Last updated: 8:00 PM ET, Fri August 15, 2025
WHY IT RATES: Oceanwide Expeditions has partnered with Drift+Noise Polar Services to integrate real-time sea ice monitoring into its navigation systems. —Janeen Christoff, TravelPulse Managing Editor
Oceanwide Expeditions, veteran polar operator with over 30 years in the expedition cruise industry, has announced a partnership with Drift+Noise Polar Services, adding near real-time sea ice overview capabilities to an already industry-leading onboard suite of maritime navigation software. This move aligns with Oceanwide Expeditions’ approach of minimizing fuel consumption where possible to align with the company's ESG approach.
Enhanced dynamism and operational resilience
Following the completion of operational trials, IcySea is now used onboard m/v Hondius, m/v Ortelius, m/v Plancius, and s/v Rembrandt van Rijn. Providing near-real-time updates of ice-relevant information, including satellite imagery, ice charts, ice drift forecasts, sea temperature reports, and sea-ice concentration data, IcySea further supports dynamic expedition cruising, core to the Oceanwide Expeditions approach of authentic expedition experiences at the edges of the world.
In addition to providing actionable, itinerary-relevant data, the IcySea software also features a range of interactive tools to aid analysis of data and evaluation of vessel position and applicable distances. Crews can also benefit from 24/7 software & data analysis support.
Further complementing expert crews & formidable vessels
Oceanwide Expeditions prides itself on its complement of expert mariners & vessel crew, among the best in class when it comes to safely navigating at the farthest edges of the polar world. Oceanwide Expeditions goes further and delivers more for its guests, empowered by the flexibility, dynamism, and capabilities of its expedition fleet. With exploratory itineraries that venture into poorly charted regions and beyond the range of standard expedition cruise operators, Oceanwide Expeditions stands out as a true pioneer in redefining the polar expedition cruise guest experience.
Piet Vink, Chief Vessel Officer, Oceanwide Expeditions said: "IcySea complements both our existing arsenal of navigation tools and systems, as well as the knowledge and expertise of our captains, bridge officers, and vessel crews. It has proven to be a valuable tool for voyage planning in the medium- and short-term, and for Arctic and Antarctic navigation. With it, our vessels can respond to emerging ice reports, and continue to deliver exceptional experiences for our guests in the face of dynamic weather & atmospheric conditions."
Equipped with sophisticated technical equipment that makes navigating in remote, often poorly charted regions safer and more efficient, crews have the tools to avoid unnecessary ice navigation and prevent delays and detours to daily itineraries. This capability is now significantly bolstered with the addition of IcySea. With this, guests can benefit from uninterrupted, flexible operations, maximizing the potential for unforgettable experiences at the farthest edges of the navigable map.
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