Max Passengers:
112
Ship Type:
Expedition Cruise Ship
Operated By:
Oceanwide Expeditions
M/v “Plancius” was built in 1976 as an oceanographic research vessel for the Royal Dutch Navy and was named “Hr. Ms. Tydeman”. The ship sailed for the Dutch Navy until June 2004 and was eventually purchased by Oceanwide Expeditions. The vessel was completely rebuilt as a passenger vessel in 2009 and complies with the latest SOLAS-regulations (Safety Of Life At Sea). M/v “Plancius” is classed by Lloyd’s Register and flies the Dutch flag.
Cabin Specifications
M/v “Plancius” accommodates 108 passengers with private toilet and shower in 4 quadruple porthole cabins, 9 twin porthole cabins, 25 twin cabins with window and 2 twin deluxe cabins, all (ca. 12,5 square meters) and 10 twin superior cabins (ca. 21 square meters). All cabins offer lower berths (one queen-size bed in the superior cabins and two single beds in the twin cabins), except for the 4 quadruple cabins (for 4 persons in 2x upper and lower beds).
Features Onboard
Built to combine adventure and comfort, the
Plancius offers a welcoming environment with ample social spaces, including a restaurant and lecture room on Deck 3 and a lounge and bar on Deck 5. Expansive open deck areas—especially the walk-around Deck 4—allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking Arctic landscapes and wildlife encounters. The international crew of 37, including eight seasoned expedition staff, ensures an engaging and safe experience.
The
Plancius offers a range of Arctic itineraries from May to June, spanning 5 days to 2 weeks, each showcasing the region’s highlights—from Polar Bear expeditions in Spitsbergen to whale watching and walrus encounters between Iceland and Greenland. Guests may also witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis during select voyages. For thrill-seekers, the ship provides exclusive opportunities for Polar diving around Spitsbergen and Scoresby Sund. Dives range from shallow shore and zodiac dives to wreck explorations at depths of 30 to 60 feet, offering glimpses of Arctic marine life such as sea lions, crabs, lobsters, and colorful kelp walls. Led by expert dive leaders, divers can expect one to two dives per day depending on weather and ice conditions, though participants must be experienced in cold-water and dry-suit diving and bring their own equipment.
Ship specifications
- Passengers:108 passengers in 50 cabins
- Staff & crew:Crew 40 | Guides 8 | Doctor 1
- Length:89 meters (293 feet)
- Breadth:14,5 meters (47 feet)
- Draft:5 meters (16 feet)
- Ice class:1D (Plancius has a Lloyds class notation 100A1 Passenger ship, Ice Class 1D at a draught of 5 meters)
- Displacement:3211 tonnes
- Propulsion:3x Diesel-Electric
- Speed:10.5 knots average cruising speed
- Plug/ Voltage type Onboard: 2 pin Type C
