Tom M.
Google
We just returned from their 23 day Ultimate Expedition to Antarctica, Falkland, and South Georgia. In a word, it was FANTASTIC! The ship and staff were great, the sights unbelievable, and the wildlife in your face. The expedition staff was very knowledgeable and committed to your safety. This is truly an expedition with daily plans that are subject to changes due to weather and sea conditions (be flexible and understanding, it's for your own safety!). We were blessed with only having to change one landing site...due to too much wildlife on the beach to land! We did a lot of research into the cruises and came to the conclusion that Hurtigruten offered the best value. We were not disappointed! Cabins were small, but manageable. Food was plentiful and varied, although the more you like seafood the better! The other guests were from many different countries (there were only 16 guests from the US like us with most coming from the UK, China, and Spain). The presentations were all multi-lingual so no worries there. Being on a smaller ship allowed us to go places the big ones could not, including being able to have one or two landings via zodiacs each day (weather and schedule permitting). Many big ships offer no landings anywhere other than Stanley in the Falkland Islands. The trip on the MV Fram is an active expedition, that is, there is not the glitz of a big cruise ship (the Fram is very nice and comfortable, we were pleasantly surprised at how much so). The activity level is as high as you want to make it. Shore landings usually involved walking a mile or two, sometimes up some pretty big hills. Having said that, all were more than doable for most people and there was ample time given to accomplish everything. All the landings were part of the cruise package, but some things, like kayaking, camping on Antarctica itself, and very long hikes had an extra charge. Taking advantage of these extras are just that, extras that only add to the already amazing trip you are on. We kayaked in the rain and snow, still beautiful. They give you a very nice (and orange!) Helly Hansen outer shell coat to wear and take home as well as loan you muck boots to wear on the shore trips. Layering under your shell is the key to comfort. We never did use all the layers we took. Take a lightweight pair of wool gloves to keep your hands warm and allow you to play with your camera. We also took heavy ski gloves, but only used them once. Waterproof pants are also mandatory as well as a good pair of thermal underwear and wool socks. Their packing list is complete so follow it. The Fram also has a small store, which amazingly has a great selection (at reasonable, albeit premium pricing) of things you may have forgot or need to upgrade. This was a trip of a lifetime for everyone on board. We made some great friends over such an extended period on time. This is a highly recommended experience and Hurtigruten is a first rate operator having a commitment to the environment and sustainable tourism.