Why Travel with Us | Ocean Expeditions

WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

With more three decades of experience and specialising in ecotourism, science and research, adventure and commercial expeditions in the Southern Hemisphere, we’re ready to partner with you on your next charter.

Read our Q&A below to help answer any questions you might still have and items you need to consider when choosing your expedition partner.

1) Are the Skipper and crew qualified with internationally recognised maritime qualifications?

Our answer: All Ocean Expeditions Skippers and crew are qualified by RYA (Royal Yachting Association)

2) What about safety? Is the vessel in survey / coded / seaworthy? Does the vessel meet any internationally approved category 0 (zero – Unrestricted) safety standards?

Ask us for our survey / seaworthy certificates which are all kept onboard.

‘Australis’ is registered as a commercial vessel, Category 0 (zero – Unrestricted), type expedition.

3) Are the operators experienced? Who will be the skipper / crew? Are they experienced in the area? Do they have local knowledge? How long have they been in the area? How well can they guide passengers?

Ben Wallis is the skipper of Australis unless advised otherwise. Ocean Expeditions has been running yacht operations in the area since the late 1990s. Ben has extensive knowledge and experience in the regions in which Ocean Expeditions operates and is passionate about sharing this with passengers while onboard. There is an international crew of three in total whom all have sailing experience from various parts of the world.

4) Do they have a good reputation? Does the vessel / skipper have a good / bad track record?

We have operated in the area avery year since 1997 and are considered one of the pillars of Antarctic yachting.

Dose the vessel have a permit to visit Antarctica? Ask to see it.

5) How comfortable will it be onboard? Is there hot running water, separate cabins, showers, power?

Australis is the largest sailing yacht regularly operating in the Antarctic. As there is a water maker onboard, the clients have access to luxuries such as hot showers and running water, unlike other yachts. There are four guest cabins, providing ample room for passengers and their gear. There is normal 240 vault power onboard, which providing endless power for charging equipment (eg. batteries, cameras, hand held devices) and for electrical goods, such as the microwave and kettle.

6) What equipment is onboard? How many dinghy’s does the vessel have for you / your clients to go and explore / carry equipment ashore / etc?

Click here to see our detailed equipment list for Australis however we carry a 2 dinghy’s, numerous Kayaks, dive gear and more.

7) What about loyalty?

We reward loyalty with discounts for return guests.

8) Are there any hidden fees?

Don’t get caught out by fees you may not have expected, for example for food, fuel (can be several thousands of dollars) or South Georgia landing (can be several thousands of dollars).

9) Do I need sailing experience?

No sailing experience is required from passengers. Our vessels are sailed by the ships crew – The crew have International maritime qualifications.

10) Is every trip is uniquely customised?

Our Mission

Our mission is to become the first choice in expedition services in the polar regions, providing safe, reliable and efficient solutions to meet the needs of our clients.

“Experienced people, using quality equipment, delivering tailored services”

Our Values

The way we conduct ourselves is based around the following core values;

Safety First – we strive to ensure the safe guard of all persons

Act with Integrity – we will deliver all commitments as agreed

Fulfil Expectations – we strive to fulfil client expectations by going the extra mile

Environment – we aim to conduct business in a way that has minimal impact

Trust – we gain the trust of our clients through superior performance

Years – we are committed to building long term relationships in the polar regions

Our Objectives

Our objective is to build a reputation for professionalism having quality people, supported by quality purpose built fleet of vessels that are fully equipped with the latest technology and equipment.