Heritage Expeditions acquires former MS Hanseatic for polar operations

#expeditioncruising .

Pioneering New Zealand-based expedition cruise company Heritage Expeditions is proud to announce it will be operating the world-renowned Polar exploration vessel  (pic above) formerly known as MS Hanseatic and Society Adventurer from May 2022.

Rechristened Heritage Adventurer, Heritage Expeditions Directors Aaron and Nathan Russ said the synergy between the pioneering expedition ship and industry-leading expedition cruise company allow it to forge new ground while taking the experiential exploration Heritage Expeditions is renowned for to stylish new levels.

“Heritage Adventurer, with its legendary history of Polar exploration firsts and superior ice capabilities, will take centre stage as our new flagship effortlessly adding new levels of comfort and sophistication to the authentic, intimate small group expeditions Heritage Expeditions was founded on,” said Aaron Russ.

Artist impression of the former Hanseatic in new livery (supplied)

The vessel’s rechristening to Heritage Adventurer marries the history of the vessel with the legacy of HMS Adventure’s explorations alongside the HMS Resolution during Captain Cook’s second expedition of the Pacific, said Nathan Russ, adding works to get the vessel ‘Heritage ready’ were about to commence.

“Over the coming months we will be working closely with the owners to co-ordinate a complete overhaul and refurbishment in preparation of joining our fleet,” said Nathan Russ.

Built in 1991 at Finland’s Rauma shipyard and specifically designed for Polar exploration, Heritage Adventurer is 125-metres long, boasts a 1A Super Ice Class and an impressive history of Polar and remote region exploration.

Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, Heritage Expeditions intends to operate Heritage Adventurer with a maximum of just 140 expeditioners to create a spacious, comfortable on board experience and continuation of the exceptional, personalised expedition experience synonymous with the company. While a fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition experience.

Heritage Adventurer will commence operations in the Russian Far East, including Wrangel Island in May 2022, before venturing southwards through the South Pacific to New Zealand the Subantarctic Islands and down into the heart of Antarctica, the Ross Sea.