Minerva

Specifically designed for cruising through icy waters, Minerva is a exploration ship that can accommodate up to 400 guests. But in Antarctica we've chosen to limit her complement to a maximum of only 198 guests. The ship is stylish, yet unpretentious. With her gleaming brass, polished wood and works of original art, she's often likened to a country house hotel, and she brings a rare touch of comfortable, informal refinement to Antarctica travel.

Your days at sea can be as active as you choose. When you're not out on the Promenade Deck whale watching and glacier-gasping, you can work out in the gym, unwind in a sauna, enjoy a massage or a movie at the cinema. Each day you'll meet for informal pre-shore briefings or post-excursion wrap-ups in the ship's lounge or theater-style auditorium. Mid-morning bouillon and afternoon tea are served daily. The gracious, wood-paneled Library with its 4,000+ volumes is one of the largest at sea.

You can sit where, when and with whom you please in the Main Dining Room and in the alternative Verandah. House wines as well as all bar drinks are included in your fare. As far as the dress code goes, relax. After a full day exploring, you'll probably want to change your clothes for dinner. The Captain's Welcome and Farewell Dinners are the only evenings designated "Informal" instead of "Country Club Casual," where a coat and tie is suggested. As in all Regent Seven Seas cruises, gratuities are included in your fare.

In the gracious Main Dining Room with its panoramic windows, you can select from imaginative a la carte menus that also include a choice of spa cuisine and vegetarian offerings.

The Verandah Restaurant serves breakfast and lunch buffets in a casual environment.

Your days at sea can be as active as you choose. When you're not out on the Promenade Deck whale watching and glacier-gasping, you can work out in the gym, unwind in a sauna, enjoy a massage or a movie at the cinema. Each day you'll meet for informal pre-shore briefings or post-excursion wrap-ups in the ship's lounge or theater-style auditorium. Mid-morning bouillon and afternoon tea are served daily. And the gracious, wood-paneled Library with its 4,000+ volumes is the largest at sea.

The Lounge is the social heart of the ship, where you can chat with newfound friends and enjoy informal lectures. Two open bars, the Shackleton and the South Cape, provide additional corners where you'll probably spend a good deal of time socializing with fellow guests and mingling with members of the expedition. The atmosphere is informal and unregimented, with a warm sense of camaraderie. Liquors, wines and beverages are complimentary on board.

The Bridge stays open 24-hours-a-day. There's a small fitness room with sauna, a sundeck and pool. And there's also a gift shop for sundries and souvenirs, a photo lab, a card room, and a dedicated Smoking Room on the Bridge Deck.