Ship information M/S Balto
M/S Balto was built for the highest ice class in Rauma, Finland, to serve as a government service vessel in the Baltic Sea. During 2019-2022, she has been totally refurbished and is now one of the roomiest and most elegant small polar expedition yachts in service. Ahead of the 2025 season, the ship has undergone a major refit, including a redesigned bridge and upgraded open deck areas — all to enhance comfort and the overall expedition experience.
Overall length: 39.75 meters
Beam: 9.0 meters
Draft: 3.2 meters mean draft
Gross Tonnage: 422 GRT
Passenger capacity: 12
Crew: 8
Rubber boats: 2
ON BOARD INFORMATION
BAR SERVICE
In the lounge you can find a small selection of wine, spirits, beer and soft drinks. Coffee and tea are available around the clock.
BRIDGE VISITS
There is an open bridge policy on board and passengers are welcome to visit the bridge. We ask you to pay respect to the captain’s orders, especially during difficult ice navigation and when mooring. The Captain can decide on a closed bridge in the event of, for example, bad weather.
CABINS
There are seven passenger cabins and they are all outside cabins, some with windows and some with portholes (small round windows). All cabins have private WC and shower equipped with towels, soap, shampoo and a hairdryer. Each cabin has a wardrobe, hooks on the wall, and a desk with a chair. The Superior cabin and Owner’s cabin also has a sofa. Cabins are cleaned on a daily basis and new towels are available upon request.
COMMUNICATIONS
The ship can be contacted via satellite phone. Please note that you will not have mobile phone coverage during most of the expedition, except in the larger settlements. We recommend checking with your mobile operator before departure, as the costs of using your mobile in Greenland can be high. There is no access to the internet on board.
DRESS CODE
Since we are embarking on an expedition cruise, the dress code on board is informal. Please wear shoes with non-slip soles when moving around the ship.
ELECTRICITY
All electrical outlets are 220 volts with Scandinavian two-prong plugs. We recommend that you bring an international adapter if you have devices that need to charge. There are outlets in every cabin.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities are optional and at your discretion. For those who wish to express their appreciation for excellent service, you have the option to leave a tip in cash at the end of your trip (USD/EUR). If needed, it is also possible to tip with your card.
LANGUAGE
The information on board will be in Swedish and English (unless otherwise agreed or marketed). The crew speaks English.
LOUNGE
There is a spacious lounge with great views, a large sofa, a table with chairs, a small bar and a tea/coffee station. Briefings and lectures will be held in the lounge area.
MEALS
The dining room/mess seats all 12 passengers at once and has a cozy cast-iron stove. Our chef on board prepares three meals a day. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style and dinner will be served at the table. Please remember to inform us of any food restrictions on your personal information form.
MEDICAL
There is no physician on board. The officers on the bridge have basic medical training. Basic medical supplies are available on board. Passengers under regular treatment or requiring special medication shall bring quantities that last throughout the expedition. Please also bring a written description of your medication.
MONEY MATTERS
A tab of your expenses, for example bar purchases, will be kept throughout the expedition and will be payable at the end of the expedition. The currency on board the ship is Norweigan krone (NOK). Credit cards (VISA, MasterCard) are accepted on board the ship.
SMOKING
A non-smoking policy applies inside the ship. Smoking is only allowed in designated areas out on deck. Please note that it is strictly forbidden to throw cigarettes overboard. Please do not smoke during landings.
WATER
The water on board is safe to drink.