Hondius
A purpose built expedition vessel for 170 passengers. The addition of stabilisers and state-of-the-art technology make her a comfortable and safe option.
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Oceanwide Expeditions are one of the most experienced adventure cruise operators in polar waters, having been sailing to Antarctica since 1993. They remain deeply committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in Antarctic cruising, with multi-activity adventures and having their ships often visit places that few people have ever laid eyes on.
Swoop has been working with Oceanwide since we began sending people to Antarctica in 2015, making theirs one of our longest and most-trusted partnerships.
Proudly working with every operator in the industry
Swoop says
The heart of the Swoop-Oceanwide relationship isn't just about values and trust, but also our shared love of the classic expedition cruising spirit and their dedication to multi-activity polar adventures.
Ian Young Antarctic Sales Manager
Who are Oceanwide Expeditions?
Holland-based Oceanwide Expeditions were founded in 1993, when they took up the mantle of the Plancius Foundation, which had combined tourist cruises to the Arctic with scientific research. They remain one of the most experienced polar operators in the field.
Over 30 years on, Oceanwide Expeditions remain true to their adventurous roots. Their ships regularly push the most exploratory itineraries, to rarely seen parts of Antarctica. In February 2025, they set a new record for the most southerly position ever reached by a cruise ship in the Weddell Sea, when they landed at Vahsel Bay (Sir Ernest Shackleton’s destination on his ill-fated Endurance expedition) and the Princess Martha Coast of Queen Maud Land.
Why Swoop loves working with Oceanwide Expeditions
- Swoop has worked closely with Oceanwide Expeditions for over 10 years, with our close relationship based on knowing they’ll always deliver an outstanding experience for our travellers.
- In a remote and challenging environment like Antarctica, Oceanwide Expeditions' more than 30 years experience is one of their greatest strengths.
- Spending the maximum time off the ship to be in Antarctica up close is a priority on every Oceanwide Expeditions voyage, giving fantastic value for money for a rich polar experience to exceed guest expectations.
- Oceanwide Expeditions offer classic polar itineraries while still honouring their roots by frequently pushing their ships to explore parts of Antarctica few have ever visited.
- They are one of a very exclusive group of operators to visit the emperor penguin colony at Snow Hill, offering the rare chance to see one of Antarctica’s most iconic species up close.
- Oceanwide Expeditions were the first to introduce the classic 'basecamp' concept, offering trips with all activities priced in so that guests can try kayaking, camping, snowshoeing and mountaineering in a single trip.
- With a fleet of three ships, there's a vessel to suit everyone. Petite ex-research vessels Plancius and Ortelius offer an exclusive intimate atmosphere, while larger Hondius has a more modern style and wider range of cabin choices.
- On select voyages, Ortelius carries two helicopters, offering guests the chance to land in truly remote areas and see Antarctica from the air.
What Swoop travellers think about Oceanwide Expeditions
Review:
Oceanwide Expeditions' ships
Ortelius
An outstanding expedition ship with a hard-won reputation for navigating some of the polar region's most challenging waters, carrying just 108 guests.
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Plancius
A former Dutch Navy research ship, the Plancius is a practical and highly capable expedition ship with a recent full re-fit to take 108 guests.
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Price Match Promise - We’ll match any price you find elsewhere for the same trip
Swoop works with every major Antarctic operator
Swoop’s unrivalled network of trusted partners across the polar fleet make it easy to find your dream Antarctic adventure.
Our expertise means we can offer impartial advice on which operator, ship, and departure is best for you.
And our Price Match Promise means that we’ll always match any price you find elsewhere for the same trip.
Ready to plan your Antarctic adventure?
1
Listen
We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
2
Match
Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
3
Reserve
We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.
With over 100 years of Antarctic experience between us, we can help guide you to exactly the right trip for you.
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