In a landmark moment for China’s polar tourism sector, 66° Expedition Cruise marked the virtual delivery of its flagship vessel, the Seaventure, during a ceremony in Hong Kong, where executives and stakeholders from across the globe attended the event remotely.
The ship’s handover from Swiss owner Scylla signifies the launch of the world’s first Chinese polar cruise brand, a joint venture led by Guangdong Tourism Holdings and Guangdong Port and Shipping Group.
The Seaventure, originally the Bremen under Hapag-Lloyd, is a state-of-the-art expedition vessel with a 150-passenger capacity and the highest ice-class rating of 1A Super. It will continue operating in Antarctica under a charter agreement with Polar Latitudes and is set to sail the Arctic in summers, offering tailored experiences for both Chinese and international travellers.
Designed to meet the needs of Chinese guests, the Seaventure features bilingual services, Chinese-inspired cuisine, and culturally nuanced expedition experiences. The brand also plans to offer expert-led activities, including scientific lectures and immersive polar explorations.
66° Expedition Cruise aims to redefine polar travel with its focus on safety, comfort, and customisation, all delivered through an all-inclusive model. The company sees the Seaventure as a stepping stone to making the polar regions more accessible to Chinese tourists while promoting sustainable travel practices.
This innovative start positions 66° Expedition Cruise at the forefront of China’s ambitions in the polar tourism market, setting a strong foundation for the future of Chinese-led exploration in the Arctic and Antarctic.