Tag: ship review

The expedition cruise ship Hondius has proved a popular addition to the polar fleet since it was launched in 2019. Carrying up to 170 passengers, its Basecamp Adventure offers kayaking, camping, snowshoeing and even mountaineering. This is added to the regular landings and zodiac cruises, giving guests a host of different ways to discover Antarctica […]

Since its launch in 2021, the expedition cruise ship Ultramarine has rapidly become a popular choice for Swoop Antarctica passengers. Its modern design, 1A+ ice class rating (putting it just shy of being an actual icebreaker) , 199 berths and broad suite of adventure activities have all helped establish its place in the polar fleet. […]

It’s always an exciting moment when a new vessel joins the polar fleet. Autumn 2022 brought another arrival in the shape of the Sylvia Earle. Named for the celebrated marine biologist, its striking X-Bow hull cuts a neat dash through the waves. The Sylvia Earle carries an average of just 132 passengers, promising an intimate […]

The Seaventure ship is a big favourite of both Swoop Antarctica staff and passengers. Originally designed for around 180 passengers, a complete refit for polar cruising reduced the number of berths to a maximum of 139 as well as upgrading the vessel to a 1-A ice class rating – the highest possible maritime rating. When […]

In the past few years, it’s been possible to spot a new type of ship cruising through the Antarctic ice. They look like no other ship in the polar fleet, or even any other ship you might have seen. Their bows curve down into the water like a bird dipping its beak for a drink. […]