Be charmed by the welcoming people, rich culture, epic landscapes and the thrilling wildlife of the world’s largest island, with HX’s Expedition Team leading the way.
Discover a legacy of adventure
From its roots in exploration to its forward
thinking on sustainability, every era of
HX Expeditions marks a spirit of curiosity By Robin McKelvie
When embarking on the wildly beautiful delights of an expedition cruise, you want experience, on-board expertise and state-of-the-art ships. HX Expeditions delivers all of these essentials and much more, with life-affirming, immersive experiences built on the bedrock of real heritage – its first expedition cruise sailed in 1896.
Over the years, HX has emerged from being a renowned pioneer in Arctic exploration to offering thrilling adventures across the continents, with expedition cruises in Greenland, Svalbard, Antarctica, Alaska, Norway, the Northwest Passage and the Galápagos alongside South America and Europe.
One voyage aboard the DS Lofoten in 1896 marked the beginning of expedition cruising, charting a course from Hammerfest to Svalbard, a route no one had sailed before, to savour the Arctic as few ever had. The foundations were laid for what HX stands for today: curiosity-driven adventure, grounded in expertise and Norwegian resilience, expedition cruising for those who wanted to understand the world by getting right into the heart of it. Travellers from across Norway and much further afield flocked to study wildlife and explore hidden worlds far off the beaten track that until then had been out of bounds to everyone bar intrepid Arctic adventurers.
Expedition cruising with HX today is immersing yourself in journeys that open up the planet’s wildest and most awe-inspiring places, venturing to places few other souls ever have. It is getting away from the stresses and strains of our busy lives into worlds where nature in all its glory is firmly in charge. HX’s small expedition boats are an integral part of the experience, enabling you to explore off-the-beaten-track shores traditional cruise ships just cannot reach.
HX is serious about lessening its environmental impact and protecting the natural world they lovingly share with their guests, who get to savour a mindful adventure. In 2018 HX was the first expedition cruise line to remove single-use plastics from all its ships and offices. HX is reimagining what adventure means in the 21st century with a forward-looking perspective focusing on science and community impact, offering genuinely meaningful experiences to guests. To sail with HX is to listen, to learn and to engage.
Five incredible excursions to try aboard HX Expedition Cruises
On an HX expedition there’s a wide range of included and additional experiences that will enhance your adventure.
Camping under the stars in the Antarctica Peninsula:
A life-affirming adventure with HX, you could get the lucky chance to spend the night under the stars in the Antarctic wilderness. There is nothing to separate you from the elements as you set up your base for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Your Antarctic-standard camping gear ensures you’ll stay cosy while you marvel at the heavens, with the exploring landings by foot.
Where will your next adventure be?
With destinations all over the globe, there is a HX expedition cruise destination for every kind of adventurer
Produced by: Telegraph Media Group
Project manager: Abby Draycott | Writer: Robin McKelvie | Commissioning editor: Jasmin Nahar
Sub-editors: Tim Cumming, Neil Queen-Jones | Video and photography manager: Shin Miura Designer: Jonathan Clayton-Jones | Web editor: Demi Bissette-Wilson
Picture Credits: Getty, Shutterstock. HX, Jan Hvizda, Tuan Lam, Espen Mills, Kay Fochtmann
The past
The present
The future
Head to travelhx.com, call 0203 733 4289 or contact your preferred travel agent
Start exploring
HX offers the ultimate expedition cruising smorgasbord: savour the all-inclusive service, the premium environment aboard, the ever-impressive range of activities and excursions. As it sails on towards its 130th birthday, this pioneering company never loses sight of its roots, even as it constantly evolves, making it the choice for adventurous expedition cruising to awe-inspiring destinations.
Today HX is a leader in scientific and sustainable expedition cruising with an ever more impressive fleet of purpose-built ships and industry-leading innovations. HX is now setting new standards in small-ship expedition cruising with cutting-edge hybrid vessels, educational initiatives and conservation programmes.
HX achieved 48 per cent reduction in food waste from 2023 to 2024
HX cruises to 250 destinations across 30 countries
HX guests contributed to 30,000 citizen science submissions in 2024
Greenland
Svalbard
Alaska
The Northwest Passage
Galápagos Islands
Norway
Iceland
South America
Antarctica
Greenland
This pioneering spirit has stayed firmly anchored in the heart and soul of HX as it has spread its maritime wings across the planet’s wild, remote places, bringing its well-honed expertise to bear. HX now ventures from pole to pole, covering the Antarctic as well as the Arctic, venturing to the Galápagos and through the famous Northwest Passage. Today HX’s core mission still burns with passion – to take people closer to remote and unexplored corners of the world.
The world-class food and drink aboard HX is a highlight with constant new ideas and innovations spicing up every adventure. HX has partnered with chef Inunnguaq Hegelund to develop a Greenlandic Cuisine Experience, with a rotating roster of the island’s chefs joining HX voyages to share their skills as well as the culture and local produce that lies at the heart and soul of their cooking. Chefs include Greenland Chef of the Year winner Laasi Biilmann and rising star Eli Nuka Johansson.
A partnership with QAJAQ Brewery means you can enjoy Greenlandic beer aboard too. HX is committed to promoting authentic local culture and sustainability in sourcing, with creativity like HX’s four new global theme menus on every voyage aboard MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen at Restaurant Fredheim. There is a Filipino menu, 'Whispers of the Palayok', alongside The Flavours of South America, The Heart of Tuscan Cuisine and A Journey Through Indian Cuisine.
In its ESG 2024 Report, ‘Navigating for a Greener Future’, HX demonstrated both its ambition and transparency. Key aims included reducing emissions beyond the requirements of the Paris Agreement with the likes of hybrid-powered vessels, supporting the global goal of “nature positive by 2030” (with full recovery by 2050), and the aim of leaving the communities it visits better off than before. In short, this is HX expedition cruising as a force for good, with the aim of being recognised as the most diverse, inclusive expedition cruise company anywhere on the planet.
Leave your HX small-ship for an even smaller vessel to explore epic Prince William Sound down at water level. Immense glaciers soar on a thrilling spirit-soaring adventure as you get up close and personal with the Sound’s 17 glaciers, watching out for humpback whales, bald eagles, otters and sea lions as you go.
An Alaskan journey to the the Prince William Sound glacier:
Qaanaaq is one of the few places where hunting by kayak is still integral to daily life. Set out aboard a traditional kayak amidst the ice floes on an adventure led by an Inuit hunter, who shares traditional hunting techniques and their typical hunting tools. The views are spellbinding and the insight into local culture unforgettable.
A traditional kayak tour with local hunter in Greenland:
Ease to a remote landing site as twilight nears to venture out on a nature hike where birdsong is the only sound. Or slip out on a kayak on the serene waters as the sun sets on another magical HX day. It’s time to cosy around the bonfire for specially prepared local treats and indulge in the time-honoured Norwegian tradition of swapping stories as darkness falls, and it's part of the memorale included trip.
Local flavours and a warming bonfire in Norway
ANTARCTICA
GREENLAND
Galápagos
NORWAY
ALASKA
Drop anchor at a destination of your choice
Svalbard
Journey to the edge of the North Pole and walk on the wild side with an adventure alive with fjords, glaciers and, perhaps, the elusive polar bear.
Norway
Delve beyond the Arctic Circle with HX and discover Norway’s winter wonderland, a shimmering snowy world made even more spectacular by the magical Northern Lights.
Iceland
Embrace the ultimate land of ‘Fire and Ice’ and savour a world of brooding volcanoes, soaring glaciers and hulking whales, where the local culture thrills too.
Antarctica
Mind-blowing adventures await across the Drake Passage on the White Continent, an ice-kissed wonderland alive with bobbing penguins and hulking humpback whales.
South America
Head to the famed Unesco World Heritage site of Machu Picchu, explore the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires and plenty more in this breathtaking part of the world.
The Galápagos Islands
Savour an HX small-ship expedition cruise six million years in the making, encountering wildlife from another world in the adventurous footsteps of Charles Darwin.
Alaska
Become closer to nature on a cruise aboard one of HX’s hybrid expedition ships as you immerse yourself in the remarkable scenery, fascinating local culture and breathtaking wildlife.
The Northwest Passage
Reawaken your inner explorer with a HX adventure where few souls have gone before, traversing the fabled Northwest Passage with its remarkable scenery and rich local culture.
Early HX explorers in the rugged landscapes of Norway, where the expedition cruise line's journey first began
Crucial to the seamless, holistic HX experience is the relaxed, friendly and welcoming life on board, with its pioneering ships the perfect platforms for expedition cruising even through the most demanding modern lens. We are talking about a sense of timeless premium quality and that genuine warm service that cannot be taught, which comes from the authenticity of a company exceeding expedition expectations since 1896.
Guests can take part in on board citizen science programmes, further educational initiatives and conservation efforts – just some of the new ways HX is working with the science and technology sectors to help protect the environment for future generations of explorers.
The DS Lofoten is the ship that laid the foundations of HX’s expedition cruises, one based on the spirit of exploration and adventure
Small expedition boats are able to bring travellers up close to the unspoilt natural wonders of Svalbard
Select your next destination
Charting a path along the clear and icy waters of Uummannaq, Greenland, home to breathtaking fjords and much more
A HX cruise offers the chance to spot some of nature’s most extraordinary species in the wild
Walk along the awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes that define the Galapagos Islands
In between exploring, relax and kick back with a cocktail in one of HX’s elegant Explorer Lounges
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Why travel with HX?
It’s easy to see why people choose HX, the experts and pioneers in expedition cruising since 1896. Not only are the excursions, meals, drinks and wifi all-inclusive, but the most extensive science programme in the industry is too, with onboard scientists and experts getting guests engaged. The spacious, private and thoughtfully designed ships help too, your cabin a real calm haven aboard. The atmosphere aboard makes you feel seriously welcome – we’re talking no dress code, warm welcomes from all the crew and fellow passengers here to relax and explore too. At every step you feel the benefit of HX’s almost 130 years of experience.
On HX’s Galapagos cruises snorkelling is included for all guests, a life-affirming thrill that creates a lifetime of memories. There are multiple opportunities to snorkel both from the beach and deep sea snorkelling from the small expedition boat. Your heart and soul will swoon as you swim with sea lions, turtles, tropical fish and much more.
Snorkelling among the sealife in Galapagos:
“That living culture, woven into such extraordinary wilderness,
is what makes Greenland
so incredible.”
Alex McNeil, HX chief expEdition officer
Tornstein Gaustad, HX expEdition LEADER
“Svalbard is wild and storied with a pulse of life, a unique history and a surprisingly rich tapestry of Arctic flora.”
“Guests love the contrast between true wilderness and intimate local encounters, Norway offers a unique mix of untamed landscapes and welcoming communities.”
Niek van Eck, HX PRODUCT MANAGER
“Antarctica
is pure and elemental, like stepping onto another planet.”
Torstein Gaustad, HX expedition leader
“The Galápagos is a magical place; this is where you can go back to the origin of everything, and see how nature works in harmony, without human interference.”
Ramiro Tomala, HX EXPEDITION LEADER
“The Northwest Passage is not just a route, it is a living story. Known locally as part of Inuit Nunangat, this land and sea carry memories and histories from many perspectives.”
Mariah Erkloo, HX CULTURAL SPECIALIST
“My favourite Alaska excursion is kayaking in a beautiful bay, looking at the wildlife and with floating ice adn glaciers as a scenic backdrop”
Captain Rune Alme, HX expEdition captain
Explore this cruise
The Galápagos Islands
Savour an HX small-ship expedition cruise six million years in the making, encountering wildlife from another world in the adventurous footsteps of Charles Darwin.
“The Galápagos is a magical place; this is where you can go back to the origin of everything, and see how nature works in harmony, without human interference.”
Ramiro Tomala, HX EXPEDITION LEADER
The Galápagos Islands
Savour an HX small-ship expedition cruise six million years in the making, encountering wildlife from another
world in the adventurous footsteps
of Charles Darwin.
South America
Head to the famed Unesco World Heritage site of Machu Picchu, explore the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires and plenty more in this breathtaking part of the world.
South America
Journey to the edge of the North Pole and walk on the wild side with an adventure alive with fjords, glaciers and, perhaps, the elusive polar bear.
Greenland
Be charmed by the welcoming people, rich culture, epic landscapes and the thrilling wildlife of the world’s largest island, with HX’s Expedition Team leading the way.
Alaska
Become closer to nature on a cruise aboard one of HX’s hybrid expedition ships as you immerse yourself in the remarkable scenery, fascinating local culture and breathtaking wildlife.
Iceland
Embrace the ultimate land of ‘Fire and Ice’ and savour a world of brooding volcanoes, soaring glaciers and hulking whales, where the local culture thrills too.
Norway
Delve beyond the Arctic Circle with HX and discover Norway’s winter wonderland, a shimmering snowy world made even more spectacular by the magical Northern Lights.
Antarctica
Mind-blowing adventures await across the Drake Passage on the White Continent, an ice-kissed wonderland alive with bobbing penguins and hulking humpback whales.
HX cruises to 250 destinations across 30 countries
HX achieved 48 per cent reduction in food waste from 2023 to 2024
On HX’s Galapagos cruises snorkelling is included for all guests, a life-affirming thrill that creates a lifetime of memories. There are multiple opportunities to snorkel both from the beach and deep sea snorkelling from the small expedition boat. Your heart and soul will swoon as you swim with sea lions, turtles, tropical fish and much more.
Snorkelling among the sealife in Galapagos:
Qaanaaq is one of the few places where hunting by kayak is still integral to daily life. Set out aboard a traditional kayak amidst the ice floes on an adventure led by an Inuit hunter, who shares traditional hunting techniques and their typical hunting tools. The views are spellbinding and the insight into local culture unforgettable.
A traditional kayak tour with local hunter in Greenland:
A life-affirming adventure with HX, you could get the lucky chance to spend the night under the stars in the Antarctic wilderness. There is nothing to separate you from the elements as you set up your base for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Your Antarctic-standard camping gear ensures you’ll stay cosy while you marvel at the heavens, with the exploring landings by foot.
Camping under the stars in the Antarctica Peninsula:
Ease to a remote landing site as twilight nears to venture out on a nature hike where birdsong is the only sound. Or slip out on a kayak on the serene waters as the sun sets on another magical HX day. It’s time to cosy around the bonfire for specially prepared local treats and indulge in the time-honoured Norwegian tradition of swapping stories as darkness falls, and it's part of the memorale included trip.
Local flavours and a warming bonfire in Norway
Leave your HX small-ship for an even smaller vessel to explore epic Prince William Sound down at water level. Immense glaciers soar on a thrilling spirit-soaring adventure as you get up close and personal with the Sound’s 17 glaciers, watching out for humpback whales, bald eagles, otters and sea lions as you go.
An Alaskan journey to the the Prince William Sound glacier:
On HX’s Galapagos cruises snorkelling is included for all guests, a life-affirming thrill that creates a lifetime of memories. There are multiple opportunities to snorkel both from the beach and deep sea snorkelling from the small expedition boat. Your heart and soul will swoon as you swim with sea lions, turtles, tropical fish and much more.
Snorkelling among the sealife in Galapagos:
A life-affirming adventure with HX, you could get the lucky chance to spend the night under the stars in the Antarctic wilderness. There is nothing to separate you from the elements as you set up your base for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Your Antarctic-standard camping gear ensures you’ll stay cosy while you marvel at the heavens, with the exploring landings by foot.
Camping under the stars in the Antartca Peninsula:
Qaanaaq is one of the few places where hunting by kayak is still integral to daily life. Set out aboard a traditional kayak amidst the ice floes on an adventure led by an Inuit hunter, who shares traditional hunting techniques and their typical hunting tools. The views are spellbinding and the insight into local culture unforgettable.
A traditional kayak tour with local hunter in Greenland:
Ease to a remote landing site as twilight nears to venture out on a nature hike where birdsong is the only sound. Or slip out on a kayak on the serene waters as the sun sets on another magical HX day. It’s time to cosy around the bonfire for specially prepared local treats and indulge in the time-honoured Norwegian tradition of swapping stories as darkness falls, and it's part of the memorale included trip.
Local flavours and a warming bonfire in Norway
Fine dining awaits in the elevated specialty restaurant Lindstrøm, named after explorer Roald Amundsen’s personal chef
The battery room in one of HX’s state-of-the-art hybrid expedition cruise ships, a testament to their commitment to sustainable cruising
Expand your knowledge with expert-led sessions and hands-on learning in the onboard Science Centres
Produced by: Telegraph Media Group
Project manager: Abby Draycott | Writer: Robin McKelvie | Commissioning editor: Jasmin Nahar
Sub-editors: Tim Cumming, Neil Queen-Jones | Video and photography manager: Shin Miura Designer: Jonathan Clayton-Jones | Web editor: Demi Bissette-Wilson
Picture Credits: HX, Jan Hvizda, Tuan Lam, Espen Mills, Kay Fochtmann
Enjoy a cocktail onboard in one of HX’s Explorer Lounges
Fine dining awaits in Restaurant
The battery room in one of HX’s hybrid expedition cruise ships
