Snow Hill: Oceanwide Expeditions’ Polar Triumph
Oceanwide Expeditions, a leader in polar expedition cruises, has enthusiastically announced a formal “claim” of Snow Hill Island, located in the Weddell Sea, Antarctica.
This announcement celebrates the exceptional achievements of the company in exploring the remote area of Snow Hill and approaching the renowned emperor penguin colony, a milestone Oceanwide has consistently accomplished over the past decade. This claim reflects Oceanwide Expeditions’ pioneering spirit and commitment to polar exploration. From 2013 to 2024, with successful expeditions in 2013, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2024, the company has established itself as a leader in navigating the challenging icy waters of the Weddell Sea using its fleet of ice-strengthened expedition vessels. These accomplishments have enabled hundreds of guests to experience one of Antarctica’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters: observing majestic emperor penguins in their natural habitat, in scenes reminiscent of a Frozen Planetdocumentary.
Antarctic kayaking – copyright Anjali Pande – Oceanwide Expeditions
Just last November, Oceanwide announced the successful second landing of guests at Snow Hill Island, achieved on November 25, 2024, despite challenging ice conditions. The m/v Ortelius reached a distance of 14.8 nautical miles from the island, with the penguin colony visible from the vessel. Adding to the magic, approximately 20 emperor penguins visited the ship overnight, creating a truly unique and memorable experience for the guests.
Both voyages scheduled for this season have provided guests with the opportunity to witness the emperor penguin colony at Snow Hill Island, where chicks were taking their first steps in an environment as harsh as it is breathtaking. With ideal conditions, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts onboard were able to capture extraordinary moments. By using helicopters to land guests directly from the Weddell Sea, Oceanwide Expeditions demonstrated an innovative and flexible approach to itinerary planning and expedition operations, bringing guests closer to nature than ever before.
Oceanwide continues to take pride in ensuring the highest standards of expertise, safety, and environmental stewardship on every Snow Hill journey. By adhering to international best practices, the company remains dedicated to preserving Antarctica’s pristine environment, setting a benchmark for tourism in the region.
Snow Hill Island
Ocweanwide Expeditions
Although this claim is clearly an allusive statement, Oceanwide reiterates its full support for the Antarctic Treaty System, which protects Antarctica as a natural reserve dedicated to peace, cooperation, science, and conservation. This announcement, therefore, should not be interpreted as a territorial claim but rather as a celebration of the spirit of adventure that defines Oceanwide Expeditions and its polar itineraries.
Franklin Braeckman, spokesperson for Oceanwide Expeditions, emphasized that the company’s successes in consistently reaching Snow Hill and its emperor penguin colony are unmatched in the polar expedition cruise industry. He added that their “claim” is made with a sense of humor but reflects the deep connection the company has with this extraordinary region and its commitment to sharing its wonders with the world.
Ortelius ship
oceanwide-expeditions-sbarca-a-snow-hill-island
This year, m/v Ortelius became the first expedition vessel to enter the Weddell Sea, a remarkable achievement that highlights the crew’s expertise and Oceanwide’s dedication to bold and innovative exploration. Special recognition goes to Captain Per Andersson and Expedition Leader Sara Jenner, whose dedication ensured an unforgettable experience for the guests.
Oceanwide Expeditions will return to the Weddell Sea later this season with the Weddell Sea Explorer voyage and aims to offer new, unforgettable encounters with Snow Hill Island’s emperor penguins during the next Antarctic season. Guests can already book their place aboard m/v Ortelius for 2025, ready to explore some of the planet’s most majestic landscapes and encounter some of the world’s most iconic wildlife species.
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