February 6, 2026 – Weddell Sea, Antarctica - For the second year in a row, Oceanwide Expeditions has set a world record for the southernmost point reached by a non-icebreaker vessel in the Weddell Sea. On 5 February 2026, m/v Ortelius recorded a position of 78°05.60'S in Vahsel Bay. This groundbreaking milestone follows on from last season, when m/v Ortelius reached a record southerly position of 78°03.471'S.
Photo: position of Ortelius vs other polar cruise vessels as captured by the CruiseMapper
The Weddell Sea, one of the most extreme and challenging regions in Antarctica, is known for its dense, unpredictable pack ice and extreme variability in sea and weather conditions. Notably, the Weddell Sea has been the site of many significant Antarctic exploration expeditions, most famously Sir Ernest Shackleton's Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition (1914-1917).
This historic farthest south world record was attained as part of Oceanwide Expeditions' most exploratory and dynamic expedition itinerary, the 27-night Remote Weddell Sea Explorer voyage, which, in part, retraces much of the route taken by Shackleton and the Endurance, and his crew's epic journey of survival. Earlier in the voyage, a continental landing was also made in Queen Maud Land, historically known as Neuschwabenland, at the farthest eastern extreme of the Weddell Sea - another significant achievement in a region very few operators visit.
"Breaking our own record for the second year in a row is a testament to the ability and experience of our crews and expedition staff, and also the willingness of our guests to go beyond the standard and chase true adventure. Our Remote Weddell Sea itinerary is exceptional within the industry, made possible by our decades of operational experience in Antarctica and the polar environment. Providing our guests with truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences is what Oceanwide Expeditions is all about, and we are delighted with this repeated success." Franklin Braeckman, Antarctic Program Director, Oceanwide Expeditions
Photo: by Werner Kruse
This achievement, like that of the previous season, exemplifies the daring spirit and polar capabilities of the crew and expedition staff of Oceanwide Expeditions, along with the capabilities of the ice-strengthened m/v Ortelius. The vessel is rated to one of the highest ice-class notations for non-icebreakers, enabling her to navigate regions such as the Weddell Sea and chase historic milestones.
Oceanwide Expeditions extends its gratitude and congratulations to the dedicated crew of m/v Ortelius, Captain Remmert Koster, Expedition Leader Chris Long, and the expedition team, for their dedication, skill, and exemplary leadership in this remarkable achievement.
An authentic, experience-led approach to expedition cruising
This achievement reflects the exploratory, authentic approach that Oceanwide Expeditions champions, along with the pioneering, daring spirit that defines not only its itineraries, but also its people. The company also ingrains responsible practices into its everyday operations, supporting the work and regulatory guidelines provided by AECO and IAATO and the broader Antarctic Treaty System.
With over 30 years of experience in polar exploration, Oceanwide remains committed to offering extraordinary experiences to its guests. The Remote Weddell Sea Explorer itinerary is just one of several unique itineraries that provide guests with the opportunity to venture far beyond the standard cruising routes, and experience truly authentic, exploratory voyages that continue to redefine expedition cruising.
The Remote Weddell Sea Explorer itinerary will return in Oceanwide Expeditions' 2026-2027 season. New for the 2026-2027 season is another exploratory itinerary voyage - a unique 24-night adventure into the seldom-explored Bellingshausen Sea, including the extremely rare opportunity of landing on Peter I Island.
