Polarhaven
Reliable Polarhaven base camps trusted by leading science and tourism organisations worldwide
Fully insulated for extreme polar weather conditions
Lightweight yet rugged, built for remote transport
Modular sizes for small teams to large bases
Spacious, configurable interior for multiple uses
Breathable design reduces condensation and icing
Compact and lightweight for easy transport
Rapid setup in harsh weather conditions
Handmade in Canada for consistent, reliable quality
Multiple size options to accommodate science, tourism or workforce teams flexibly
The Polarhaven shelter is part of Weatherhaven’s polar-soft-shelter line, chosen by national research programmes and tour operators working in Arctic and Antarctic conditions. It offers a dependable, weather-rated environment for science crews and expedition travellers alike. Whether on remote ice caps or glacial coastlines, Polarhaven shelters provide secure, long-term base-camp capability. Their proven track record in extreme polar deployments makes them a trusted foundation for missions and adventures alike.
Sheltering science and adventure in the world’s extremes.
Example Applications
Customisable interior options: insulation kits, flooring, heating and lighting
To match different mission needs, from field labs to tourist facilities, Polarhaven offers a range of optional accessories: insulation kits (either light-transmitting or high-performance opaque wraps), insulated flooring systems, and the ability to integrate heating or lighting kits. These configurations allow you to transform the shelter into a comfortable, functional base, whether for sleeping, cooking, research work, or living.
Built to perform in extreme polar cold, high winds, deep snow and harsh dryness
Designed specifically for extremely cold and dry regions, Polarhaven shelters endure the harsh conditions found in polar zones, high winds, drifting snow, sub-zero temperatures and dry air. The fabric covers, structural frame and insulation are engineered to resist snow loading and heavy winds while preserving interior warmth and integrity. That makes Polarhaven ideal for advanced base camps and long-term deployments at the edge of the world.
Specifications
| Width | Height at Peak | Length |
|---|---|---|
| 8′ (2.44 m) | 7′ (2.14 m) | Unlimited |
| 10′ (3.05 m) | 7′ (2.14 m) | Unlimited |
| 12′ (3.66 m) | 7′ (2.14 m) | Unlimited |
| 14’ (4.27 m) | 8.3’ (2.53 m) | Unlimited |
| 16’ (4.88 m) | 9.25’ (2.82 m) | Unlimited |
| 18’ (5.49 m) | 10.5’ (3.20 m) | Unlimited |
| 20’ (6.10 m) | 11.8’ (3.60 m) | Unlimited |
| Average weight | 1.75 lbs/ft2 (8.54 kg/m2 ) | |
| Average volume | 0.24 ft3/ft2 (0.074 m3/m2) | |
| Deployment time | Varies (30 mins for a 12′ x 16′) | |
| Frame material | Powder coated aluminium | |
| Cover material | Specially developed cold weather Nylon | |
When delivered to site, Polarhaven shelters are engineered to be assembled quickly and efficiently. Their modular, tensioned-fabric-and-arch frame system enables efficient onsite erection, reducing time spent in harsh weather during setup. This allows teams to focus on mission-critical tasks or research work rather than prolonged camp construction, a major operational advantage when every minute outdoors counts.
Options
Structure & Configuration
Modular length extensions
Raised and level hard sub-floor
Multiple width and height variants
Reflextix / Polar Fill Insualtion systems
Vestibule entry systems
Multiple color options
Double zipper C doors with polar flashing
Insulated hard doors with windows
Semi-circular vents with clear zip-out panels
Lexan portholes & ventilation caps
Base camp furnishings & internal partitions
All-season insulated cover system
Snow & ice melting systems (proprietary)
Cable ports & stove pipe socks
Electrical systems & generator kits
Heating systems (oil-burning heaters)
Soft bag storage
Hard case storage
Various anchoring systems
Lightweight modular packaging
Lightweight, compact and logistically efficient for transport into remote ice fields
Despite its robust build and large volume options, the Polarhaven remains lightweight and compact once packed. Its reduced packed size and weight significantly ease transport by sled, ski-plane, helicopter-sling or other remote logistics methods. The shelter’s design minimises logistical footprint, critical when accessing hard-to-reach polar work zones, research sites or remote tourism destinations.
Hand-crafted in Canada to exacting quality standards by skilled Weatherhaven team
Each Polarhaven is meticulously made in Canada in our own manufacturing facilities, by experienced craftsmen who understand polar field requirements. Rather than a generic mass-produced tent, each unit is built with attention and care, combining robust materials, precise construction, and knowledge gained from decades of polar deployments. This ensures that every shelter delivered is ready for the real-world rigours of extreme cold, wind and snow, rather than theoretical specs alone.
Related
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Please get in touch if you would like to know more about our Military or Commercial shelter and camp solutions.