SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS AND THE ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Enjoy unforgettable moments when, for example, you set foot on the Antarctic mainland near to Paradise Bay. Snow-capped summits surround the bay, where icebergs drift and glaciers tower hundreds of metres above. The gigantic glacier cliffs, such as those of Neko Harbor, provide a unique backdrop. Gentoo penguins stretch as far as the eye can see, for example on Cuverville Island. One of the most impressive shipping passages in the world is the Lemaire Channel: mountains up to 1,000 m (3,281 ft) high line the strait of water. The Neumayer Channel and Port Lockroy provide panoramic views of glaciers that are no less breathtaking.

ANTARCTIC CIRCLE
A magical boundary for seafarers and explorers: 66° 33ʹ S. The further south you go, the more rugged and icy the surroundings. Thick ice fields are a common sight here, the glaciers seem more dominant, and more icebergs drift on the water than in the north. The HANSEATIC nature, HANSEATIC inspiration and HANSEATIC spirit know no boundaries here: on certain cruises, we will attempt to cross the Antarctic Circle. Where the weather and ice have more influence than ever on the route the ship will take, the experience and flexibility of the captain and expedition crew are needed more than ever. For insights into an icy world that very few experience. Simply magical.

SOUTH ORKNEY ISLANDS
The South Orkney Islands were discovered in 1821 by the whalers George Powell and Nathaniel Palmer. In 1823, they were given their present name by James Weddell. The South Orkney archipelago lies just inside the territory covered by the Antarctic Treaty. The distance to the Antarctic Peninsula is still about 600 km. Enjoy the pure fascination of the drifting tabular icebergs which, with a bit of luck, you will see off Signy Island, for example. The bizarre blocks that have broken off the shelf ice and their huge archways shimmer a mystical shade of blue in the icy polar light.

In this unique wildlife paradise, the Zodiacs are used several times a day to let you experience very special sightings. For example, standing with the experts in front of a gigantic colony of king penguins. The island is home to hundreds of thousands of animals inhabiting the steep slopes and coasts – such as Salisbury Plain or the Gold Harbour beach where fur seals and elephant seals will not be disturbed by your visit. At the former Grytviken whaling station, the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton recalls the adventures of times gone by.

The British overseas territory has more than just a turbulent history; discover its impressive birdlife the moment your Zodiac lands. With more than 60 different species, including rockhopper penguins, Magellanic penguins and albatrosses, the Falkland Islands are a paradise for ornithologists. During natural history walks along the coast, your experts will provide fascinating information about the head-high tussock grass and the Victorian houses in Stanley.