All shore landings and Zodiac excursions are already included in the voyage. You will experience Antarctica up close: vast ice landscapes, penguin colonies, sculpted icebergs, and the raw beauty of the Seventh Continent — accompanied by an experienced crew and German-speaking expedition leaders.
HANSEATIC inspiration: Ship, Routes & Consulting
Possible expeditions, information about the ship and answers from our experts to all your questions about the cruises of the HANSEATIC inspiration
3 Reasons for a an Expedition on the HANSEATIC inspiration
- One of three expedition ships operated by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises in Germany, the vessel features Polar Class PC6, capable of navigating through ice up to 90 cm thick.
- Travel with a German-speaking expedition team in a personal and welcoming atmosphere, accommodating a maximum of 230 passengers (199 in Antarctica).
- All landings and Zodiac excursions are already included when booking an Antarctic cruise aboard the HANSEATIC inspiration.
What Awaits You on an Expedition on the HANSEATIC inspiration
Small PC6 Polar-Class Expedition Ship
With HANSEATIC inspiration from Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, you will travel aboard a PC6 polar-class vessel capable of reaching deep Antarctic regions. The ship is operated with a fully German-speaking expedition team, making it an ideal choice for guests who prefer a German-language Antarctic experience without the need for English.
Five-Star Comfort
With a maximum capacity of 199 guests, HANSEATIC inspiration offers an intimate atmosphere combined with five-star comfort and full board. Cabins and suites are spacious, some featuring private balconies. Optional arrival and departure packages from Germany are available — a rare advantage among international operators — offering added convenience, reliability, and peace of mind when planning your trip.
Landings Included
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Cabins and Suites on the HANSEATIC inspiration
All 120 cabins and suites aboard HANSEATIC inspiration are designed to five-star standards, offering comfort, high-quality furnishings, and views of the White Continent from every cabin category.
| Grand Suite | 71 M2 |
| Junior Suite | 42 M2 |
| Balcony Cabin | 27 M2 |
| French Balcony Cabin | 21 M2 |
| Panoramic Cabin | 21 M2 |
| Outside Cabin | 22 M2 |
Grand Suite
- 71 m² Grand Suite on deck 6 and 7.
- Private veranda with approx. 16 m² and radiant heaters.
- Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.
- Separate sleeping and living area with a dining table.
- Daylight bathroom with two sinks, free-standing bathtub with window view, rain shower, two washbasins and balcony access.
- Steam sauna in the shower area, heated wall in the bathroom and a separate toilet.
- Complimentary minibar with selection of spirits and coffee machine.
- Table reservation on request in the main restaurant.
- Butler service and 24-hour cabin service.
- Free choice of Zodiac group
Junior Suite
- 42 m² Junior Suite on deck 6 and 7.
- Private balcony with approx. 6 m² and floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.
- Separate living and sleeping area with a dining table and 24-hour cabin service.
- Flat-screen TV in bedroom and living room.
- Heated wall in the bathroom, two washbasins, rain shower and steam sauna in the shower area.
- Separate toilet.
- Complimentary minibar with selection of spirits and coffee machine.
- Table reservation on request in the main restaurant.
- Butler service.
Balcony Cabin
- 27 m² Balcony cabin on deck 5, 6 and 7.
- Balcony with approx. 5 m² and floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.
- Double bed or two single beds.
- Heated wall in the bathroom and rain shower.
- Complimentary minibar (non-alcoholic beverages) and coffee machine.
- Seating area, desk and armchair.
- 24-hour cabin service.
French Balcony Cabin
- 21/23 m² French Balcony cabin on deck 6 and 7.
- French balcony and floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.
- Double bed or two single beds.
- Heated wall in the bathroom and rain shower.
- Complimentary minibar (non-alcoholic beverages) and coffee machine.
- Seating area, desk and armchair.
- 24-hour cabin service.
Panoramic Cabin
- 21 m² Panorama cabin on deck 5. Cabin 404 on deck 4 is equipped for accessibility.
- Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.
- Double bed or two single beds.
- Heated wall in the bathroom and rain shower.
- Complimentary minibar (non-alcoholic beverages) and coffee machine.
- Seating area, desk and armchair.
- 24-hour cabin service.
Outside Cabin
- 22 m² Outside cabin on deck 4, 5 and 6.
- Double bed or two single beds.
- Heated wall in the bathroom and rain shower.
- Complimentary minibar (non-alcoholic beverages) and coffee machine.
- Seating area, desk and armchair.
- Large windows.
- 24-hour cabin service.
HANSEATIC inspiration is a luxurious expedition ship built for polar exploration and operated fully in German. If you have any questions about the vessel or available itineraries, I’ll be happy to assist.
Daria Startseva
Polar Travel Expert
HANSEATIC inspiration Deck Plan
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Itineraries of the HANSEATIC inspiration in Antarctica
Frequently Asked Questions about HANSEATIC inspiration
What makes the HANSEATIC inspiration special?
HANSEATIC inspiration is the second of Hapag-Lloyd’s three new expedition ships launched in 2019. Together with her identical sister ships, HANSEATIC spirit (2021) and HANSEATIC nature (2019), she is one of the German-speaking options available for Antarctic expedition cruises.
Compared with her sister ships, HANSEATIC inspiration is designed slightly more for the international market.
Design and Features:
- All 120 cabins and suites offer ocean views, a seating area, writing desk, and private bathroom. A large number also feature a private balcony. Cabins can be booked with either a double bed or two single beds.
- A maximum of 199 guests travel on board HANSEATIC inspiration, ensuring a five-star experience with an intimate atmosphere and a high level of comfort. This also guarantees a balanced ratio of landings, Zodiac excursions and activities, as only 100 guests may go ashore in Antarctica at any given time.
- Two extendable glass balconies are among the signature features of HANSEATIC inspiration, offering sweeping views over the ocean.
- Guests enjoy open seating across three full-board restaurants: the main restaurant with 178 seats serving meals from morning until evening, the Japanese-Peruvian specialty restaurant Nikkei with 44 seats, and the Lido buffet restaurant with 84 indoor and around 100 outdoor seats.
Technical Specifications:
- Antarctic voyages aboard HANSEATIC inspiration are 100% heavy-fuel-oil-free. The ship is equipped with modern waste-management and water-treatment systems.
- Thanks to its compact size and maneuverability combined with Polar Class PC6, HANSEATIC inspiration reaches destinations in Antarctica where other ships must turn back.
- A state-of-the-art propulsion system enables travel at up to 16 knots, allowing more time ashore and less time in transit.
- An SCR catalytic converter reduces NOx emissions by almost 95%.
Onboard Experience:
- Full-board dining in the main HANSEATIC restaurant (morning to evening), the Nikkei specialty venue serving Japanese-Peruvian cuisine, and the Lido buffet restaurant with outdoor seating.
- A 180° Observation Lounge and the HanseAtrium bar—ideal for a drink, a cup of tea with views of the ice, or a glass of wine.
- Relaxation in the Ocean Spa with Finnish panorama sauna overlooking icebergs, steam room, massages, hair salon, ice fountain, beauty treatments, and a relaxation room with sea views.
- A 100 m² Sports Club with modern fitness equipment and instructor-led sessions.
- Extensive open-deck areas provide exceptional viewing opportunities of Antarctica’s landscapes, including from the wrap-around bow walkway.
- Ocean Academy learning studio.
- HanseAtrium hosting lectures by Antarctic experts.
Expedition Team:
- A highly experienced German-speaking expedition team accompanies landings, Zodiac excursions and presentations throughout the voyage.
- Optional sea kayaking is available on selected itineraries. Please ask us about current availability by route.
- Approximately 16 expedition staff accompany each Antarctic journey.
Expedition Equipment:
- 17 Zodiac boats for landings, iceberg cruises, penguin colony visits, whale watching and many other extraordinary experiences.
- Convenient ship-to-Zodiac access via a dedicated marina.
- All equipment required for landings, including two pairs of Nordic walking poles per cabin or suite.
- Rubber boots and an expedition parka are provided on loan for landings and Zodiac activities.
What are the technical specifications of the HANSEATIC inspiration?
- Passengers: Maximum 199 in Antarctica
- Year built: 2019
- Crew: Approximately 175 crew members in Antarctica
- Expedition team: Around 16 expedition staff
- Ice class: PC6, suitable for navigating through ice up to 90 cm thick
- Dimensions: Length 139 m, width 22 m
- Decks: 9
- Speed: 16 knots
- Stabilization: Yes
- Expedition equipment: Zodiacs, sea kayaks, and full landing gear
What is included and excluded with a HANSEATIC inspiration cruise?
Included:
• Expedition cruise in a five-star cabin or suite to Antarctica aboard HANSEATIC inspiration
• Domestic arrival package: Depending on the ship’s departure port, a complimentary arrival package is included. For example, for departures from Ushuaia in southern Argentina, this includes a dedicated charter flight to and from Buenos Aires, including transfers and luggage handling
• Champagne welcome in your cabin or suite
• All shore landings and Zodiac excursions operated directly by the HANSEATIC inspiration expedition team
• Expert lecturers and field specialists accompany the voyage, deliver presentations, answer questions, and join Zodiac excursions and landings
• Minibar with complimentary soft drinks in all cabins; minibar with alcoholic beverages included in suites
• Coffee machine
• 24-hour room service
• Full board across three restaurants offering international gourmet cuisine, including early riser breakfast, full breakfast, midday bouillon, afternoon tea, coffee service, lunch, and dinner. Dinner seating times in all three restaurants are flexible
• Fitness facilities: modern equipment and scheduled classes in a 100 m² fitness area with ocean views
• OCEAN SPA with Finnish panoramic sauna, steam room, and relaxation area
• Predominantly German-speaking crew and expedition staff
• Port and landing fees
• Trip cancellation insurance
• Complimentary use of binoculars and two sets of Nordic walking poles in your cabin or suite. Warm parkas and rubber boots are provided for all landings and Zodiac operations
• One hour of complimentary Wi-Fi per guest, per day (connection dependent on satellite reception)
Excluded:
• International flights: An optional flight package from Germany to the HANSEATIC inspiration is available at an additional cost. Upon request, Arctic Desire can also arrange alternative flight options or extend your journey with a pre- or post-travel program. We are happy to advise you during a free consultation
• Personal expenses, such as purchases in the onboard shop
• Spa services such as massages, hairdresser appointments, and related treatments
• Personal travel and medical insurance
Which Antarctica activities are possible on the HANSEATIC inspiration?
A voyage to Antarctica aboard HANSEATIC inspiration includes daily activities such as shore landings and Zodiac excursions. The exact schedule depends on weather and ice conditions, and no two itineraries are ever the same. Each day, the captain and expedition team review conditions and determine the best possible program.
As a compact and highly maneuverable PC6 ice-class vessel, HANSEATIC inspiration can reach areas of Antarctica where larger ships must turn back. The following activities may be part of your expedition:
• Shore landings: All necessary equipment is provided on board. Guests receive a complimentary parka and rubber boots for use during the voyage. The exact landing sites vary depending on weather and ice conditions
• Polar Plunge: For those brave enough, there is the option to take a dip in the icy Antarctic waters
• Zodiac excursions: With 17 Zodiacs, you can approach icebergs, visit beaches with penguin colonies, cruise past seals resting on ice floes, and possibly encounter whales at close range
• Expert presentations: Delivered by the expedition team, crew members, and polar researchers travelling with the ship
• Sea kayaking: Available on selected departures as an optional activity, offered in small groups of up to 12 guests
How is the internet connection and onboard connectivity on the HANSEATIC inspiration?
Onboard HANSEATIC inspiration, guests receive one hour of complimentary Wi-Fi per day via satellite connection. Coverage is continually improving and the connection is increasingly fast and stable. However, due to the remote location, there may be moments when a webpage takes several minutes to load. Internet speeds cannot always be guaranteed, and video calls may occasionally be unstable or not work smoothly.
What is the food like on the HANSEATIC inspiration?
With an Antarctic cruise booking aboard HANSEATIC inspiration, you’ll enjoy full board across three restaurants, a complimentary minibar, and 24-hour room service.
• HANSEATIC Restaurant: The main dining venue offering international gourmet cuisine from morning to evening, with seating for 178 guests
• Nikkei Specialty Restaurant: A Japanese-Peruvian fine dining experience, with 44 seats
• Lido Buffet: A relaxed bistro-style restaurant with 84 indoor and around 100 outdoor seats
• Room service: Available 24 hours a day
• Minibar: Complimentary beverages in all cabins, with additional non-alcoholic options provided in suites
• Observation Lounge Bar: Premium drinks paired with spectacular 180° Antarctic views
• HanseAtrium Bar: A welcoming place to end the day with a whisky or an aperitif
Is my international flight included with the HANSEATIC inspiration?
When booking an Antarctic cruise on board HANSEATIC inspiration, a regional arrival package is typically included. This usually consists of domestic economy flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, return transfers, and luggage handling. Depending on the departure port, the included package may vary. Around 90% of Antarctic voyages depart from Ushuaia.
If preferred, you can also add an international arrival package that includes flights from Germany to the expedition ship. Having this option makes planning a pre- or post-extension in Patagonia much easier.
If you would like a customised travel package, we are happy to arrange one and assist with any questions you may have regarding HANSEATIC inspiration.
Does booking the HANSEATIC inspiration with ArcticDesire cost more?
No. Booking a voyage on HANSEATIC inspiration through Arctic Desire does not cost more or less. We pass on the official rate exactly as provided and do not charge a booking fee.
In return, you receive independent advice from a German team specialising in Antarctic travel. We know the ships, their cabin categories, and the available activities in detail.
Through us, you gain access to voyages offered by all reputable Antarctic operators, along with step-by-step guidance throughout the planning process.
Support begins with selecting the right itinerary from a maze of options. And after booking, you are not left on your own — you travel with Arctic Desire fully prepared, with a properly packed suitcase, a dedicated 24/7 contact number, and the confidence that every detail of your Antarctic adventure has been arranged correctly.
Simply call us or send a message to schedule a free consultation with an Antarctic specialist.