Hondius | Antarctica Expedition Ship

Not only do the many onboard amenities and entertainment options make your Hondius voyage truly unforgettable, but the ship also offers the peace of mind that comes with sailing on one of the most environmentally friendly vessels in the polar regions. Hondius is equipped with LED lighting, steam heating, biodegradable paints and lubricants, and advanced power management systems designed to minimize fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. This ensures that while you fully enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife, your environmental impact remains as low as possible.

Our philosophy is to minimize time at sea in order to maximize your access to shore and near-shore experiences. To ensure you have the closest possible encounters with the nature and wildlife you’ve come to see, we operate a durable fleet of rigid-hull inflatable Zodiac boats that provide quick and safe landings for all passengers. Hondius is equipped with two separate gangways and a sheltered indoor Zodiac boarding area, which can also be used for special outdoor activities like kayaking.

Our highest priority is to seize every opportunity to experience wildlife and terrain as it arises. To maintain flexible itineraries and respond quickly, Hondius is equipped with advanced stabilizers and two powerful main engines, allowing the vessel to reach speeds of up to 15 knots. Despite its sharp polar capabilities, Hondius never compromises on comfort: with a dedicated crew and staff of 70—including expedition and hotel personnel—you can be assured that any time spent on board will be both comfortable and enjoyable.

In keeping with the expedition spirit, attire on board is informal. Pack casual and comfortable clothing suitable for all activities, remembering that much of the stunning scenery is best enjoyed from the deck—which can be slippery. Bring sturdy, non-slip shoes and always keep your parka close by in case a crew member calls out “Whales!” over the loudspeaker, prompting a quick dash outside. Dressing in layers is recommended, as the ship’s interior is comfortably warm while the deck can often be chilly.

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.

The usual gratuity for the ship’s service staff is given as a collective contribution at the end of the voyage and then shared among the crew. Tipping is entirely personal, and the amount you choose to give is completely up to you. As a general guideline, we recommend 10 to 15 euros or US dollars per passenger per day. Providing tips in cash is preferred, as it benefits the crew directly.

We enforce a strict non-smoking policy inside all our vessels; however, smoking is permitted in designated areas only. We kindly ask that you respect the preferences of non-smokers at all times.

You should be in good overall health and capable of walking for several hours each day. Although the expedition is ship-based and not physically demanding, we spend as much time as possible ashore. You are always welcome to stay on board the ship if you prefer. Most excursions require you to navigate a steep gangway—from the ship down to the water level—to board the Zodiacs. Our staff will assist you getting in and out of the boats, and with practice, boarding will become easier. Keep in mind that shore conditions can be slippery and rocky. Since you will be traveling in remote areas without access to advanced medical facilities, this expedition is not suitable if you have a life-threatening condition or require daily medical treatment.