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The yacht is named after Admiral Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshausen, a great navigator and discoverer of Antarctica. Born in 1778 on the island of Saaremaa (modern-day Estonia), Bellingshausen led the first Russian Antarctic expedition, which on January 16, 1820, reached the shores of Antarctica, officially discovering the continent. His name has become a symbol of geographical exploration, connecting Estonia and Russia with a proud maritime legacy.

Admiral Bellingshausen is a unique expedition yacht, designed for scientific exploration and conquering high latitudes. Built in 1984 by the renowned Dutch shipyard Jongert, she combines timeless elegance, seaworthiness, and reliability. Following a major refit in 2019, the yacht was fully equipped to undertake high-latitude expeditions with the highest standards of safety, reliability, and comfort.

In 2019, to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Antarctica’s discovery, Admiral Bellingshausen embarked on a round-the-world expedition organized by the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Estonian Maritime Museum. This journey became a significant international event, highlighting Estonia’s contribution to global history. The President of Estonia, Kersti Kaljulaid, joined the expedition in Antarctica, where she performed the world’s first digital state act on the icy continent, demonstrating the country’s commitment to innovation and sustainable development.

Expedition-Ready Features
Admiral Bellingshausen is fully equipped for safe and successful high-latitude expeditions:
Advanced navigation and communication systems for reliable operations in extreme conditions
Heating and air-conditioning systems tailored for polar climates
Polar-grade safety equipment, including commercial life rafts and a RIB dinghy
Hydraulic sail furling systems for efficient handling
A robust steel hull and enclosed warm wheelhouse for safety and comfort in icy waters

Technical Information

LOA: 78´ 5´´ (23.9 m)
Beam: 22´ (6.7 m)
Draft: 9´ 1´´ (2.77 m) (keel up) / 11´ 6´´ (3.51 m) (keel down)
Hull Material: Steel
Displacement: 46.6 tons (GT)
Cruising Speed: 9 knots (16.7 km/h)
Engine: Volvo Penta 400 hp
Accommodation: 8 guests in 3 cabins, 4 crew in 2 cabins

Deck Plan

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Cabins

Gallery