Constructed in Finland in 1980 for polar exploration, the Kapitan Khlebnikov is a powerful polar class icebreaker, which has been refurbished to accommodate passengers in 54 outside cabins and suites. All cabins have private facilities, two lower berths, desk and closets. Equipped with all the comforts of a first-class hotel, the ship features two dining rooms, lounge and bar, theatre style auditorium, indoor swimming pool, library, gym, sauna, shop, passenger elevator and infirmary with western doctor. The views from the navigation bridge (which is nearly always open to passengers) are outstanding. The ship is the only touring vessel in Antarctica to provide sightseeing flights and landings by helicopter and is also equipped with Zodiac landing craft, which take passengers within close proximity of huge icebergs.

The Kapitan Khlebnikov is staffed by Russian officers and crews highly experienced in ice navigation. They're joined by an international renowned team of expedition staff and lecturers - experts on marine mammals and birds, and the history of polar exploration. European chefs provide an excellent and varied international menu, and the comfortable and well-stocked bar is a popular gathering spot in which to recount the day's events.