Terra Nova Expeditions has confirmed that Terra Nova Adventurer, the expedition vessel formerly known as MS Expedition and G Expedition, will operate its 2026/27 and 2027/28 Antarctic seasons.
The vessel will replace St Helena, which is currently unable to reposition from the Persian Gulf in a safe and timely manner for the start of the 2026/27 Antarctic season due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East.
Following several months of work to secure an alternative vessel, Terra Nova Expeditions has finalised an agreement for Terra Nova Adventurer across the next three Antarctic seasons, ensuring its planned expedition programme can proceed.
“Securing Terra Nova Adventurer for not just one, but three Antarctic seasons gives us the opportunity to turn an unexpected challenge into an exciting new chapter for Terra Nova,” said Greg Carter, Founder and CEO at Terra Nova Expeditions.
“She is a vessel with an extraordinary amount of polar experience behind her and one that many expedition travellers already know and love. We’re excited to build on that heritage, invest in the onboard experience and give her a renewed life as Terra Nova Adventurer.”
A proven polar expedition vessel
Formerly operating as MS Expedition and G Expedition, Terra Nova Adventurer has an extensive history of expedition cruising in Antarctica, the Arctic and some of the world’s most remote waters.
Her design and expedition infrastructure offer a number of operational advantages in polar environments, including enhanced ice capability, a large expedition mudroom and direct Zodiac boarding arrangements designed to support efficient movement between ship and shore.
The vessel also features extensive observation areas and a range of onboard facilities, including a lounge, library, spa and gym.
Terra Nova Expeditions will undertake a series of enhancements ahead of the vessel’s first season with the company. Alongside new soft furnishings and décor throughout the ship, the project will include the remodelling of the bar and lounge areas and the addition of a Jacuzzi and new sauna on Deck 5.
The result will combine the vessel’s established expedition credentials with a refreshed onboard experience aligned with Terra Nova Expeditions’ approach to small-ship polar travel.
Antarctic programme to proceed as planned
Terra Nova Expeditions confirmed that its Antarctic itineraries and expedition programme will continue as planned aboard Terra Nova Adventurer.
Guests whose individual reservations require further changes as part of the vessel transition are being contacted directly, with the company reviewing bookings individually.
The vessel will support Terra Nova Expeditions’ broader approach to Antarctic travel, centred on small-ship exploration, extensive time off the vessel and an inclusive expedition model featuring activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, photography workshops and other polar experiences.
“Ultimately, the most important thing for us throughout this process has been protecting our guests’ Antarctic journeys,” Carter added.
“The vessel may be changing, but the reason people travel with us is not. Antarctica, the expedition experience and the team behind it remain at the heart of what we do. We can’t wait to welcome our guests aboard Terra Nova Adventurer.”
Terra Nova Adventurer will begin operating for Terra Nova Expeditions during the 2026/27 Antarctic season and will remain with the company for at least three Antarctic seasons.