accommodation profile

The Motor Vessel Plancius was build in 1975 as an oceanographic research vessel for the Royal Dutch Navy.  in 2009 the Plancius was completely rebuild and converted to a 110 passenger expedition vessel which complies with the latest SOLAS-regulations (Safety Of Life At Sea), is classed by Lloyd’s Register in London and will fly the Dutch flag.  She is specially outfitted for Arctic cruising. 

The Plancius is a comfortable and nicely decorated small ship, but she is not a luxurious vessel. Her Arctic Cruises are primarily defined by an exploratory educational travel program, spending as much time ashore as possible.

For cruises to the Arctic the M/V Plancius can accommodate 110 passengers in 53 cabins each with private toilet and shower. There are 4x Quadruple cabins with private facilities, 2x Triple cabins with private facilities, 37x Twin cabins with private facilities, lower berths (two single beds), 10x Superior cabins with private facilities, double beds.

The Arctic expedition ship Plancius is equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system which reduces the noise and vibration of the engines considerably.  The three diesel engines generate 1230 horsepower each, giving the vessel a speed of 10-12 knots.  The Plancius is ice strengthened and was specially build for oceanographic cruises to the Arctic.  

The M/V Plancius is manned by 17 nautical crew and 19 hotel staff including 6 chefs, 1 hotel manager, 1 steward/bartender, 11 stewards 8 expedition staff and 1 doctor.

The Plancius has set new standards in the world of expedition cruising in the Arctic: spacious yet small ship character, comfort and style, modern technology and safety appliances.  A base camp for active adventure and modern minded explorers including hiking trips, kayaking, overnight field camping and even scuba diving.