Beyond the Antarctic Circle - Wilkins Ice Shelf
DEPARTING FROM:UshuaiaFINAL DESTINATION:Ushuaia
DURATION:16 Days/ 15 NightsREGION:AntarcticaSHIP:Hondius
This voyage is a true expedition, exploring the rarely visited region of the Bellingshausen Sea, Marguerite Bay, and Alexander Island. We explore many of the places discovered by Adrien de Gerlache on his Belgian Antarctic Expedition (1897 – 1899) aboard the Belgica. This voyage leaves Ushuaia and heads straight beyond Antarctic Circle, where we aim to spend the rest of the trip. The variety of landings and wilderness in this region are rivalled by few other places on Earth.
We will see Antarctic ice shelves, land on islands where few people have set foot, and enjoy this awe-inspiring area far from the beaten track of regular Antarctic cruises. We may also see a range of exotic wildlife, including humpback and minke whales, orcas, and a variety of seals: leopard, elephant, crabeater, Weddell, Antarctic fur, and maybe even a Ross seal. Gentoo and Adélie penguins, skuas, terns, and giant petrels are just some of the bird species we may see as well.
We have multiple departure dates for this cruise. Select a year and month to view itineraries for alternative departure dates.
Hondius
Operated by: Oceanwide Expeditions
Launched in mid 2019, the 174-passenger Hondius is the latest addition to the Oceanwide Expeditions fleet of polar ships. Engineered for flexibility above all else, Hondius is optimised for maximum engagement with nature, wildlife, and outdoor activities – because a dynamic environment demands a dynamic vessel, and there is no environment more dynamic than the polar regions. The agility of the Hondius design gives you this opportunity, delivering you to shore as fast as possible so you can enjoy these spectacular landscapes as much as possible.
FORTIFIED POLAR CLASS 6 TECHNOLOGY
Being flexible and fast does not make Hondius frail: It is one of the first civilian vessels in the world to receive a Polar Class 6 notation, the most advanced category of polar cruise ship to date. When you set foot on Hondius, you are indeed choosing the best of modern marine science.
Key Facts
The following additional options may be added to your cruise.
Polar Kayaking
An optional activity, kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the shorelines of Antarctica. You’ll set out from Hondius in the calm waters of a secluded bay, exploring the coastline at your own pace. Paddling your way through the quiet of the scenery you’ll be able to fully enjoy the serene beauty of the Arctic or Antarctic landscapes that surround you. Limited spaces available.
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Your cruise price includes
- 15 night expedition voyage aboard the Hondius in selected room grade
- All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea
- All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac
- Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff
- Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes
- Luggage transfer from pick-up point to the vessel on the day of embarkation, in Ushuaia
- Pre-scheduled group transfer from the vessel to the airport in Ushuaia (directly after disembarkation)
- All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the programme
- Comprehensive pre-departure material
Your cruise price does not include:
- Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights
- Pre- and post- land arrangements
- Passport and visa expenses
- Government arrival and departure taxes
- Meals ashore
- Travel Insurance (highly recommended - SAVE 20% when purchased with your expedition)
- Excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges
- Gratuities at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard - The cruise line recommends $8-10 per passenger per day
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Please note: This cruise is sold in USD
Rhe itinerary described is for guidance only. Programmes may vary depending on local ice and weather conditions, the availability of landing sites and opportunities to see wildlife. The final itinerary will be determined by the Expedition Leader on board. Flexibility is paramount for expedition cruises.
You must be in good general health and you should be able to walk several hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very demanding. Although as much time as possible is spent ashore, travellers are welcome to remain aboard the ship if they like. To join most excursions, travellers must be able to get up and down the steep gangway from the ship to the water level to board the Zodiacs. Staff will assist travellers in and out of the boats. This will become progressively easier with practice. Ashore it can be slippery and rocky. You are travelling in remote areas without access to sophisticated medical facilities, so you must not join this expedition if you have a life-threatening condition, or need daily medical treatment.
By completing this booking request you acknowledge that you have read and accept Expedition Cruise Specialists' and Oceanwide Expeditions' terms and conditions.
A single supplement of 70% applies for sole use of cabins.