Even today after many decades of exploration, Antarctica still remains a world apart, a majestic last frontier surpassing even the most jaded of travellers’ expectations. For this incredible voyage we are working with our German associates at Hapag-Lloyd Cruises who operate the five-star Hanseatic Inspiration, and we will follow in the footsteps of researchers, pioneers, adventurers and discoverers on this expedition to the sixth continent. It is hard to put into words the sheer grandeur of an Antarctic landscape. This most southern of continents, this desert of ice, is so unique and uncommon to man’s experience, that even the most dramatic of photographs pale into insignificance when one is confronted by the sheer magnitude, beauty and wonder of an Antarctic landscape. Enormous icebergs rise from the sea, hillsides are covered with thousands of penguins and seals bask on icebergs dotted in the ocean; the sights, sounds and emotions will stay with you forever.
For most travellers the Antarctic experience is a once in a lifetime visit, it is therefore important that the trip should be as rewarding as possible and the Hanseatic Inspiration is the perfect vessel both in terms of the educational experience on board and the number of opportunities to go ashore. Antarctica is to be experienced, not just to be seen, and we believe the only way to do this is on board a small ship. To enjoy the wonders of this icy paradise in the company of a small and enthusiastic party aboard a luxuriously appointed vessel designed for expedition cruising is the perfect way to achieve the most from a visit to this extraordinary place.
This expedition aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration features magnificent South Georgia where you will experience one of the world’s natural wonders, the ‘Alps in mid-ocean’, offering remarkable concentrations of wildlife against a backdrop of glaciers and snow-covered mountains. Hugging the coast to the wildest reaches of the island we land on beaches alive with rampaging fur seals, somnolent elephant seals and truly astonishing numbers of king penguins. We have three days of exploration in this unique animal paradise and using the Zodiacs you will land each day allowing you the optimum time ashore to experience this rich animal kingdom. We also spend time on the Falkland Islands, a truly enchanting place with a unique character and staggering wildlife. This is the last sanctuary of the elegant albatross which soars gracefully against the blue sky, with colonies of elephant seals basking at the foot of vertiginous cliffs. In between our landings and while at sea, you can pass the time on deck looking for wildlife, attend the series of lectures by members of the expedition team and simply relax on board enjoying the facilities.
Hanseatic Inspiration / Spirit / Nature
Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, these three Hanseatic expedition class vessels – Inspiration, Nature and Spirit - are five-star vessels that were launched between 2019 and 2021. With a maximum of just 230 passengers (199 passengers in Antarctica and circumnavigation of Spitsbergen), these unique vessels offer plenty of open deck space including a walkway that allows access to the bow of the ship for front row wildlife sightings and incredible views. There is a qualified expedition team of naturalists who will accompany you ashore and provide informative talks in the comfort of the well-designed HanseAtrium, and a crew of 175 offering the most exquisite and attentive service on board.
Itinerary
Please note that flexibility is key to a successful expedition in Antarctica. Although an itinerary is outlined below, this is only a preliminary plan and the exact route will depend on ice, weather conditions and the wildlife encountered.
Day 1 London to Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Buenos Aires.
Arrive this morning and transfer to our centrally located hotel for an overnight stay. This afternoon is free to relax in the hotel or maybe join an orientation tour of the city including the Plaza de Mayo, the Cathedral, the Cabildo (Old City Hall) and the most traditional neighbourhood of Buenos Aires, San Telmo which is characterised by its old colonial houses and the cobblestoned streets. End the tour in La Boca to look around the colourful zinc houses which used to be the refuge and home for the first immigrants and popular artists. The evening is free for independent exploration.
Day 3 Buenos Aires to Ushuaia.
After breakfast in the hotel we will transfer to the airport for our specially chartered flight to Ushuaia. On arrival transfer to the Hanseatic Inspiration and sail this evening.
Day 4 At Sea.
Enjoy a relaxing day on board as we sail south to the Falkland Islands. Watch out for wildlife, such as the albatrosses, prions and petrels that frequently follow the ships, join one of the lectures in the HanseAtrium or relax with a book in the lounge.
Day 5 Falkland Islands.
The British overseas territory has more than just a turbulent history; discover its impressive bird life at close range during your Zodiac landings. There are more than 60 different species, including rockhopper and Magellanic penguins, who share their habitat with kelp geese, striated caracaras, king cormorants as well as black-browed and wandering albatrosses.
Days 6 & 7 At Sea.
There will be plenty of wildlife spotting as we make our way east across the Antarctic Convergence and officially enter Antarctic waters. Shipboard presentations will continue with briefings on the exciting history and abundant wildlife of South Georgia.
Days 8 to 10 South Georgia.
We spend the next few days in South Georgia which is home to hundreds of thousands of king penguins which live side by side with elephant seals and fur seals on the coasts and cliffs. These amazing natural spectacles will be observed from a respectful distance after landing on one of the black shores. In addition, at Grytviken we trace the footsteps of the explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, who found his final resting place here in 1922.
Day 11 At Sea.
Spend the day at sea as we head towards the Antarctic Peninsula across waters rich with whales whilst in the skies we may see Antarctic petrel, Kerguelen petrel and even the beautiful snow petrel.
Days 12 to 20 South Orkney Islands, South Shetland Islands & the Antarctic Peninsula.
For scientists, the Antarctic is an enormous natural laboratory. We hope to gain an insight into the everyday lives of polar researchers when, weather permitting, we will visit the Argentinian Orcadas station (subject to authorisation). Enjoy the pure fascination of the drifting tabular icebergs. The bizarre blocks that have broken off the shelf ice and their huge archways shimmer a mystical shade of blue in the cool polar light. Experience the South Shetland Islands and awe as we sail into the centre of the flooded caldera of Deception Island. Enjoy unforgettable moments when, for example, you set foot on the Antarctic mainland near to Paradise Bay. Snow-capped summits surround the bay where icebergs the size of houses drift and glaciers tower hundreds of metres above. The Lemaire Channel is also impressive, flanked by mighty mountains up to 1,000 metres high. Using the open deck areas, we will enjoy the best views of the white wonderland including icebergs and maybe the flukes of blue whales, sperm whales and humpback whales as well as orcas. The further south our expedition goes, the harsher and icier the endless world of white appears. The excitement on board mounts as we approach the crossing of the Antarctic Circle. The ice determines the course whilst the glaciers seem even more dominant.
Days 21 & 22 Drake Passage.
Enjoy two days to relax on board and reminisce with your fellow travellers about all you have seen and experienced during the expedition. Look out for wildlife or simply relax as we make our way across the Drake Passage towards Ushuaia.
Day 23 Ushuaia to Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our chartered flight to Buenos Aires. On arrival transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay. This evening is free for independent exploration, you may wish to watch a local tango performance over dinner or enjoy the hotel facilities.
Day 24 Buenos Aires to London.
After a morning to explore or relax in the hotel we transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Day 25 London.
Arrive today.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 7 to 31 January 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 1 Outside cabin Deck 4, 5 & 6 | £18795 | £18295 |
| 2 Panoramic cabin Deck 4 & 5 | £19795 | £19295 |
| 3 French balcony cabin Deck 6 | £20495 | £19995 |
| 4 Balcony cabin Deck 5 | £21795 | £21295 |
| 5 French balcony cabin Deck 7 | £21295 | £20795 |
| 6 Balcony cabin Deck 6 & 7 | £22295 | £21795 |
| 7 Balcony cabin Deck 6 | £22995 | £22495 |
| 8 Balcony cabin Deck 7 | £23795 | £23295 |
| 9 Junior suite with balcony 6 & 7 | On Request | On Request |
| 10 Grand suite with veranda Deck 6 & 7 | On Request | On Request |
| 1 Outside cabin for sole use Deck 4, 5 & 6 | On Request | On Request |
| 4 (Sole) Balcony cabin for Sole Use Deck 5 | £26795 | £26295 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHI070126
Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel between London & Buenos Aires • Chartered flight between Buenos Aires & Ushuaia • Two nights hotel accommodation in Buenos Aires with breakfast • City tour in Buenos Aires • 20 nights aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration on a full board basis • Mini-bar with soft drinks in your cabin restocked each day • Zodiac excursions • Expedition team including onboard lectures • Gratuities • Transfers • Landing fees • Port taxes • Airport taxes • Loan of waterproof boots and parka during cruise.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Please note that all bookings (including those made by Commodore Club members) are subject to a 20% deposit and that the balance payment will be due 150 days before the date of departure. Please also note that between 149 and 70 days before the date of departure, cancellation charges shall be 40% of the total holiday price payable.
During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
-
Deckplan
Hanseatic Inspiration / Spirit / Nature
Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, these three Hanseatic expedition class vessels – Inspiration, Nature and Spirit - are five-star vessels that were launched between 2019 and 2021. With a maximum of just 230 passengers (199 passengers in Antarctica and circumnavigation of Spitsbergen), these unique vessels offer plenty of open deck space including a walkway that allows access to the bow of the ship for front row wildlife sightings and incredible views. There is a qualified expedition team of naturalists who will accompany you ashore and provide informative talks in the comfort of the well-designed HanseAtrium, and a crew of 175 offering the most exquisite and attentive service on board.
-
Ship Directory
Ship DirectoryPlease find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted you have chosen one of the Hanseatic expedition class vessels for your upcoming voyage. Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the Hanseatic Inspiration/Nature/Spirit are five-star vessels that were launched between 2019 and 2021. There are a total of 120 cabins and the public areas for your enjoyment and relaxation include a lounge area where recaps and lectures take place, an expansive Sun Deck with pool area and the Ocean Spa. There are also three exceptional restaurants on board to cater for all your dining requirements.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Built: 2019 (Inspiration & Nature); 2021 (Spirit)
Gross tonnage: 15,650
Length: 138 metres
Beam: 22 metres
Draught: 5.7 metresSpeed: 16 knots
Ice class: PC 6
Passenger capacity: 230 (199 for cruises to the Antarctic & Spitsbergen)
Crew: 175
Language: German/English
AIR-CONDITIONING
The cabins, suites and public areas are equipped with air-conditioning.
BEDS
All cabins and suites have a double bed that can also be separated to make two single beds. If you would prefer a configuration of two single beds please request this at the time of booking. All Grand Suites and Junior Suites also have a sofa bed.
BOUTIQUE
In the onboard boutique on Deck 4 you will find a selection of men’s and women’s clothing, jewellery, gifts and everyday items.
BRIDGE
Due to its crucial importance as the control centre for nautical and technical processes, the bridge is a highly sensitive area. This is why international safety regulations prohibit it being open to the general public. However, guests have the opportunity to visit the bridge, unless prevented by nautical interests or the local regulations of the coastal regions we are passing, by prior arrangement with the officer on duty. The bridge officers will be happy to give you information about the itinerary, the ship’s course and position as well as other nautical aspects.
BUTLER
In the Junior Suites and Grand Suites, there is a butler at your service. Among other things, the butler is responsible for packing and unpacking your clothes. This personal service is available around the clock.
CABINS & SUITES
There are 120 outside cabins/suites with categories as below;
Outside Cabin, Panoramic Cabin, French Balcony Cabin & Balcony Cabin
These four cabin types are identically equipped and furnished, with the exception of the window and balcony areas, and all feature the following;
• Heated wall in bathroom (e.g. for towels and wet parkas)
• Rain shower
• Free mini bar (soft drinks)
• Coffee machine
• Separable beds
• Extras in the cabin and service privileges (see chart)
• Extras in the suite and service privileges (see chart) Junior Suite
• Separate living and sleeping areas
• Separate dining area
• Sleeping area with panoramic view
• Separable beds
• TV in living and sleeping areas
• Bathroom with two sinks and rain shower
• Separate toilet
• Steam sauna in shower area
• Heated wall in bathroom (e.g. for towels and wet parkas)
• Free mini bar with a selection of spirits
• Coffee machine
• Extras in the suite and service privileges (see chart) Grand Suite
• Separate living and sleeping areas
• Separate dining area
• Sleeping area with panoramic view
• Separable beds
• TV in living and sleeping areas
• Veranda with space heaters
• Daylight bathroom with two sinks, free-standing bath, rain shower and veranda access
• Steam sauna in shower area
• Heated wall in bathroom (e. g. for towels and wet parkas)
• Separate toilet
• Free mini bar with a selection of spirits
• Coffee machine
• Extras in the suite and service privileges (see chart)
Please note: If you would prefer separate bedrooms, there are a total of six Balcony Cabins/Suites on Decks 6 and 7 (cabin numbers 609/611, 608/610, 646/648, 647/649, 734/736 and 735/737) with a connecting door to the neighbouring cabin/suite.
On embarkation you will be welcomed with a small bottle of champagne and a selection of fruits that will be replenished each day. Each cabin has a mini bar that will be restocked with soft drinks every day free of charge. A wide range of breakfast options and a selection of meals are available through the cabin service (24 hour service).
DINING
There is a choice of three spacious openseating restaurants including the Hanseatic Restaurant with its relaxed atmosphere, the buffet style Lido Restaurant offering both indoor and outdoor seating, and the Speciality Restaurant, the Nikkei, where you will be taken on a culinary voyage of discovery with Japanese and Peruvian creations. The maître D’ will be happy to accept table reservations for the Speciality Restaurant (open only in the evening) at the beginning of your cruise. Guests in the Grand Suites and Junior Suites may make table requests for the Hanseatic Restaurant.
Cuisine The cuisine on board is international and includes: early-bird breakfast, breakfast, bouillon, lunch and dinner (there are three restaurants to choose from in the evening with flexible opening hours), afternoon coffee/tea time and midnight snack.
Allergies We would be happy to take into consideration any special requests regarding dietary requirements and/or food allergies. Please inform Noble Caledonia at the time of your reservation and please reiterate these requests upon embarkation.
DRESS CODE
During the day the atmosphere on board is casual and in the evenings casual, elegant attire is recommended.
E-MAILS
You can send and receive e-mails using your on board e-mail address, details of which will be provided to you upon embarkation. E-mails of up to 1MB of data are free of charge to send.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation.
EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT
If the cruising area and any time spent ashore call for it, you can borrow a pair of rubber boots on board. On expeditions in extreme regions such as the Arctic and Antarctic, a warm parka (sizes XS – XXXL) is at your disposal for the duration of the cruise. Snorkelling equipment, standup paddle boards, fishing rods and snowshoes (Antarctic only) are also offered in the relevant regions; each cabin/suite has a set of Nordic poles and Swarovski Optik binoculars. There is a Mud-Room and changing room with lockers available for when returning from shore activities and Zodiac excursions.
EXPERTS/PRESENTATIONS
Expeditions are accompanied by experts who will be happy to answer your questions about the cruising area. They will share their in-depth knowledge of the destination in fascinating talks, images and presentations, discussions and personal conversations. The experts will also accompany you on Zodiac landings and included walks and hikes. Talks will be held live in the HanseAtrium. The live broadcast and recordings can be viewed in every cabin/suite.
FILM PROGRAMME
You may use the guest portal to watch a range of documentaries and feature films on your television, which you can directly access.
INTERNET/WI-FI
Internet usage is complimentary for one hour per guest per day (subject to connectivity) after which there is a surcharge. The entire ship is equipped with Wi-Fi hotspots that you can use to access the Internet from your laptop, tablet or mobile device. Tablets can also be borrowed from reception free of charge (subject to availability). The charges for Wi-Fi and Internet use will be deducted from your onboard account. Due to a potentially unstable satellite connection that depends on the weather and ship’s position, especially in northern and southern cruising areas, this service cannot be guaranteed at all times. In extreme regions, such as the Arctic and Antarctic, the TV, radio, Internet, email and phone services may not be available on a daily basis due to satellite positioning.
LAUNDRY & IRONING SERVICE
The Hanseatic Inspiration offers a laundry, dry cleaning and ironing service.
LIFT
The various decks are connected by two lifts. Deck 9 is only accessible on foot.
PAYMENTS ON BOARD
All monetary transactions on board the ship are processed by Reception. The onboard currency is the Euro. To ensure cashless transactions, an account will be set up for you which you will settle at Reception at the end of your cruise. The following means of payment are accepted: MasterCard, American Express, Visa and German EC/Maestro cards. Please note that, in general, foreign currencies cannot be changed on board.
MEDICAL SERVICES
The Hanseatic inspiration has a modern, well equipped ship’s hospital (Deck 3) under the supervision of an experienced ship’s doctor. Guests who are being treated for any medical condition should contact the ship’s doctor directly after embarkation. It is important to bring any medications required on board with you in sufficient quantities in your hand luggage. In the case of an accident caused by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises or its staff members either on board or during a shore activity organised by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, treatment is provided free of charge. Treatment for seasickness is subject to a charge if you make use of the medical services. Thrombosis prevention medication is offered on board if required (subject to a charge). A fee is charged for all other medical treatment in accordance with the valid German medical fee schedule (GOÄ). The costs for any treatment or medication will be charged to your onboard account. At the end of the cruise, you will receive a separate invoice to submit to your health insurance provider.
MINI BAR
Soft drinks are available free of charge from the mini bar in your cabin/ suite and are restocked daily. In the Grand Suites and Junior Suites, you can also enjoy a selection of fine spirits free of charge.
NEWSPAPERS
Depending on satellite reception, you will receive the latest daily newspapers containing the most important information from around the world.
PHOTOGRAPHER
There is a professional photographer on board. It is possible to have digital images burned onto CDs and/or printed (at a surcharge).
POST
The Reception staff will post your postcards and letters from most ports where this facility is available. Your onboard account will be debited with the appropriate charges.
PUBLIC AREAS
Fitness Room
There is a large fitness room with ocean views which is open 24 hours a day and includes workout machines and free weights. In a separate area, a range of classes is offered including yoga, pilates and spinning. Timings will be detailed in the Daily Programme. All classes are complimentary - personal trainers are available at extra cost.
HanseAtrium
The HanseAtrium is the main lounge area on Deck 4 and the venue for the presentations from experts and recaps about the day’s events and sightings. There are floor to ceiling LED screens which project stunning images around the room creating a relaxing atmosphere and there is a Bar with a selection of drinks on offer. Next door is the quieter ‘Invisible Lounge’ which is the ideal place to hide yourself away with a good book.
Inspiration Walk
The Inspiration Walk allows access to the bow of the ship for front row wildlife sightings and incredible views.
Library
The Library is located in the Observation Lounge on Deck 8 and is stocked with the latest fiction books and travel literature.
Ocean Academy
The Ocean Academy provides a wonderful space for learning with interactive computers, four Study Seats for user-friendly digital learning, a Study Wall for enhanced learning as well as microscopes for studying samples from explorations ashore.
Observation Lounge
The Observation Lounge offers 180 degree panoramic views which can be enjoyed whilst relaxing over afternoon tea, accompanied by music from the grand piano, or with a pre-dinner cocktail from the bar. There is a large selection of books in the library area and close by is the Pool Bar.
Pool Area & Sun Deck
There is a spacious pool area on Deck 8 including a heated swimming pool, a whirlpool and bar. There are plenty of deckchairs and sun loungers for your use and towels and blankets are provided. A flexible canopy means that the entire pool area can be used whatever the weather. The Sun Deck also features two extendible glass-floored balconies which provide the unique feeling of floating over the ocean.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa offers a complete wellness programme from soothing massages to cosmetic treatments and a hairdresser. The spa operates a ‘green’ spa concept with use of carefully selected natural products and vegan brands. Reservations can be made once on board and treatments are at cost. Use of the sauna and steam bath are complimentary.
SAFE
Each cabin/suite has a private safe for storing your valuables.
SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted in any of the cabins or suites or in any public areas. Guests may smoke cigarettes, cigarillos, pipes and cigars in the Smoker’s Lounge (Deck 4) and on the private balcony/veranda of your cabin/suite. There is also a designated outdoor smoking area on the port side of the ship near the pool. The smoking of pipes and cigars is only permitted in the Smoker’s Lounge.
STABILISERS
The ship is equipped with a stabiliser system that can be extended in a side swell to weaken the rolling movements of the ship in rough seas.
TELECOMMUNCATIONS/MOBILE PHONES
The ship is equipped with a satellite communications system. Depending on the satellite reception, this allows you to make direct telephone calls to any destination worldwide directly from your cabin/suite. Please be aware that a charge is incurred immediately upon dialling a telephone/ fax number. The ship is equipped with a GSM mobile network. This system also enables you to use your mobile phone or smartphone at sea in areas where your mobile provider cannot generally guarantee connectivity (service subject to a charge; prices vary depending on the mobile phone provider).
TELEVISION/RADIO PROGRAMME
You will receive the channels available in the region where the ship is currently located via satellite.
TENDER & ZODIAC SERVICE
In all ports in which the Hanseatic Inspiration is not docked at the pier, but is at anchor, you will go ashore on the ship’s own tender boats or the motorised rubber boats (Zodiacs).
VOLTAGE
In your cabin/suite, you will find outlets for 220 V (50 Hz) alternating current as well as outlets for 110V (60 Hz). In general, we would recommend that you bring a travel adaptor for different outlets with you. For safety reasons, the use of electric kettles, hair straighteners and irons in the cabins is not permitted.
PLEASE NOTE: The information contained in this booklet should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
-
Deck Plan
-
Deckplan
-
Deckplan
Video Library
What to Expect
Every expedition to Antarctica and South Georgia is unique and no two days are the same. Flexibility is key and often the whole day’s schedule will be changed to maximise your experience based on weather conditions or wildlife sightings. Each day holds something new and here are some extracts from previous Antarctic expedition logs which will provide you with an idea of what to expect.
Falkland Islands: At 6am, the rattling of the anchor chain indicated that we had arrived at New Island on the south-western edge of the Falkland Islands. Our first excursion took place under optimal conditions – sunshine, calm seas and a landing site in a shallow sandy cove. After exiting the Zodiacs and receiving our briefing, we were greeted by kelp geese, magellanic oystercatchers, tussac birds and a long-tailed meadowlark. A short 20-minute walk over a low pass to the other side of island brought us to our first amazing seabird colony experience. Here, we had close-up views of many hundreds of black browed albatrosses dotted along a one-kilometre stretch of cliff. Intermingled with the albatrosses, rockhopper penguins argued over nesting sites and king cormorants impressed their mates with great beakfuls of seaweed. We had plenty of time to sit in the sun and watch breeding albatross pairs perform greeting behaviours, feed their chicks and preen. Every now and then, one of these magnificent birds would take to the wing and impress us with its size. Salisbury Plain, South Georgia: Salisbury Plain, in the Bay of Isles with its colony of 200,000 king penguins, is a truly great wildlife spectacle. Although the southerly wind had picked up, the beach was well protected, and our landing went smoothly. The entire beach was carpeted with king penguins as far as the eye could see, and in between there were hundreds of male Antarctic fur seals guarding their breeding territories. We hiked along the raised beach to the foot of the colony, barely able to contain our excitement. In just two hours we experienced sun, rain, snow, mist and strong gusts, none of which could prevent us from being awed by the vastness of the colony and fascinated by the opportunity to observe these majestic penguins at close range. The fur seals and their pups kept us on our toes, and the southern giant petrels outed themselves as voracious scavengers, devouring a seal carcass in front of our eyes.
South Shetland Islands: Deception Island was our starting point today and it was an early start too. The ship sailed into the flooded caldera of the still-active volcano through the narrow channel called Neptune’s Bellows. Upon leaving the caldera the ship headed for the nearby, massive colony of chinstrap penguins. However, nature had other ideas! Very soon a whale spout was spotted and then there were more and more seen. Four different species were involved – Antarctic minke, humpback, fin and killer whales. Extremely good views were had of the latter two species and many of the killers (spread out again) were swimming alongside the fins. Towards the end of the encounter two male killer whales swam down the port side of the ship and another whale dived underneath us. On our port side Livingston Island slowly came into view as it emerged from the cloud. Eventually the cloud cleared completely and revealed yet another high, mountainous, snowy and icy realm. Distant spouts were seen in the sunshine and, as we approached our turning point for Half Moon Island, a plume of cloud and fog emerged from the strait between the islands. It was short-lived and our destination was soon in sight. The beach was a shingly one but the snowy ground behind it was covered in guano of the penguin kind. Once up the slope we were able to get close views of the nesting chinstrap penguins. Other species seen were kelp gull, Antarctic tern, Antarctic shag, pale-faced sheathbill, Southern elephant seal and Weddell seal. The big surprise was a single macaroni penguin. It was seen going down the main penguin highway to the beach and was seen later on climbing back up the hill. Half Moon Island had certainly provided a very interesting and varied last Antarctic excursion.
Also of Interest
Passage from Iceland
A voyage from Reykjavik to Aberdeen aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Reykjavik / Stykkisholmur / Western Fjords / Grimsey Island / Siglufjordur / Hrisey Island / Akureyri / Husavik / Seydisfjordur / Vestmanna / Elduvik / Runavik / Lerwick / Fair Isle / Aberdeen
12 nights
from
£7895
Next Departure:
13 July 2025
In the Wake of Shackleton
Discover the wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia & the Falklands aboard the MS Island Sky
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £1000 PER PERSON
Itinerary at a glance
- Buenos Aires / Ushuaia / Antarctic Peninsula / South Shetland Islands / South Georgia / Falkland islands / Ushuaia / Buenos Aires
25 nights
from
£14995
Next Departure:
4 December 2026
In the Realm of the Polar Bear
An Expedition exploring the Svalbard Archipelago aboard the Hanseatic Nature
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON
Itinerary at a glance
- Longyearbyen / Spitsbergen / Tromso
12 nights
from
£8795
Next Departure:
1 July 2027
Northwest Passage - 2027
An expedition in the wake of legendary explorers aboard the Hanseatic Spirit
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £1000 PER PERSON
Itinerary at a glance
- Seattle / Seward / Alaska Peninsula / Aleutian Islands / St Paul Island / Nome / Chukchi & Beaufort Seas / Northwest Passage / Lancaster Sound / West Greenland / Kangerlussuaq
30 nights
from
£26295
Next Departure:
9 August 2027
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000