@ Andrecas, as we rush headlong into our own oblivion, I rather think that the Antarctic cruise market has been spurred on by the 'Last chance to see it, before it disappears' mentality, along with ever rising levels of wealth - in some quarters.

Regarding the potential for accidents, sinkings and serious pollution; I have to admit my first thoughts and concerns were for the ecology of the area, and not the safety of those who visit. That was remiss of me.

It is such a pity that the N&S Poles (and other wilderness areas) will be commercially over-exploited in the years to come.
It has clearly, already commenced.
Regards, Rick

In early 2007 my partner and I were planning an Antarctica Expedition cruise on NORDKAPP (Antarctica was on her bucket list for years). We had airline tickets in hand to Buenos Aires and in the process of finalizing travel to Ushuaia when news broke that the vessel ran aground. The NORDKAPP'S remaining itineraries were cancelled for that season. If memory serves me correctly there were two other incidents (involving other lines) and one of those vessels actually sunk (All passengers and crew were rescued).
Needless to say the 2007 season (November-March) was not a good one for Antarctica "expeditions"...!
In concert with rd77 and Rick Vince's comments, with the increased traffic in that part of the world, it raises not only safety concerns but also the ecological impact these ships/incidents may have on the area.

Yes RD, my sentiments exactly, regarding any potential incident.
Ovanes has sent me a number of images that show the varying types of vessels, but alas most of them are too small for Shipspotting.
When I upload them to Flickr, I might be able to add links here, should anyone show interest.
Regards, Rick

Hi Rick, yes it is exploding. One firm that we talk to regularly is now also sending explorer yachts down there and selling those voyages on a "per cabin" basis, so effectively they have become temporary cruise ships! I am afraid it is only a matter of time before we have an incident.

Thanks RD, details amended.
Personally I like the bow form, and the overall look of the ship.
Since my correspondent, Ovanes, has been sending me info and photos from that part of the world, it concerns me just how many 'expedition' cruise ships, luxury yachts, yachts and other vessels are visiting Antarctica. I had no idea of the scale.

Good looking ship...if you forget about the bow.
Slight correction: her hull was actually launched in Tulcea (RO) on 21/12/'20, so exactly 1 year before handover.
As a side note, she wasn't moved to the Norwegian outfitting yard in Soviknes until July 2021, so it seems this one and her upcoming sisters are much less "Norwegian" then previous cruise ships built by Vard.