Region: Antarctica
Destinations: Antarctic Circle
Ship: m/v Hondius
Highlights: Antarctic Fur Seal, Adelie Penguin, Arctic Tern, Chinstrap Penguin, Crabeater Seal, Southern Elephant Seal, Fin Whale, Gentoo Penguin, Humpback Whale, Killer Whale, Leopard Seal, Macaroni Penguin, Wandering Albatross, Black-browed Albatross, Snow Petrel, Giant Petrel, Antarctic Petrel
This trip was superb from beginning to end. We were told it wasn't a cruise but an "Expedition" and how right they were. The Hondius is a fantastic ship with all the comforts a great crew, hospitality and expedition leaders team that were so helpful, educated and made it a fantastic trip. After crossing the Drakes passage which was relatively smooth we visited Wihemina Bay & Neko Harbour. We were soon out in the Zodiac boats exploring the Bays seeing Humpback Whales & Killers Whales. The ice conditions allowed us to cross the "Antarctic Circle" with Petrals, Albatrosses & Fulmars following us. We had a spectacular ship cruise through the "Gunnel" towards Marguerite Bay a place I had heard alot about and it was fantastic with incredible icebergs and Peninsular beauty in the background. We visited Stonington Island and with old USA and British Antarctic Bases, what a piece of history, very interesting. Moving back up the west coast of the Peninsular we also visited Salpetiere Bay and Peterman Island. Back in the Zodiacs again to explore and most days we were out in them morning and afternoon. Back for lunch in-between and superb dining. More Whales spotted at Foyn Harbour & Cievra Cove and visited the Guvernoren Shipwreckand old Whaling Ship. We also saw the old Argentinian Primavera Base on a rocky outcrop. We then visted eEephant Point and walked along the beach by the massive Elephant Seals, what a sight. At Whalers Bay and Deception Island we went on land again and joined the "Antarctic Swimming Club" Wow ! what an experience. This was a great end to the Antarctic Peninsular and then out run a hurricane to cross the Drakes Passage again back to Ushuaia and through the famous Beagle Channel. Incredible trip balanced with very knowledgeable lectures on the Ship and light entertainment it truly was a trip of a life time and good value for money; highly recommend. Thank you OceanWide, the crew, the expedition leaders (circa 20 of them) and the ship's hospitality team.
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Comment from Oceanwide Expeditions
Thank you for your kind words!
There's nothing quite like an Oceanwide expedition cruise. We pride ourselves on our authenticity and commitment to balancing unbelievable experiences with responsible polar tourism. It's thanks to explorers like you that our on board atmosphere is so positive, and our guest experience so unique!
Thanks for adventuring with us. We hope to welcome you on board again in the future!