A unique cruise ship which sails to some of the world's most inhospitable places has spent time in Troon. 

The Greg Mortimer, operated by AE Expeditions, embarked guests in Troon ahead of a week-long cruise around Scotland - but we got a chance to look around before it set off.

The vessel is regularly found in the Arctic and Antarctica, as well as destinations such as Norway, Greenland, Patagonia, Costa Rica, Canada and Tasmania. 

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Guests can enjoy zodiac cruises, walks and hikes, photography, expert lectures, birdwatching, visits to historic sites, and even plunging into polar waters.

There is also the chance to try out camping, kayaking, diving, snorkelling, ski touring, snowshoeing, alpine hiking and much more. 

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The Greg Mortimer has a capacity of just 132 passengers, who stay in 79 cabins of differing luxuries around the ship. 

There is a full-sized restaurant, library, gym and spa, as well as areas to change and prepare for going on expeditions in some remote climates. 

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The Greg Mortimer visits Troon once per year, for the start of an annual voyage around Scotland - though if you fancy joining those on board, you'll have to wait for a wee while as the same cruise is already sold out for 2025. 

David Tanguay, global sales director at AE Expeditions, explained: "The expedition will go around Scotland and visit some of the most remote places, allowing passengers to see wildlife and the north Shetland Islands. 

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"It is not the most accessible areas of Scotland, and we will finish in Aberdeen in early June. 

"It is a very popular trip, and we are already sold out for 2025 which is fantastic."