Explore the World with HX Expeditions: Intimate Arctic, Antarctic, and Galápagos Cruises
Posted: 9/21/2024
Author: Amelie de Moreau
Since 2021, the renowned company Hurtigruten has split into two distinct entities: Hurtigruten, which operates cruises along the Norwegian coast, and HX Expeditions, specialising in expedition cruises.
HX Expedition stands out for its strong commitment to environmental protection and respect for the local communities it visits. All of this is achieved without compromising the comfort of its passengers, who are treated to unique excursions and extraordinary experiences.
In this article, I invite you to discover this incredible company and to understand why I have completely fallen in love with HX Expedition!
Destinations offered by HX Expeditions
HX Expeditions ships navigate through more than 30 countries and offer the opportunity to explore over 250 unique destinations.
Antarctica in winter (Austral summer): The cruise of a lifetime! Visiting Antarctica is a transformative experience, offering humbling encounters with whales and penguin colonies.
Iceland, Norway and the Arctic Circle: With stops at the Lofoten Islands and Svalbard, experience the Arctic Circle crossing, face-to-face encounters with polar bears, and interactions with the northernmost communities in the world.
Galapagos Islands (year-round): Explore the wildlife and nature that inspired Darwin's theories in this iconic destination.
Arctic, Greenland, Canada, and the Northwest Passage in summer: A vast landscape of icebergs, with opportunities to spot white foxes and whales.
Alaska and British Columbia: Endless forests, up-close encounters with grizzly bears, and watching eagles hunt in the wild.
Central and South America, Caribbean: Discover ancient Mayan temples, volcanic islands, and escape to the most remote and secretive Caribbean islands.
The United Kingdom and British Isles: Sail through Scotland's lochs, uncover cities rich in history, or observe seal colonies in their natural habitats.
The Onboard Experience
Passengers on HX expeditions cruises seek authenticity, a reconnection with nature, and meaningful encounters. The atmosphere onboard is relaxed and informal, with no shows or casinos—allowing you to focus on discovering the destinations as close to nature as possible. You can attend talks with scientific experts, share experiences around the piano bar, or simply enjoy the communal areas to connect with fellow adventurers. The aim is discovery and enrichment, all at a comfortable pace, so you won’t return from your holiday feeling completely exhausted.
The many communal spaces provide the perfect opportunity to share your experiences, meet new people, and unwind while taking in the stunning views passing by.
In the evenings, several activities are offered, such as a conference, experience sharing with scientists, or simply enjoying a cocktail at the piano bar.
The Excursions
HX offers a wide variety of excursions, all included in your base package. These range from mountain hikes and visits to historic sites to private concerts in churches. Some activities, such as snowmobile trips or dog sledding experiences, are not included and are available as optional extras.
Activities at Sea
Days at sea are packed with activities: attend lectures, photography workshops, learn Icelandic knitting, or even get an introduction to the Viking language. Each ship is equipped with an expedition preparation room, where the crew ensures that no harmful elements (such as plants or seeds) are carried into fragile ecosystems. Every Velcro, shoe, and item is meticulously disinfected to protect the environment.
In addition to zodiacs, some ships offer kayaks and paddle boards for a more intimate exploration of the waters. Yoga sessions are also organised, providing a moment of relaxation amidst your adventures.
The Scientific Programme
HX Expedition integrates an active scientific programme. Onboard, researchers share their knowledge with passengers through lectures on various topics such as the history of destinations, marine and terrestrial life, and local cultures. Passengers are encouraged to participate in data collection, such as helping to document animal colonies.
The aim is to raise awareness about the preservation of the places visited, turning passengers into ambassadors for environmental protection. Additionally, the scientists onboard take advantage of the journey to conduct their own research, supported by a dedicated scientific hub, complete with microscopes.
The HX Expeditions Ships
The HX fleet consists of five modern ships, all designed with a sleek Scandinavian style: minimalist yet cosy, with that "home away from home" feeling we all love. From the moment you step on board an HX ship, you’ll feel at ease.
Each ship features a reception area, a shop, a gym, multiple restaurants and bars, and an expedition preparation room where your boots, coats, and other gear are disinfected to ensure no harmful germs are introduced to the ecosystems you visit.
The Explorer Lounge is often the main social hub onboard—it's where passengers gather to enjoy activities while taking in breathtaking views through large windows. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail or a hot chocolate after an expedition, it’s the perfect place to relax.
Cabins are well-appointed, featuring televisions, a safe, a kettle with tea and coffee making facilities, and bathrooms stocked with toiletries such as shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and a hairdryer.
MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen
Inaugurated in 2020, these two sister ships can accommodate 530 passengers and feature 50% of cabins with balconies. They offer three restaurants, including Lindstrom, a à la carte restaurant available for €25 per person, along with two bars (the pool bar and the Explorer Lounge).
Onboard amenities include a gym, a spa, a heated outdoor pool, panoramic saunas, and two outdoor jacuzzis.
Notably, these hybrid ships employ a heat recovery system to warm cabins, pools, and jacuzzis, enhancing their eco-friendly profile.
HX Expedition does not offer interior cabins; all accommodations feature large windows (Polar Inside), balconies (Arctic Superior), or suites (Expedition Suite). Each cabin category can accommodate between two to four guests, ensuring a comfortable experience for all passengers.
MS Spitsbergen:
As the smallest ship in the fleet, the MS Spitsbergen was built in 2009 and renovated in 2016. It accommodates 220 passengers and features a single restaurant (Aune), a bar (Explorer Lounge), a sauna, two outdoor jacuzzis, and a gym.
The ship offers various cabin options, including interior cabins (Polar Inside) for 2 to 4 guests, cabins with windows (Polar Outside and Arctic Superior) that also host between 2 to 4 guests, and suites, some of which come with a balcony. This cozy and intimate setting ensures a comfortable voyage for all travelers.
MS Fram:
Renovated in 2022, the MS Fram accommodates 250 passengers and features two restaurants (including a specialty restaurant for an additional fee of €25 per person), a bar, a sauna, a gym, and two outdoor jacuzzis.
The ship offers a variety of cabin options: interior cabins for two, cabins with windows or portholes for 2 to 4 guests, and suites, with only one suite equipped with a balcony. This combination of comfort and style enhances the expedition experience, ensuring a memorable journey for every traveler.
MS Santa Cruz II:
The MS Santa Cruz II is the smallest ship in the HX fleet, exclusively sailing the Galapagos Islands. Built in 2002 and fully renovated in 2021, it accommodates 90 passengers.
Onboard, you'll find a boutique, a restaurant named Le Beagle, a spacious library, and a cozy reading area with complimentary coffee and tea, complete with comfortable seating. The upper deck features two large jacuzzis, a gym, and a bar with expansive windows to enjoy the stunning views. There's also a panoramic outdoor terrace where barbecues are hosted, along with a sauna for relaxation.
Cabin options include single cabins with a single bed and a large window, interior cabins for two, cabins with windows or portholes accommodating up to four, and suites with balconies that can house up to four guests. This blend of comfort and convenience makes the MS Santa Cruz II an ideal choice for exploring the unique beauty of the Galapagos.
Environmental Commitment
HX is partnered with the Hurtigruten Foundation, which tackles climate change, combats mass tourism, and supports local communities. Onboard, 75% of ingredients are sourced locally, helping to reduce food waste and support local producers. Additionally, the foundation raises funds from travelers to assist local communities, notably by contributing to the construction of schools. This commitment to sustainability not only enhances the travel experience but also ensures that HX plays a vital role in the preservation of the destinations they visit.
My Opinion on HX: Why I Love This Company
HX is an expedition cruise line that embraces authenticity and truly stands by its commitments. They don’t just protect the environment; they actively contribute to its preservation.
For instance, they use completely biodegradable products in both cabins and laundry services (including nets to prevent microfibers from escaping into wastewater). Every passenger receives a reusable water bottle, with water fountains available throughout the ship, promoting sustainability.
Their menu features numerous vegetarian options, and the company encourages passengers to reduce meat consumption. Trust me, even the skeptics are won over by the delicious vegetarian dishes! Plus, more than 75% of the ingredients are sourced locally, so you'll see the ship restocking at every port.
Beyond their cozy and stylish design, HX has banned heavy fuel use for over a decade and advocates for other cruise lines to do the same.
They currently have two hybrid ships in their fleet and are actively researching biofuels made from waste. Their vessels also utilise heat recovery systems.
Finally, they aspire to be the world’s most sustainable expedition company and are one of the few in the industry to officially publish their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) report. You can find it here.
In addition to tailored excursions that take you off the beaten path, I love their comprehensive all-inclusive package, which includes:
- Three meals (breakfast served buffet-style and the other two à la carte, with surprising and delicious cuisine!)
- Drinks: soft drinks, water, house wines, cocktails, etc., available at the bar and during meals
- Wi-Fi
- Gratuities
- Excursions and Zodiac outings
- An expedition jacket provided in your cabin (which you can take home)
- A professional photographer accompanies you throughout your cruise, and a few days after you return home, you’ll receive a photo album capturing your most memorable moments, allowing you to savor the present.
HX truly delivers an enriching and responsible travel experience, making it a company I wholeheartedly admire!
To keep it simple, once your cruise is paid for, you will have the option to choose some paid excursions, dine at the specialty restaurant (for €25 per person), enjoy spa treatments (such as massages), or opt for the Premium drinks package, which includes champagne, high-end spirits, and more. However, none of these extras are mandatory, and you can absolutely enjoy your cruise without spending an extra penny!
When do we Go?
Ready to embark on the adventure of an expedition cruise with HX? This journey is often regarded as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, usually requiring months or even years of preparation. It’s essential to be guided by an expert! Feel free to contact me for advice, tips, and recommendations on destinations and the best cabins based on the ship. Remember, my advice is free, and a quote comes with no obligation! Also, don’t forget to follow my adventures on social media: Facebook and Instagram.
FAQ: Expert Answers
Laundry service: Included for passengers in suites. For others, it is not included, except on the Santa Cruz II, which offers a self-service washing machine and dryer.
Language on board: English is the primary language, but some cruises offer French-speaking lectures and guides.
Electrical outlets: European type (UK travelers will need an adapter).
Room service: Not available, but take-away is possible; you can order and enjoy your meal in your cabin.
Meals: Tables are assigned, and meal times are set at the beginning of the cruise.
Medical center: All ships are equipped with one.
Accessibility: All ships have cabins for passengers with reduced mobility.
Children on board: Children are welcome, but there is no Kids’ Club or specific activities for them. For Antarctic voyages, children must be at least 5 years old and may not be able to participate in all excursions for safety reasons.
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