Plancius
Ship overview:
Built in 1976 as an oceanographic research vessel for the Royal Dutch
Navy, the Plancius underwent a major two-year multi-million dollar
refurbishment in 2009, transforming her into the modern, comfortably
appointed expedition-style ship she is today - an ideal basecamp for
polar exploration.
From $6,300
Prices based on two people sharing108 passengers
Constructed in 1976
1:10
Camping, kayaking, mountaineering, paddling, scuba diving & snowshoeing
Swoop Video Review: Plancius
Why we like this ship
- Following the ship’s rebuild she combines the authenticity of an expedition ship on the outside with the comfort and amenities of a well-appointed 3* hotel on the inside
- The ship's diesel-electric propulsion system greatly reduces noise and vibration, making the journey more comfortable, particularly at night
- A wide choice of different cabin types, including Triples & Quads, all are modern with en-suite bathrooms and flat screen TVs with streamed movies
- Twin gangways on the starboard side allows two zodiacs to be loaded at once which ensures minimal waiting time during embarkation and disembarkation
- Stunning panorama views through the large windows of the observation lounge mean you won’t miss out on wildlife sightings while keeping warm onboard
- Offers a wide range of adventure activities, particularly on the active Basecamp voyages, including being one of the few ships to offer diving
We think it's worth noting
- The ship doesn't have active stabilisers. Instead, it uses a bilge keel system to provide stability in rough seas
- 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
What our customers think of Plancius
Plancius trips scored 4.5/5 from 607 reviews
First and foremost, the entire crew was excellent. From hotel to kitchen to expedition guides, everyone was professional, knowledgeable and hard working. The food was very good, we were never hungry. Bar prices were very reasonable for a cruise. I can't say enough about the expedition team. What an amazing bunch of people who were so friendly and made sure we all got the most out of the visit.
Travelled: December 2017
Nick - Canada
The travel experience on the boat was mind boggling, so many great stories and interesting people and backgrounds. The highlight of the trip was being able to camp on the continent.
Travelled: December 2017
Travis & Kalli - Texas
The expedition staff couldn't have been better - each exceptionally well trained, helpful, uniquely interesting individuals. The Plancius staff has somehow managed to create a highly positive, inclusive culture that set the tone for our very diverse group of passengers and made the entire experience a very rewarding one for each of us.
Travelled: December 2017
George & Kate - Connecticut
Brilliant itinerary. Early season cruise was fantastic with lovely snow and ice to enjoy. Expedition staff were uniformly excellent with wide areas of knowledge and expertise. Everyone worked smoothly together to get us all ashore quickly, efficiently and safely. The Captain added to our enjoyment by giving us unexpectedly close-up experiences of polar ice.
Travelled: November 2017
Colin & Jacqui - UK
The crew on Plancius were fantastic, very knowledgeable, exceptionally professional and very accommodating. I met some great and very interesting people among both divers and passengers. Surprises included the quality of the service, expedition staff on Plancius, and restaurant quality meals!
Travelled: March 2017
Erika - Australia
The Plancius was ideal, relatively small, quiet and clean and exceeded expectations. Have already recommended it to like-minded friends of all ages.
Travelled: March 2017
Graham and Angela - UK
The services and food on the Plancius were outstanding. The crew even remembered my name, among all the passengers.
Travelled: February 2017
Patricia - Canada
Plancius is a brilliant ship, perfect for people who like adventure and exploration and being active when they are on holiday. It is small enough to feel intimate and it means that you get to know lots of people during the trip.
Travelled: December 2016
Declan - UK
Review:
Voyages aboard Plancius
Special Offers:Swoop has access to the widest range of offers and can help you find the right trip, cabin, & price.
4.5 out of 5
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
4.8 out of 5
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
4.6 out of 5
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
Setting sail early in the season, be aboard one of the first ships 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
4.5 out of 5
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
Alex says
I'm always pleased when customers ask me about The Plancius as it's one of my favourites. I like her modern, contemporary styling - comfortable without being fussy - and her quiet engines are always appreciated by guests, particularly when sailing overnight. Thumbs up.
Alex Mudd Head of Swoop Antarctica
The Plancius
Approaching the Risting Glacier at the head of Dryglaski Fjord
A penguin's view of the Plancius
The dining room
The observation lounge
The buffet
The bridge
The Plancius in Antarctica
Zodiac cruising from the Plancius
Your expedition vessel
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
Please note that this is only for light data traffic and that the above prices are approximate.
You can also choose from the following options:
- Telephone card: EUR25/ approx. 25 mins depending on destination you are calling.
- Ship-based email: EUR5 set up fee + EUR15 for a 7-10 day trip; EUR20 for a 11-12 day trip; EUR25 for an 18 day trip; EUR50 for a 30 day trip.
Other facilities include:
- Plugs: European 220V two-round-pinned sockets
- Towels, toiletries and hair dryers
- Laundry service (additional cost)
Why our customers love Swoop
The Antarctic Experts.
No Compromises
Our team has visited Antarctica over 150 times and has 100 collective years of polar experience, so from which trip is right for you to what shoes to bring - there’s no question we can’t answer.
Expert impartial advice at no extra cost
Choosing the right voyage is complicated, Swoop makes it easy. We offer no-nonsense advice on 1500 voyages across 30 ships to find you the right trip, cabin, price - and we don’t charge a fee.
The only B Corp certified Antarctic specialist
We want to protect Antarctica for future generations - which is why we became a certified B Corp and set up our own conservation fund. So your adventures can be a force for good.
A full concierge service, unlike booking direct
We leave nothing to chance in delivering your perfect trip and have over 6500 happy travellers to show for it. With a dedicated Antarctic co-ordinator & support throughout - you’re in safe hands.
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.
Ready to plan your Antarctic adventure?
Listen
We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
Match
Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
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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