8 new ways to explore the final frontier of Antarctica

Ever wanted to visit the ultimate icy wonderland? Here is your chance to explore deep beneath the surface.

Robert Scott, Roald Amundsen, Edith ‘Jackie’ Ronne, and Ernest Shackleton. All pioneers who braved Antarctica’s extremes to explore its mysteries. Luckily for us, modern adventurers have it a lot easier. Seeing penguins waddling in their natural habitat, camping under the dazzling Antarctic stars, or contributing to vital research all awaits when you book an HX Hurtigruten Expeditions (HX) cruise. With this 128-year-old company, it’s not just about witnessing breathtaking landscapes: it’s about being part of something extraordinary.

Experience Antarctica like never before. (Image: Espen Mills)

1. Spot penguins around the Falkland Islands

Prepare for a parade of penguins as Antarctica and Falkland Islands expedition cruise through some of the Southern Hemisphere’s most dramatic landscapes during their courting and nesting season. Guided by Expedition Leaders, spot regal King Penguins and playful Gentoo Penguins on the East Falklands. On Deception Island, the Chinstrap Penguins make their way over volcanic sand, looking like tiny tuxedoed tourists. And for the pièce de résistance, Snow Hill Island might reward patience with a glimpse of the elusive Emperor Penguin,  holding court like an Antarctic royal.

Get up close to a variety of penguins. (Image: Yuri Matisse Choufour)

2. Experience camping in Antarctica

Take an Antarctica adventure to the next level with a night spent sleeping on the ice. On the Highlights of Antarctica cruise, follow in the footsteps of early explorers with a modern twist, and spend a night camping under the stars, explore nearby penguin colonies, go on short hikes, and watch the sunrise. And don’t worry about a shivering sleep – the expedition leaders will ensure guests are as snug as a bug in Antarctic-grade tents.

Experience Antarctica’s wilderness when you camp on ice. (Image: Espen Mills)

3. Taste locally-inspired cuisine

Canned food or even seals and penguins might have been the diet of explorers over a century ago, but guests thankfully won’t face hardship on that front. Dining aboard the Antarctica expedition cruise comes with all-inclusive breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as wine, beer and spirits. If gobbling up the sights of icebergs causes a different kind of hunger, there are also takeaway options. Suite guests have access to fine dining at the exclusive Lindstrøm restaurant.

Indulge in all-inclusive meals, wine, and spirits on your cruise. (Image: Agurtxane Concellon)

4. Become a scientist in your own right

Visiting this remote and fragile part of the world isn’t just ticking off a travel box. On an HX Antarctica expedition, guests will actively contribute to groundbreaking research. A partnership with the University of Tasmania’s Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) involves guests in scientific data collection on ice seal behaviour, whales and seabirds. If they can’t wait to get started, HX offers an online educational program before their trip, enhancing a deeper understanding of the region and its ecosystems.

Contribute to groundbreaking research on ice seals, whales, and seabirds.

5. Look for whales

Speaking of whales, cruise participants are more than likely to spot these intelligent creatures in educational and thrilling moments. Routes zig-zag through prime whale-watching areas, in and outside the Antarctic Peninsula. And it’s not just about seeing them. The onboard expedition team offers guests expert insights into the behaviour, biology and their delicate environment, while hydrophone equipment reveals mysterious underwater melodies.

Spot intelligent whales in prime areas. (Image: Kay Fochtmann)

6. Thaw out in a sauna or spa

Being bowled over by the sight of endless snow and ice is a given on an Antarctica cruise. Being cold all day is not. That’s why HX doesn’t just do day trips from the ship. Some of them are equipped with all sorts of toasty delights. There is the soothing heat of the sauna, the outdoor hot tub that combines soporific warmth with snow-capped views, and heated pools to relax aching muscles.

Relax in the sauna and outdoor hot tub with snow views. (Image: Clara Tuma)

7. Kayak through ice packs

Imagine acting as the captain of your boat while moving silently between the enormous icebergs on a kayak, immerses guests in a world of frigid and mirror-like waters like they’ve never seen before. A cruise excursion of kayaking is as calming as it is adventurous, with glimpses of whales breaching, lazing seals and penguins gliding under the boat, all possible.

Kayak through serene waters, with scenic glacier views.

8. Visit the onboard Science Centre

The experience of an Antarctic cruise will not end once guests step onto the dock on the final day. Instead, the training onboard as a future Citizen Scientist will last forever. Start onboard with the ship’s Science Centre, a dedicated space for learning and discovery. Expert-led lectures and workshops run throughout the journey, covering topics like climate change, wildlife, and the history of exploration. A trip to the Antarctica makes scientists of us all.

See more about HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Antarctic cruises here at travelhx.com/en-au/