As demand for expedition cruising continues to surge, HX Expeditions is leaning into its heritage as one of the category’s original pioneers, taking travellers deeper into some of the world’s most remote regions while evolving the onboard experience for a new generation of explorers.
From Antarctica and Greenland to Alaska and the Arctic, the line’s science-led voyages, expert expedition teams and all-inclusive model are reshaping expectations of what polar travel can look like – and giving travel advisors a strong sell for clients seeking immersive, experience-first journeys.
A Legacy of Firsts
Since 1896, HX Expeditions has been taking travellers to the world’s most remote frontiers. The company began during the golden age of exploration with a pioneering voyage from Hammerfest to Svalbard, helping shape what would become modern expedition cruising. More than 130 years later, HX continues to lead the category, exploring from pole to pole while staying true to its original spirit of curiosity and respect for wild places.
Today, HX sails to Antarctica, Greenland, Alaska, Svalbard, the Northwest Passage and Arctic Canada, Norway, Iceland, the Scottish Isles and Patagonia. These regions are defined by dramatic landscapes, rich wildlife and constantly shifting conditions. Expedition travel here is fluid. Weather, sea ice and animal movements shape each day, and flexibility is built into every itinerary.
Experts in Expedition
Experience is one of HX’s greatest strengths. Each voyage is led by a handpicked Expedition Team made up of scientists, historians, naturalists and regional specialists. Guests join guided hikes, small-boat cruises, kayaking excursions and community visits, while onboard lectures and workshops provide valuable context. The team’s depth of knowledge, combined with decades of field experience, allows them to adapt quickly and thoughtfully to changing conditions.
HX is also recognised for offering one of the most comprehensive science programmes in expedition cruising. Guests can visit the onboard Science Centre to examine samples under microscopes, take part in Citizen Science projects and learn directly from researchers. In Antarctica, HX partners with the University of Tasmania’s Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies to provide a dedicated pre-departure course covering wildlife, climate and Antarctic governance, giving travellers deeper insight before they even set sail.
Adventure Is All-Inclusive
With HX, adventure is not an add-on. Daily landings, guided nature walks and small-boat cruises are included in the voyage fare, along with onboard lectures, workshops and science sessions. Guests enjoy all-inclusive dining with thoughtfully sourced cuisine, as well as house wine, beer, cocktails, soft drinks throughout the day. Complimentary Wi-Fi powered by Starlink and all onboard gratuities are also included, offering added peace of mind. Each guest receives a wind- and waterproof expedition jacket to keep, and essential gear such as boots, trekking poles and life jackets are provided for use during the voyage.
Purpose-Built for Responsible Travel
Sustainability underpins every HX expedition. The company is a proud member of AECO and IAATO, adhering to strict environmental standards that prioritise wildlife welfare and robust biosecurity practices. Landings are carefully managed to safeguard fragile ecosystems while still delivering immersive experiences.
HX operates two of the world’s most advanced hybrid-powered expedition ships, MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen. Designed with battery packs and emissions-reduction technology, these vessels are built to reduce environmental impact in sensitive polar regions. Independent organisations including Friends of the Earth and NABU have acknowledged HX’s leadership in responsible expedition cruising.
Adventure Meets Comfort
While the destinations are remote and rugged, life on board balances exploration with comfort. Carrying between 90 and 500 guests, HX ships are large enough for stability at sea yet agile enough to access narrow fjords and hidden bays. Multiple dining venues, wellness facilities such as saunas, pools and gyms, and welcoming communal lounges create spaces for relaxation and connection after active days ashore.
For your curious explorer clients seeking more than a traditional cruise, HX Expeditions delivers immersive journeys shaped by expertise, enriched by science and guided by responsibility. It is exploration with purpose, where every voyage connects travellers more meaningfully to the world’s wildest places.
Local Support
HX is ready to help you deliver unforgettable expeditions for your clients. For more details and to make a booking call our Melbourne based Guest Excellence (GX) team on AU: 1300 159 127 | NZ: (03) 288 2085 or visit the Agent Portal.
