True pioneering spirit

AURORA EXPEDITIONS’ tough, Russian-built, ice-strengthened ship, Polar Pioneer (above), has been the base for countless frozen adventures. It’s even been the diving platform for many a polar plunge – yes, even for me! (Above right.) With only 54 passengers, expert Aussie guides and a hardworking Russian crew, Polar Pioneer offers unique travel at the planet’s extremes. Her compact size and utilitarian fit-out encourage an esprit de corps among passengers that can be absent from bigger ships. I’m lucky enough to have sailed aboard her in both Antarctic and Arctic waters.

There’s real adventure to be found in such wild and remote places. The ship’s compact size allows it to sail into small harbours and coves and to moor up close to land so that only a short Zodiac ride gets you ashore. The profusion of wild creatures in these harsh environments never ceases to amaze and delight. A journey to Antarctica is a bucket-list must for those with an adventurous spirit and Polar Pioneer has been the means by which so many have achieved that dream.

In 2019 she will head to the Arctic for the last time. Later in the year she will be replaced by Aurora’s new state-of-the-art ship, Greg Mortimer.

It’s the end of an era, and we’re partnering with Aurora Expeditions to present a final Australian Geographic Society Expedition aboard Polar Pioneer in March 2019. It will be a special sailing following in the legendary footsteps of Shackleton and his team, hosted by AG regular Alasdair McGregor, a Shackleton expert (see page 36). There are sure to be lots of fond memories from past expeditions. We hope if you are an alumnus of this wonderful ship, and even if you’re not, you might like to join us for this final grand adventure. Who knows? You might even bump into travelling companions from times past.

CHRISSIE GOLDRICK