AG SOCIETY HOSTED EXPERIENCES

True pioneering spirit

AURORA EXPEDITIONS’ tough, Russian-built, ice-strengthened ship, Polar Pioneer (above), has been the base for countless frozen adventures. It’s even been the diving platform for many a polar plunge – yes, even for me! (Above right.) With only 54 passengers, expert Aussie guides and a hardworking Russian crew, Polar Pioneer offers unique travel at the planet’s extremes. Her compact size and utilitarian fit-out encourage an esprit de corps among passengers that can be absent from bigger ships. I’m lucky enough to have sailed aboard her in both Antarctic and Arctic waters.

There’s real adventure to be found in such wild and remote places. The ship’s compact size allows it to sail into has been the means by which so many have achieved that dream.