m/v Hondius

Hondius is the world’s first-registered Polar Class 6 vessel and was built from the ground up for expedition cruising.


m/v Hondius

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.

Specifications

Passengers: 170 in 80 cabins
Staff & crew: Crew 57 | Guides 13 | Doctor 1
Length: 107.6 meters
Breadth: 17.6 meters
Draft: 5.30 meters
Ice class: Polar Class 6 (equivalent 1A-Super)
Displacement: 5,590 tonnes
Propulsion: 2 x ABC main engines; total 4,200 kW
Speed: 15 knots

Deck plans and downloads

m/v Hondius cabins


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.

Photo gallery

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. 

Our cruises

Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Antarctica
Up to $3950 OFF

Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Antarctica

Meet at least six penguin species

HDS25-25 This Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctic Peninsula cruise is an animal-lover’s dream come true. The expedition explores one of the last untamed areas on Earth – a land of ruggedly beautiful landscapes and amazingly varied wildlife.

m/v Hondius

m/v Hondius

Cruise date:

17 Dec, 2024 - 4 Jan, 2025

Berths start from:

13950 USD

Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Antarctica
Up to $10500 OFF

Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Antarctica

Meet at least six penguin species

HDS26-25 This Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctic Peninsula cruise is an animal-lover’s dream come true. The expedition explores one of the last untamed areas on Earth – a land of ruggedly beautiful landscapes and amazingly varied wildlife.

m/v Hondius

m/v Hondius

Cruise date:

4 Jan - 22 Jan, 2025

Berths start from:

9450 USD

Antarctica - Discovery and learning voyage

Classic Antarctica including Deception Island

HDS27-25 This Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands cruise delivers you into a landscape of dark rugged rock, pure white snow, and a fantastic variety of wildlife. Come say hello to whales, seals, and thousands of penguins.

m/v Hondius

m/v Hondius

Cruise date:

22 Jan - 1 Feb, 2025

Berths start from:

8650 USD

Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Antarctica

Meet at least six penguin species

HDS28-25 This Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctic Peninsula cruise is an animal-lover’s dream come true. The expedition explores one of the last untamed areas on Earth – a land of ruggedly beautiful landscapes and amazingly varied wildlife.

m/v Hondius

m/v Hondius

Cruise date:

1 Feb - 20 Feb, 2025

Berths start from:

15750 USD

Falkland Islands - South Georgia - Elephant Island - Antarctica - Polar Circle

Meet at least six penguin species

HDS29-25 This Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctic Peninsula cruise is an animal-lover’s dream come true. The expedition explores one of the last untamed areas on Earth – a land of ruggedly beautiful landscapes and amazingly varied wildlife.

m/v Hondius

m/v Hondius

Cruise date:

20 Feb - 14 Mar, 2025

Berths start from:

16700 USD

Reviews

by Gressier Jocelyne
This expedition has been exceptional! Even when the weather was not good, we had activities : the staf was efficient and very friendly. It was an exceptionnal experience in another world.
by Wolfram Ohlendorf
Kann man nur weiter empfehlen
by Selim Ardüser
Don’t think about it, just book it! Also, the Drake Passage can be, and it was in our case, very chil, relaxed and easy…so, don’t worry about that! Cheers and have fun (-:
by V. Lagler
Die Reise ans "Ende der Welt" war eine tolle Erfahrung und hat meine Erwartungen erfüllt, z.T. übertroffen. Schade, dass wir an der Antarktischen Halbinsel nicht anlanden konnten wegen des vielen Eises. Ich würde allen Leuten empfehlen, die Reise zu einem späteren Zeitpunkt zu planen. Die Guides waren alle top. Sie haben unglaublich viel geleistet und viel zum Erfolg beigetragen (Anlandungen, Vorträge!). Überhaupt war die gesamte Schiffscrew grossartig - von der Kabine bis zur Küche, von der Brücke bis zum Restaurant Service. Alle freundlich, aufgestellt und hilfsbereit. Ein besonderes Lob verdient die Küche. Das Essen war ausgezeichnet, vielfältig und frisch. Ganz toll finde ich die Filmzusammenfassung und die wunderbaren Bilder von Yves, die wir an Ende der Reise entgegennehmen durften. Vielen herzlichen Dank für diese tolle Erinnerung. Ich sehe sie mir jeden Tag mind. einmal an.
by Garie Williams
My expedition cruise to the Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctica was phenomenal! The expedition guides, crew, and ship staff were first class - always happy to answer questions, chat about nature, and help when needed. Very professional, knowledgeable, kind, and glad to help in any way. The ship was clean, well stocked, and comfortable. The food was amazing and plentiful! You do not go long without food on this ship - the variety was mind blowing. Great options and so delicious! The Captain and Expedition Leader really took the time to make well thought out decisions based on the current conditions and got us off the ship as much as possible. We had so many landings and zodiak cruises and spent a lot of time exploring. The ports were absolutely gorgeous and filled with history and remarkable wildlife! My favorite landing was Gold Harbor in South Georgia - I have never seen so many incredible species everywhere! We were surrounded by wildlife and it was like being on another planet. This adventure far exceeded my expectations and I am so grateful for this journey! I completely understand why people keep coming back! Hoping to do the Arctic with Oceanwide soon!
by Anna Weatherstone
This was a most amazing experience - landscape, glaciers, wildlife and tiny plants were awe inspiring. I loved the ice and seeing a polar bear on the ice was my highlight among many highlights. The silence and remoteness was life changing. We never wanted for anything - both crew and guides were marvelous; the former with comfort and wonderful food; the latter offering great activities, the sharing of their knowledge and care and concern for the environment. A superb team.
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