M/V Hondius
Antarctica
Great value, comfortable ship with an adventurous ethos
At a Glance
World’s first registered Polar Class 6 cruise ship meeting the highest demands of fortification for ice-strengthened vessels
Exceeds all the latest environmental requirements of the Polar Code
Flexible itineraries and fast ship-to-shore Zodiac operations to maximise contact with wildlife and nature
Stylish and modern accommodation
Please click here to see the deck plan
-
J
-
F
-
M
-
A
-
M
-
J
-
J
-
A
-
S
-
O
-
N
-
D
Best time to Visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Antarctic weather is a lesson in extremes. Antarctica is the world’s coldest, windiest and driest continent. During the summer months the winds abate considerably and the weather is surprisingly comfortable, averaging between 20 and 50F. Summertime also means 18-24 hours of sunlight which allows life to flourish for a brief summer period. Long days also allow extensive exploration by small ship cruise to Antarctica. Antarctic weather allows for a short season of cruising from November to March each year.
Insider's View
Call us on 020 3993 9308 to start planning your holiday to M/V Hondius or take a look at our itineraries to Antarctica
Description
Setting new standards in polar cruising, the M/V Hondius offers a flexible itinerary to maximise wildlife contact; fast ship-to-shore transfers; the highest standards of fortification for ice-strengthened vessels and a stylish and informal ambience.
The most advanced new addition to the fleet at Oceanwide Expeditions, the M/V Hondius has been designed using the best of modern marine science to build a ship that is flexible, fast, fortified and environmentally friendly. Not only is Hondius the world’s first registered Polar Class 6 cruise ship meeting the highest demands for ice-strengthening required by Lloyd’s Register, but it also exceeds all the environmental requirements of the Polar Code. This means guests can relax in the knowledge that they are on-board one of the world’s safest polar cruising vessels and that their visit will have as little impact as possible on the environment.
Itineraries are flexible to take advantage of nature and wildlife contact time and there is a fleet of rigid-hull inflatable Zodiac boats, along with a sheltered Zodiac boarding area to ensure swift and safe landing operations. On-board, the accommodation offers an elegant and stylish mid-century décor and there are a range of cabins and suites to suit all requirements, from spacious suites with balconies to quadruple porthole cabins. With a maximum number of 174 guests and 82 cabins, the atmosphere throughout the ship is both cosy and informal and the camaraderie is an important element of this type of small-scale cruising. The dining room is a great venue to chat to fellow passengers about your experiences over the well-balanced and nourishing meals, full of flavour and ideal for hearty appetites.
One deck of Hondius is a large observation lounge with a separate lecture room for interactive workshops and exhibitions, where you can learn more about the polar region and wildlife from the wonderful guides accompanying you on your trip. The most flexible and advanced ice-strengthened vessel cruising the polar regions, Hondius offers guests the chance for an exploratory voyage with first-hand experience of the magnificent wildlife and polar scenery.
Accommodation
This brand new liner is elegant, cosy and innovatively designed.
Please click here to see the deck plan.
Quadruple Porthole | These cabins are located on deck 3 and have 2 upper and lower berths, 2 portholes, a small sofa, a private shower and toilet and a desk and chair. There is also plenty of storage space, a flat screen TV |
Twin Porthole | These cabins are located on deck 3 and have 2 portholes, 2 single beds, a small sofa and a private shower and toilet. They also have a desk and chair, plenty of storage space, flat screen TV and a hair-dryer and safe. Please see cabin plan attached. |
Triple Porthole | These cabins are located on deck 3 and have 1 upper and 2 lower berths, 2 portholes, a small sofa, a private shower and toilet and a desk and chair. There is also plenty of storage space, a flat screen TV and hair dryer. |
Twin Window | These cabins are located on deck 4 and have 2 single beds, 1 window, a small sofa, a private shower and toilet and a desk and chair. There is also plenty of storage space, a flat screen TV and hair dryer. |
Twin Deluxe | These cabins are located on deck 6 and have 2 single beds, 2 windows, a sofa, a private shower and toilet and a desk and chair. There is also plenty of storage space, a flat screen TV, refrigerator, coffee and teak maker and hair dryer. |
Superior Cabin | The M/V Hondius' Superior Cabins are located on deck 6 and have 1 queen size bed, two windows, a sofa, writing desk and chair and a private en suite bathroom. There is also plenty of storage space, a flat screen TV, refrigerator, coffee and tea maker and a hair dryer. |
Junior Suite | These cabins are located on deck 7 and have 1 double bed, 1 double window, a sofa, a private shower and toilet and a desk and chair. There is also plenty of storage space, a flat screen TV, refrigerator, coffee and tea maker and a hair dryer. |
Grand Suite with Private Balcony | These cabins are located on deck 7 and have 1 double bed, 1 double window, a sofa, a private shower and toilet and a desk and chair. There is also plenty of storage space, a flat screen TV, refrigerator, coffee and tea maker and a hair dryer. They also have their own private balcony. |
Facilities
Observation Deck | There is a large observation deck allowing you to get the best views. |
Lecture Room | There are lots of interactive workshops, exhibitions and performances which take place in the lecture room. |
Activities
Zodiac Excursions | There are plenty of zodiac excursions to ensure you get maximum contact with the local nature and wildlife. |
Open-Air Camping | One of the most popular activities offered, camping out on the ice entails rolling out your sleeping mat, getting snug in your thermal sleeping back and preparing for a night under the breathtaking Antarctic night skies. This is a complimentary activity but places are limited so we recommend booking in advance. |
Hiking and Mountaineering | Led by experienced and expert guides, explore inland with a range of expeditions that will suit everyone, from casual walker to more intrepid hikers. |
Sea Kayaking | Explore the Antarctic coastline with an experienced guide. Paddle alongside playful seals, float by as humpback whales dive and marvel at the ice sculptures towering about you. Some kayaking experience is required and places are limited so we recommend booking in advance. |
Photo Workshop | On selected voyages learn from a pro photographer how best to capture the beautiful Polar scenery with your own camera. Please note that you do need to bring your own equipment. |
Ski Mountaineering and Trekking | Ever fancied ski mountaineering or trekking on some of the world's most pristine and untouched slopes? Experienced skiers may enjoy day-long excursions traversing remote, snow-capped peaks, descending into sparkling bays. Ski mountaineering will be led by officially recognized mountain guides. |
Snowshoeing | Traverse the Antarctic scenery in snowshoes, which take you further and higher than boots alone can manage in powdery snow. Armed with your own showshoes and poles, the best vantage points will be exclusively yours and you'll be treated to superb views. No prior experience is required but advance booking is recommended. |
Polar Diving | Experience Antarctica from under the surface of the sea with a Polar diving experience. Diving excursions do require experience, they are not for beginners. |
Floorplans
Deckplan - M/V Hondius
Experiences
-
Antarctic Peninsula
Travelling through Antarctica takes you through a landscape unlike anywhere else on earth. Your time here introduces you to this evocative landscape, with trips ashore and onboard presentations providing an understanding of the scenery and its wildlife.
-
South Shetland Islands
Sailing around the South Shetland Islands offers an opportunity to observe some of the continent’s most iconic wildlife species and a landscape of spellbinding beauty.
Holiday Ideas
- 100% financial protection
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- Firsthand knowledge
- Renowned service
- Award-winning tour operator