Hurtigruten launches Antarctica expedition packages

Avid watchers of nature programmes and wannabe polar scientists can enjoy a new type of cruise with Hurtigruten next year, when the cruise line doubles its capacity to Antarctica.

Antarctica.
Antarctica.
The MS Midnatsol, currently operating on the Norwegian coastal route, will head south to Antarctica and operate with an enhanced entertainment programme, including an interactive science lab & dedicated programme for younger guests.

While the MS Fram will continue to operate from Ushuaia, with sailings including the Falkland Islands and South Orkney Islands, from September 2016 the Midnatsol will set sail from Punta Arenas to explore the Chilean Fjords, Strait of Magellan & Cape Horn.

“This is an important strategic choice for Hurtigruten. We are positioning ourselves even stronger in the growing exploration market. The company is a leading, responsible player in sustainable travel. With the modern and flexible MS Midnatsol we meet the growing global demand for active nature-based experiences with an attractive product”, says Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten.

The two ships will offer very different experiences. Operating with a capacity of 500 passengers, the Midnatsol is more than double the size of her sister ship the MS Fram and will be the largest passenger vessel to offer landings in Antarctica. She will also offer a softer style of adventure cruise, while the Fram will appeal to more adventurous travellers.

Close to 28,000 tourists travelled to Antarctica in the 2013/2014 season, and the market for active nature-based adventures to exotic destinations is seeing significant growth.

From September 2016 to April 2017 the MS Midnatsol will operate a total of 16 departures, 10 of these to Antarctica. Prices start from £1,016 for the ‘Cultural contrasts – Through North Atlantic to Africa’, departing on 16 September 2016 (based on two sharing an inside cabin on full board basis). Antarctica itineraries start from £3,535 for the ‘Southern Hemisphere Adventure’ in an inside cabin on full board basis, departing on 1 March 2017. The price include return flights from Santiago-Punta Arenas. International flights arrangements are offered at a supplement.

The new programme is on sale now.

sourced:traveldailymedia.com