Originally used by the Finnish government, the Balto polar expedition ship was designed to meet the standards of the highest ice-class. As a result, high-grade corten steel was used in its construction and the hull has been reinforced along its entire length. And, to add an extra touch of luxury, Balto has since undergone a total refurbishment, starting in 2019, and is now one of the roomiest and most elegant small polar expedition yachts in service.

Balto takes its name from one of the leading sled dogs of Alaska’s heroic 1925 Serum Run, which relayed a much-needed antitoxin over 1,000-kilometres from Nenana to Nome. Like those dogs, Balto is powerful, tenacious, and elegant. The vessel cruises the most remote fjord systems, visits isolated Inuit settlements, and explores secret anchorages in order to maximise each guest’s experience in some of the world’s last unspoiled wildernesses.

At 40-metres long, Balto expedition ship comfortably accommodates just 12 guests, guaranteeing a flexible and intimate experience while also maintaining plenty of personal space on board. The vessel’s seven cabins all feature ensuite bathrooms and include single, twin and double sleeping configurations. All but one of the accommodations are located on the lower deck, with the spacious owner’s cabin taking a premium position on the main deck.

Onboard Balto

Located on the main deck, Balto’s dining room and salon have been decorated with crotch-mahogany panelling and richly-appointed with classic brass furnishings, creating a sophisticated nautical atmosphere. Guests will enjoy several meals a day here, and can marvel as the chiefs work their magic in the restaurant-style open galley. A small selection of wine, spirits, beer and soft drinks are available at the bar, with coffee and tea available around the clock. The dining room and salon also come furnished with a card table, a small library, and a diesel burning stove for ultra cosy evenings. Plus, an onboard cedar-lined sauna enables ultimate relaxation after long days full of adventure.

Activities and excursions from Balto

Balto expedition ship comes with two onboard zodiacs for wilderness cruises and offshore experiences, and features a dedicated mud room for dirty expedition gear. The ship has been fitted with an electric diesel propulsion capable of maintaining versatile manoeuvring and survey speeds with no vibration, and therefore makes for an ideal film and photo platform. Convenient cranes allow for easy lifting of tenders and other heavy equipment, while certain spaces on board can be utilised as workshops. Several open and semi-enclosed decks allow for easy observation of the vessel’s surroundings, with an additional comfortable viewing lounge located to the aft of the bridge.

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Balto Liveaboard, Arctic

Small polar expedition cruise vessel with luxurious facilities and a sophisticated nautical style

fromUS$969 /day

per person

Overview

Blending serious adventure with sophisticated luxury, Balto is truly one-of-a-kind when it comes to small polar expedition ships. This stylish, sturdy vessel boasts a high ice-class rating and is well-geared towards demanding projects including professional photography and videography operations. And, discerning travellers will be pleased to know that Balto’s capabilities don’t come at the detriment of standards of comfort. In fact, despite the remote nature of these voyages, guests aboard this vessel are treated to some truly first-class creature comforts – including elegant interior design, cosy stove-warmed communal areas, and an inviting cedar-lined sauna.

Highlights

Sophisticated luxury onboard an intimate polar expedition ship
Voyages to remote and unspoiled regions with just 12 guests
Six-person cedar-lined sauna and cold shower on board
Cosy social spaces furnished with a card table and stove

Number of cabins:5
Internet:NO
Nitrox:NO
Ensuite bathrooms:YES
Group booking discounts

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Cabins

Double cabin
Double bed
2 people
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Superior cabin
Twin beds
2 people
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Owner's cabin
Queen size bed
2 people
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Single bed
1 person
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