Ship

Hondius

4.5/5 From 619 Reviews

Please send me details about cruises on the Hondius

Thank you for your enquiry

Banner image

Ship overview:

Launched in 2019, Hondius is an elegant yet cosy vessel providing a first class Antarctic cruise. The ship carries 170 passengers and meets the highest standards and demands, making it able to take on the most challenging of polar voyages with flexibility.

Prices per person

From $6,300

Prices based on two people sharing
Ship Capacity

170 passengers

Year built

Constructed in 2019

Expedition staff to guest ratio

1:10

Optional activities

Camping, kayaking, mountaineering, paddling, scuba diving & snowshoeing

Swoop Ship Review: Hondius

Why we like this ship

  • The vessel offers 4* accommodation for a total of 170 passengers
  • Decorated and furnished in an elegant and modern style, retaining a distinctive cosy and informal atmosphere
  • One deck entirely reserved for (multi-language) lectures and presentations
  • Large observation lounge and a separate lecture room
  • Two separate gangways ensure speedy zodiac embarkation and an indoor Zodiac embarkation platform, which can also be used for special outdoor activities such as kayaking
  • Hondius is equipped with 2 main engines and can reach a maximum speed of 15 knots

We think it's worth noting

  • Active passengers should note that this ship doesn't have a gym 
  • The voyage fare doesn't include a pre-cruise hotel night and guests need to either rent or bring their own parka jacket. However, these are reflected in the price
Customer review background image

What our customers think of Hondius

Hondius trips scored 4.5/5 from 619 reviews

Hondius was better than I had anticipated. It's a pretty compact ship but it's really comfortable. Our cabin was very much larger than I had expected based on photos. The lounge was spacious and comfortable with good views for days when standing on the deck wasn't preferred due to wind or spray. Food was really excellent. The hotel management folks were really helpful and all the crew were available to talk. The open bridge was fascinating and, again, offered a great warm, protected space for outdoor viewing when the deck wasn't open (which didn't happen much) or you didn't want to have to put on outdoor clothing. I would definitely choose Hondius for a future trip. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2024

Drew Wilson - USA

The Hondius was the perfect ship for me, perfect size. The cabin met all my needs and expectations. it was very comfortable!! I would definitely choose this ship again. The team of stewards that took care of us were exceptional. I felt the food was good, and met varying tastes. It was very nice to have plated dinners, as opposed to buffet all the time – and they were very well presented. I felt the chef and his team did a great job. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2024

Karen Downing - United States Minor Outlying Islands

Our cabin and bed was very comfortable! The food was excellent. I was so happy to see so many fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the trip. I would definitely choose this ship again. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2024

Jacqueline Arnett - USA

Cabin was a little more spacious than we expected, which was great. Clean facilities, really enjoyed staying on this ship. Great staff! Perfect fit for the experience we were looking to gain from this trip. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2024

Dean Norowski - USA

Great ship, very well equipped and ideal for polar exploration. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2024

Alan Blackwell - UK

The ship exceeded expectations. The rooms were modern, clean and nice. The dining facility and gathering areas were perfect. The hotel staff and restaurant staff were incredible. I couldn’t have asked for a better boat. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2024

Adam Strand - USA

It was the perfect ship for the type of adventure we wanted - it's smaller passenger capacity provided a more personal/homely experience. Cabin was impeccable, food options were first class. We would definitely use this ship again. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2024

Denise Dibben - Australia

Faultless - yes, without hesitation. Everything offered, the amenities, the cabins, the food, food preparation and food delivery and all staff deliver perfection. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2024

John Warin - Australia

Very comfortable ship. Good food and well maintained. The expedition team's knowledge and background were outstanding. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2024

Rabijan Abd Rahim - Malaysia

The two person cabin was better than I expected. The portholes were bigger than I imagined and the rooms looked like new. Food was wonderful and plentiful (I would add a bigger (craft) beer selection). I would choose Hondius again. Read the full review

Travelled: October 2024

David Simmons - USA

The ship lived up to my expectations. The dining food was great and the cabins were extremely comfortable. All the team is passionate and they put together a great crew to lead us. Read the full review

Travelled: March 2024

Kyle Torster - USA

All the staff were exceptional. The ship was always kept clean and comfortable. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2024

Franz Scherubl - Canada

The cabin was nice, the ship was comfortable and clean. I would definitely choose this ship again. The expedition team was very friendly and knowledgeable, they paid attention and did everything they could to make us have a great time on this trip. They are some of the best people I've met! Read the full review

Travelled: February 2024

Katerina Tsantili - Greece

I would most certainly choose this ship again. Very stable. Cabin was a little tight for 4, but we made it work and had a great time together. The food was excellent. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2024

Chris Gavin - USA

The ship is very new, and the cabin and the public spaces were clean and comfortable. The ship lived up to my expectations in every way. The food was very good, with a reasonable variety, but not as much as what one would get on a large cruise ship or at a restaurant – not unreasonable for such a ship of this size. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2024

Jeffrey Siegel - USA

Hondius was much more better than what I thought! Wonderful and the food is amazing. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2024

Samantha Hwang - Taiwan

Awesome ship and perfect for this trip. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2024

Todd Robichaux - USA

Cabin was very comfortable and the food was very good. All the expedition team were good at what they did, and the lectures were very informative. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2024

Richard Robichaux - USA

Beautiful ship that met and exceeded all of our expectations. Professional staff, great ship, perfect adventure. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2024

Steve Murphy - USA

Cabin was great. Ship was as expected. We would use Hondius again and recommend it to others. The expedition team were knowledgeable, friendly and extremely engaging. It was great to hear their individual stories. So varied. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2024

Gerry Good - USA

Hondius was a wonderful ship, our cabin was comfortable, the hotel staff were very attentive and friendly. The food was wonderful, and the staff even better. I would definitely choose this ship again! Read the full review

Travelled: December 2023

Deb Smith - USA

The weather, wildlife, nature, the expedition team and the boat plus its staff all contributed to making it a great experience! Read the full review

Travelled: December 2023

Meike Kyung Ok Van Der Veur - Belgium

Cabin was great - very comfy. The beds were great! Food was good - lots of variety and attention to my dietary restrictions. I would 100% choose this ship again. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2023

Leslie Fulton - USA

Very nice ship and facilities. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2023

Perumpillavil Govind - India

Fantastic boat! Definitely recommend. The stabilizers made the Drake Passage less rocky. The cabin was very comfortable. Food was great! Read the full review

Travelled: November 2023

Midori Shibuya - USA

The ship lives up to the expectations set by being designed for purpose. Great ship. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2023

Jake Given - USA

Hondius is a beautiful and well-built ship with modern amenities and an excellent staff. Our twin deluxe cabin was spacious with two huge windows where we watched sealife go by. Our cabin steward, Maria, was friendly and did an excellent job keeping our cabin neat and fresh. The meals were amazing. Read the full review

Travelled: March 2023

Cris Flippen - USA

Beautiful room, great food, common areas were great. Read the full review

Travelled: March 2023

Beth Cauwels - USA

The expedition team were an amazing, smart and talented group of individuals! Recommend each and every one of them. Read the full review

Travelled: March 2023

Jonathon Kemp - USA

10/10 - Hondius was a great vessel and staff were helpful and friendly. Read the full review

Travelled: March 2023

Alison Miller - USA

I feel like a broken record at this point, but nothing disappointed. Everything far exceeded expectations! Read the full review

Travelled: March 2023

Joe Vial - USA

Hondius exceeded my expectations. I was in a quad cabin, never felt cramped, bathroom was bigger than I expected. Food was over the top. We ate like kings, absolutely delicious. I 100% would choose this ship and recommend it to anyone interested. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2023

Chris Poli - USA

Food very excellent, staff very excellent, cabin was great with the heated rack. Yes, I would choose again. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2023

Hiroshi Okabe - USA

If you go with Swoop and the Hondius you will never regret it. Trip of a lifetime. Best ship I was ever on. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2023

Liam McCabe - Ireland

Nice roomy 6th deck cabin. Was surprised at the quality of the room! Amazing staff, great food. Everything was well organized and safe. The expedition staff was top notch. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2023

Jessica Naff - USA

Every single member of the expedition team was an expert in some niche category and together they made for the most incredible team. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2023

Nicole Kmiotek - USA

Great housekeeping staff, excellent food and service, very clean. Yes, will consider choosing this ship again. Great professional and knowledgeable team. Great lectures on the days at sea. Excellent cuisine and snacks. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Evelyn Martinez - USA

All of the staff were very knowledgeable in their field. Many with at least one advanced degree. Photography staff were excellent. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Calvin Lee Ramage - USA

The Hondius was very comfortable, our room was amazing. The food was always fresh and plentiful and the staff was friendly. Cleanliness was also a priority on board. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Jill Pryor - USA

The Hondius was great. It made the Drake Passage very comfortable. The cabin was wonderful. The food was amazing every night. I would definitely choose this ship again. The Hondius staff were also great. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Dave Lo - USA

Ship was nicer than I expected, cabin larger than I thought. Very comfortable space, liked the lounge as well. I would be happy to go on this ship again. The food was decent as well, I was impressed by the variety the kitchen offered. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Talia Salenger - USA

10/10 - Everything was perfect - the boat, the trips and their planning, the knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Virginia Campbell - UK

Every person we dealt with was positive, helpful, and knowledgeable. Michael, the Hotel Manager, was awesome. Marcel as the expedition leader was 10/10. The team's engagement with passengers made the entire experience better. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Tyler White - USA

An amazing ship. Well kept and beautiful. The ship crew deserve a lot of credit - it was spotless the entire trip. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Tyler White - USA

I whole-heartedly recommend the Hondius for this adventure. Read the full review

Travelled: January 2023

Steven Goodman - USA

Because the Hondius is a newer ship in the fleet, we were very comfortable and would go out of our way to choose this ship again next time because of its newness and better technology. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2022

Joseph Gabriano - USA

Very nice ship. Was a bit worried on all the family in a quad but it worked out fine. Loved the hotel staff. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2022

Jason Maynard - USA

Good ship - especially stabilizers are lifesaver in Drake Passage. The expedition team did an awesome job with the information and helpful in every way. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2022

Vasanth Hathwar - USA

The cabin was awesome and the food was incredible (11/10). The kitchen crew led by Gaurav were so accommodating to our dietary needs and made it so we were always well fuelled for all of our expedition activities. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2022

Jagadeesh Hathwar - USA

The Hondius was a very comfortable ship. The cabin was well organized space. The food was outstanding. I appreciated the vegetarian options as well as the multi-cultural offerings. The cleaning and serving staff were friendly and efficient. The lounging and dining areas were comfortable and facilitated connections with other passengers and staff. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2022

Linda Nolte - USA

The crew was AMAZING they were professional but all so real and their backgrounds and histories could keep people entertained for days. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2022

Chelsea Davis - USA

I went solo and was worried about being bored and alone on the cruise. I ended up making friends with some amazing people in my cabin and the guys next door as well. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2022

Chelsea Davis - USA

It's a great balance between affordable and not too large. The ship and crew were amazing. Food and dining staff were amazing too.The open bridge is also a nice touch to see all the work that makes it possible. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2022

Chelsea Davis - USA

The ship is absolutely perfect. Not too big, not too small. Had all of the amenities we needed and more. Absolutely loved it. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2022

Rebecca Brown - USA

The Hondius always felt really safe, cabin and food was really good. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2022

Manuel Gutierrez - USA

The food was great, always with many options even if you are vegetarian or vegan. The quad-cabin was very good, knowing that this is a vessel, we had enough space to be comfortable. I would choose Hondius again. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2022

Christian Cancino Martinez - USA

Tremendous food and a great staff. Comfortable rooms and an excellent lounge area. I also liked our ability to move around on the ship - I never felt confined. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2022

Matt Martin - USA

The team was great, very upbeat, professional, helpful, knowledgeable - all around as good as guides get. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2022

Matt Martin - USA

10/10 - Great staff, great crew, great, knowledgeable expedition guides. Everyone on the ship were absolutely professional and fun to talk to and fun to hang out with at the end of our days. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2022

Kelly DeBey - USA

To say that our expedition leader, Pippa, was "superb" is the understatement of the decade. All of the teams were competent, and so incredibly knowledgeable in their "microfields" of interest (eg, plankton, diatoms, antarctic geopolitics, global shipping etc. etc. etc.) They mingled with the passengers at every opportunity - sitting randomly with guests at dinner rather than keeping to themselves. The lounge in the evenings was a raucous, friendly, SOOOO enjoyable "pub" experience every night. Just terrific! Read the full review

Travelled: November 2022

Shelley Springer - USA

Fabulous ship. Cabin was so very comfortable - appointments were above expectations. Drink prices were very reasonable. Open bridge was a terrific surprise - especially given our location! Food service was excellent...as an American, the food was a bit more "European" than we're used to - not a bad thing! Read the full review

Travelled: November 2022

Shelley Springer - USA

The vessel is perfect for our activities, the cabin only would need space for dry wet clothes after excursions. The food and restaurant was amazing. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2022

Eduardo Vidal - Argentina

All the members of the staff are knowledgeable in their subject, it was a pleasure to talk to them every time we had the opportunity, even in our spare time or in the restaurant. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2022

Eduardo Vidal - Argentina

Great people with so much experience. They were a highlight; so many years of polar experience. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2021

Mike Walcher - USA

The ship was fantastic. It handled some high winds and waves on the Drake, and we loved the observation lounge - what a wonderful and welcoming gathering spot for viewing Antarctica and connecting with fellow passengers and expedition team members. Food was excellent and crew was fantastic. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2021

Mike Walcher - USA

All were approachable, knowledgeable and passionate. I enjoyed learning about the history of discovery, women in Antarctica, the birds, mammals and bathymetry. The glacial lectures were very informative. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2021

Diane Walcher - USA

The food was good: our companions were vegan and vegetarian, and they were happy with the food, too (sometimes prepared especially for them). We liked the ship, and the staff, and the stabilizers! Yes, I would choose it again. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2021

Diane Walcher - USA

I am inspired by Bill, a 77 yyear old Zodiac boat guide. His lecture entitled "Painting and Sea" and all the drawings he created during the 10-nights voyage are absolutely awesome!! Read the full review

Travelled: December 2021

Xin Jing - USA

The ship was fantastic. Super clean and a wonderful crew to take care of all of our needs. There was enough space in the common areas to feel not too crowded. The food was plentiful and a good variety. We were a family of vegetarians and were provided with excellent vegetarian dishes. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2021

Claire Torrey - USA

The lectures were great and covered a wide range of topics. My favorites were about the geography of Antarctica and glaciers. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2021

Claire Torrey - USA

The expedition team, lead by Sara, was exceptional. Sara kept us informed on the activities of the day, and had multiple backup plans in case the weather did not cooperate for what was planned. The lectures were very informative. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2021

Mohit Kallianpur - USA

I had assumed the food onboard would be average, and boy was I wrong! It was really excellent! Most of the people in our group are vegetarians, and we always had great choices - multiple salads, vegetarian soup option, and always a good vegetarian entree. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2021

Mohit Kallianpur - USA

Terrific ship. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2021

Sheila Porter - USA

Outstanding! The crew were friendly, open, funny and clearly were having as much fun as we were having. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2021

Sheila Porter - USA

We can't say enough good things about the entire team; from the direct support staff to the onboard staff. They were all friendly, helpful, informed, and knowledgeable. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2021

Paul Parris - USA

Hondius is a great boat. The onboard food was outstanding and more than plentiful. Our cabin on the sixth deck was wonderful and we were glad we had chosen a larger option since we spent a fair amount of time in there on sea days. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2021

Paul Parris - USA

Great ship!! The rooms were way better than we expected. There was so much room for our things, lots of storage space and a luxurious feel. We had a twin porthole room. The dinning was awesome, as well! There was so much food - almost too much ha-ha. We were well fed and I definitely feel like we got our money's worth in food alone. The ship also had a lot of cool spaces like the lounge, library, lecture hall, and all the deck space. We could even find time to be alone in certain areas on the boat during the day if we wanted to. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2020

George Parson - Australia

The ship's management, the housekeeping staff, restaurant team, etc everyone I came in contact with were friendly, helpful and amazing! Food was good. The room was very comfortable and clean. Most definitely looking forward to a longer trip on this ship. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2020

Agatha Reyes - Thailand

I really had no expectations coming in, nor was I under any pretenses that it would be like a cruise ship. So, I was pleasantly surprised given that this was not a luxury ship, the service, professionalism and friendliness of the staff were second to none and went a really long way to make the experience such an enjoyable one. Read the full review

Travelled: February 2020

Kirstin Chai Li Jen - Thailand

The Hondius is a new ship, and I thought it was an excellent experience being on board. Our cabin was modern and larger than I had expected. Read the full review

Travelled: December 2019

Mary Wood - United States Of America

We loved the accommodation; our room was fabulous, the ship is beautiful and well run. Read the full review

Travelled: November 2019

Kathy Lanier Dignen - United States Of America

Review:

Voyages aboard Hondius

Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.

Antarctic Basecamp Adventure

The ultimate Antarctic adventure, this trip is specifically for the active traveller. Spend 7 days kayaking, hiking, camping, mountaineering and snowshoeing, all included in the price. A medium-sized expedition ship acts as your floating ‘basecamp’. An excellent deal backed up…

  • 13 Days
  • $9,700
Onto the Antarctic Ice

With three medium-sized expedition ships to pick from and regular departure dates throughout the season, this well-priced voyage is a popular option. Across striking landscapes and icy seas, your company includes penguins, seals, whales and skuas. For the adventurous, optional…

  • 10-13 Days
  • $6,300
South of the Antarctic Circle

By including optional kayaking and diving, these late season voyages offer the chance to maximise your polar crossing experience by exploring Antarctica both on and under the water. Travelling at that time provides excellent photographic and whale watching conditions, alongside…

  • 12, 13 or 14 Days
  • $7,700
Spring Quest to Antarctica, Falklands and South Georgia

Setting sail ​early in the season, be aboard ​one of the ​first ship​s to head​ south ​as the Southern Ocean reopens for business​. It's a special time in South Georgia as the beaches are packed with breeding elephant seals, while…

  • 21 Days
  • $14,250
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Adventure

With a good choice of departure dates through the season across three medium-sized ships, this 19-22 day trip stands out for its value for money and the broad range of cabin categories available, including Quads, which are…

  • 19-22 Days
  • $14,500
Southern Atlantic Odyssey

This must be one of the world’s last great sea voyages - sailing from Antarctica up through the South Atlantic Ocean, visiting remote islands en route. Departing mid-March, it’s a 33 or 42 day long voyage depending on whether you…

  • 23-37 Days
  • $14,800
Quest for the Emperor Penguins of Snow Hill Island

The iconic emperor penguin is the goal of this expedition for wildlife enthusiasts, as your ice-strengthened ship sails into Antarctica’s challenging and little-visited Weddell Sea. Delve deep into historically significant and ice-laden waters, heading for the remote emperor rookery…

  • 11 Days
  • $12,900
Uncharted Antarctica & South Georgia Odyssey

An innovative itinerary exploring some of Antarctica’s most inaccessible locations by ship, zodiac and helicopter. The most extensive expedition of its kind, this voyage takes in the wildlife paradise of South Georgia and rarely visited South Sandwich Islands. True adventurers…

  • 28 Days
  • $24,700
Falklands, South Georgia & The Polar Circle

Visit one of the last untamed areas on Earth. Explore ruggedly beautiful landscapes and amazingly varied wildlife on board an elegant and modern 4* vessel. Optional activities include photo and video workshops with experts, as well as polar…

  • 23 Days
  • $16,700
Swoop Says background image

Newly built, comfortable and capable with her Polar Class 6 rating, Hondius delivers the full Antarctica package at a great price point.

Alex Mudd Head of Swoop Antarctica

Onboard Communications & Facilities

Upon boarding the ship you will receive an internet voucher, giving you access to a daily allowance of 1.5 GB of free internet connectivity, which resets every 24 hours. Should you require additional data beyond what's included, supplementary internet vouchers will be available to purchase on board at the following prices:

  • 5GB: €25
  • 10GB: €50

Swoop. Your adventure story.

Market-leading expertise

Depth Of Knowledge SVG

Harness our 400,000 hours of Antarctic experience. There’s no question we can’t answer.

Impartial advice at no extra cost

Expert Impartial Advice SVG

Expert advice on over 1500 voyages to help you discover your perfect trip - and we don’t charge a fee.

B Corp certified

Ends Of The Earth SVG

We care deeply about protecting Antarctica, that’s why 1% of our revenue goes to conservation.

A full concierge service

With You SVG

Access our exclusive pre-travel webinars — one of the many ways we make sure you’re Antarctica’s best-prepared travellers.

Find Your Antarctic Ship

Choosing the right ship is crucial, given the amount of time you'll spend on board. Swoop is experienced at helping match our customers to exactly the right ship.

Find your Antarctic ship

Ready to plan your Antarctic adventure?

1
Listen

Listen

We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.

2
Match

Match

Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.

3
Reserve

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.

1-888-970-4570