Research vessel charters
Unlocking polar secrets: tailored charters for marine research
We are fortunate enough to explore the wilder reaches of the world – the polar regions. They are the most ecologically diverse, geologically interesting, and environmentally instructive places on the planet – ecosystems of incalculable importance to our understanding of the planet.
They are also some of the most challenging environments to work in. That’s why we team up with scientific organisations and research teams like yours. We’re polar experts and the go-to team to help you charter research vessels, plan your mission, and take you deep into the wilderness to your area of study.
Destinations
Svalbard is a crucial hub for scientific research due to its Arctic location, relatively easy accessibility, and international cooperation. It provides a unique environment for studying climate change, glaciology, polar biology, and space science. Its pristine ecosystem and permafrost conditions make it ideal for long-term environmental monitoring and Arctic research.
Greenland's massive ice sheet provides critical data on global sea-level rise and climate change. Researchers study permafrost, Arctic biodiversity, and ocean currents to understand environmental shifts. Greenland’s remote and extreme conditions also make it a testing ground for space exploration and technological innovations in polar research.
South Georgia's rich biodiversity, including large populations of seals, penguins, and seabirds, makes it a key location for studying ecosystems and conservation. The island's glaciers provide insights into climate change, while its surrounding waters are crucial for and oceanographic studies. Its remote and pristine environment offers a unique natural laboratory for understanding Antarctic and sub-Antarctic ecosystems.
Antarctica is an essential environment for studying climate change, glaciology, and the Earth's past climate. The continent hosts international research stations conducting studies in astrophysics, space weather, and microbiology, including investigations of life in extreme environments. Antarctica’s untouched ecosystems provide valuable insights into biodiversity and environmental change, while its position at the South Pole makes it ideal for atmospheric and space science research.
Charter a research vessel
We have a fleet of ice-strengthened, go-anywhere expedition yachts to choose from. They are strong and agile, getting research teams through the ice to the remotest reaches of a given destination, to their area of study. Our research vessel charters are small and nimble but boast ample room for equipment storage. They come fully crewed, too.
If there is a different kind of vessel you are looking for, we can source and select the ship that suits your project best. We recommend using smaller vessels for polar research, in line with our Expedition Micro Cruise concept.
Additional support
Alongside research vessel charter, we offer expedition services to ensure your mission runs smoothly.
A full service includes expedition planning, permitting, and staffing, working with you or on your behalf, as required.
We handpick highly trained expedition leaders to join your expedition. We work with veteran expedition leaders who have decades of experience taking teams deep into the polar regions and navigating all the challenges these regions can present. Our adaptable, skilled ship crews are the best in the business, too.
We can also arrange any additional equipment you may require, such as waterproof footwear and sub-zero clothing.
Brochure
Join the Secret Atlas newsletter
We will be exclusively sharing with you our best-kept secrets. You'll receive first-hand expert advice and inspiring stories from our team of explorers, plus our latest news and offers.
We'll send no more than two emails per week. By signing up, you agree to our privacy policy.