66˚ Expeditions

Provisional Member

Visit website

Foundation & Ownership 66 Degrees Expeditions is a polar expedition cruise operator jointly established by Guangdong Travel Holding Group and Guangdong Port & Shipping Group as one of China’s first dedicated polar cruise brands. The company was launched in late 2024 and began commercial expedition operations in May 2025. Headquarters & Markets Though rooted in Chinese ownership and with strong engagement in the Chinese travel market, 66 Degrees Expeditions positions itself as an international operator with a global guest focus. The company designs expedition products for both Chinese-speaking travellers and a broader global audience, supported by bilingual staffing and culturally inclusive onboard services. Operations & Itineraries 66 Degrees Expeditions specialises in small-ship polar expedition cruising, operating voyages primarily in the Arctic and with planned deployments in the Antarctic as well. The company’s inaugural seasons have included Northern Europe and Arctic itineraries visiting destinations such as Iceland, Greenland, Svalbard, Jan Mayen and the Faroe Islands, with both wildlife and remote wilderness exploration emphasised. Typical seasonal programming consists of approximately 10–15 Arctic expedition voyages per year, with flexibility depending on deployment, ice conditions and market demand. The product emphasises immersive landings and Zodiac excursions alongside expert-led interpretation and safety-focused operations. (Adjust figures based on exact deployment if you have internal logs.) Fleet & Capacity The company’s first operational vessel is the MS Seaventure, a long-serving, ice-strengthened expedition ship acquired and refitted for 66 Degrees’ polar programmes. The Seaventure carries a maximum of 150 passengers, aligning with industry small-ship parameters that allow for flexible, destination-focused expedition experiences. Guiding & Expedition Team 66 Degrees maintains an international expedition team composed of experienced polar guides, lecturers and multilingual staff drawn from around the world. The team supports safety, interpretation and guest engagement across diverse markets, reinforcing the company’s global operational outlook. Market Position & Strategy The brand’s name is inspired by the 66th parallel, emblematic of the boundary to the Arctic Circle, reflecting the company’s focus on high-latitude exploration. It seeks to marry cultural inclusivity with rigorous expedition standards, offering immersive polar v