FAQs
<p>You'll receive a complimentary HX expedition jacket,
which is windproof and water-resistant, but we recommend packing
warm layers, including thin wool base layers and a lightweight
insulated jacket. Waterproof trousers are essential for shore
landings and Zodiac excursions, as you may not be permitted to take
part without them.</p>
<p>You'll only need shoes for use on board and during your
time in South America, as waterproof expedition boots are provided
by HX for Antarctic landings. We also recommend bringing a warm hat
that fits securely in windy conditions, sunglasses and sunscreen
for the intense polar sun, plus a waterproof phone case and neck
strap to help protect your device during Zodiac
rides.</p>
All guests can enjoy the range of included expedition activities mentioned in the itinerary, which are designed to bring you closer to Antarctica's incredible landscapes and wildlife. A selection of optional activities are available to book onboard your HX Expedition ship, subject to availability. These include kayaking, snowshoeing and overnight camping (additional charges apply). A briefing will be held onboard to explain how to register for optional activities, including their requirements and availability.
Your passport will be required for your journey and should be valid for at least six months after disembarkation. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the countries included in your journey, so we recommend checking these before you travel. Any relevant visa information and guidance will be provided with your travel documents ahead of departure.
<p>HX Expedition ships are fully equipped with
complimentary Wi-Fi, three restaurants, with an exclusive fine
dining experience for Suite guests, relaxed bars and social
lounges with panoramic views and wellness offerings including a
sauna, pool, fitness centre and hot tubs. A next-day laundry
service, charged per item, is available to all
guests.</p>
<p>Find out more about HX Expeditions ships:</p>
<ul>
<li>MS Roald Amundsen</li>
<li>MS Fridtjof Nansen</li>
</ul>
There is a medical centre staffed with one doctor and at least one nurse.
Yes, comprehensive travel and health insurance that covers medical evacuation and repatriation (returning you to your home country for medical reasons) is mandatory for your trip.
All guests can enjoy a range of included expedition activities designed to bring you closer to Antarctica's incredible landscapes and wildlife. Depending on conditions, these may include nature landings, Zodiac cruises, wildlife spotting, the exhilarating Polar Plunge, as well as expert-led lectures and hands-on workshops on board. No additional sign-up is required for these included experiences.
Yes. A selection of optional activities are available to book onboard your HX Expedition ship, subject to availability. These include kayaking, snowshoeing and overnight camping (additional charges apply). Please note that some activities, including kayaking, require you to attend a mandatory safety briefing before taking part.
A briefing will be held onboard to explain how to register for optional activities, including their requirements and availability. Some activities will also have their own mandatory briefings, which you must attend to participate
No previous experience is required to travel by Zodiac. The main requirement is that you can board and disembark the boat safely and comfortably. The experienced HX Expedition team will be on hand to provide guidance and assistance, so you can confidently enjoy exploring Antarctica's spectacular coastline and wildlife from the water.
Yes, Wi-Fi is complimentary and available throughout the ship. However, connectivity may be limited due to the remote areas we explore. We recommend completing any phone updates and downloading apps and media before boarding the ship.
Yes, there are laundry facilities on board, but no self-service options. A next-day laundry service, charged per item, is available to all guests. Suite guests have one bag of laundry per day included in their stay
The dress code on board is casual and comfortable, allowing you to enjoy your evenings in whatever you feel most at ease wearing. There is no formal dining requirement, although we recommend bringing a pair of comfortable shoes suitable for walking around the ship.
Yes, there is a bar onboard. HX expeditions are all-inclusive, meaning most drinks are free. Some selected premium drinks are available for an additional cost.
Cash cannot be used on board. Most amenities are included, but premium drinks, optional excursions and any purchases from the onboard shop can be paid for by card (including AMEX). You may wish to carry some local currency for your time travelling in Brazil and Buenos Aires.
All outlets are two-pin EU 220v style. Regarding USB ports are available in all cabins on MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen.
Yes, as you'll be travelling to remote destinations where medical facilities are limited, particularly in polar regions, all guests are required to complete a Medical Screening Form before travelling to Antarctica. This helps the expedition team understand any health considerations in advance and ensures the safety and wellbeing of everyone on board.
Once you have booked your tour, you will receive a link to independently complete the Medical Screening Form. Your signed Medical Screening Form should be completed no earlier than four months and no later than six weeks before departure, giving Vikand Medical enough time to review your information ahead of your expedition. This is a requirement of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), which requires all visitors to Antarctic to be medically cleared prior to their journey.
Evening entertainment onboard HX ships includes lectures, workshops, wildlife viewing, and access to the Science Centre. Additionally, there are bars and restaurants on board for a relaxing evening.
Temperatures may vary from season to season, but they range from -6°C to 6°C (21°F to 43°F). It will feel warmer on sunny days and colder on windy days.
During the Antarctic summer, extended daylight hours create more opportunities to explore and enjoy your surroundings, with greater flexibility for activities throughout the day. To help you rest comfortably after your adventures, all cabins and suites are equipped with blackout curtains to block out the light when needed.
The onboard temperature is generally maintained around 21C (68F) for your comfort. Cabins have adjustable thermostats.
The chances of seeing whales are lower in the early season (October to November) and increase significantly from December onwards when they become more active in the area. We frequently see whales and other Antarctic-specific species, so please bring your binoculars with you and remember you have to be looking to see!
