Polar Pioneer

Polar Pionner exterior

Why travel aboard this boat?

  • A robust, homely vessel small enough to explore places beyond the reach of bigger ships
  • Authentic, expeditionary ship with ice strengthened capabilities
  • Refurbished in 2000 for private client travel
  • Choice of 5 different cabins types from shared triples to the captain's suites, with choice of private or shared bathroom
  • Optional kayaking excursions

Technical specifications:

  • 56 passengers (max)
  • Built in Finland in 1985
  • Ice strengthened


Polar Pioneer was built in Finland in 1985 as an ice-strengthened research ship, and for many years she plied the treacherous waters of the USSR's northern coast. In 2000 she was fully refurbished in St Petersburg to provide comfortable accommodation for private passengers. Sister ship to a number of other former Russian research vessels which ply polar waters, this class of vessel has a fine reputation for polar expedition cruising, due to its strength, maneuverability and small number of cabins.

Polar Pioneer is not a luxury vessel as such. The accommodation is simple yet perfectly comfortable, and the meals are wholesome and uncomplicated. All cabins have outside portholes and ample storage space, with the choice of shared or private en suite bathroom. The Russian captain and crew are among the most experienced ice-navigators in the world and their enthusiasm is legendary. The spacious bridge is always open to visitors and the decks are ideal for viewing. The chefs are typically European, and the dining room is attended by Russian stewardesses.

View Deckplan (JPG)


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