their natural surroundings.
  4. Purchasing Local Goods: The ship supports local artisans and businesses by encouraging passengers to purchase locally made products and souvenirs, boosting the local economy.
  5. Community Projects: The Greg Mortimer and its operators often engage in or support community projects, such as education initiatives, healthcare improvements, and infrastructure development, contributing to the overall well-being of the communities.
  6. Donations and Fundraising: Passengers and the expedition team often participate in fundraising efforts and donate to local charities and organisations that work towards community development and conservation.
  7. Educational Programs: The expedition team educates passengers about the cultures, traditions, and challenges faced by remote communities, raising awareness and fostering a sense of responsibility and advocacy among travellers.

Citizen science

The Greg Mortimer has a citizen science program that allows passengers to participate in scientific research and contribute to ongoing studies. This program enhances the expedition experience by engaging travellers in meaningful scientific activities. Key aspects of the citizen science program include:

  1. Data Collection: Passengers assist in collecting data on wildlife sightings, weather conditions, and oceanographic measurements, contributing valuable information to scientific research.
  2. Wildlife Monitoring: Participants help monitor populations of birds, marine mammals, and other wildlife, supporting long-term conservation efforts.
  3. Climate Research: Guests participate in projects that study climate change impacts in polar regions, such as tracking glacial movements and recording sea ice conditions.
  4. Marine Studies: Passengers engage in activities like plankton sampling and water quality testing, aiding marine biology research.
  5. Educational Workshops: The expedition team conducts workshops and lectures to educate participants on the importance of the research and how to conduct it effectively.
  6. Collaboration with Scientists: The program often involves collaboration with professional scientists and research institutions, providing passengers with insights from experts and real-time scientific findings.

Why we love the Greg Mortimer

The company behind this amazing looking ship has a deep history in expedition cruising and it shows in everything they do. Despite all the luxury onboard the focus of every departure is the expedition and it always feels like a voyage of discovery.

Caroline Maber

Head of Department

Latin America, The Caribbean and Polar Regions
Costa Rica landing from the Greg Mortimer

Chat to an expert to start planning your trip

Get in touch with us and one of our travel experts will answer any questions you may have and help create your dream trip.