Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Enhances Antarctic Itineraries with New Focus on the Weddell Sea

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has unveiled its 2025-2026 Antarctic expedition program, featuring new itineraries that enhance its focus on polar experiences. A highlight of the program is the introduction of the "Grand Antarctic Route," which includes stops at the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, as well as a venture through the remote Weddell Sea—an uncharted territory for the cruise line.

Travelers can expect breathtaking landscapes and opportunities to witness unique wildlife, such as participating in snowshoe hikes and Zodiac excursions near impressive ice formations. Designed for seasoned explorers, these itineraries aim to deliver rich nature observation experiences.

Isolde Susset, Managing Director of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, emphasized the blend of exceptional experiences and onboard comfort. Each expedition will be accompanied by expert lecturers who provide deeper insights into the Antarctic ecosystem, enriching the educational experience for guests.

All Antarctic sailings will ensure extended stays in pristine areas, allowing guests to engage with undisturbed wildlife, historically significant sites, and untouched landscapes.

One of the standout excursions, the Premiere of Weddell Sea Expedition (SPI2601), will be conducted on the HANSEATIC spirit, a ship built to navigate icy waters. This 22-day journey focuses on the eastern Antarctic Peninsula and incorporates destinations like Paulet Island and Devil Island, known for their historical significance tied to the 1903 Swedish Nordenskjöld expedition and the abundant Adélie penguins that inhabit the area.

The voyage will also approach the historic location where Ernest Shackleton’s ship, Endurance, sank in 1915—a crucial moment in polar exploration.

This expedition combines extensive wildlife viewing and landings via Zodiac for detailed exploration of both Antarctic and sub-Antarctic regions. Before entering Antarctic waters, the HANSEATIC spirit will navigate the picturesque fjords of southern Chile during the festive season of Christmas and New Year. A similar itinerary is set for the HANSEATIC Inspiration in February 2026.

Another notable result is the Antarctic Expedition with Cape Horn (SPI2602), featuring a landing at Cape Horn—the southernmost point of South America—significant in maritime history. Depending on weather conditions, guests may disembark here before crossing the Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula, where they can explore diverse glaciers and penguin colonies. This combined journey remains unique in Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ offerings until at least the end of 2027.

For more information on Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, visit Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

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