Hondius Antarctic and Arctic Cruises

An environmentally-friendly, icebreaking expedition ship

A polar cruise on board the Hondius

25 Reviews

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What we love about the Hondius

As the World’s first Polar Class 6 expedition ship, she is built for adventure, guided by innovation

She sails gently with a lighter environmental footprint

The Zodiacs launch fast for longer landings and exploration time

Hondius deck plan

+35

Meet Hondius, the world’s first Polar Class 6 ship — a groundbreaking vessel purpose-built for immersive Antarctic exploration. Designed to meet the latest Lloyd’s Register and Polar Code standards, Hondius is strong, stable, and environmentally conscious, with every feature crafted to bring you closer to the White Continent.

Unlike traditional cruise ships, Hondius was built to adapt. Her modern design and powerful engines allow for flexible itineraries that respond to changing sea and wildlife conditions. Her low-emission systems, LED lighting, steam heating, and use of biodegradable materials make her one of the most sustainable expedition ships at sea.

With space for just 170 guests, Hondius offers an intimate and comfortable onboard experience. Her stylish cabins range from grand suites with private balconies to cozy porthole quads for adventurous travelers.

Onboard, you’ll find a spacious observation lounge, a dedicated lecture room, and inviting mid-century modern interiors. The two separate gangways and sheltered Zodiac embarkation platform ensure quick, safe, and dry landings—so you can spend more time ashore, exploring ice and wildlife.

Whether you’re kayaking beside glaciers, marveling at penguin colonies, or soaking in expert talks on Antarctic history and ecology, Hondius offers an exceptional blend of comfort, access, and discovery.

Dates & Prices of Hondius

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Amenities on board the Hondius

Lecture Theater

Observation Deck

Zodiac Fleet

Bar

Observation Lounge

Gift Shop

Rubber Boots

Library

Internet/Wifi

Mudroom

Restaurant

Hondius's take on sustainable traveling

At Polartours, sustainability is part of every voyage. Hondius runs on low-sulfur marine gas oil (LSMGO) with less than 0.1% sulfur content. We minimize waste by banning single-use plastics and offering reusable water bottles. Bathrooms include biodegradable soap and shampoo in recycled packaging. Reverse osmosis systems provide fresh water—no plastic bottles onboard. Sail responsibly. Explore deeply. Leave only footprints in the snow.

Cabin Categories on board the Hondius

Twin Deluxe Hondius

Twin Deluxe Cabin

Type:

Twins

Max. occupancy:

2

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Triple Porthole Hondius

Triple Porthole Cabin

Type:

Triple

Max. occupancy:

3

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Superior Cabin Hondius

Superior Cabin

Type:

Matrimonial

Max. occupancy:

2

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Quadruple Porthole Cabin

Type:

Quadrupel

Max. occupancy:

4

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Junior Suite

Type:

Matrimonial

Max. occupancy:

2

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Twin Porthole Hondius

Twin Porthole Cabin

Type:

Twins

Max. occupancy:

2

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Grand Suite with Private Balcony

Type:

Matrimonial

Max. occupancy:

2

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Twin Window Hondius

Twin Window Cabin

Type:

Twins

Max. occupancy:

2

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More info about the Hondius

Category

Premium

Type

Large Ship

Length

107.6 m

Class

Ice Class 1A

Crew members

72

Gross tonnage

5,590 tons

Cruising speed

15 knots

Beam

17.6

Draft

5.30 m

Capacity

170

Year built

2019

Reviews of Hondius

Hartwig Hubert L from Frankfurt am Main

Hondius Antarctic and Arctic Cruises

Premium

This was a amazing trip . Hondius is a great ship, with a great Crew and Expedition Team. They always go the extra mile to make the trip unforgettable, reacting very flexible to adapt to e. g. weather changes.

Joan P

Hondius Antarctic and Arctic Cruises

Premium

The Arctic tour offers a truly unique experience, showcasing incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes from the comfort of a well-equipped ship with an excellent team. Highly recommended for all looking for an extraordinary adventure.

client

Joan P

Hondius Antarctic and Arctic Cruises

Premium

The Arctic tour is such a pure and new experience that I would recommend to everyone. We could see wild animals and amazing landscape, and all from a really comfortable ship with a great team and all the facilities.

client

Brian F

Hondius Antarctic and Arctic Cruises

Premium

The trip exceeded my expectations. I booked almost on impulse, joining a friend who was already going, and had some apprehensions, both about the idea of "a cruise" and the prospect of the zodiac transfers for the landings. I needn't have worried. The atmosphere was relaxed, the 16-strong expedition team were friendly, approachable and totally professional, as were the 50+ crew members who managed the ship, the meals and bar, and the cabin servicing. Highlights were the landing on Jan Mayen, and the two landings on Svalbard itself towards the end of the trip. There was a wide age range among the passengers so no-one felt left out.

client

Jessica Yasmin E

Hondius Antarctic and Arctic Cruises

Premium

One of the best trips I’ve ever taken! The team on the Hondius was incredibly friendly, and we had so much fun while experiencing countless amazing things. The Antarctic is simply something you must see in your lifetime. A breathtaking landscape of snow-covered mountains and icebergs, and the wildlife is absolutely spectacular.

client

Arleta Z

Hondius Antarctic and Arctic Cruises

Premium

Great adventure. Amazing animals just close to you. Big colonies with hundred thousands individuals. Wonderful crew and enthusiastic guides. Nice cabin and delicious food. Lots of lectures on every theme connected with Antarctica. Trip worth the price.

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