If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers a Zodiac ride past calving glaciers over a pool deck and umbrella drink, then Oceanwide Expeditions should be on your radar. This is a company built for travelers who want true, boots‑on‑the‑ground (and ice) exploration. No fluff, no big ship crowds, just pure polar adventure. Oceanwide offer some of the most unique routes in Antarctica with LOTS of activities. And there’s no better example of their approach than the M/V Hondius, one of the most advanced purpose built expedition vessels sailing today.
A Purpose‑Built Polar Vessel
Hondius isn’t a repurposed research ship or a converted coastal vessel like the other two ships in the Oceanwide fleet. This ship was designed from the keel up for the Arctic and Antarctica. As the world’s first vessel to be built with a Polar Class 6 rating, it’s engineered to navigate ice safely while still offering a comfortable, stable experience for passengers. In practice, that means the ship can push deeper into icy environments while minimizing the impact of rough seas. A huge perk and something every traveler appreciates on the Drake Passage. Plus being a PC6 vessel, it venture deeper into the icy waters to take travelers further. Meaning a true expedition!
The ship carries around 170 guests, which strikes a sweet spot: small enough for intimate exploration, large enough for a wide range of cabin types. You’ll find everything from porthole cabins to spacious suites with private balconies, all decorated in a warm, contemporary style that feels more boutique hotel than traditional expedition ship. More on the rooms below.
This ship #1 focus is getting you off the ship. Which means it’s not a luxury cruise ship, it’s not trying to compete with the Seabourn Antarctica Experience or Swan Hellenic luxury polar expeditions. It’s not trying to even compete with the style of Lindblad expedition. Oceanwide Expedition is trying to compete with true expedition ships with 1 purpose, exploring the polar regions. So if you want to explore further, see more and spend less time on the ship. Oceanwide welcomes those with a true desire to explore, learn, and experience. Plus offer activities and itineraries that are unique which many other expedition companies do not offer
A Floating Basecamp for Real Exploration
Oceanwide has always emphasized getting off the ship as much as possible, and Hondius was built with that philosophy in mind. Two gangways and an indoor Zodiac embarkation area mean landings are smooth and efficient, even when the weather decides not to cooperate. Because the ship carries a robust fleet of Zodiacs, everyone can participate in landings, wildlife viewing, and guided hikes without long rotations or waiting around.
Onboard, the atmosphere leans toward expedition rather than luxury cruise. Expect daily briefings, wildlife talks, and photography workshops instead of Broadway shows or casinos. There’s not a cruise director or entertainment onboard. Why, because you’re going to be exhausted for the long hikes, overnight camping, and exploring. The show is outside in nature, not on the ship.
Speaking of seeing out side, the observation lounge is one of the highlights of the ship. It wraps around the bow with panoramic windows, making it a perfect place to warm up while watching for whales, penguins, or polar bears. Of course, depending on what polar region you’re in. If you see Penguins and polar bears at the same time, you’re at a zoo!
Another great part of Oceanwide Expeditions is they have an open bridge policy. Get a first hand look at where you’re navigating. Enjoy the bridge with the officers and enjoy the best view in the house. Open bridge policy are more common on small expedition ships than elsewhere, but is still not common on many carriers. Swan Hellenic and Silversea for example do not have open bridges. They offer tours, but it’s not an open place to visit.
The ship would not be completed
without a grand dining room. With big windows so you can see out and check out what is happening around the ship, even at meal times. Everyone comes together for breakfast and lunch buffets and then al la carte dining at dinner.
Accommodation Options Aboard M/V Hondius
Although Hondius is designed first and foremost as a true expedition vessel, purpose‑built for speed, ice‑strength, and wildlife access, the ship offers a surprisingly broad range of accommodations. Staterooms are practical, modern, and thoughtfully laid out to maximize storage and space while still keeping the focus on what matters most: the landscapes outside your window. Plus they cater to both solo traveler willing to bunk up with new friends and families and friends who are traveling together seeking adventure.
Quad and Triple Cabins
Perfect for families, friend groups, or travelers looking to keep costs low, these cabins offer bunk‑style bedding with private ensuite bathrooms. Storage is efficient and smartly placed, and despite being the most economical category, they’re well‑maintained and comfortable. Quad options are especially popular on longer polar itineraries where value matters most.
Many guests get concern about the Drake shake and the top bunk. Yet Oceanwide has this figured out. There’s a foldaway guardrail which you can take out and even seatbelts under the bed for those with extra concern. Still nervous? Call Oceanwide or your Travel Advisor before hand and reserve a lower bunk bed.
During the day, the upper bunks do fold away, or if you end up being just two people in the cabin you can keep the beds up and away. Providing more headspace.
Twin And Triple Porthole Cabins
A great mid‑range choice, these cabins feature two lower berths and round porthole windows for natural light. If it’s a triple, only one bunk is out. They offer the same private bathroom and efficient layout as other categories but add the charm of those classic expedition‑ship portholes. This is great for families with one kid or those looking for a little more space. All porthole cabins are essentially the same but sleep between 2-4 people depending on if the beds are folded down or not
Twin Deluxe Cabins
For guests who prefer a bit more visibility, the Twin Deluxe cabins replace portholes with larger rectangle windows that brighten the room and provide a wider view of passing wildlife and scenery. These beds do not move and configuration is always two separate beds. Great for friends who are traveling together or couples or like their own beds. Even the couch is separated into two chairs
Superior Cabins
A step up in comfort, Superior cabins offer more floor space, upgraded bedding, a sofa or sitting area, and larger windows. They strike a great balance between expedition practicality and hotel‑style comfort, especially appealing for longer voyages in Antarctica or the Arctic. The bathrooms are also slightly larger giving passengers more space all around. These are great for couples traveling together who like to relax and look out the large windows and enjoy the stunning landscapes. These are really the same as the twin cabins above, but a single bed and a couch made for cuddling.
Junior Suites
Junior Suites offer generous space, upgraded furnishings, and wide window views that feel almost panoramic. Many include a larger bathroom, expanded storage, and a more residential layout. These are particularly nice for guests who like a private retreat after a day spent kayaking, hiking, or zodiac cruising. A little more space for two. The couch in this room (not pictured) is also slightly larger.
Why Travelers Choose Hondius
Oceanwide attracts a particular type of traveler: people who value time ashore, expert guides, and authentic encounters with the natural world. Hondius delivers all of this with the added benefits of modern ship design, a comfortable onboard environment, and a crew deeply passionate about polar environments. I was not able to get a photo of the lecture hall because a meeting was happening, but the ship also has a great theater for small lectures, evening movies and more.
If your idea of a perfect vacation is kayaking among icebergs, hiking to penguin colonies, or navigating narrow channels surrounded by glaciers, Hondius is the ship that gets you there—safely, comfortably, and with a focus on real adventure. It’s not just a cruise; it’s an expedition. And Oceanwide brings you some of the most unique and adventurous activities compared to the competition. If you want to spend 2-3+ hours off the ship multiple times a day, hike, camp, snowshoe and more, than Oceanwide if your best bet.
Looking to book an Oceanwide adventure? Contact me at Scott & Thomas travel for special deals, additional onboard credit and other perks on your Antarctica or Arctic adventure.
