As the Polarlys, she spent 42 years in Norwegian waters. But after joining Mercy Ships, she spent 12 busy years in Central America and the Caribbean basin, docking in more than 13 countries.

While in port, Caribbean Mercy housed an average crew of 120 volunteers from more than 20 nations. She boasted an eye surgery unit, cargo capacity, and conference and seminar facilities used for a variety of programs. Her fuel and water tanks provided a cruising range of 12 days or 3,600 miles. In 2006, she was sold to a family foundation for renovation.