Akademik Ioffe - Ship Reviews & Cabin Guide

Photos
Cabins & Deck Plan

Why we like the Akademik Ioffe cruise ship

Built originally for Russian hydrographic research, The Ioffe’s outstanding strength and stability contributes to a more comfortable voyage
The highest 1A ice class rating with outstanding manoeuvrability from both bow and stern thrusters, and a captain who has been sailing this vessel for over 20 years
This is a large ship compared with other Arctic ships, ensuring everyone onboard has plenty of space, particularly during wildlife sightings
The sauna and hot tub are popular hang-outs after landings
A full time Photographer-in-residence offering complimentary workshops and 1-2-1 tips and guidance. There’s also a multi-media room with dedicated PCs & Macs

Photos of the Akademik Ioffe

Deploying zodiacs in the Northwest Passage

Technical Specifications

Passenger capacity: 96 passengers
Ice class rating: Lloyds Register 1A, Canadian Type B
Size: 117m long x 18.2m wide
Built in: Finland, 1989
Other key feature: Top Deck for 360 degree views, Spa and Fitness Room

Cabin Categories

*Note that the above measurements are approximate averages and exact cabin size can vary

All cabins come with a writing desk and chair, a clock radio with iPod connector, and bathrobes.

Captain's Suite

Located on Deck 5 with double bed, bathtub and opening windows overlooking the bow
Separate lounge area with sofa-bed, mini-bar and mini-fridge, and tablet with polar literature and various media
Up-graded bed linen, tea- and coffee-maker and arrival gift basket with wine and healthy snacks

Shackleton Suite

3 cabins on Deck 4 and 2 on Deck 5
Double bed and opening windows
Separate lounge area with sofa-bed, mini-bar, and tablet with polar literature and various media
Up-graded bed linen, tea- and coffee-maker and arrival gift basket with wine and healthy snacks

Superior

All 10 cabins are on Deck 6
2 lower berths, windows
Tea- and coffee-maker, up-graded bed linen

Twin Private

2 cabins on Deck 3, 7 on Deck 4, and 12 on Deck 5
Two lower berths, private bathroom, opening window
Tea- and coffee-maker

Twin Semi Private

2 cabins on Deck 3, 7 on Deck 4, and 12 on Deck 5
Two lower berths, private bathroom, opening window
Tea- and coffee-maker

Triple Share

Both of these cabins are on Deck 3
Bunk bed, sofa-bed and porthole
Private, in-cabin washbasin and shared bathroom facilities

Communal Areas

For those feeling inspired by the cold Arctic waters, the Academic Vavilov boasts its very own plunge pool for guests. Embrace the chill then dash to the Jacuzzi or sauna, or take time out in the fitness or massage rooms.

Share stories with other travellers in the lounge and bar, whereby you can also watch films and documentaries. Other common areas include the library and presentation room, and with an on-board gift shop, there's no need to venture far for those perfect token gifts to take home.

Deck Plan

Onboard Communications

If whilst in the Arctic you wish to stay in touch, there are a number of options to choose from:

Telephone: $30/60minutes (satellite phone card)
Email service: one-time $30 set-up fee. Email can be accessed through wifi using your own device.

Due to the remoteness of the location, the options available are only suitable for light data traffic, meaning that internet access or the uploading of images is not possible. Email access, however, is still available.