Where Real Explorers Go
The Ultimate Guide to HX Expeditions (Hurtigruten Expeditions) — Discover 130+ years of polar heritage, custom-built hybrid-electric expedition ships, citizen science, and remote wilderness exploration.
Pioneering Exploration Since 1896
HX is the world leader in expedition cruising, taking travelers to the most remote frontiers on Earth with certified expedition teams, scientific laboratories, and zero heavy fuel oil.
We Specialize In:
- World's first hybrid-electric expedition ships (MS Roald Amundsen & MS Fridtjof Nansen)
- Dedicated Science Center on every ship featuring high-tech microscopes and guest citizen science projects
- All-inclusive expedition experience: daily Zodiac landings, guided hikes, kayaking, and polar parkas
- Unmatched polar heritage with over 130 years of navigating Arctic and Antarctic waters
From watching penguins on Antarctic ice floes to swimming with sea lions in the Galápagos and tracking polar bears in Svalbard, HX combines authentic adventure with Nordic comfort.
Where You Can Go With HX Expeditions
Journey to the ends of the Earth across polar ice caps, volcanic archipelagos, and remote fjords.
Antarctica & Drake Passage
Cross the Drake Passage to encounter massive penguin colonies, breaching whales, and towering icebergs.
Galápagos Islands
Snorkel with sea lions, giant tortoises, and marine iguanas aboard the carbon-neutral MS Santa Cruz II.
Svalbard & High Arctic
Explore the remote Spitsbergen archipelago in search of polar bears, walruses, and Arctic foxes.
Greenland & Northwest Passage
Witness Ilulissat Icefjord, Viking ruins, and epic waterways of the legendary Northwest Passage.
HX Fleet & Expedition Ships
Explore MS Roald Amundsen, MS Fridtjof Nansen, MS Spitsbergen, MS Fram, and MS Santa Cruz II.
HX Expeditions Overview
Discover inclusions, daily life onboard, Zodiac landings, and polar science.
Why Discerning Explorers Choose HX Expeditions
"If you want true exploration rather than just sightseeing, HX is unmatched. Their expedition leaders and onboard scientists turn every voyage into an extraordinary learning adventure."
— Angela Hughes, CEO of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel
HX ships are designed for sustainability and discovery. Guests enjoy Scandinavian dining, outdoor hot tubs overlooking icebergs, and panoramic observation decks while making a real contribution to climate and marine research.
HX Differentiators at a Glance
- Science Center:State-of-the-art onboard labs where guests participate in real-time scientific research.
- Hybrid Green Fleet:Hybrid battery technology cutting emissions and allowing silent, peaceful cruising through fjords.
- Included Gear:Complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket and use of Muck boots included.
- Authentic Exploration:Highest number of certified expedition leaders and marine biologists in the industry.
The HX Fleet: Engineered for Remote Frontiers
MS Roald Amundsen & MS Fridtjof Nansen
"Groundbreaking hybrid-powered ships carrying 500 guests with custom suites, three restaurants, and outdoor hot tubs."
Expedition Staterooms & Suites
Warm Nordic wood finishes, large picture windows or private balconies, and heated bathroom floors.
Polar Outside & Arctic Superior
Comfortable, functional staterooms featuring large oceanview windows, double beds, and smart TVs.
Expedition Suites with Balcony
Spacious living areas, private balconies, complimentary laundry, espresso makers, and minibar included.
Grand Suites with Private Hot Tubs
Corner suites featuring panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass and private outdoor whirlpools overlooking polar ice.
How Much Does an HX Expedition Cruise Cost?
Estimated pricing based on expedition destination, season, voyage length, and cabin choice.
7 to 10-Day Galápagos Expeditions
Carbon-neutral expedition with naturalist guides, snorkeling, and inter-island flights.
10 to 12-Day Svalbard & Arctic Norway
Polar bear viewing, bird cliffs, and midnight sun cruising with all activities included.
12 to 18-Day Antarctica Highlights & Peninsula
Classic Antarctic Peninsula exploration, Zodiac landings, and polar plunge experiences.
20+ Day Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands
The ultimate polar safari visiting king penguin super-colonies in South Georgia.
Ready to Start Planning?
Connect with our luxury travel advisors to find the perfect HX Expeditions itinerary for your travel style.
Contact an AdvisorExplore Our Curated HX Guides & Comparisons
Access our library of polar expedition guides, wildlife advice, and head-to-head competitor faceoffs.
Polar & Remote Destinations
Guides to Svalbard, Greenland, and Antarctica expeditions.
Ships & Overview Guides
Reviews of HX fleet ships, Galápagos routes, rankings, and complete brand reviews.
Expedition Comparisons
See how HX compares head-to-head with Silversea and Viking, plus Drake Passage tips.
Zodiac Landings & Citizen Science
Discover the onboard Science Centers, expert-led Zodiac excursions, and sustainable hybrid-electric fleet.
Angela Hughes Authority & Credentials
Polar Expedition Specialist & CEO of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel
Angela Hughes
Angela Hughes has explored Antarctica, the Arctic, and remote island archipelagos, helping adventure travelers select the right ship, itinerary, and season for life-changing polar expeditions.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS & ACHIEVEMENTS
- Over 4 Decades Designing Luxury Travel Experiences
- Explored 121+ Countries Across Seven Continents
- Recognized Industry Leader & River Cruise Specialist
- CEO & Founder of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel
- Specialist in Active River Cruising & Multi-Generational Travel
- Personal Relationships with AmaWaterways Executives & Staff
Frequently Asked Questions About HX Expeditions
Essential answers for travelers preparing for a polar or wilderness expedition.
Hurtigruten operates two distinct brands: Hurtigruten Coastal Express (carrying local passengers and cargo along the Norwegian coast) and HX Expeditions (purpose-built luxury adventure ships sailing to Antarctica, Galápagos, Svalbard, and Greenland with expert expedition teams).
Fares include accommodations, all meals, house beer and wine with lunch and dinner, all daily Zodiac landings and guided hikes, access to the Science Center, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and a complimentary windproof polar expedition jacket to keep.
HX expeditions are accessible to anyone with average mobility who can step in and out of a Zodiac boat with crew assistance. Daily activity options range from gentle walks to strenuous mountain hikes and kayaking.
Our expedition specialists ensure proper gear selection, flights via Buenos Aires or Santiago, pre/post hotel arrangements in Patagonia, and exclusive onboard amenities.
Ready to Plan Your HX Expeditions Voyage?
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