Ship Description
The ‘Grigoriy Mikheev & Aleksey Maryshev’ are modern and comfortable research vessels of the Hydrographic Institute of St. Petersburg. Built in 1990 in Finland, and designed as ice-strengthened vessels, the ships are now under long-term contract by Oceanwide Expeditions. Converted in the Netherlands for passenger use, the vessels are ideally suited to expedition cruising. They have a range of 70 days independent operation and is ISM certified.
The vessels are strongly built of steel with an ice-strengthened hull, perfect for the polar seas. They are manned by an enthusiastic Russian crew of around 20, all highly experienced in ice navigation. Russian captains are recognised experts in polar navigation.
All our international expedition leaders and lecturers are highly knowledgeable, helpful and dedicated to the protection of the environment.
Cabins & Deckplans
The ‘Grigoriy Mikheev & Aleksey Maryshev’ provides accommodation for 46 travellers in 23 comfortable twin and superior cabins.
All cabins are outside, with a desk, windows and ample storage space.
Twin private cabins
8 Cabins on deck 4 with a private bathroom with shower, washbasin and toilet, upper and lower berths, a desk, ample storage space and windows. Superior cabins
3 Superior cabins on deck 4 with a double bed and a single sofa-bed. A private bathroom with shower, washbasin and toilet. A sitting area with a desk, Coffee and tea facilities, refrigerator and windows
Twin private cabins
6 Cabins on deck 3 with a private bathroom with shower, washbasin and toilet, upper and lower berths, a desk, ample storage space and windows. Twin non private cabins
6 Cabins on deck 3 with upper and lower berths, a desk, small washbasin, ample storage and hanging space and portholes. Shared shower and toilet facilities are conveniently located on the same deck.
The Grigoriy Mikheev & Aleksey Maryshev have a cosy bar where you can read and relax and have a drink. There are plenty of interesting books about the history, flora and fauna of the areas we visit.
The sauna is always warm and accessable for everybody. The hotelmanager will organize ladies- and gents hours on request.
A wonderfull treat after an exciting day in the cold!
The ships deck space give you first class wildlife viewing and great opportunities to spot whales, birds and other interesting sightings.
It's an awesome feeling to sit in bright sunlight on the topdeck in the middle of the night and enjoy the beautifull scenery around you.
Age range & Nationality onboard
Passengers on a typical voyage range from their 30s to their 80s - with a majority usually from 45 – 65. Our expeditions attract independent-minded travellers from around the world. They are characterised by a strong interest in nature and exploring remote regions. The camaraderie and spirit that develops aboard is an important part of the expedition experience. Many departures have several nationalities on board.
Bridge visits
You are nearly always welcome on the bridge, an excellent place to watch ship operations and maintain a lookout for wildlife. Please remember, however, that the bridge is a work place.
To enable our officers to navigate the ship, remain on the port side of the bridge and please do not eat or drink. When in port, during rough weather, and other times for reasons of safety, the bridge may be closed to visitors. If you are in doubt, please ask the officer on watch.
Combating sea sickness
Anticipate some rough water on the voyage. Should you be prone to motion or sea sickness, please consult your physician which medication is appropriate and its side effects.
To avert motion sickness, avoid alcohol, tobacco, excess liquids, and confined spaces. Most people feel better sitting on deck looking at the horizon or prone with eyes shut. Oddly, you will feel better with some food, such as crackers or dry toast in your stomach. Many people eat to avoid feeling sick. Remember, once you start to experience motion sickness, medications are of little help.
Crew
On the motor vessels the crew are Russian. Some of them speak English some of them don’t. The personal contact with the Russian crew is always a nice aspect of our polar journeys. All staff (Guides/Lecturers, Purser, Chef, Expedition leaders) do speak English, and most of the time other languages as well.
Currency & Credit Card
On board our motor vessels the standard currency is Euro. Other currencies may be accepted at the discretion of the hotel manager at prevailing rates.
We also accept Visa card and Euro/MasterCard.
Dress code
In keeping with our expeditions atmosphere, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing for all activities. Keep in mind that much of the spectacular scenery can be appreciated from deck, which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles and make sure the parka is never far away in case of the call “Whales!” comes over the loudspeaker and you have to dash outside. Wear layers since it is comfortably warm aboard the ship - and often cold on deck.
Electric Current
The electrical supply aboard the ship is 220 volt 50hz. Electrical outlets are standard European with two thick round pins. U.S. passengers may need a 220v/110v converter.
Gratuities
The customary gratuity to the ship’s service personnel is made as a blanket contribution at the end of the voyage which is divided among the crew. You will receive detailed guidelines aboard. Tipping is a very personal matter and the amount you wish to give is at your discretion. As a generally accepted guideline, we suggest US$8 to US$10 per person per day. It is better for the crew, if we can give them cash US Dollar.
Non-smoking policy
On board our vessels we have a non-smoking policy. It is prohibited to smoke inside the ship. You can smoke on deck but do not throw your cigarette filter overboard ! Do not smoke on the aft deck in the proximity of zodiacs, engines and fuel. Please respect the wishes of non-smokers.
Your physical condition
You must be in good general health and you should be able to walk several hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very demanding. Although we spend as much time as possible ashore, you are welcome to remain aboard the ship if you like. To join most excursions, you must be able to get up and down the steep gangway from the ship to the water level to board the Zodiacs. Staff will assist you in and out of the boats. This will become progressively easier with practice. Ashore it can be slippery and rocky. You are travelling in remote areas without access to sophisticated medical facilities, so you must not join this expedition if you have a life-threatening condition, or need daily medical treatment.
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