M/V Ocean Victory

Practical Information

• Bridge
  Due to its important role as the control center of all nautical and technical processes, the ship's bridge is a vital and sensitive location. Therefore, the bridge may not be accessible to the public at all times. If conditions allow, we will be happy to welcome you to the bridge for a visit. Guests must be accompanied by the expedition leader.
• Jacuzzis
  The ship has two jacuzzis on the upper outdoor deck (deck 7), allowing spectacular views of the polar landscape in a relaxing setting.
  Please note that there are no lifeguards on duty and the jacuzzis will not be accessible if weather and wind conditions make them unsafe to use. Use of these facilities is expected to be on certain calm days and within certain hours, so if you plan to use them, please check with the expedition staff on board. The jacuzzis (hot tubs) can typically be used much more frequently and while the ship is moving.
• Cabin Service
  Your cabin receives daily service. We provide turndown service. We provide in-room dining only for severe cases of sick guests. Our suites will have VIP services.
• Cabin Layout/Dimensions
  Please note! The layout, illustration and dimensions of cabin categories shown are for illustrative purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the cabins. Actual cabin layouts and sizes may vary.
• Zodiac Landings
  A feature of our expedition cruises includes landings and excursions aboard the Ocean Victory's fleet of 18 motorized rubber "Zodiac" inflatable boats. The Zodiac brand has earned a well-deserved reputation as the most rugged and safe small vessel available. These boats have a shallow draft and great stability. Zodiacs are built for professional use and are equipped with a first-class outboard engine, but their design minimally impacts the environment.
  Zodiacs are designed to provide unrestricted access to the world's last great frontier. Their versatility enables us to make landfall on remote shores, cruise along impressive coastlines and share incredibly close encounters with whales, seals, penguins, seabirds and more. We'll come within arm's reach of icebergs and set foot on land discovered by pioneering explorers just over a century ago.
  Your safety and comfort are our #1 priority, and your expedition leader will carefully plan as many Zodiac excursions as possible, depending on local weather and prevailing conditions. In each case, the expedition leader makes the final decision if landing is possible or not. Safety regulations apply at landings. All guests receive mandatory instruction on safety guidelines. Life jackets are mandatory to wear.
  Please note that we strongly recommend the use of waterproof bags to protect your personal camera or binoculars, as both hands must be free of everything during boarding. Participation is quite easy and comfortable for guests without physical disabilities, but it may be more challenging for those with physical disabilities.
• Cruise Card / Payments / Credit Cards
  Upon embarkation, you will receive your personal cruise card, which you must carry at all times. This card is used on board as a payment instrument and identity card. All purchases on board in the boutique, bar, internet, telephone, laundry and similar are charged to your on-board account.
  To activate your personal account on board, we accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express credit cards. At the end of the journey, your account will be settled using the aforementioned payment methods.
  There is no currency exchange office on board the ship. Payment on board will be completed with your cruise card. For shore stays during the cruise, we recommend exchanging a minimum amount of local currency in small bills, as most ports and airports have exchange offices. Alternatively, many shops and restaurants accept international credit cards. In larger ports and cities, you have the possibility to withdraw cash from ATMs.
  If you choose to leave a gratuity for the crew, the amount you authorize will be charged to the ship's account. Make sure to contact your credit card provider regarding the use of your credit cards abroad. Any questions about the bill can be directed to Reception.
• Gratuities
  Following international standards in the service industry, it is customary to leave a gratuity for the ship's crew at the end of the journey. All gratuities will be divided among the crew. Typically, the recommended amount is approximately USD 13.50 per person per day. Gratuity is, of course, not mandatory and any gratuity payment is voluntary.
  If you choose to leave a gratuity for the crew, the amount you authorize will be charged to the ship's account.
• Dress Code
  The dress code on board is casual. Ties, jackets and evening dresses can be left at home. It is more important to wear appropriate clothing to adapt to different weather conditions. We recommend comfortable, breathable, waterproof and windproof clothing. Additionally, you should have a pair of gloves, thermal underwear and sturdy footwear in your luggage. For the captain's and farewell cocktails, we recommend smart casual attire.
  For specific packing recommendations, please refer to the specific itinerary of interest.
• Environment
  As a cruise tour operator in the Polar Regions, which are some of the world's most pristine environments, we extremely emphasize environmental awareness and sustainability. One of our main priorities is to protect the environment and minimize our CO2 emissions. All waste will remain on board the ship until we return to land and disposal is possible.
  We ask you to show deep respect for the unique nature and act according to the motto: leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories.
• Internet / Phone
  Please note that we will be sailing in a very remote region of the world. Where accessible, internet access is available for an additional charge. Mobile phone reception may be possible in selected regions along our route. For more details, contact your mobile operator. Prices can be found in the information folder in your cabin. Make sure your 'Data Roaming' feature is turned off.
• Language On Board
  The official language on board our ships is English; however, our expedition leaders and crew are knowledgeable in a variety of languages. If there is a large group wishing to communicate in their own language, we will make special arrangements to accommodate their needs.
• Passport / Visa
  Each guest is responsible for ensuring they meet applicable passport and visa requirements for the duration of the journey. A passport is the only valid proof of identity for all Ocean Victory travels. Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after returning home from your destination. Although some countries may require shorter periods, we implement this 6-month prerequisite to avoid situations where a country's validity requirements might change between your booking and departure. The name in your passport must be identical to the name on all travel documentation. Costs incurred due to insufficient travel documents are the responsibility of the passenger.
  Please note that passports will be collected for clearance procedures at the beginning of the journey. Passports will be kept securely by the Administration Officer throughout the journey and returned on the last day. Therefore, we recommend preparing copies of all documents before starting your travels.
• Reception
  The daily office hours of the ship's reception are from 06:00 to 23:00.
• Albatros Ocean Boutique
  The selection of items available for purchase varies by ship and may include a range of warm and practical clothing, as well as souvenirs, local crafts and postcards at reasonable prices. A small selection of soap, toothpaste and other sundry items is also sold.
• Available Seating Capacity
  Shackleton Lecture Room: 185
  Nordic Lounge: 50
  Beagle Restaurant: 166
  Beagle Specialty Restaurant: 40
  Observation Lounge: 67
  Panorama Specialty Restaurant: 46
• Health / Medical Emergency
  Each of our ships has a small medical facility equipped with necessary equipment and medications to handle minor emergencies. The infirmary is always staffed by a licensed professional doctor who speaks English. If a serious incident occurs, the nearest hospital will be contacted. All guests must have personal travel/health insurance.
  Although we have no official requirement regarding personal physical condition, you must be able to move about on board and ashore without the assistance of others.
  For safety reasons, a cruise is only possible for pregnant women up to the 24th week of pregnancy. Pregnancy status must be presented via medical certificate.
• Safety On Board
  Our ships comply with all safety regulations and are ice-class vessels suitable for sailing in polar environments. Upon arrival to the ship, there will be a mandatory passenger briefing and safety drill before departure. We will provide safety information and practical details about life on board and introduce key personnel. You will be informed where safety equipment is located and how it is used. Each cabin is equipped with life jackets. Once on board, familiarize yourself with the ship's emergency rescue plan.
• Physical Disabilities / Wheelchair Accessibility
  The Ocean Victory has two cabins available for guests requiring wheelchair access. Guests who need any form of assistance and those who are physically disabled must be accompanied by someone who will assume full responsibility for any assistance needed during the cruise and in the event of an emergency.
  Additionally, guests requiring a wheelchair must provide their own collapsible wheelchair. Please note that some ports of call, shore excursions, docks, gangways and other requirements may prevent a wheelchair guest from leaving the ship; this decision will be made by the Expedition Leader or the ship's captain and is binding.
• Seasickness / Stabilizers
  The ship is equipped with stabilizers to reduce ship rolling. However, these expeditions are conducted in remote regions, and it is possible to encounter changing environments and weather patterns, including rough seas and large swells. Motion sickness medications work uniquely or in part to help cure nausea in most people. These medications can cause drowsiness. If you are prone to motion sickness, consult with your doctor before departure to help ensure your comfort while traveling.
• Smoking
  For safety reasons and to protect the health of our guests and employees, smoking is only permitted in designated areas on the outer decks. Smoking is not allowed inside the ship, in cabins or near the Zodiacs. Remember to respect our natural environments and dispose of cigarette butts in designated containers.
• Special Dietary Requests
  All meals aboard the ship are prepared by the chef. If you have special dietary requirements (food allergies, intolerances, health conditions or religious preferences), please let us know as early as possible - ideally no later than 2 weeks before departure. To ensure efficient service, please reconfirm your requirements with the crew upon boarding the ship.
• Electrical Power Outlets
  The ship has a 220v / 50 Hz system. Please check your appliances before using them. 110-volt appliances require an adapter before using them on board the ship.
  The power outlets aboard the Ocean Victory are the so-called 'type F plugs', round 2-pin, 220-240V with ground, used in continental Europe and Russia. They accept type C, E and F 2-pin plugs.
• Water
  There are several water stations aboard the Ocean Victory. Normally, water is not rationed, but we advise our guests to be mindful of their water consumption.
• Laundry
  If you wish to do some laundry while aboard the ship, laundry service is available for an additional charge.
• Onboard Briefings
  The Expedition Leader will conduct regularly scheduled briefings to highlight points in the itinerary, organize excursions and communicate important information.
• Children
  For safety precautions, children under 12 years will be taken into consideration at each landing. It is entirely at the Expedition Leader's discretion to allow children to participate in excursions and shore landings.
• Itinerary and Program Changes
  As this is an expedition cruise to the world's most remote region, we are at the mercy of Mother Nature. We have planned itineraries for each tour package, but to ensure the safety of our guests and crew, we may be forced to change the route.
• Rules for Landings and Excursions
  When ashore, it is very important to show deep respect for the unique nature and act according to the motto: leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories. We also ask you to stay with your group, as we are truly in the wilderness and must remain extra vigilant of the wildlife and weather conditions surrounding us. Independent walking is strictly prohibited. It is essential to comply with the strictly communicated safety rules.