MV Ushuaia

The 1970-built MV Ushuaia cruise ship is an expedition vessel operated by the Argentina-based company and travel brand Antarpply Expeditions. The ship was ordered by and constructed for the USA's NOAA agency (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and served the agency for 20 years under the names "Malcolm Baldrige" and "Researcher".

The ice-strengthened ship has been refitted to accommodate a maximum of 84 passengers in 46 staterooms.

MV Ushuaia cruise itineraries are to the Antarctic Peninsula leaving roundtrip from Ushuaia (Argentina). Occasionally are operated voyages to South Georgia Island (British Antarctica) and Weddell Sea (Southern Ocean).

The vessel (IMO number 6901907) is currently Togo-flagged (MMSI 671188100) and registered in Lome. The previous flag state/registry (until 2023) was Comoros/Moroni (MMSI 616836000).

The ship was last refurbished in 2023 (previously in 2018). The full refurbishment project included renovations of all decks and facilities/venues - bar lounge, restaurant, passenger staterooms, the crew areas.

The shipowner Antarpply Expeditions specializes in private charters (taking individual passengers and small groups) to some of the world's most remote and pristine destinations. The company aims to make at least 2 landings per day with a duration of around 3 hours each. Longer walk options are also available. Of these landings, one is scheduled to be continental, so cruise passengers to set foot on mainland Antarctica.

The ship also offers Zodiac cruises (via motorized inflatable boats) and visit at least one of the scientific stations in order to get an inside look into the work taking place in Antarctica.

Antarpply Expeditions' voyages are operated within the Antarctic Treaty System's parameters, including the Antarctic Treaty and Protocol on Environment and Annexes and IAATO guidelines. The protection of wildlife is of major importance, as is the willingness to keep Antarctica pristine.

In 2023 (on December 31st) Antrapply Expeditions' co-owned and director Ute Hohn-Bowen retired and was replaced by Greg Carter. The company's new director (Greg Carter) is the co-founder of Chimu Adventures (2004-founded and Australian-owned company specializing voyages to destinations in Latin America and Antarctica). He has also served as Albatros Expeditions' CCO (Chief Commercial Officer).

Shipboard facilities

The polar ship Ushuaia is well appointed and provides open bridge policy and ample deck space. The inflatable landing craft ensures easy landings and wildlife viewing opportunities on inaccessible coastlines. All staterooms include ample storage space. Public areas feature a single-sitting dining room, a well-stocked library, observation lounge and bar, conference room (with contemporary multimedia equipment), small infirmary, changing room.

The expert expedition crew, officers and the Captain are experienced in Antarctic navigation. A specialist team of professional lecturers and tour leaders are all extremely helpful and knowledgeable and fully dedicated to the environment's protection. Chefs prepare delicious meals, including local cuisine specialities. The Bar is well-stocked with spirits and wines.

The Comoros-flagged ship (MMSI 616836000) has 7 service boats (Zodiacs and RIBs / Rigid Inflatable Boats), cruising speed 12 knots (max 14 kn), draught 5,5 m (18 ft), powerplant of two ALCO RS-3 marine diesel engines (combined output 2,35 MW), propulsion with 1x bow thruster (power output 0,5 MW).

Shipboard Internet computers were removed in the 2022-2023 season and replaced with WiFi, which is accessible solely in the public lounge/bar area. Access to WiFi and the ship's two INMARSAT satellite phones can be purchased onboard using USD or EUR.

There is no passenger laundry service.

Decks and Cabins

MV Ushuaia staterooms (46 total) include 4x Suites (2x Double and 2x Triple, on Upper Deck), 9x Superior (Upper Deck), 6x Premier (4x Double and 2x Single, on Upper Deck), 13x Standard Plus (11x Double and 2x Triple, on Lower Deck) and 12x Twin Standard (on Lower Deck).

Suites are sized 16-22 m2 (170-235 ft2) and have 2x windows (1x in the bedroom, 1x in the living room), en-suite bathroom, living room with seating (HDTV-DVD player, mini-bar/fridge). Suite 201 has 2x double beds. Suite 202 has 1x double bed plus sofabed. Triple Suites (204 and 207) have 3x lower beds (single fixed) and are offered as "family cabins".

Superior cabins are sized 9-15 m2 (95-160 ft2) and have windows, writing desk with chair, en-suite bathroom, twin beds. Cabin 301 has 1x double plus 1x single bed.

Premier Twin cabins are sized 9-13 m2 (95-140 ft2) and have windows, en-suite bathrooms, twin beds. Premier Single cabins are sized 8 m2 (85 ft2) and with a Porthole Window (view obstructed by lifeboats).

Standard Plus Twins are sized 9-10 m2 (95-110 ft2) and 3x have porthole windows (rooms 633-635-637). All cabins have en-suite bathrooms and twin beds - except room 640 (with 1x double bed). Standard Plus Triple cabins are sized 11-13 m2 (120-140 ft2).

Standard Twin cabins are sized 9-10 m2 (95-110 ft2) and have porthole windows, 2x bunk beds (lower-upper), en-suite washbasin, common bathroom (positioned between every two cabins).

Power plugs are International (110V/60Hz sockets) and available in all staterooms. Also are complimentary provided hairdryers, towels, toiletries.

The boat has 4 passenger decks, of which 2 are with cabins.