hurtigruten antarctica
When I was a child, I always thought about the ice of Antarctica in my mind. I made a fictional image in my mind of how it looks and everything. This dream was in the door to become real when I watched the video of Jason metric in which he tells the latest Hurtigruten hybrid ship named as Ms Roald amudsen. When I was watching that video I become young but this video again lit up my old thoughts and I made a plan to go to Antarctica and see it with my eyes. This was the time when my dream and fictions and perceptions became true.
Why hurtigruten
Sailing with HX Hurtigruten Expeditions aboard the MS Roald Amundsen was an absolute dream come true — I still can’t believe I’ve set foot on the frozen continent!
I do research on this full ship and its history before traveling in it. I came to know this ship is made by the famous and excellent Norwegian company named hurtigruten .
MS Roald Amundsen
It’s the world’s first hybrid-powered expedition ship, combining gas and electric propulsion to reduce emissions while enhancing the silence of polar cruising.
Key Reasons I Chose This Journey
Trusted polar expertise from Hurtigruten
Eco-friendly hybrid technology
Small passenger capacity (500 max) for a more intimate experience
High focus on education, science, and environmental awareness
Opportunity to visit remote Antarctic regions only reachable by expedition
Boarding
I boarded the ship in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. The ship’s sleek, Scandinavian design was visible from the port, its red-and-black hull a sharp contrast to the gray sky and restless water.
First Impressions
From the moment I stepped aboard, the experience felt seamless. The crew was warm, efficient, and diverse, offering a welcome drink and orientation. Safety briefings were done quickly, and before I knew it, we were sailing through the Beagle Channel.
“You don’t board this ship as a tourist. You board it as an explorer.”
Accommodation
I stayed in an Arctic Superior Outside Cabin with Balcony, and it exceeded all expectations. It was like a modern comfort in the wild.
Highlights of the Cabin
- Warm Scandinavian design with wood and gray tones
- Comfortable bed with nightstands on both sides (both with USB and power outlets)
- Ample storage space and well-designed minibar with reusable bottles
- Spacious balcony perfect for sunrise views over icy waters
- Sleek bathroom with plenty of hooks (thank you, Hurtigruten!) and generous shower space
- Smart TV integrated within a shelf
The thoughtful touches—from a vanity desk to heated floors—made it feel like a cozy retreat between icy adventures.
| Feature | Description |
| Bed Comfort | Plush mattress, cozy linens, USB/power on both ends |
| Storage | Multiple closets, drawers, and smart mini-bar |
| Balcony | Generously sized with unobstructed ocean views |
| Bathroom | Heated floor, rainfall shower, ample hanging hooks |
| Style | Minimalist, warm, and Nordic-inspired. |
Life Onboard
The heart of the ship is the Atrium, crowned by a giant vertical LED screen playing scenes of nature and space, and flanked by glass elevators. It’s where lectures are held, friends are made, and daily briefings are shared. This is a pure comfort experience with great curiosity.
Notable Spaces
- Explorer Lounge & Bar: Cozy space with faux fireplaces, snacks, and bar service
- Observation Deck: A wrap-around outdoor deck offering the best views
- Science Center: Replaces a traditional show lounge; features microscopes, specimens, lectures, and a library
- Gym & Spa: Fully equipped fitness center, sauna with ocean views, and massage rooms
- Infinity Pool & Hot Tubs: Heated outdoor relaxation with views over the stern
- Running Track & Outdoor Gym: Great in fair weather (though puddles form in rain)
Education Over Entertainment
There’s no casino, no theatre, and no water slides—and that’s exactly the point.
The Science Center acts as the brain of the ship. I attended:
- Climate lectures by actual scientists
- Wildlife ID workshops
- Hands-on microscope lab sessions
- Discussions about melting ice caps and penguin habitats
It deepened my connection with the environment we were sailing through.
Hybrid Power in Action
One of the most impressive parts of the MS Roald Amundsen is its battery-powered propulsion system.
The ship can silently glide on electric power for short stretches, minimizing noise and emissions which enhance especially valuable near wildlife colonies.
There’s even a Battery Room Tour (limited spots) where you can see:
- Massive battery banks
- Energy monitoring system
- Plans for future expansion
Hurtigruten’s commitment to sustainability felt real—not just a buzzword.
My Packing
Packing for Antarctica is tricky. Here’s what I brought and found useful:
Must-Haves
- Waterproof boots (though Hurtigruten offers rentals)
- Waterproof outer shell (jacket & pants)
- Thermal base layers
- Beanie, gloves (2 pairs), neck gaiter
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Camera with extra batteries
- Dry bag for zodiac rides
What I Could’ve Skipped
Fancy outfits (casual works fine)
- Extra shoes (wore the same pair daily)
- Books (the ship’s library was well-stocked)
Pro Tips Before You Go
- Book early: Suites and balcony cabins go fast
- Get travel insurance: Required for Antarctica
- Pre-download the Hurtigruten app for daily schedules and excursion updates
- Use Fairy Godmother Vacations (as Jason suggested!)—they handle everything at no extra cost
Final Thoughts: Would I Go Again?
Absolutely. Antarctica is not just a destination; it’s an awakening.
Every moment onboard the MS Roald Amundsen felt curated for connection—whether to the ice, to the wildlife, or to yourself. The crew, the ship, the science—it all combined into something I’ll carry forever.
“Some trips change your mood. This one changed my soul.”
If you’re considering an expedition like this, don’t wait years like I did. Antarctica is melting faster than ever. Go now. See it while it still stuns, while it still humbles.
