All cabins are ocean-facing, offering uninterrupted views of icebergs, glaciers, and wildlife. 85% of cabins also have a balcony ( The remainder have portholes). There are also several suite options available. I stayed in a Balcony Stateroom, and being able to step outside to catch sight of a seal snoozing on ice or scan for polar bears with binoculars was a real highlight. The cabins are calming and modern, featuring flexible twin or double beds, ample storage, a fridge, TV, universal outlets, and Starlink Wi-Fi. The bathrooms are compact but well-designed, with toiletries included and heated floors that are a welcome luxury—ideal for drying wet gloves and gear after a Zodiac outing. For those travelling with friends or on a budget, the triple-share cabins with portholes on Deck 3 are a great option.

I was pleasantly surprised at how quiet the ship was—so much so that I often forgot we were moving until I woke up in a completely new landscape after a peaceful night’s sleep. The hub of the ship is the large, light-filled lecture theatre, where the expedition team delivers daily briefings and engaging presentations that reflect the day's discoveries and experiences. The team is outstanding—highly knowledgeable, approachable, and passionate. There is also a professional photographer on board to help guide you to take the best photos. Evening recaps, typically enjoyed with a pre-dinner drink in hand, made the experience feel both educational and friendly.

While the Greg Mortimer doesn’t have a dedicated Citizen Science Centre like her sister ship, the Sylvia Earle still supports projects like Happy Whale and cloud and bird surveys. The team encourages guests to participate and engage with the science behind the journey. One of my favourite features of the ship is the pair of unique hydraulic viewing platforms. When conditions allow, these platforms extend from the sides of the ship, offering incredible, unobstructed views and the surreal experience of floating just above the ocean. Standing there, listening to the sounds of the ship's bow cutting through sea ice while watching for wildlife was genuinely unforgettable.

There are two dining options onboard. The main restaurant serves buffet-style breakfasts and lunches, with à la carte dinners that include complimentary beer and wine. The meals are of good quality and varied, with ample options for vegetarians and those with special dietary needs. I was amazed by the daily fresh salads and fruit—even after 10 days at sea. There’s also a more intimate restaurant available in the evenings by reservation, ideal for a quieter meal. The ship also has a small gym, sauna, and two hot tubs on the top deck. I’ll never forget watching a pod of beluga whales in Svalbard from the hot tub, with icebergs drifting silently in the background—one of those moments that felt both surreal and grounding.

The atmosphere on board is casual, with no need to dress up. The ship features a well-stocked library, two bars, and plenty of indoor and outdoor observation areas to soak in the scenery or connect with fellow travellers.

There is a large and well-equipped mudroom on Deck 3. Each guest has a personal locker for boots and gear, and Zodiac boarding is quick and efficient. The ship carries 15 Zodiacs and a full range of activity equipment.

In summary, the Greg Mortimer is a true expedition ship—stable, capable, and incredibly well-run. It offers an adventurous, immersive polar experience without sacrificing comfort, service, or sustainability. Whether you’re venturing north or south, it’s an inspiring base for exploration.