Oceanwide Expeditions Announces Two New Eco-Friendly Sail Ships for Polar Voyages
Oceanwide Expeditions has confirmed the addition of two eco-sail vessels designed for sustainable polar travels by the end of this decade.
Oceanwide Expeditions Announces Two New Eco-Friendly Sail Ships for Polar Voyages
Oceanwide Expeditions has taken a significant step towards sustainable polar cruising by signing a Letter of Intent for two custom-designed eco-sail expedition vessels that will enhance its fleet by the end of this decade.
Designed to uphold the company’s renowned small-ship, activity-focused style while significantly lowering emissions, these new vessels represent Oceanwide’s commitment to environmentally-friendly polar tourism.
Eco-Sail Vessels Built For A Greener Polar Future
Each of the new vessels will accommodate just 146 guests, ensuring intimate group sizes and flexible shore operations in remote Arctic and Antarctic settings. At the heart of the design is a hybrid sail propulsion system utilizing wind power to reduce fuel usage and operational emissions while maintaining reliable expedition performance in harsh maritime conditions.
These eco-sail ships are an evolution of Oceanwide’s successful Hondius-class platform, preserving its Polar Class 6 ice-strengthened capabilities while introducing important advancements in efficiency, sustainability, and guest experience. The first vessel is expected to launch in 2029, followed by the second in 2030, and commercial planning is already underway with more information forthcoming as the project develops.
Building On Hondius: Proven Polar Design, Upgraded For Tomorrow
When the m/v Hondius commenced operations in 2019, it became the world’s first registered Polar Class 6 small expedition cruise vessel, designed specifically for polar operations. The Hondius set a new standard for small-ship expedition cruising by offering ice-strengthened capability, advanced safety features, and adaptable public spaces for lectures, briefings, and off-ship activities.
The new eco-sail vessels take this proven Hondius-class framework and redesign it for hybrid propulsion, enhanced energy efficiency, and a smaller environmental footprint, all while delivering the authentic, immersive adventure experiences for which Oceanwide is known. Guests can expect the same intimate connection with nature and operational flexibility, with improved comfort and a more sustainable approach to polar exploration.
Small-Scale, Immersive, And Environmentally Responsible
Oceanwide Expeditions has long been recognized as a leader in small-scale, environmentally-conscious expedition cruising, boasting over three decades of experience in polar regions. The company’s voyages focus on activity-oriented itineraries in the Arctic and Antarctica, featuring shore landings, Zodiac trips, and various outdoor activities including sea kayaking, hiking, camping on ice, and polar diving.
Recent upgrades across the fleet have been tailored to comply with IAATO and AECO guidelines, in addition to broader environmental regulations and global sustainability objectives. The new eco-sail vessels naturally align with this strategy, further solidifying Oceanwide’s long-term commitment to remaining operationally agile and strongly dedicated to environmental stewardship in sensitive polar habitats.
“Sailing Is In Our DNA”
In announcing the Letter of Intent, Oceanwide Expeditions’ CEO, Rémi Bouysset, emphasized how the project links the company’s sailing tradition with its sustainability goals. From its initial sail-assisted experiences to today’s robust ice-strengthened fleet, Oceanwide has historically viewed the wind as a partner in reaching remote shorelines and fjords.
The new eco-sail vessels will seamlessly incorporate cutting-edge sustainability technologies, hybrid propulsion, and a reduced environmental footprint into the distinctive Oceanwide guest journey—characterized by flexible itineraries, extended days in nature, and rich experiences with wildlife and landscapes. Names, shipyard collaborations, and additional design aspects will be disclosed progressively as construction milestones are confirmed.
Conclusion
The intention to roll out two hybrid eco-sail vessels signifies more than just a fleet modernization; it marks a decisive move toward lower-impact, intimate polar cruising. By building on its Hondius-class design and leveraging over three decades of science-centric, activity-rich voyages in the polar regions, Oceanwide is aligning its close-up experiences—like hiking, kayaking, camping, and polar diving—with stricter IAATO and AECO protocols as well as a reduced environmental impact. With the inaugural eco-sail ship set for 2029, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of the next generation of sustainable polar exploration.
For further information about Oceanwide Expeditions, including current Arctic and Antarctic itineraries and updates regarding the forthcoming eco-sail vessels, please visit the official website here.
