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.

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. 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.

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.

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.