A personally hosted polar expedition aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen — for solos and couples who want to experience one of the world's last great wildernesses in good company, with every detail taken care of.
About the Journey
There are places in the world that genuinely change the way you see things. Antarctica is one of them — a continent of staggering scale and silence, teeming with wildlife, and completely unlike anywhere else on earth.
This is a Food and Wine Travel hosted expedition — a journey the team has personally designed for travellers who want the full Antarctica experience without the uncertainty of going it alone. Every detail is managed. Every day has direction. And the team is there throughout to provide context, companionship, and the peace of mind that comes from travelling with someone who genuinely cares how your trip goes.
The focus is not on price. It's on the quality of the experience, the people you share it with, and the memories you bring home.
MS Fridtjof Nansen — Hurtigruten's flagship hybrid expedition vessel
What's Included
Hurtigruten's flagship hybrid expedition vessel — purpose-built for polar waters, with exceptional facilities, small-ship access, and a guest capacity that keeps the experience intimate.
Early austral summer — optimal conditions for wildlife, longer days, and dramatic light. Penguins are ashore, humpbacks are arriving, and the Antarctic Peninsula is at its most accessible.
This isn't a solo adventure — a Food and Wine Travel specialist travels with the group throughout. They handle the logistics, provide context and companionship, and ensure every traveller feels supported and at ease.
The journey begins in Buenos Aires — one of South America's great food and wine cities. Pre-trip time in BA is built in, with We on hand to share our favourite restaurants, wine bars, and markets.
Places are strictly limited to 16 passengers. This is a deliberate choice — small enough to feel personal, large enough to be sociable. Solos and couples both welcome.
From cabin selection to dining and shore excursions, every element is chosen for quality and experience. This is an expedition, but it's also a celebration — and it will feel like one.
Overview Itinerary
This is an overview itinerary. Exact dates, routing, and daily programme will be confirmed once the trip is fully booked and commercial terms are finalised with Hurtigruten.
Pre-trip
Arrive in Buenos Aires and settle in. We hosts a welcome dinner at one of our favourite BA restaurants — a proper introduction to Argentine food and wine before the adventure begins. Time to explore the city at your own pace.
Day 1
Fly south to Ushuaia, the world's soutournmost city, and board MS Fridtjof Nansen. Settle into your cabin, meet the expedition team, and sail out through the Beagle Channel as Patagonia disappears behind you.
Days 2–3
Two days crossing the Drake Passage — the most dramatic stretch of open ocean on earth. Albatrosses, petrels, and the first sense of just how far south you're going. Expedition briefings and wildlife talks fill the time.
Days 4–9
Multiple landings daily by Zodiac — penguin colonies, glaciers, historic huts, dramatic icescapes. Wildlife encounters with humpback whales, leopard seals, and thousands of Adélie, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins. Every day is different.
Days 10–11
Northward through the Drake Passage. Time to reflect, share stories, and enjoy the ship's facilities. Final dinner with the group before disembarkation.
Day 12
Return to Ushuaia and farewell to the ship. Optional extension available for those wishing to spend additional time in Patagonia or Buenos Aires.
Questions
Yes — it's designed with solos in mind. We provides companionship and group cohesion throughout, so solo travellers are never left to fend for themselves. Single supplement options are available.
A reasonable level of mobility is needed for Zodiac landings — stepping in and out of inflatable boats on uneven terrain. You don't need to be an athlete, but the ability to walk on rocky and snowy ground is important. We will discuss specifics during the planning conversation.
Full details will be confirmed once the commercial model is finalised with Hurtigruten. As a guide: ship accommodation, all meals on board, expedition staff, Zodiac excursions, Buenos Aires welcome dinner, and expert hosting throughout the trip. Flights, travel insurance, and personal expenses are additional.
Places are strictly limited to 16. Register your interest using the form below — We will be in touch with full details, pricing, and next steps once the commercial terms are confirmed.
Places Are Limited
This journey is limited to 16 guests. The team is building the passenger list now and will be in touch with full pricing, inclusions, and next steps once commercial terms are confirmed with Hurtigruten. Register below to secure your place in the conversation — no commitment required at this stage.
Registering interest is not a booking — no deposit is required at this stage.