Cruise ship review: G Expedition
Overall rating 7/10
Modified to provide a snug vessel for sailing in cold weather climates, G Expedition has a viewing platform overlooking the bow and a 'mud room' to stow and dry outdoor gear. Passengers are provided with thermal boots and, on polar itineraries, get a complimentary high performance parka to take home.
Style & character 6/10
The accent is firmly on function and G Expedition provides comfortable and practical on board amenities. The Discovery Lounge, which doubles as a bar and lecture theatre, is the sociable heart of the ship. Cruises mainly draw passengers from the UK, North America and Australia, including families with youngsters over the age of 12.
Cabins 7/10
All cabins are outside, with either portholes or fixed windows, and measure 161 square feet. There are four 323-sq-foot suites with Queen-sized beds, large seating areas and fancier bathrooms. Four cabins sleep four and another four accommodate three people, which are useful for families, friends or solo travellers who are placed together to avoid having to pay single supplements.
Food & drink 7/10
The Albatross Dining Room seats all passengers in a single sitting and is very busy during the one-hour time slot allocated for buffet breakfast and lunch. It has two smaller areas off the main room which are quieter. Aside from themed buffets and an outdoor barbecue (when weather permits), dinner is a served four-course a la carte menu. Food is varied and plentiful, with plenty of hearty hot dishes and English puddings that are perfect for cold climates and active excursions. Aside from water, tea, coffee and hot chocolate, all other drinks are extra.
Service & facilities 8/10
The crew members are very friendly and the 14 members of the expedition team are outstanding and experts in their respective fields. The cosy Polar Bear Pub is a great place to gather and swap tales after dinner and the ship has a well-stocked reference library, small gym and sauna.
Entertainment & excursions 10/10
The on board cultural programme is superb with comprehensive yet accessible talks on topics including photography, geology, wildlife and history plus a daily briefing. Members of the expedition team mingle and dine with passengers so there is plenty of opportunity for one-to-one chats. Excursions are a mix of Zodiac cruises to spot wildlife and escorted walks ashore, which are mapped out by the advance scout party. On some cruises pre-bookable options include kayaking and camping.
Value for money 9/10
Fares cover all meals, snacks, enrichment programme, Zodiac cruises, shore excursions, loan of thermal boots and, on polar expeditions, a complimentary parka.
