Ushuaia

Vessel History & Overview

The MV USHUAIA is a legendary ice-strengthened expedition vessel with a remarkable history. Originally built in 1970 by American Shipbuilding Company in Toledo, Ohio, she served the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for 20 years as an oceanographic research vessel under the names "Malcolm Baldrige" and "Researcher".

After extensive refurbishment, she was transformed into a passenger expedition ship, maintaining her robust research vessel DNA while adding comfortable amenities for Antarctic exploration. Most recently refurbished in 2023 (previously in 2018), the USHUAIA now accommodates up to 90 passengers in 46 cabins and suites.

Technical Specifications

• Length: 84.73m / 278.3 feet
• Beam: 15.41m / 51 feet
• Draft: 5.48m / 18.08 feet
• Gross Tonnage: 2,923 tonnes
• Maximum Speed: 14 knots
• Cruising Speed: 12 knots
• Ice Classification: INSB Ice Class C
• Flag State: Togolese Republic (changed from Comoros in 2023)
• IMO Number: 6901907
• Engines: 2 x ALCO 1600 HP each
• Bow Thruster: 1 x 500Kw
• Electrical System: 110V / 60Hz
• Passengers: 90 maximum
• Crew & Staff: 40
• Zodiacs: 8 inflatable landing craft

Cabin Categories (46 Total Cabins)

Upper Deck G (21 cabins)

• 4 Suites: Corner suites with windows, private facilities, sitting area (170-235 sq ft)
• 9 Superior Twin: Windows, private facilities, two lower berths
• 6 Premier Twin: Windows, private facilities, two lower berths
• 2 Premier Single: Portholes (partially obstructed), private facilities, single bed

Main Deck F

Public areas only - no passenger cabins

Deck E (25 cabins)

• 12 Standard Twin: Portholes, semi-private facilities, upper/lower berths
• 11 Standard Plus Twin: Portholes/windows, private facilities, two lower berths
• 2 Standard Plus Triple: Windows, private facilities, three lower berths

Note: Semi-private facilities means two cabins share one bathroom (shower/WC) with each cabin having its own washbasin

Public Spaces

Main Deck F

• Dining Room: Single-seating capacity for all guests, open seating arrangement
• Observation Lounge: Combined lecture room with modern multimedia equipment
• Bar & Library: Well-stocked bar with carefully selected wines and spirits
• Panorama Deck: Excellent wildlife observation area

Additional Facilities

• Gift shop
• Small infirmary with qualified physician
• Changing room for expedition gear
• Open Bridge Policy: Passengers welcome on the bridge during navigation

Dining Experience

• Continental and American breakfast buffet
• Buffet or plated lunch service
• Three-course plated dinners
• Local specialties and international cuisine
• Coffee and tea available throughout the day
• Most dietary restrictions accommodated (except Kosher)
• Casual expedition attire for all meals

Expedition Features

Key Advantages

• Small Size: All 90 passengers can disembark simultaneously for extended landings
• Ice-Strengthened Hull: INSB Ice Class C rating for safe navigation in sea ice
• Research Vessel Heritage: Built for harsh conditions with robust construction
• Open Bridge Policy: Join officers on the bridge for navigation insights
• 8 Zodiacs: Full fleet ensures efficient landing operations

Expedition Program

• Typically 2 landings per day (approximately 3 hours each)
• Longer hiking options available
• Zodiac cruising for wildlife observation
• Scientific station visits when possible
• Daily briefings and recap sessions
• Lecture program by international expedition team
• All staff speak English and Spanish

Operational Excellence

The USHUAIA operates within the Antarctic Treaty System parameters, following IAATO guidelines with dedication to environmental protection. Her experienced Antarctic navigation team, combined with knowledgeable expedition leaders and naturalists, ensures both safety and educational excellence.

Why Choose USHUAIA

• Best Value: Outstanding price-to-experience ratio for Antarctic expeditions
• Authentic Experience: True expedition vessel with research heritage
• Flexibility: Small size allows access to sites larger ships cannot reach
• Community: Maximum 90 passengers creates intimate, friendly atmosphere
• Cabin Options: From budget-friendly standard to comfortable suites
• Single Travelers: Cabin-sharing options without single supplements available