The Journey of a Lifetime: My Unforgettable Antarctic Expedition with HX

Photos and words by Megan Lewis - Senior Inside Sales Executive at HX

Standing on the icy shores of Antarctica, surrounded by curious penguins and jaw-dropping scenery, I had to take a moment to let it sink in - I’d finally made it to my seventh continent. What a surreal privilege to join the 0.01% of the population who have ever set foot on the White Continent. This was no ordinary holiday - it was a once-in-a-lifetime expedition aboard MS Roald Amundsen, one of our purpose-built, hybrid-powered expedition ships named after the legendary Norwegian explorer who first reached the South Pole and navigated the iconic Northwest Passage.

What follows is a highlight reel of this incredible 14-night adventure - an unforgettable blend of breathtaking wildlife encounters, remote landscapes, and the comfort and innovation of life onboard.

From Buenos Aires to “The End of the World”

Our journey began in sunny Buenos Aires, where we spent one night soaking up the city's vibrant atmosphere. We met our guide and enjoyed a half-day city tour, visiting iconic sites such as the elegant Recoleta Cemetery and the colourful, football-famous neighbourhood of La Boca and Caminito. That evening, we headed to a local Argentinian steakhouse and tucked into perfectly grilled steak paired with a rich glass of Malbec.

The next morning, we flew to Ushuaia - famously known as the “End of the World.” As we descended into the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, the views were absolutely stunning, with dramatic mountain peaks greeting us. After stamping our passports at the Ushuaia office (a must-do!), it was finally time to board MS Roald Amundsen for 11 nights of expedition cruising.

Life onboard: Your Stylish Basecamp at Sea

From the moment we stepped aboard, it was clear this was not your average cruise ship. MS Roald Amundsen is designed to be a comfortable, stylish basecamp for adventure, with interiors inspired by clean, minimalist Scandinavian design. Think warm wood tones, natural textures, and expansive windows that let Antarctica’s scenery do the talking.

The heart of the ship is the Science Centre, a hub of discovery filled with interactive screens, research tools, and scientific equipment. It’s here where guests of all ages can learn about the environment, wildlife, and geology of Antarctica directly from the experts.

Crossing the Drake Passage

We spent the next two days sailing through the infamous Drake Passage - a rite of passage for any Antarctic traveller. These sea days gave us time to explore the ship, settle in, and dive into the fantastic onboard science and education programme. We were introduced to the expedition team, made up of experts in fields like marine biology, glaciology, ornithology, geology, and photography. They ran daily lectures and briefings, open to everyone, covering topics from climate change to penguin behaviour.

During this time, we were also kitted out with our expedition gear. Each guest receives a complimentary wind- and water-resistant HX jacket and loaned muck boots, which are essential for landings. On the second evening, we spotted our first iceberg - and the entire ship buzzed with excitement. It was finally happening. We were heading into the frozen unknown.

Adventure Begins: Landings and Zodiac Cruising

Each day in Antarctica was split into two types of activities - one water-based (like zodiac cruising or kayaking) and one land-based (such as hiking, snowshoeing, or ice camping). You’re placed into a small groups upon boarding, and your daily schedule, including optional excursions, is shared on the HX app or in the briefing the following day.

Most activities are included, but there are a few optional adventures like kayaking (180 EUR), snowshoeing (100 EUR), and the incredible ice camping (500 EUR). These are lottery-based due to limited availability, and guests are notified via the app if they secure a spot.

First Landing: Pleneau Island & Gentoo Penguins

Our first Antarctic landing was at Pleneau Island. After lunch, we joined our “Minke Whales” group for a zodiac cruise with one of the expedition team. We learned about glacial formations and “bergy bits” - a charming term for smaller icebergs under 16 feet.

Later that day, we made our first landing on the Antarctic Peninsula and were greeted by a bustling gentoo penguin colony. Watching them waddle around in their natural habitat was pure joy - and there were even a few fluffy chicks!

Whale Encounters at Orne Harbour

One of the most unforgettable days of the trip was at Orne Harbour, reached after cruising through stunning Wilhelmina Bay. That morning, while getting dressed in my cabin with the balcony door open, I started hearing whale calls. Looking outside, I saw at least five humpback whales circling the ship. It was surreal.

Out on the zodiacs, the whales came even closer gliding past us and surfacing dramatically. It felt like they were performing just for us. We also spotted a chinstrap penguin colony before returning to the ship in stunned silence. No one could quite believe what we had just experienced.

Our landing that day included a challenging uphill hike with walking poles. The view from the top was worth every step: a panoramic vista of snowy peaks, glassy water, and—you guessed it—more whales. On the way back down, we even came across an Antarctic fur seal lounging near the shore.

Kayaking at Neko Harbour

Next up was Neko Harbour, reached after sailing through the dazzling Paradise Bay. This spot was strikingly blue, with sharp contrasts between the ice and the rocky shoreline. Ice calving was frequent here - you could hear it cracking and crashing into the sea as we stood above it.

I was lucky enough to be selected for kayaking, and the early conditions were perfect: calm seas and clear skies. That said, Antarctica is full of surprises - by the time we returned, waves had picked up, and navigating through the bergy bits became a bit of a comedy routine! Sadly, the next group had to be cancelled due to changing weather.

Fournier Bay & Farewell

Our final day in Antarctica brought us to Fornier Bay for a sunrise zodiac cruise. The golden light on the glass-like water was almost too beautiful to describe. We spotted fur seals and - of course - more whales, making for a perfect farewell.

As we cruised, we all took turns sharing our trip highlights. It was the kind of morning you want to bottle up and take home.

Heading Home & Final Thoughts

After two more days at sea crossing the Drake Passage, we returned to Ushuaia, flew back to Buenos Aires, and eventually home to the UK - forever changed by what we’d just experienced.

This journey truly is a bucket list adventure. It's not a trip you do every year, but one that stays with you for a lifetime. The wildlife encounters - so close, so raw - are like something out of a dream. Our captain said, “If you can describe Antarctica, you haven’t been,” and now I understand exactly what he meant.

Why travel to Antarctica with HX on MS Roald Amundsen?

While Antarctica is the star of the show, MS Roald Amundsen is the perfect stage. This hybrid-powered expedition ship blends sustainability with comfort—offering:

• Stylish Scandinavian-inspired interiors

• A state-of-the-art Science Centre

• Fine dining, buffet, and casual options

• A heated infinity pool, wellness spa, hot tubs, and fitness room

• Premium suites with added perks like daily laundry, champagne on arrival, mini-bars, in-suite dining, and more

With space for up to 490 guests, the ship strikes the perfect balance between intimacy and spaciousness, giving you room to relax without sacrificing the expedition experience. HX delivers a unique combination of comfort, sustainability and once-in-a-lifetime adventure. I can’t wait to do it all over again someday!