Experienced command
Pavel Mulyukin brings extensive ocean sailing experience, repeated Drake Passage crossings and Antarctic voyages. He takes a cautious approach and has the final say on passages, anchorages and landings.
Preparation, experience and clear decisions
SAFETY FIRST
Our approach combines an aluminium expedition yacht, an experienced captain and backup equipment. The aim is to anticipate problems, make measured decisions and keep the group’s safe return at the centre of every plan.
Aluminium hull and integral keel
The yacht has aluminium hull plating up to 10 mm thick. Its ballasted keel is an integral part of the hull structure, with metal ballast contained inside.
Equipment with backup capacity
Spare sails, multiple communication options and contingency equipment support the expedition. Life-saving provisions include a 15-person liferaft, an EPIRB and personal equipment for everyone on board.
Conditions determine the route
Weather, sea state and ice guide each day’s plan. The captain can change a passage, postpone a landing or cancel an activity when conditions require it.
A briefing before departure
Before sailing, we explain the safety equipment, routines on board and everyone’s role. Clear instructions and prompt communication are part of the preparation for the voyage.
Careful decisions ashore
Landings and activities follow the captain’s assessment and the briefing for each site. Station visits require permission; wildlife observation follows local rules and required distances.
Onboard safety equipment
A closer look at the yacht’s construction, communication systems and equipment carried for contingencies.
Hull, keel and sails
- Aluminium construction
- Hull plating up to 10 mm thick, with an integral keel and metal ballast inside the keel.
- Reserve sails
- Spare sails are carried on board, including a sail for heavy weather.
Navigation and communication
- Modern navigation equipment
- New navigation equipment is complemented by a high-resolution camera with night vision to assist observation around ice. The camera is an aid to the lookout.
- Satellite communication
- More than one satellite communication option is available on board.
- Marine radio
- Several radios are carried, including equipment with a distress-alert function.
Life-saving equipment and tenders
- Liferaft and distress beacon
- A liferaft with capacity for 15 people and a drinking-water reserve, plus an EPIRB — an emergency position-indicating radio beacon for satellite distress alerting.
- Personal protection
- Protective water suits and lifejackets are provided for everyone on board.
- Tenders and motors
- Two inflatable tenders and three motors provide additional options for boat transfers.
Emergency response equipment
- Distress signals and fire response
- Hand flares and signal rockets are carried for distress signalling, alongside fire extinguishers for fire response.
- Dewatering equipment
- Electric pumps and manual means of removing water are carried on board.
- Contingency equipment
- Backup equipment is available for handling the yacht if a primary system fails.
Safety is a shared responsibility
Preparation, sound equipment and experienced command work together with careful behaviour on board. Follow the captain’s instructions, use the equipment as briefed and report concerns promptly. The crew’s responsibility for decisions goes hand in hand with each participant’s role in keeping the group safe.
Plan your tripYour journey starts with a conversation
Tell us about the journey you have in mind
Travelling solo, with a partner or with friends? Share your preferred dates and questions. We will help you understand the expedition, accommodation and preparation involved.
+44 75 20641700adventure@drakepass.comDrakePassUshuaia · Antarctica · Ushuaia