Antarctica - Whale watching discovery and learning voyage
Ten day Antarctica - Whale watching discovery and learning voyage aboard m/v Hondius Ship with Oceanwide Expeditions
Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
Itinerary: Antarctica - Whale watching discovery and learning voyage
Departing/Returning: Ushuaia Argentina
Passengers: 170*
Ship name: m/v Hondius
Departures:
14 Mar - 23 Mar, 2025
Dates and Details.
This Antarctic Peninsula cruise delivers you into a landscape of rugged rock, pure white snow, and a fantastic variety of wildlife. Come say hello to whales, seals, and penguins.
Trip Description.
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Day 1: End of the world, start of a journey
Your voyage begins where the world drops off. Ushuaia, Argentina, reputed to be the southernmost city on the planet, is located on the far southern tip of South America. Starting in the afternoon, you embark from this small resort town on Tierra del Fuego, nicknamed “The End of the World,” and sail the mountain-fringed Beagle Channel for the remainder of the evening.
Day 2 – 3: Path of the polar explorers
Over the next two days on the Drake Passage, you enjoy some of the same experiences encountered by the great polar explorers who first charted these regions: cool salt breezes, rolling seas, maybe even a fin whale spouting up sea spray. After passing the Antarctic Convergence – Antarctica’s natural boundary, formed when north-flowing cold waters collide with warmer sub-Antarctic seas – you are in the circum-Antarctic upwelling zone. Not only does the marine life change, the avian life changes too. Wandering albatrosses, grey-headed albatrosses, black-browed albatrosses, light-mantled sooty albatrosses, cape pigeons, southern fulmars, Wilson’s storm petrels, blue petrels, and Antarctic petrels are a few of the birds you might see.
Day 4 – 7: Entering Antarctica
Gray stone peaks sketched with snow, towers of broken blue-white ice, and dramatically different wildlife below and above. You first pass the snowcapped Melchior Islands and Schollaert Channel, sailing between Brabant and Anvers Islands.
Sites you may visit include:
Danco Island – Activities here may focus on the gentoo penguins nesting on the island, in addition to the Weddell and crabeater seals that can be found nearby.
Neko Harbour – An epic landscape of mammoth glaciers and endless wind-carved snow, Neko Harbour offers opportunities for a Zodiac cruise and landing that afford the closest views of the surrounding alpine peaks.
Paradise Bay – You may be able to take a Zodiac cruise in these sprawling, ice-flecked waters, where there’s a good chance you’ll encounter humpback and minke whales.
Pléneau & Petermann Islands– If the ice allows it, you could sail through the Lemaire Channel in search of Adélie penguins and blue-eyed shags.
There is also a possibility you’ll encounter humpback and minke whales here, as well as leopard seals.
Port Lockroy – After sailing through the Neumayer Channel, you may get a chance to visit the former British research station – now a museum and post office – of Port Lockroy on Goudier Island. You may also be able to partake in activities around Jougla Point, meeting gentoo penguins and blue-eyed shags.
At the nearby sites, such as Damoy Point there may be the opportunity for snowshoeing to the old ski-way, this is also one of our favourite camping sites.
Wilhelmina Bay & Guvernøren – This is a great place to spot humpback whales. You also may embark on a Zodiac cruise ending at the ghostly
wreck of the Guvernøren, a whaling vessel that caught fire here in 1915. Around the Melchior Islands, amid a frozen landscape peopled with icebergs, you may encounter even more whales, leopard seals, and crabeater seals.
Conditions on the Drake Passage determine the exact time of departure.
Day 8 - 9: Familiar seas, familiar friends
Your return voyage is far from lonely. While crossing the Drake, you’re again greeted by the vast array of seabirds remembered from the passage south. But they seem a little more familiar to you now, and you to them.
Day 10: There and back again
Every adventure, no matter how grand, must eventually come to an end. It’s now time to disembark in Ushuaia, but with memories that will accompany you wherever your next adventure lies.
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Whale safari
One of the greatest sources of joy and wonder found on our cruises is when we make contact with the gentle giants of the seas, the whales.
Petermann Island
Located just south of the Lemaire Channel, Petermann Island is a stony and partially glaciated landmass known for its Adélie penguins
Paradise Bay
A breathtakingly beautiful bay offering classic views of colossal ice formations and iconic Antarctic wildlife
Lemaire Channel
A classic route for our expeditions to Antarctica, this iconic waterway serves as the gateway to the southern Antarctic Peninsula
Neko Harbour
A pleasant beach in Antarctica’s larger Andvord Bay, Neko Harbour is a scenic landing site that offers great views of gentoo penguins and a nearby glacier
Wilhelmina Bay
Between the glacial Gerlache Strait and the west coast of Graham Land lies Wilhelmina Bay, its expansive waters scattered with islands and icebergs
Neumayer Channel
A glacier-fringed waterway just southeast of Gerlache Strait, Neumayer Channel separates Anvers Island from Wiencke Island
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INCLUSIONS
Voyage aboard the indicated vessel as indicated in the itinerary
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.
EXCLUSIONS
Any airfare, whether on scheduled or charter flights
Pre- and post- land arrangements.
Passport and visa expenses.
Government arrival and departure taxes.
Meals ashore.
Baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (which is strongly recommended).
Excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges.
The customary gratuity at the end of the voyages for stewards and other service personnel aboard (guidelines will be provided).
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A deposit of 25% is required to hold your spot within 14 days of being invoiced and final payment is due 90 days before departure. Payment can be made via bank transfer or debit and credit card. Cards accepted are Visa or Mastercard.
Voyage Map.
The trip starts in Ushuaia, Argentina, goes through the Beagle Channel, over the Drake Passage, and into Antarctica. You'll visit places like Danco Island, Neko Harbour, Paradise Bay, the Pléneau & Petermann Islands, and Port Lockroy. You might also see the wreck of the Guvernøren near the Melchior Islands. The journey ends with a return trip through the Drake Passage back to Ushuaia.
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Will we get off the ship?
Yes!!! Once we arrive in Antarctica it will be the ultimate goal of the Captain, Expedition Leader, and the Expedition Team to make sure we get off the ship as much as possible. You’ll participate in landings, zodiac cruises, and any additional activities you’ve signed up for. Check the “Detailed trip itinerary” below for more details on each outing.
*Pending weather.
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Are there additional taxes and fees?
The price shown is the "all-in” price after all taxes, fees, port fees, and permits required; which are handled by the tour operator. The only main additional costs will be mandatory travel insurance, optional gratuity, canned beverages and alcohol, and additional activities. See the full list of inclusions/exclusions for more.
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Do I pay extra if I'm a solo traveler?
Not necessarily, no! Our group trips are usually made up of around 50% solo travelers! Prices are always per person, per bed. If you’re a solo traveler, we will match you with a same-gender roommate from our group to share your cabin with. There is also the option for solo cabin availability on certain trips. Please send us a message about solo cabins if that’s your preference.
Pricing
All prices are per person and include all taxes, fees, port fees, accommodation and meals.
Please refer to the full list of inclusions and exclusions for more details.
Up to 40% off on all available cabins
Quadruple Porthole
Features features two portholes, upper and lower berths, a small sofa, and is equipped with a private shower and toilet for convenience. It includes a flatscreen TV, desk and chair for entertainment and work needs, alongside a telephone and WiFi (with additional charges). Personal care amenities such as a hair dryer are provided, and belongings can be stored in a cabinet, safe deposit box, or the wardrobe. This cabin is ideal for families with children or passengers seeking a practical option beyond a twin or more luxurious accommodation.
$6,300
$3800
Twin Porthole
Features two portholes, twin single beds, a compact sofa, and a private bathroom with a shower and toilet. Amenities include a flatscreen TV, desk and chair, telephone, and WiFi (for an additional fee), alongside a hair dryer, cabinet, safe deposit box, and wardrobe for storage. Please note that cabin layouts and sizes may vary, and might not exactly match the photos provided.
$7800
$4,700
Triple Porthole
Features two portholes, one upper and two lower berths, making it ideal for families with children or passengers not seeking a twin or more luxurious option. It includes a small sofa, a private shower and toilet, a flatscreen TV, a desk and chair, supplemented telephone and WiFi, a hair dryer, a cabinet, a safe deposit box, and a wardrobe for comfort and convenience.
$7,150
Twin Window
Features a window (with potential partial obstruction due to ship design), two single beds, a small sofa, private shower and toilet, flatscreen TV, desk with chair, telephone, supplemented WiFi, hair dryer, cabinet, safe deposit box, and a wardrobe. Please note, cabin layouts and surface area may vary, and may not exactly match the photos provided.
$8,000
Twin Deluxe
Features two windows, single beds, and a sofa, along with a private shower and toilet for convenience. Guests can enjoy a flatscreen TV, desk and chair for work or leisure, and a telephone and WiFi (with an additional charge). Additional amenities include a refrigerator, coffee and tea maker, bathrobe, hair dryer, cabinet, safe deposit box, and a wardrobe for storage.
$8,650
Superior
Features two windows, a double bed, a sofa, and a private shower & toilet. It is equipped with a flatscreen TV, a desk & chair, a telephone, and WiFi (supplemented). Additional amenities include a refrigerator, coffee & tea maker, bathrobe, hair dryer, cabinet, safe deposit box, and a wardrobe for your convenience.
$9,250
Cabins may vary and may not be exactly as depicted. Please consult the deck plan and contact your booking agent for further information.
Ship Details.
Hondius is the world’s first-registered Polar Class 6 passenger vessel, making her among the most structurally fortified and technologically advanced polar cruise ships on the seas.
Surpassing the requirements of the Polar Code adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Hondius represents the most flexible, advanced, innovative touring vessel in the polar regions, thoroughly optimized for exploratory voyages that provide you the utmost first-hand contact with the Arctic and Antarctica.
The Hondius carries 170 passengers in 80 cabins
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Happier polar passengers, healthier polar environment
Not only will the numerous amenities and on-board entertainments help make your Hondius voyage truly memorable, this ship also gives you the peace of mind that comes with choosing one of the most environmentally friendly vessel on the polar seas. Hondius uses LED lighting, steam heating, bio-degradable paints and lubricants, and state-of-the-art power management systems that keep fuel consumption and CO2 levels minimal. This means that when you sail aboard Hondius, you get to enjoy the exotic landscapes and wildlife as much as possible while impacting them as little as possible.
Hotel comfort, expedition class
Please be aware that a small number of cabins may have a partially obstructed view due to the size of the windows and the design requirements of the ship. For example, some windows may be partly obstructed in the lower half by a gangway. The best view is always on the outer deck or the bridge. Hondius offers high-quality accommodation for 170 passengers in six grand suites with balconies (27 square meters, 291 square feet), eight junior suites (19 to 20 square meters, 205 to 215 square feet), eight superior cabins (20 to 21 square meters, 215 to 226 square feet), 11 twin deluxe cabins, (19 to 21 square meters, 205 to 226 square feet), 14 twin window cabins (12 to 14 square meters, 129 to 151 square feet) as well as 27 twin porthole cabins, two triple porthole cabins, and four quadruple porthole cabins that vary in size from 12 to 18 square meters, or 129 to 194 square feet. One deck consists of a large observation lounge and separate lecture room, which are reserved for a wide variety of interactive workshops, exhibitions, and performances particular to Hondius. Though elegantly designed in stylish mid-century modern décor, this vessel holds true to Oceanwide’s distinctive cozy and informal atmosphere.
Swift & safe ship-to-shore operations
It is our philosophy to keep sea time short so that we can focus instead on fast, effective access to shore and near-shore activities. To give you the maximum contact with the nature and wildlife you traveled so far to see, we employ a tough fleet of rigid-hull inflatable Zodiac boats that guarantee swift and safe landing operations for the passengers. Hondius has two separate gangways and a sheltered indoor Zodiac boarding are that can also be used for special outdoor activities, such as kayaking.
The fast, flexible, friendly heart of the polar regions
Our top priority is taking advantage of every wildlife and terrain opportunity as it occurs. To keep our itineraries flexible itineraries and our response time rapid, Hondius is equipped with advanced stabilizers and two main engines capable of powering the vessel up to 15 knots. But Hondius sacrifices no warmth to achieve its keen polar edge: You will have 70 crew and staff members (including expedition and hotel staff) at your service while on board, ensuring that what little time you do spend on the ship you will spend comfortably entertained.
Age and nationality
Passengers on a typical voyage range from in their 30s to their 80s, with the majority usually between 45 ― 65. Our expeditions attract independent travelers from around the globe who are characterized by a strong interest in exploring remote regions. The camaraderie that develops on board is an important part of the Oceanwide experience, and many passenger groups include several nationalities.
What to wear
In keeping with the spirit of expedition, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing for all activities, and keep in mind that much of the scenery can be appreciated from deck ― which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles, and make sure your parka is never far away in case one of our crew shouts “Whales!” over the loudspeaker and you have to dash outside in a moment’s notice. Opt for layers, as it is comfortably warm aboard the ship though often cold on deck.
How to pay
Refreshments and souvenirs will be charged to your cabin. The day before departure you can settle your bill with the hotel manager, paying by credit card (Visa or MasterCard) or cash (euro, or in some cases dollar). We cannot, however, accept checks. Though the prices and standard currency on board is in the euro, other currencies may be accepted at the discretion of the hotel manager, at prevailing rates.
Electric current
The electrical supply aboard ship is 220v, 60Hz. Electrical outlets are standard European with two thick round pins, so some passengers may need a 220v/110v converter.
Gratuities
The customary gratuity to the ship’s service personnel is made as a blanket contribution at the end of the voyage and is divided among the crew. Tipping is a personal matter, and the amount you wish to give is at your sole discretion. As a generally accepted guideline, we suggest 8 ― 10 euros per passenger per day. It is better for the crew if you give cash.
Non-smoking policy
We have a non-smoking policy inside all our vessels, though you can smoke in certain designated areas. We ask that you please respect the wishes of non-smokers.
Your physical condition
You must be in good overall health and be able to walk several hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very demanding, but we spend as much time as possible on shore. You are, however, welcome to remain aboard the ship if you prefer. To join most excursions you 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 you in and out of the boats, and boarding will become progressively easier with practice, but conditions on shore can be slippery and rocky. Remember, you will be traveling 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.
