The expedition
In December 1988, 50 scientists crossed the gangway of Stena Arctica – the largest group of Swedish scientists ever to visit the Arctic region. Their mission was to expand our knowledge in the fields of glaciology, geology, oceanography and marine biology in the Antarctic. During her voyage, the vessel crossed the equator line twice. The Stena Arctica, a sturdy 31,900 DWT Super Ice Class bulk carrier fitted with an ice-breaking bow, was chosen to carry the scientists safely to their destination. The vessel was carefully adapted down to the smallest detail to provide maximum safety and comfort even during severe Arctic conditions. Originally, the Stena Arctica was designed to transport lead and zinc ore from the mine on Little Cornwallis Island in the Canadian arctic region close to Magnetic North Pole. But safety is not only a matter of ship design. A major reason for choosing the Stena Arctica was that the skilled Swedish crew had long experience of ice navigation in the Baltic Sea. Superior ships run by superior crews are the key to maximum safety.