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Antarctica – Basecamp Voyage

Antarctica – Basecamp Voyage

From USD $9,700

Description

The Antarctic Peninsula Basecamp cruise offers you a myriad of ways to explore and enjoy the Antarctic Region. This expedition allows you to hike, snowshoe, kayak, go mountaineering, and even camp out under the Southern Polar skies. During our “Basecamp” departures, all offered activities (including camping, kayaking, snowshoe/hiking, mountaineering, photo workshop) as well as our standard included shore excursions and zodiac cruises) are free of charge.

Trip Name
Antarctica - Basecamp Voyage
Days
13
Overview
Vessel Type: Polar Class Expedition Ship Length: 107.6 metres Passenger Capacity: 170 Built: 2019 Hondius is the first-registered Polar Class 6 vessel in the world, meeting the latest and highest Lloyd’s Register standards for ice-strengthened cruise ships. 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. 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.

Itinerary



Day 1 - 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 - 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 3 - Day 4 - 10: 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 snow-capped Melchior Islands and Schollaert Channel, sailing between Brabant and Anvers Islands. Places you might visit includes: Neumayer Channel – The vessel may position itself here, launching its multiple basecamp activities from the protected waters around Wiencke Island. You can enjoy the splendors of this alpine environment at sea with Zodiac and kayaking trips, or if you’re in the mood for a walk, there are possible snowshoe hikes and soft-climb mountaineering options farther inland. Naturally, favorable weather conditions determine the possible activities. 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. There are great opportunities also for kayaking and camping here, and when conditions are right, you can even snowshoe around the shore. Pléneau & Petermann Islands – If the ice allows it, you can sail through the Lemaire Channel in search of Adélie penguins and blue-eyed shags. There’s also a good chance you’ll encounter humpback and minke whales here, as well as leopard seals. Kayaking, glacier walks, and more ambitious mountaineering trips are the potential activities of this location. 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 have the chance to make camp here like a true polar explorer (but with a better tent), enjoying a supreme overnight Antarctic adventure. Errera Channel – Possible sites in this area include Danco Island and Cuverville Island, but also the lesser known (though equally picturesque) Orne Island and Georges Point on Rongé Island. On your last day of near-shore activities, you pass the Melchior Islands toward the open sea. Keep a sharp lookout for humpback whales in Dallmann Bay. You might also shoot for Half Moon Island, in the South Shetlands, with further chances for activities. Conditions on the Drake Passage determine the exact time of departure.
Day 4 - Day 11 - 12: 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 5 - Day 13: 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.
Day 6 - Please note:
All itineraries are for guidance only. Programs may vary depending on local ice, weather, and wildlife conditions. The on-board expedition leader will determine the final itinerary. Flexibility is paramount for expedition cruises.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
25-12-202406-01-2025USD $9,900Quadruple Porthole
25-12-202406-01-2025USD $12,150Triple Porthole
25-12-202406-01-2025USD $12,150Twin Porthole
25-12-202406-01-2025USD $12,650Twin Window
25-12-202406-01-2025USD $13,400Twin Deluxe
25-12-202406-01-2025USD $14,300Superior
29-12-202410-01-2025USD $13,400Twin Deluxe
29-12-202410-01-2025USD $14,300Superior
29-12-202410-01-2025USD $9,900Quadruple Porthole
29-12-202410-01-2025USD $12,150Twin Porthole
29-12-202410-01-2025USD $12,150Triple Porthole
29-12-202410-01-2025USD $12,650Twin Window
10-01-202522-01-2025USD $9,900Quadruple Porthole
10-01-202522-01-2025USD $12,150Triple Porthole
10-01-202522-01-2025USD $12,150Twin Porthole
10-01-202522-01-2025USD $12,650Twin Window
10-01-202522-01-2025USD $13,400Twin Deluxe
10-01-202522-01-2025USD $14,300Superior
13-02-202525-02-2025USD $9,900Quadruple Porthole
13-02-202525-02-2025USD $12,150Twin Porthole
13-02-202525-02-2025USD $12,150Triple Porthole
13-02-202525-02-2025USD $12,650Twin Window
13-02-202525-02-2025USD $13,400Twin Deluxe
13-02-202525-02-2025USD $14,300Superior
25-02-202509-03-2025USD $9,900Quadruple Porthole
25-02-202509-03-2025USD $12,150Triple Porthole
25-02-202509-03-2025USD $12,150Twin Porthole
25-02-202509-03-2025USD $12,650Twin Window
25-02-202509-03-2025USD $13,400Twin Deluxe
25-02-202509-03-2025USD $14,300Superior
27-11-202509-12-2025USD $9,700Quadruple Porthole
27-11-202509-12-2025USD $10,900Triple Porthole
27-11-202509-12-2025USD $11,950Twin Porthole
27-11-202509-12-2025USD $12,600Twin Window
27-11-202509-12-2025USD $13,500Twin Deluxe
27-11-202509-12-2025USD $14,400Superior
27-11-202509-12-2025USD $15,350Junior Suite
27-11-202509-12-2025USD $17,150Grand Suite With Private Balcony
09-12-202521-12-2025USD $9,700Quadruple Porthole
09-12-202521-12-2025USD $10,900Triple Porthole
09-12-202521-12-2025USD $11,950Twin Porthole
09-12-202521-12-2025USD $12,600Twin Window
09-12-202521-12-2025USD $13,500Twin Deluxe
09-12-202521-12-2025USD $14,400Superior
09-12-202521-12-2025USD $15,350Junior Suite
09-12-202521-12-2025USD $17,150Grand Suite With Private Balcony
16-12-202528-12-2025USD $10,550Quadruple Porthole
16-12-202528-12-2025USD $12,950Triple Porthole
16-12-202528-12-2025USD $12,950Twin Porthole
16-12-202528-12-2025USD $13,500Twin Window
16-12-202528-12-2025USD $14,550Twin Deluxe
16-12-202528-12-2025USD $15,600Superior
28-12-202509-01-2026USD $10,550Quadruple Porthole
28-12-202509-01-2026USD $12,950Triple Porthole
28-12-202509-01-2026USD $12,950Twin Porthole
28-12-202509-01-2026USD $13,500Twin Window
28-12-202509-01-2026USD $14,550Twin Deluxe
28-12-202509-01-2026USD $15,600Superior
29-12-202510-01-2026USD $11,100Quadruple Porthole
29-12-202510-01-2026USD $13,650Triple Porthole
29-12-202510-01-2026USD $13,650Twin Porthole
29-12-202510-01-2026USD $14,300Twin Window
29-12-202510-01-2026USD $15,400Twin Deluxe
29-12-202510-01-2026USD $16,500Superior

Inclusions

    • Camping
    • Kayaking
    • Mountaineering
    • Paradise Bay
    • Photo Workshop
    • Pléneau Island
    • Snowshoeing
    • Zodiac Cruising & Shore program

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