Shokalskiy

Introduction

The Akademik Shokalskiy was designed and built in 1984 in Finland for polar and oceanographic research. The ship is small, nimble, and ice-strengthened, capable of reaching the nooks and crannies of the Arctic that many larger ships cannot. The vessel is equipped with Zodiacs for shuttling passengers to shore and taking scenic cruises through the polar ice.

No Crowds

This expedition ship carries a just 48 passengers and has been recently refurbished to provide comfortable accommodation in twin share cabins approximately half of which have private facilities. All cabins have outside windows or portholes and ample storage space.

On board there is a combined bar/library lounge area and a dedicated lecture room. The cuisine is excellent and is prepared by top NZ and Australian chefs.

The real focus and emphasis of every expedition is getting you ashore as often as possible for as long as possible with maximum safety and comfort. Our Expeditions are accompanied by some of the most experienced naturalists and guides, who have devoted a lifetime to field research in the areas that we visit. The ship is crewed by a very enthusiastic and most experienced Russian Captain and crew.

Ship Specifications:

• Year built: 1984
• Refurbished: 2008
• Accommodation: 48 berths expedition
• Staff & Crew: 30
• Shipyard: Finland
• Length: 71.6 m
• Breadth: 12.8 m
• Draft: 4.5 m
• Main engines: power 2x1560 bhp (2x 1147 Kw)
• Ice Class: KM
• Register: Russia
• Maximum speed: 12 knots (2 engines)
• Cruising speed: 10 knots(one engine)
• Bunker capacity: 320 tons

 Cabins and Amenities:

• 28 outside cabins, all featuring private or shared facilities and outside portholes or windows
• Two dining rooms
• Lounge and bar, open late afternoon and evening with a wide selection of wines and spirits
• Library with a collection of polar-themed books
• Voltage: 220v, European round, two pin plug
• Ship-to-shore communications via satellite
• Clinic with licensed doctor
• Exercise room