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Antarctica , Destinations , Uncategorized

Best antarctica expedition cruise: hurtigruten ms fridtjof nansen review.

A cruise ship in Antarctica as seen from above with glaciers and mountains in the distance.

Antarctica is a dream destination for many adventure travelers. But, planning a trip to Antarctica can be overwhelming. If you’re looking for the best Antarctica expedition cruise, the MS Fridtjof Nansen ship with Hurtrigruten is a great place to start. 

This modern, beautifully designed and hybrid-powered ship is unbelievable. This MS Fridtjof Nansen review is based on my experience on board the Highlights of Antarctica 12-day cruise with Hurtigruten in December 2022. Keep reading for details on the MS Fridtjof Nansen cabins, restaurants, amenities and more!

Photos from an Antarctica expedition including a sauna, the cruise ship and a penguin.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means that if you purchase through a link, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more info, visit this page .

Why book Hurtigruten’s MS Fridtjof Nansen to Antarctica?

What i love about hurtigruten’s ms fridtjof nansen, what i don’t love about hurtigruten’s ms fridtjof nansen, overall opinion of hurtigruten’s ms fridtjof nansen expedition to antarctica, quark expeditions.

  • Oceanwide Expeditions 

Polar Latitudes

G adventures, albatros expeditions, what activities are included in your expedition cost, what optional activities are available, what happens if there is bad weather, what gear is provided, how do i know where to go and what to do each day on board, what food and drink is included, is the hurtigruten antarctica drink package worth it, how do you pay for stuff on board.

  • The Prepared Girl's Guide to Packing for Antarctica

Among the companies offering Antarctica expeditions, Hurtigruten is a standout due to their commitment to sustainability . They aim to be “the most sustainable travel operator in the world.” On board the MS Fridtjof Nansen, they have eliminated single-use plastic, provide all passengers with a reusable water bottle with refill stations throughout the ship, and implemented unique innovations that have reduced their carbon emissions by over 20% compared to cruise ships of a similar size.

In addition, passengers can contribute by hanging a green tag on their cabin door to indicate that their towels and sheets don’t need changing in order to save energy and water. Each time passengers participate in this program, a donation is made to the Hurtigruten Foundation . Paper schedules for each day’s activities have been replaced with an app and are posted on monitors throughout the ship.

Over a decade ago, Hurtigruten eliminated the use of heavy fuel oil in their ships and continues evaluating new green fuel options as they become available. In short, if sustainability is important to you, Hurtrigruten is a great option for you to consider.

The MS Fridtjof Nansen is a modern ship, built in 2020 in Norway, and is named after a Norwegian explorer most famous for his attempt to reach the geographical north pole in the late 1800’s. It’s capacity is 528 passengers, however for Antarctica expeditions it’s more common for the ship to carry ~300 passengers to allow more time for everyone to enjoy landings and other activities.

Wooden sauna benches look out towards a wall of windows on board Hurtigruten's MS Fridtjof Nansen ship.

The ship is exquisitely designed and built from Scandinavian materials. On board you will find an impressive selection of amenities including a fitness center, spa, sauna, two outdoor hot tubs, a heated pool, a classroom, a science center, three restaurants and a lounge. There are three main types of cabins to choose from, all of which are beautifully designed and more spacious than other cruises I’ve experienced. There is a satellite television, two reclining chairs, and heated bathroom floors in all cabins with additional amenities such as a balcony available in some cabin types.

Although expedition trips are often stereotyped as “basic” accommodations, Hurtigruten’s MS Fridtjof Nansen is modern and luxurious.

Hurtrigruten has been leading expeditions and sailing to remote destinations for over 100 years. While they operate cruises in destinations around the world, they specialize in polar expeditions in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.

The MS Fridtjof Nansen ship is one of their newest ships. From November to March it sails to Antarctica from Ushuaia, Argentina. The remainder of the year it sails to destinations in the Arctic region such as Norway. 

A comfy lounge chair looking out of a wall of windows on board the MS Fridtjof Nansen in Antarctica.

I could rave about the MS Fridtjof Nansen for hours, but will do my best to touch on what I love the most about this ship:

  • Hybrid-powered 
  • The crew (housekeeping, wait staff, expedition crew, and front desk team)*
  • Daily landing and zodiac cruise (weather dependent)
  • Wifi included
  • Beer and wine included with meals
  • Very well organized**
  • Broad range of workshops, classes and activities – you can even stream them live on the tv in your room if you aren’t feeling up for attending them in person!
  • The food (let’s just say I gained a bit on board because it was so good!)
  • Commitment to safety
  • Seamless travel experience ***
  • Beautifully designed and comfortable cabins

Interior of the Arctic Superior Cabin with balcony on board the MS Fridtjof Nansen.

* Even during our very rough Drake Passage crossing, the housekeeping and wait staff were incredible. I was amazed at how they continued to provide service in those conditions. 

** Because the MS Fridtjof Nansen is on the larger size for Antarctica expeditions, the crew needed to be very organized to ensure everyone got an opportunity to experience each landing, cruise and the optional add-on excursions without feeling rushed. They were so well organized and communicated effectively to passengers. I always felt like I knew what was going on, where I needed to be, and where to go.

Passengers boarding a zodiac boat from the MS Fridtjof Nansen expedition launch area in Antarctica.

Being a larger ship and with the latest technology, the MS Fridtjof Nansen seemed to handle the Drake Passage better than some of the older and smaller ships. The first day of my trip had over 10 meter (33 foot) swells through the Drake Passage. Two ships who left after us but on the same day had to turn around and depart again a day or two later. If you are concerned about crossing the Drake Passage, the MS Fridtjof Nansen may help make it more manageable for you.

*** From start to finish, my Antarctica expedition on the MS Fridtjof Nansen was seamless. Included in your package is a hotel in Buenos Aires the night before, orientation with Hurtigruten’s ground crew at the hotel, transfer to the airport in Buenos Aires, a charter flight to and from Ushuaia, and transfer into Ushuaia from the airport. Once on board, any additional expenses are charged using your room key and settled at checkout. Hurtigruten has many options for excursions before or after an Antarctica expedition as well!

Pro Tip: Consider joining the free 1893 Ambassador loyalty program before departing. Read more about the benefits here.

There is very little I didn’t love about my experience on Hurtigruten’s MS Fridtjof Nansen Antarctica expedition. Here are three things you should be aware of before booking your trip.

An Antarctica expedition is expensive. There’s no getting around that. Within that already expensive range, an Antarctica expedition on the MS Fridtjof Nansen is in the middle to high end of cost depending on how far you book in advance and what cabin you choose to stay in. However, for all the reasons I listed above, I feel that there’s strong value for the cost if you can afford it. 

Pro Tip: If you book more than 90 days in advance, you can spread the cost of your Antarctica expedition with Hutrigruten out. Check their terms and conditions for the latest info but at the time of this being written, 25% is due at the time of booking with the balance due 90 days prior to departure. 

On top of the cost already being relatively high, there is also the consideration of the single occupancy cost. Prices for Hurtigruten’s Antarctica expeditions are based on double occupancy, assuming two passengers will be sharing a cabin. Those traveling solo are subject to a single occupancy cost which is generally a percentage of the cabin price. For instance, say you book your cabin for $8000 USD and the single occupancy cost is 75% of the cabin rate, you would end of paying an additional $6000 or $14000 total to have the room to yourself. 

Pro Tip: Check Hurtigruten’s special offers page as they occasionally waive the single occupancy fee. Currently there is an offer that waives all single occupancy fees on specific expeditions in 2023!

There are several Facebook groups (Hurtigruten Insiders, Antarctica: Bucket List to Booked) where people will post that they are looking for roommates. Obviously, do this at your own risk. Alternatively, consider booking with a travel agent like I did and they may be able to pair you up with other solo travelers. 

A scientist giving a lecture about Antarctic fish on board the ship in Antarctica.

Finally, expeditions are different from typical cruises. They are geared towards outdoor activities, photography, and educational experiences. If you are looking for live music, theater, or other entertainment you may be disappointed. However, if you enjoy learning about Antarctic wildlife, the history of Antarctic exploration, wildlife photography, knot tying, and climate change you won’t be bored.

Ok, one more thing. As a coffee lover, I was very disappointed in the coffee on board. It might be the type of bean they use but despite my best efforts, I could not drink it. If you love coffee, consider bringing your own.

This was among the best travel experiences I’ve had to date. From the ship, to the crew, to the food, and the seamless experience created by Hurtigruten from start to finish, I loved every minute of my experience on board the MS Fridtjof Nansen as part of Hurtigruten’s Highlights of Antarctica package. 

A trip to Antarctica is a bucket list item for many people. Having talented and experienced expedition crew members and photographers on board made sure that we made the most of this one in a lifetime adventure. It’s also arguably the most remote destination in the world. The crew and ship made me feel safe throughout the expedition and with the included wifi on board, I was able to stay in touch with my family and let them know I was safe.

The observation deck on board the MS Fridtjof Nansen ship in Antarctica.

How Does Hurtigruten’s MS Fridtjof Nansen Compare to Alternatives?

There are many options to choose from when booking an Antarctica expedition. As part of my research, I spoke with people who have traveled with different expedition companies. Here’s what I learned from them and through my own research.

Quark was the most highly rated and consistently recommended in my research. Their first expedition was in 1991 to the North Pole and since they’ve expanded and evolved to include destinations around the world. 

Their ships are on the smaller side and offer a more intimate experience with a capacity of under 200 passengers. While they may not be the cheapest, one traveler I spoke with who has been to Antarctica twice told me the “staff are far better than any other tour company.” 

Oceanwide Expeditions  

Oceanwide Expeditions specializes in voyages to the Arctic and Antarctic regions. They aim to maximize time off of the ship either on shore or on zodiac boats. Their ships are on the smaller side as well, with maximum passenger capacity of under 200 people.

This expedition company is highly specialized in travel to Antarctica with their first full season voyages beginning in 2013. Their newest ship, the MS Seaventure, began sailing to Antarctica in 2021 bringing their fleet to three ships total.

Polar Latitudes is Founder-owned and operated. Leading Antarctica expeditions is their passion. In fact you may even find that the owner is with you on board your ship! 

G Adventures is one of the more budget-friendly Antarctica expedition options, geared towards a younger crowd and solo travelers. Solo travelers are given the option to share a room with another traveler of the same sex with options to secure your own room for a cost.

Unlike the other expedition companies on this list, G Adventures does not specialize in Antarctic or polar travel. They offer tours around the world on every continent. So, while they do specialize in curating and hosting travel experiences at a more affordable cost, if you are looking for deep expertise and passion for Antarctic travel other expedition companies may be a better fit.

This family-owned company specializes in Arctic and Antarctic expeditions. Similar to Hurtigruten, they focus on sustainability as well as diversity. They currently have just one ship sailing to Antarctica with another joining their fleet in 2023. Both are small, with less than 100 staterooms. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Hurtigruten Antarctica Expeditions & the MS Fridtjof Nansen

It’s likely that you have a million questions about Hurtrigruten and the MS Fridtjof Nansen. I’ll answer the most frequent questions I receive here but encourage you to check out the extensive FAQ on Hurtrigruten’s website as well.

Each day in Antarctic waters, weather permitting, all passengers can take part in a landing and a cruise. A landing typically includes a hike, wildlife viewing, and other activities. Passengers are transported from the ship to land on a small zodiac boat. A cruise is a zodiac boat ride in the harbor or channel around the ship to look for wildlife, icebergs and other sites. Both the landing and the cruise vary in duration but tend to be up to 2 hours each.

Kayaking on an Antarctica expedition cruise with Hurtigruten

Hurtigruten offers four optional add-on activities on their Antarctica expeditions. These are kayaking, snowshoeing, camping and the science boat. Due to limited spaces in these activities, interested passengers must attend an info session on board and, if still interested, submit their name for a lottery. 

The biggest thing to know about Antarctica expeditions is to be flexible. The weather can change very quickly, creating unsafe conditions for landings and cruises. The expedition leader is responsible for deciding if it is safe to complete the day’s activities. Expect changes, it’s part of the experience.

On the MS Fridtjof Nansen, passengers are provided with boots, a wind and waterproof shell jacket, and a life jacket. For safety and operational reasons, all three were required to be worn anytime passengers leave the ship. 

Me on a land excursion on an Antarctica expedition cruise.

For landings, hiking poles were available. For all optional excursions such as kayaking, camping and snowshoeing all necessary gear is provided.

For more tips read my complete Antarctica cruise packing guide!

Upon check-in all passengers are assigned to a group, which are named after Antarctic wildlife. To minimize waste, the daily schedule is updated on the Hurtigruten app which is accessible to all passengers and on monitors on board. The daily schedule will show what time each group should report to the Expedition Launch area.

Meals can be scheduled through the app at any of the three restaurants, but drop ins are ok as well.

All three meals are included with your expedition. Beer and wine is included with both lunch and dinner. There is one restaurant on board that provides takeaway if you prefer to eat in your room or elsewhere on board. In general, breakfast and lunch are buffet which includes vegetarian, pescatarian, gluten-free, and plant-based options. Dinner tends to be seated service with a different menu each day. 

Personally, I don’t think so. If you do the math, you would need to drink 4-5 drinks per day in addition to the beer and wine included with your lunch and dinner in order to get your money’s worth. Individual drinks can be charged to your room and paid for at checkout.

There is very little you need to pay for once on board the ship. Typical charges would include any optional excursions, drinks in the lounge, spa services, postage, laundry and purchases at the gift shop. All charges on board are made using your individually assigned room key. At checkout the account can be paid using a credit card. 

Tips can be given directly to staff or placed in an envelope at the front desk.

The Prepared Girl’s Guide to Packing for Antarctica

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

Make packing for Antarctica easy with this downloadable and printable packing list.

Still have questions about Antarctica expeditions with Hurtigruten or the MS Fridtjof Nansen? Drop a comment below! I’d be happy to answer them.

Related content to read next:

What to Wear for Winter Hiking: A Prepared Girl’s Guide

Visit my Antarctica travel page for additional resources and tips.

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A cruise ship in Antarctica as seen from above with glaciers and mountains in the distance.

This Big Wild World

Hi! Welcome to This Big Wild World travel blog! I believe that there’s a sense of adventure inside of everyone, waiting to be discovered. From epic hikes around the world to adventures closer to my home in Minnesota, I’m here to help you discover what adventure means to you!

10 thoughts on “ Best Antarctica Expedition Cruise: Hurtigruten MS Fridtjof Nansen Review ”

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I’m so excited for you and your wife! It’s going to be an incredible adventure. Great questions! I did camp out on the ice and loved it. I don’t recall the exact cost but believe it was around $450(US). Camping is one of the most popular excursions (that’s not included in the cruise) and has very limited spots. Expect there to be a mandatory info session while you’re onboard crossing the Drake Passage. If after attending the info session, you are still interested in going (they explain how it all works in more detail) you have to put your name into the lottery. In general, they treat people in the same cabin as a pair so if one of you gets in its likely both of you will. So be sure to attend the info session and put your names in the lottery.

As far as bathrooms while camping, they do recommend you limit liquid intake that afternoon but there are portable cartridge toilets you can use. They dig out a spot in the snow and build a half wall of snow around one side of them for privacy. It’s quite cold so you won’t want to have to use it multiple times if you don’t have to. Keep in mind the sun doesn’t set this time of year so it will be light out all night. I was fairly warm in the sleeping bag they provided but put hand warmers in my socks and in my chest pocket overnight to make it more comfortable.

Hope this helps – have an amazing trip!

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Great blog. Turns out my wife and I are already booked on the FRIDTJOF NANSEN departing on Dec 2nd. Great minds think alike!

I’d like to know whether you camped out on the ice or if you have any information or recommendations? Also, how expensive is it? Finally, my wife has eard there is a hygene requirement that prevents a camper from even urinating during the entire experience. Is that correct?

Looking forward to your reply.

Cheers, Les

You’re welcome, Jessica! I’m so excited for you!!!

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Thank you for your the clarification. Well, I went for it! I booked it!

You’re welcome, Jessica! I completely understand why stepping foot on Antarctica is important for you – it was for me too! I’m really glad you asked this because I can see this wasn’t clear in my post. Hurtigruten allows you to set foot on Antarctica and that is included with the costs of the expedition cruise. Every day we were in Antarctica we got to go on land (referred to as a “landing”) and on a zodiac boat ride (referred to as a “cruise”) around the harbor. This is weather dependent (as is everything in Antarctica) but it’s reasonable to expect to go on land several times during your trip.

The excursions that cost extra and had limited spots were camping, kayaking, and snowshoeing.

I hope this helps address your concern!

Thank you for writing about your experience on this cruise. I’m thinking about booking it, but the only thing that concerns me is the chance of not being able to actually walk on Antartica. You said that due to limited spaces in these activities, you get to participate if your name is picked in the lottery. Is it a relatively small amount of people interested in actually setting foot on land? Or did a lot of people on the cruise end up disappointed because they didn’t get pick?

The Drake shake was quite the experience, for sure, but it’s also part of the adventure! I’m glad we got to experience it but was also glad when it was over 🙂

Thanks, Josy! I can relate. Cruises are not really my thing, but I’m learning that sustainable expedition cruises are 🙂 I was really impressed by all the elements of the ships design and services that were environmentally friendly – and, yes, posh too! That sauna is so dreamy.

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Sounds like you had an amazing time! That ship does look very impressive.

Antarctica is on my list, but the Drake shake doesn’t sound like fun at all.

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Oooh I have been looking forward to your Antarctica posts Susan! This actually sounds amazing. I mean, it is pricy, but the mean reason I have never wanted to go on a cruise was as they are so, so bad for the environment (before covid…since covid I’ve added the petri dish aspect of cruising…)

Trust you to find a sustainable option that isn’t going to ruin the very place you wanted to visit! It all looks so gorgeous and posh too!

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hurtigruten antarctica excursions

The focus of this expedition is on the icy wilderness and heartwarming wildlife of Antarctica. Pick from departures throughout its summer season and enjoy five unforgettable days on the frozen continent with a dedicated Expedition Team. You’ll learn through lectures on a wide range of topics, explore glaciers and icebergs on ice-cruises and go on landings at penguin colonies.

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

  • Brief Itinerary
  • Landings & Activities
  • Expedition Team
  • Science Program
  • Young Explorers Friendly

Explore the birthplace of the tango on an overnight stay

Fly early in the morning to Ushuaia and start your journey with a welcome gathering

As we cross the famed Drake Passage, enjoy lectures and all the amenities onboard our hybrid powered expedition cruise ship

Explore deep into spectacular scenery, come close to fearless wildlife, glaciers, historic whaling stations and more

Enjoy lectures and films, and join the fun at the Nansen Science Center

Transfer to the airport for your return to Buenos Aires

With multiple dates available, we offer you this sailing on two ships possessing different styles and offering something truly unique. No matter which ship you choose, each is an ideal starting point for excursions, and perfectly designed to provide a great place to relax with panoramic areas to view the beautiful scenery around you. Get in touch with our expedition consultant to learn more about their features and which ship suits your exploration style

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

Go on landings and small boat cruises, as well as optional kayaking and camping opportunities if conditions allow. Briefings occur before each activity, making you aware of any potential risks and of strict protocol regarding local wildlife. Both on and off the ship, lectures are held on a wide variety of specialist topics that cover: birds and marine mammals, oceanography and geology, sea ice and glaciers, climate, exploration history and storytelling, photography. We will also have a welcome event, daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

An international hand-picked team of highly educated experts that safeguard both explorers and the pristine environment. They serve as your invaluable hosts throughout your expedition cruise leading your way to offshore activities and keeping you informed onboard on daily activities and events

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

We invite our guests to participate in science activities, developing a greater understanding of the region in which they travel, becoming true ambassadors, and returning home to champion the protection of our planet's most fragile ecosystems. Learn from a scientist during collaborative lectures, hands on experiences with microscopes. Join our citizen science boats to collect samples on behalf of research institutes

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

For curious and active youth aged 6-12 years of age, we offer free-of-charge Young Explorers’ Programme to makes it easier to meet other children on board, bond over common activities and form lasting friendships. Via this program, the children will learn about other cultures, the importance of nature in our daily lives, and the impact humans have on our delicate and beautiful planet. To reserve, please contact our booking office

Day wise Itinerary

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

Your adventure starts with an overnight stay in Buenos Aires, the lovely capital of Argentina. Check out the well-preserved Italian and French architecture, order delicious beef in one of the many great steakhouses and maybe practise your dancing moves in the famous hometown of tango. Make sure to embrace the heat from this sensuous city, because it is about to get much colder. If you would like more time to explore the city, we recommend coming a few days early. Or how about extending your stay with an optional Pre-Programme to explore wild Patagonia?

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

Late nighters beware, we fly early in the morning to Ushuaia where hybrid-powered expedition ship MS Fridtjof Nansen/MS Roald Amundsen awaits you. This port city competes with Chilean Puerto Williams for the seemingly coveted title of the southernmost city in the world. The Martial Glacier sits north of the city, creating an impressive mountain backdrop for the ‘end of the world’. After a mandatory health and safety meeting on board the ship, kick off your journey with a welcome dinner hosted by the Expedition Team. You can then spend some time getting to know the ship that will be your home for the next several days.

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

In order to get to Antarctica, we have to cross the infamous Drake Passage. It was named after the English sea captain and privateer Sir Francis Drake who discovered it by chance in 1578 when his ship was taken south by heavy winds. Since there is no landmass at this latitude, wind and water roam freely, making it hard for ships to sail here. But don’t worry, even the ‘Drake Shake’ isn’t a big deal for our modern expedition ship. It takes two days to cross the roughly 1000-km-wide Drake Passage. So, you’ll have some time on your hands, which is definitely a good thing as there is plenty to do to get ready for your Antarctic adventure. The Expedition Team will start their lecture programme in the Science Center, drawing on decades of experience to teach you how to make your visit as safe and as sustainable as possible. As per IAATO guidelines, we will all wear sterilised rubber boats when ashore and ensure we vacuum our clothing beforehand to remove any possible foreign contaminants. You will also learn about the various hands-on Citizen Science projects you can get involved in, all of which feed into live research and current science. MS Fridtjof Nansen/ MS Roald Amundsen, lies at your feet to be explored as well, quite literally. Work out in the indoor or outdoor gym, or order a spa treatment in our Wellness Area. There are also three superb restaurants on board where you can enjoy delicious meals that are a treat for your eyes and your taste buds. But even with all these mod cons, don’t forget to head out on deck from time to time to look for your first iceberg, and to spot wildlife like whales, numerous types of petrels and albatrosses.

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

Welcome to Antarctica. Being here, surrounded by icy waters, glaciers and icebergs big as cathedrals will probably make you feel like you’ve landed in a completely new world. Antarctica is magnificent, mesmerising and massive. You might need to stop for a moment to be able to take it all in. That awe-inspired silence is inevitably broken though when you see the first signs of wildlife like penguins, whales or seals and enthusiastic cheers erupt spontaneously all across the ship. Just as the icescapes of Antarctica change through its seasons, so does its wildlife. In late spring from October to November, there will be much more snow, making the landscapes seem even more pristine. This forms the backdrop of penguin courting and nest building. Whales are still few and far in between during this time, most of them still on their way and beginning to arrive in greater numbers by December and January. Arrival of more whales marks the height of summer which is also when the first penguin chicks hatch. Seeing the clumsy clumps of feathers run around and is always a charming sight. February and March are the peak of whale-watching opportunities, when large amounts of krill lure them to the area. When we get here, the Expedition Team will seize every chance to take you ice-cruising and on landings to get closer to the impressive scenery and wildlife. Spotting penguins from the ship is already an experience, which becomes even more wonderous when you go ashore to see them. It’s the same if a seal or whale suddenly appears next to you when cruising in our smaller explorer boats or when kayaking as part of an optional activity. Needless to say; keep your camera close at all times. To enhance your feeling of discovery, the Expedition Team will talk expertly about fascinating subjects like the frozen continent’s history, the biology of local wildlife, and glaciology.

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

After having explored remote and wild Antarctica over five days, we will be due to sail back for home. By this point, both your head and your heart will be filled with lifelong memories. You’ll hopefully also have captured many of these special moments on your camera. Crossing back over the Drake Passage, you’ll probably spend the next couple of days going through those pictures just to try and stay in Antarctica a little longer. The Expedition Team will also be doing the same as they recap the journey’s many experiences over in the Science Center. Working out is also a great way of processing everything you have seen, or maybe let your mind wander back to Antarctica in the Explorer Lounge and Bar?

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

Your expedition cruise reaches its end as we return to Ushuaia. From here, you join a transfer to the airport for your flight back to Buenos Aires and a second chance to experience the Argentine capital. Since you are here already, why not extend your stay to keep your adventure going for a little while longer by joining our optional Post-Programme to the magnificent Iguazu waterfalls. You will now have travelled to the bottom of the world and back. You’ve journeyed to the fabled Seventh Continent and have enchanting stories and photos of penguins to prove it. Antarctica will likely hold a place in your heart which few other places can match. Together with the other explorers who have been there, may we do all we can to preserve its unique beauty.

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

Whats Included

  • Hurtigruten Expedition Cruise in cabin grade of your choice
  • Overnight in Buenos Aires before the expedition cruise, including breakfast
  • Transfer from the hotel in Buenos Aires to Buenos Aires airport before the expedition cruise
  • Transfers between Ushuaia airport and the ship, including a short tour of the town
  • Return flights in economy class between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages in restaurant Aune and Fredheim
  • A la carte restaurant Lindstrom included for suite guests
  • Complimentary tea and coffee
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill stations on board
  • A rich programme of included activities on all voyages designed to immerse you in the destinations you visit, including onshore exploration with the Expedition Team
  • English speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
  • Range of included excursions
  • Complimentary wind- and water-resistant jacket
  • Loan of spikes and trekking poles, and equipment needed for optional and included activities
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Optional shore excursions with our local partners or Expedition Team
  • Travel insurance
  • Luggage handling

Special Note

  • Mandatory medical questionnaire required to fill to join this expedition
  • Price based on two people travelling together sharing a twin cabin
  • Single cabin pricing available on request
  • This is an expedition where the elements rule, and the weather, wind and ice conditions will determine our schedule. Safety is paramount and the captain will decide the final sailing itinerary during the voyage. Hence, this itinerary is just an indication of what you can experience and why every expedition with us is unique.

With just 20% deposit and pay the remaining balance only 90 Days before departure date.

For those approaching us within 90 days of departure date, can reserve their space with full payment

You can cancel your booking anytime with us, based on the below conditions :

90 or more days : Retention of 20% deposit

60-89 days :  30%

28-59 days : 60%

14-27 days : 90%

Less than 14 days : 100%

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hurtigruten antarctica excursions

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Relax and enjoy our best-selling all inclusive Scandinavian Escorted Coach tours through beautiful Norway with its spectacular fjords, Sweden, Denmark and Finland, complete with fjord cruises, Flam Railway and extensions to Moscow and St. Petersburg...

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Voyage overview

Explore the best of Scandinavia on our escorted small-group Signature tour under the magical Aurora Borealis.

On this elevated Northern Lights tour, you will explore hidden treasures across Norway, Sweden and Finland. Guided by a team of local experts, join 20 like-minded travellers for bucket-list Arctic activities, outstanding cuisine, and one-of-a-kind accommodation.

Sail on a 14-day all-inclusive voyage aboard The North Cape Line along Norway’s breathtaking coast from Oslo to Tromsø

Visit charming coastal towns like Ålesund and see awe-inspiring Norwegian scenery like Pulpit Rock and the Lofoten Islands

In Finland, enjoy two nights in a Glass Igloo and one night in a Glass Villa, perfect for stargazing and watching the Northern Lights if they appear

Go on a snowmobile sleigh ride and husky dog sledding through the Lapland wilderness and take an icebreaker cruise in Bothnian Bay

The day-by-day programme will give you some ideas about what you can see during your voyage, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary.

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Discovering Norway’s capital

Welcome to Norway. First stop: Norway’s thriving capital, Oslo .

If you have time before you board your ship for the voyage ahead, you’ll want to explore the many charms this cosmopolitan capital has to offer. Make your way to the city centre, where you can take snaps of the architecturally distinct Rådhuset town hall, Royal Palace, and Oslo Cathedral.

Once you’ve boarded your ship MS Trollfjord and you’ve settled into your cabin or suite, you’ll meet your Coastal Experience Team. You’ll get to know each member of the team as they give lectures and organise onboard activities throughout your voyage.

Meet your fellow guests in the ship’s two-storey panorama lounge and watch as the capital’s twinkling lights fade into the distance.

Day 2 Around Norway’s Southern Cape v3 NCE TF Winter 2526 Norway Lindesnes Lighthouse HGR 163167 Photo Shutterstock

Settle in at sea

Spend today relaxing on board and getting a taste of our Norway’s Coastal Kitchen cuisine in the ship’s three restaurants and bar.

You’ll have time to simply watch Norway’s spectacular southern coast glide by. Take it all in from the expansive Observation Deck, from the comfort of your ship’s two-storey lounge and bar, or from the panoramic sauna.

As well as the views, this stretch of coast is home to history and stories. Find out more about Norway’s coast and the voyage ahead in the lectures, presentations, and onboard activities planned for today.

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Fjord views and city culture

Today, you’ll wake to views of the beautiful Lysefjord. The 42-km-long fjord is home to one of Norway’s most famous sights: Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock), which towers 604 metres above the fjord’s shimmering waters.

Kjerag mountain, at the end of the fjord, reaches even higher. Along the way, watch for mountain goats, waterfalls, and the famous Kjeragbolten, a glacial boulder wedged high up in a crevasse.

You’ll spend the rest of the day in Stavanger, a colourful waterside city with an international ambience and a lively cultural scene. Discover the architectural relics of Gamle (Old) Stavanger, which includes Northern Europe’s best-preserved collection of wooden houses, and Norway’s oldest cathedral, dating from the 12th century.

You can also visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, browse the local boutique shops, or simply enjoy a drink on the waterfront.

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A picturesque town

After breakfast on the ship, we’ll dock at a town on a small peninsula surrounded by beautiful mountains and islands.

Many of the buildings here, from the bright colours to the rounded spires, were inspired by the Art Nouveau style, which was popular in the early 1900s. You can get impressive photos of the archipelago from the nearby Mount Aksla viewpoint.

You can also visit the Atlantic Sea Park, Norway’s first marine science centre. This is one of Northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums, providing a home to seals, otters, and crabs, as well as many other kinds of marine life. You can even see Humboldt Penguins here, a species otherwise absent north of the equator.

Join an optional excursion to explore Ålesund on foot or by bus, as your guide reveals the town’s surprising secrets to you.

Rørvik, Norway

An ancient fishing town

The cosy fishing port of Rørvik in the picturesque Vikna archipelago may look small but it has a huge history that is told through both the landscape and the town’s collection of museums.

Here, you can join an optional excursion and time travel through the last 10,000 years and get a glimpse of the future, thanks to the Ice Age-carved landscape, carefully preserved 19th-century living rooms, and the ingenuity of Norwegian salmon production – each preserved and explained in three excellent museums.

In the afternoon, we’ll continue sailing north through the Vikna archipelago made up of 6,000 islands, islets and reefs. The local gardens bloom with plum and apple blossoms in the spring, even at 65°N, thanks to the maritime climate.

As we sail through the night, we’ll leave the Helgeland coast behind us as we cross the Arctic Circle.

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Lofoten islands and our historic birthplace

On the penultimate day of your voyage, we explore Lofoten. As soon as you see the towering peaks with fishing villages clinging to their sides, you’ll understand why this island chain is praised as one of Norway’s most stunning locations.

We’ll dock in the town of Svolvær mid-morning. Located on the island of Austvågøya in the heart of Lofoten, Svolvær is the biggest town of the archipelago, humming with shops, restaurants, galleries, and cafés to enjoy. You can also admire views of the Svolvær Goat, a nearby mountain named for resembling a goat and its horns.

A variety of optional excursions are available from Svolvær, including winter fishing, paddling along the coastline in a kayak, or embarking on a bus tour to learn more about Lofoten’s history.

We can’t visit the area without spending a couple of hours in Stokmarknes. It was here that the Original Coastal Express was founded in 1893 by shipping pioneer Richard With. On the waterfront, you’ll find our 1956 ship MS Finnmarken, encased in the Hurtigruten Museum’s glass building like a ship in a bottle.

Trollfjord Norway Tromso HGR 163246 Espen Mills

The gateway to the Arctic

Tromsø, often called the ‘gateway to the Arctic’, is also named the ‘Arctic Capital. Sitting around 217 miles north of the Arctic Circle, the city is known for great winter activities and for chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Once you’ve arrived and disembarked the MS Trollfjord, you will meet your tour manager and fellow travelers before setting off from Tromsø in your private first-class coach.

Your land-based adventure begins as you head east into the majestic Lyngen Alps, with scenic fjord crossings on local ferries. You’ll drive along one of Norway’s most breathtaking roads, following the stunning Lyngen Fjord.

Arriving in Skibotn, you'll journey southeast, crossing into Finland and reaching the picturesque Finnish resort village of Kilpisjärvi, just 8 kilometers from the Norwegian border.

Dog sledding, Tromso, Norway

Norway, Sweden and Finland in under a minute

After breakfast, set out on an unforgettable winter safari. Glide across a pristine frozen lake and through enchanting snowy birch forests aboard a snow sleigh or snowmobile.

Your journey will lead you to Koltavuoma, where the distinctive yellow border cairn marks the world’s most tranquil border between Finland, Sweden, and Norway.

This popular 3-hour adventure, covering approximately 30 km, lets you traverse three countries in under a minute. The tour includes expert guiding, warm thermal outfits, professional photos by the guide, and a drink and pastry at the hotel to round off your experience.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore the surroundings at your own pace. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant, followed by an exciting Northern Lights excursion with the tour managers. Weather permitting, you’ll venture out with the group in search of the mesmerising Aurora Borealis.

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The Northern Lights village

After breakfast, board a private coach and journey southeast along the picturesque Swedish-Finnish border. You’ll arrive in the resort of Levi for two enchanting nights in a private Aurora Cabin, otherwise called a Glass Igloo. This unique accommodation, nestled away from light pollution, provides clear views of the night sky and maybe even the Northern Lights right from your bed.

Upon arrival and check-in, enjoy a delightful dinner at the hotel restaurant. As evening falls, embark on a magical 3-hour heated snowmobile sleigh safari through moonlit, snow-covered forests, all the while looking out for the aurora.

This unforgettable experience includes expert guiding, hot drinks, cookies, and marshmallows by the fire, thermal clothing, and the perfect opportunity to witness and photograph the Northern Lights in all their glory.

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Husky safari

After breakfast, you’ll swap snowmobiles from the night before for husky sleds. The energetic team of dogs will take you on a 5 km sleigh ride through Lapland's pristine forests. This unforgettable adventure begins in front of an Aurora hut and promises a fast-paced, memorable journey through the winter wonderland.

Following the safari, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, with options to join additional activities such as a reindeer or snowmobile safari (weather permitting). End your day with dinner at the hotel restaurant.

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Icebreaker adventure

After breakfast, board a private coach for a scenic journey from Levi to Kemi, with a brief stop in Rovaniemi. Arrive at the Experience 365 winter resort and check into the unique Glass Villas, where you’ll spend the night later enjoying panoramic views of the snowy landscape.

In the afternoon, head to Ajos pier on Bothnian Bay where you’ll board an icebreaker ship. It’s a thrilling experience as the icebreaker ploughs powerfully through the frozen sea. If you’re brave and bold, take a refreshing dip in the icy waters while wearing a full-body waterproof survival suit. Return to the resort for a delicious dinner to complete your day.

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Finland’s capital

Travel by train from Kemi to Helsinki. Widely regarded as one of the world’s best cities to live in, Helsinki is vibrant and colourful, offering a balance of historic architecture and contemporary living. With many trails nearby, the city is also known for its incredible natural scenery.

A two-hour city tour will take you to explore key landmarks including City Hall, the Parliament buildings, Finlandia Hall, the Opera House, and, weather permitting, the famous Sibelius Monument. A highlight of the tour is a visit to the remarkable Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church). As its name implies, this wonderful building and testament to Finnish artistry is carved into solid rock.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at the hotel with your fellow travellers.

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The Adventure ends

Sadly, today marks the end of your journey with us. After breakfast at the hotel, say your goodbyes to the crew and your fellow travellers.

From the far south of Norway up to its northernmost city, then down through Finnish Lapland – you’ve been on quite the journey! You’ve travelled across three Scandinavian countries, with the Northern Lights hopefully making a pleasant appearance not just one but a few times.

The memories you’ve collected throughout your time with us will remain with you for years to come. You’ll also likely be going home with plenty of photos from various activities and places that you can share with family and friends.

Thank you for coming with us on this Signature tour. We hope to see you again soon for another adventure.

Oslo-Tromsø NCL North 24/25

About your trip

What's included, for guests in cabins   .

Enjoy an impressive range of included benefits when you choose from our selection of comfortable options: Polar Inside, Polar Outside, and Arctic Superior cabins.  

Accommodation   

Choice of cabin type  

Accommodation in a comfortable cabin with ensuite bathroom  

Read more about the cabins on MS Trollfjord

Food and drink   

Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the ship’s main restaurant, Flora  

Daily lunch and dinner in Brasserie Árran 

Unlimited selected drinks in Flora, Brasserie Árran, and 1893 Bar during opening hours  

Unlimited selected tea and coffee  

Afternoon snack in the bar  

Culinary demonstrations and food tastings  

Read more about the restaurants on board

Life on board   

Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship and in your cabin 

Multi-lingual Coastal Experience Team  

Daily themed lectures, photography guidance, arts and crafts sessions  

Access to the fitness room and sauna  

Music entertainment and library access  

Selection of equipment for outdoor activities off ship 

Read more about your onboard experience

Tour inclusions:

4-star accommodation

7 nights cruise accommodation & 6 nights cruise accommodation

Daily breakfast, 5 lunches on Hurtigruten

12 dinners, (6 on Hurtigruten) including 1 farewell dinner in Helsinki including a glass of beer, wine, soft drink

First class coach from Tromsø to Kemi

Second – class rail from Kemi to Helsinki

English-speaking tour manager from start to finish

Border of Three Countries safari

Aurora Hunting by Heated Sleigh (3 hrs)

Husky Safari – 5 km sleigh ride (weather permitting) (1 hr)

Icebreaker cruise Bothnian Bay

City sightseeing tour of Helsinki

Upgrade your voyage with:  

Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner in award-winning fine-dining restaurant, Røst  

Unlimited selected drinks in Røst during opening hours with an upgraded wine selection  

Unlimited handcrafted cocktails in the bar during opening hours  

Afternoon tea with sparkling wine 

Hurtigruten clothing package, including shell jacket, wool sweater, wool hat  

Camera equipment and binoculars rental  

Wide range of optional seasonal excursions and guided hikes 

For guests in suites   

For the absolute best in onboard comfort, cuisine, service, and beautifully appointed rooms, choose our Signature voyages suite experience.  

  Accommodation   

Choice of suite type  

Fast track, priority check-in  

Accommodation in a stylish, spacious suite with ensuite bathroom  

No charge on any items in your suite’s minibar 

Daily minibar refill  

King-size beds  

Daily turndown service   

Read more about the suites on MS Trollfjord

Choice of dining times during restaurant opening hours  

Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the ship’s main restaurant, Flora 

Exclusive dinner with the ship’s officers  

Unlimited selected drinks in Røst during opening hours  

Unlimited cocktails in the bar during opening hours  

Unlimited tea and coffee (selected types offered) 

Occasional afternoon tea with cakes and sparkling wine 

  Life on board   

Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship and in your suite 

Selection of equipment for outdoor activities off ship  

Visit to the bridge when in port – at the Captain’s discretion  

Complimentary use of binoculars  

Camera equipment rental  

What's Not Included

Return flights and transfers in Norway – unless you select this during the booking process

Luggage handling

Travel insurance

Additional excursions and gratuities

We have several ships in the fleet that we travel with.

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MS Trollfjord

Flagship of our Signature voyages, MS Trollfjord takes its name from a small but spectacular fjord in the Vesterålen archipelago.

Know before you go

  • FAQ: MS Trollfjord
  • Restaurants on The Svalbard Line and The North Cape Line
  • Meet the team: MS Trollfjord
  • Life on board MS Trollfjord

Optional Excursions

Explore your destination even further with our wide range of exciting excursions. The excursion programme presented is an indication of some of the excursions that may be available during your voyage.

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On the trail of the Vikings

Starts from

Fargegaten Stavanger Norway HGR 148192 Andrea Klaussner

Walking tour in the old town of Stavanger

2 hours 30 minutes

A group of tourists on a walking tour of Ålesund

Ålesund on Foot

Summer (Jun - Aug), Autumn (Sep - Oct), Spring (Apr - May)

1 hours 30 minutes

alesund Norway HGR 155734 Kay Fochtmann

Saga Islands Bus Tour to Alnes - Winter

Spring (Apr - May), Autumn (Sep - Oct), Winter (Nov - Mar)

Rørvik, Norway

Time Travel through the Coastal Town of Rørvik

Rørvik - surrounded by thousands of islands

Spring (Apr - May), Summer (Jun - Aug), Autumn (Sep - Oct)

The Medieval Church of Nærøya island

Nærøya: The island of the Gods

Spring (Apr - May), Winter (Nov - Mar)

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Lofoten Scenery & Henningsvær

Svolvær – at the heart of Lofoten

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Lofoten RIB & Sea Eagle Adventure

Summer (Jun - Aug), Autumn (Sep - Oct)

1 hour 30 minutes 

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Kayaking in Lofoten - Winter

Fishing boat in winter in Lofoten

Winter Fishing in Lofoten

2 hours 45 minutes

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hurtigruten antarctica excursions

Antarctica Cruises

Book early for 2025 and 2026 sailings to Antarctica and save up to 20% with the HX Price Promise* or get off the beaten track in 2024 and save up to 25%.

Go with the global leader in expeditions to Antarctica

Nothing compares to an Antarctica expedition. For many, exploring this vast, frozen continent is a once-in-a-lifetime dream. To cross the Drake Passage and reach the last great frontier - a place where sun glints off pristine ice and wildlife reigns supreme - is truly life-changing. And that's why you'll want to do it with the experts. At HX, we've been exploring Antarctica for over 20 years, and we do so in a sustainable style, with a world-leading science programme that actively helps the fragile ecosystems we explore.

20 years and counting

We've been exploring the White Continent expedition-style for over 20 years, so for the best cruises to Antarctica choose HX.

Across selected sailings, we will cover the cost of your flights to Antarctica!

Meet the locals

The seas and shores around Antarctica teem with wildlife. See colonies of penguins, graceful whales and curious seals. On a trip to Antarctica, you'll marvel at pristine panoramas of snowy mountains, wind-sculpted icebergs and mighty glaciers.

The krill-rich waters around the White Continent support abundant wildlife: from humpback whales and fur seals to albatrosses and penguins. An estimated population of 12 million penguins of several species call the Antarctic Peninsula home.

Exploring Antarctica

An all-inclusive cruise to Antarctica with HX means entering explorer mode. You’ll join our experienced Expedition Team in small launches as we go on shore landings and seek out wildlife.

Other activities include kayaking, snowshoeing, camping, and perhaps even a polar plunge if you want to experience a pure Antarctic rush!

We go beyond Antarctica, with South Georgia, the Falkland Islands, Patagonia and more included on many of our voyages.

A symphony of ice and sky

Experience the tranquillity of vast panoramas and sail among the sublime frozen icescapes of Antarctica, as we pass between icebergs, close to calving glaciers, and past huge ice floes in the Southern Ocean.

Cruises to Antarctica

In-depth Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition | Southbound

In-depth Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition | Southbound

Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition | Southbound

Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition | Southbound

Ms roald amundsen, ms fridtjof nansen.

Antarctica Neko Harbour HGR 166590 Photo Yuri Matisse Choufour

Adventure is All-Inclusive

An HX trip includes everything from daily excursions and activities to our onboard Science Centre, meals, gratuities, drinks and more. ​ All designed to give you the expedition experience of a lifetime.

Active exploration

On an HX expedition cruise to Antarctica, you’ll be an explorer not a passenger. Cross the Drake Passage and explore expedition-style as we seek out remote landing sites for nature encounters.

Activities in Antarctica

On your all-inclusive trip to Antarctica you'll get closer to the Seventh Continent than you ever dreamed. Experience the magic as you step off your expedition boat and feel the crunch of snow beneath your boots. Guided by your Expedition Team, you'll be able to paddle through icestrewn waters, photograph penguins and whales guided by our expert photographer, hike across pristine landscapes wearing snowshoes, and perhaps take a polar plunge if you're feeling brave. For a lucky few, camping in tents overnight is the ultimate Antarctic experience.

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

Snowshoeing

When the conditions are right, there's no better way to cross the frozen terrain than by wearing snowshoes. Our modern equipment makes it easy to walk on the soft snow, and the elements are usually best during our late spring and early summer Antarctica cruises.

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

Hear the beautiful 'symphony of the ice' as you glide silently past nature's frozen works of art in a sea kayak. Designed for close-up polar exploration, there's no better way to encounter the wildlife of Antarica and to enjoy its soul-stirring scenery.

hurtigruten antarctica excursions

Camping | Amundsen Night

Spend a magical night camping in a tent on the shore in Antarctica. In the style of the early explorers, we use our specialised equipment to spend the night under the stars for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. As you might expect, camping is a popular activity and numbers are limited. Who gets to go usually has to be decided by a lottery system. Feeling lucky?

* Please note that these are optional activities; an additional cost may apply.

Wildlife on ice

Even in the extreme environment of Antarctica, life not only survives but thrives. Its icy seas, isolated icebergs and snow-driven deserts are home to wildlife that surprises and charms.

Wildlife in Antarctica

Nowhere on Earth feels as remote as Antarctica, yet the wildlife here is abundant and spectacular. The icy shores are a haven for millions of penguins, as well as seals and seabirds, while the deep blue waters support a huge population of whales. Your Expedition Team will help you spot and photograph iconic animals, and there will be lectures on ornithology and natural history from our wildlife experts. In the Science Centre you'll learn more, and perhaps even help out with wildlife conservation through out Citizen Science projects.

Where science and learning meet nature

Science is at the core of our voyage into the heart of the natural world in Antarctica. Learn about geology, climatology and ornitholgy, and collect samples and take part in experiments with our onboard scientific experts.

Your Antarctica Expedition Team

You're in the best hands with your onboard Expedition Team. Handpicked experts from a range of backgrounds, you'll soon discover their passion and energy for Antarctica is infectious. They'll lead you on adventures off the ship, deliver fascinating lectures, unlock nature's wonders in the Science Centre, and perhaps even entertain you along the way. On your cruise to Antarctica, the Expedition Team will be your companions in adventure.

Expedition Ships | The perfect balance

Our state-of-the-art expedition vessels feature hybrid propulsion technology, ice-class hulls and advanced onboard waste-reduction systems. Large enough to offer excellent stability and a spacious onboard experience, yet small enough to get off the beaten track, you'll discover that HX ships are the perfect balance for the ultimate Antarctic adventure.

MS-Fram-Antarctica-HGR-106890-Photo_Photo_Competition.JPG

Purpose-built as an expedition cruise ship, MS Fram is an exceptional base camp for explorers. On board, comfort is a top priority, so after a day of exploration you can relax in a hot tub, dine in your choice of two restaurants or at the outdoor BBQ and catch up with your fellow guests with a cocktail in hand as you watch the scenery glide past in the Explorer Lounge & Bar. In the Science Centre, at the heart of the ship, you’ll discover more about the places you sail to and listen to talks by the Expedition Team.  With key expedition features and technology, MS Fram is primed to bring you on a journey of discovery to our planet’s most alluring and unspoiled regions. 

Paradise-Bay-Antarctica-HGR-152880-Photo_Oscar_Farrera.jpg

Named after the first man to cross Antarctica and to reach the South Pole, MS Roald Amundsen leads the way towards an even more sustainable way of travelling. The ship is specially constructed for voyages in polar waters. It serves as a comfortable base camp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way.

MS Fridtjof Nansen, Antarctica. Photo: Espen Mills

The newest addition to our fleet will honor the heritage of her namesake – the Norwegian explorer, scientist, humanitarian, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Fridtjof Nansen. Known for his innovations in Arctic expeditions, Nansen led the first crossing of Greenland on cross-country skis. He is perhaps most famous for his attempt to reach the geographical North Pole during the Fram Expedition (1893-1896). Interestingly, after Nansen's Fram expedition, the ship was passed on to another great explorer who secretly planned an expedition to the South Pole - Roald Amundsen.

Make a difference

Support the scientific community in collecting valuable data on Antarctica that contributes to global research by participating in our Citizen Science Programme.

Stories from Antarctica

MS Roald Amundsen anchoured in Paradise Bay during an expedition cruise to Antarctica. Credit: Oscar Farrera / HX Hurtigruten Expedition.

Explore Antarctica with HX

Antarctica is the pinnacle of expedition and adventure travel! Start planning your journey to exploring this pristine world of ice, wildlife, and awe-inspiring beauty.

Danco Island, Antarctica - Photo Credit: Espen Mills

15 Interesting Facts About Antarctica

On the southern-most tip of the planet rests one of the world's most massive and mysterious landmasses - the frozen realm of Antarctica.

Drake Passage

Incredible Facts about the Drake Passage

Discover the Drake Passage, one of the world’s most fabled waterways and a must-do for every adventurer en route to Antarctica.

Penguins on Galindez Island, Antarctica. Photo: Ingemund Skålnes

Antarctica is the only continent with no significant plant life and no native land mammals, reptiles, or amphibians. Even in the extreme environment of Antarctica, life not only survives but thrives. Its icy seas, isolated icebergs and snow-driven deserts are home to wildlife that surprise and charm all who visit them.

Penguins perched on the ice of Cuverville Island, Antarctica. Credit: Espen Mills / HX Hurtigruten Expeditions

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IMAGES

  1. All-inclusive Antarctic Circle Expedition

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  2. Antarctica Excursions: Kayaking adventure

    hurtigruten antarctica excursions

  3. Highlights of Antarctica

    hurtigruten antarctica excursions

  4. The Ultimate Antarctica Experience

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  5. Choose which expedition ship to visit Antarctica

    hurtigruten antarctica excursions

  6. Antarctica Excursions

    hurtigruten antarctica excursions

COMMENTS

  1. Antarctica & Arctic Expeditions

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  2. Hurtigruten Antarctica Cruise Reviews

    1 - 10 of 33 Hurtigruten Antarctica Cruise Reviews. Wonderful adventure! Review for a Antarctica Cruise on Maud. Thetiggers1161. 2-5 Cruises • Age 70s. The whole experience from beginning to end ...

  3. Cruises to Antarctica

    We've been exploring the White Continent expedition-style for over 20 years, so for the best cruises to Antarctica choose HX. Explore Antarctica in 2025/2026 on our small, well-equipped, hybrid expedition ships, where safety and sustainability come first. PLUS with our Price Promise, if you find the same cabin available for a lower price after ...

  4. Antarctic Circle Expedition

    For a limited time, solo travelers pay no single supplement* on select expedition cruises to Alaska, Antarctica, the Galápagos Islands, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, and more! offer. Through March 15th 2025, save up to $3,500 on select 2024-2025 sailings to Antarctica, Galápagos and more. offer.

  5. HX Hurtigruten Antarctica Expeditions

    Join HX Hurtigruten Expeditions on one of 12 cruises across the Drake Passage and deep into the heart of the icy realm that is the Antarctic Peninsula this season. November is the most popular month to begin your cruise and HX Hurtigruten Expeditions have 67 cruises departing between October 2024 and March 2026.

  6. Highlights of Antarctica

    Experience a mesmerising expedition cruise that's all about the frozen continent | HX Hurtigruten Expeditions. A concentrated expedition cruise with five days exploring the highlights of Antarctica. Witness incredible wildlife scenes as we spot seals, penguin colonies and whales against a backdrop of staggering natural beauty.

  7. Hurtigruten

    Explore Antarctica's epic icescapes, sculpted by the rawest forces of nature. Visit landing sites, offering some of the most breathtaking scenery on this pla...

  8. Cruises to Antarctica

    We offer a range of expeditions from the classic 12-day Antarctica highlights tours to the more in-depth itineraries also exploring Patagonia, the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, or the Chilean coast. We're covering the cost of your international flights, so you can explore amazing places such as Antarctica. Book before 31 March 2024 to take ...

  9. Best Antarctica Expedition Cruise: Hurtigruten MS Fridtjof Nansen

    Once on board, any additional expenses are charged using your room key and settled at checkout. Hurtigruten has many options for excursions before or after an Antarctica expedition as well! Pro Tip: Consider joining the free 1893 Ambassador loyalty program before departing. Read more about the benefits here.

  10. PDF Antarctica Expedition Cruises

    E N I N S U L A 66°33'S ANTARCTIC CIRCLE. Join us on a 12-day expedition cruise where we focus solely on the icy wilderness and the heartwarming wildlife of mighty Antarctica. DAY 1: Buenos Aires DAY 2: Buenos Aires/Ushuaia DAY 3-4: At sea DAY 5-9: Antarctica DAY 10-11: At sea DAY 12: Ushuaia/Buenos Aires.

  11. Hurtigruten Cruises to Antarctica

    Antarctica Cruise. Port: Punta Arenas • Grytviken • Salisbury Plain • Antarctica • Lembata • Falkland Islands • +1 more. 107 reviews. Mar 7, 2025. Hurtigruten. Maud.

  12. HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) Cruises to Antarctica

    Antarctica Cruise. Port: Punta Arenas • Half Moon Cay • Paulet Island • Brunsbuettel • Antarctica • Mikkelsen Harbour • +10 more. 77 reviews. Mar 15, 2025. HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions ...

  13. Highlights of Antarctica

    Enjoy a classic tango show and an authentic three-course Argentinian dinner in vibrant Buenos Aires. An immersive expedition cruise with five days exploring the highlights of Antarctica. Witness incredible wildlife scenes as we spot seals, penguin colonies and whales against a backdrop of staggering natural beauty.

  14. Taking an Antarctica Cruise with Hurtigruten

    The price of Antarctica Cruises with Hurtigruten varies depending on the time of year you go, the length of the itinerary, and which cabin you book. Current prices start around $8500 for the cheapest cabin. The earlier you book, the more money you may save. Suites on longer cruises can cost around $40,000.

  15. Expedition Cruise to Antarctica

    The focus of this expedition is on the icy wilderness and heartwarming wildlife of Antarctica. Pick from departures throughout its summer season and enjoy five unforgettable days on the frozen continent with a dedicated Expedition Team. ... Go on landings and small boat cruises, as well as optional kayaking and camping opportunities if ...

  16. Hurtigruten Cruises 2024, 2025

    Typically sailing from the tip of South America, Antarctica cruises with Hurtigruten are a splendid choice for those who love to really get hands-on during each onshore excursion. With regularly scheduled lectures and projects discussing the regions history and various scientific efforts currently being conducted, guests have an opportunity to ...

  17. Hurtigruten Cruise Reviews (2024 UPDATED): Ratings of Hurtigruten

    Hurtigruten Cruise Reviews: See what 610 cruisers had to say about their Hurtigruten cruise. Find detailed reviews of all Hurtigruten cruise ships and destinations.

  18. hurtigruten antarctica excursions

    Ushuaia - Kayaking Adventure. Glide through the white and blue beauty of Antarctic waters with experienced guides leading the way. Expert guides accompany you; Explore by kayak an

  19. Scandinavian Tours, Travel to Scandinavia, Iceland Tours, Baltic Tours

    Nordic Saga Tours is the official representative of St. Peterline cruises and tours. Our company is a large-scale and accredited tour operator and seller of Scandinavia tours, Iceland tours, Baltic tours, Greenland tour packages, Hurtigruten Coastal voyages and visa free cruises to St. Petersburg. We are ready to offer you a good variety of ...

  20. Savour the Northern Lights

    A variety of optional excursions are available from Svolvær, including winter fishing, paddling along the coastline in a kayak, or embarking on a bus tour to learn more about Lofoten's history. ... 12 dinners, (6 on Hurtigruten) including 1 farewell dinner in Helsinki including a glass of beer, wine, soft drink. First class coach from ...

  21. Cruises to Antarctica

    20 years and counting. We've been exploring the White Continent expedition-style for over 20 years, so for the best cruises to Antarctica choose HX. Explore Antarctica on our small, well-equipped, hybrid expedition ships, where safety and sustainability come first. PLUS with our Price Promise, if you find the same cabin available for a lower ...

  22. Travel Guide To Antarctica

    It's a little over 500 nautical miles across at its narrowest but by far the shortest distance to travel to reach Antarctica. It's even said to feel like a symbolic transition from one world to the next. To sail the Drake Passage is to follow in the footsteps of history's greatest explorers. Luckily, a voyage on our modern, exceptionally ...

  23. Hurtigruten Unveils Pole to Pole Expedition

    Hurtigruten Expeditions has unveiled an epic 93-day Pole to pole expedition cruise - exploring Alaska, the Northwest...

  24. Cruises to Antarctica

    Antarctica Cruises. Book early for 2025 and 2026 sailings to Antarctica and save up to 20% with the HX Price Promise* or get off the beaten track in 2024 and save up to 25%. View cruises.