HX
HX Hurtigruten Expeditions is one of the world’s leading expedition cruise operators, specialising in immersive voyages to some of the planet’s most remote and extraordinary destinations. Combining exploration, sustainability, and scientific discovery with contemporary onboard comfort, HX focuses on meaningful travel experiences rather than traditional resort-style cruising.
Fleet Overview
HX operates a fleet of purpose-built expedition vessels ranging from smaller classic expedition ships to modern hybrid-powered vessels designed for polar exploration. The fleet includes ships such as MS Fram, MS Fridtjof Nansen, and MS Roald Amundsen, each designed to navigate remote regions while providing comfortable and contemporary onboard spaces. Ship sizes remain intentionally smaller than mainstream cruise vessels, creating a more intimate and expedition-focused atmosphere.
Destinations
HX voyages focus on exploration-led itineraries in some of the world’s most remarkable regions, including:
Antarctica
The Arctic & Svalbard
Greenland
Iceland
Alaska
The Galápagos Islands
Remote coastal expedition routes
Itineraries are designed around wildlife encounters, landings, cultural immersion, and expert-led exploration rather than traditional sightseeing alone. Flexible routing may sometimes be influenced by weather and wildlife conditions, particularly in polar regions.
Whats Included
Depending on the itinerary and ship, HX expeditions typically include:
Accommodation onboard the expedition vessel
Full-board dining
Expedition team guidance and lectures
Guided landings and Zodiac excursions
Science Centre access and educational programming
Selected expedition equipment and waterproof boots on some sailings
Wi-Fi onboard selected ships
Flights and pre/post expedition arrangements vary by itinerary.
Dining
Dining onboard HX ships is relaxed, contemporary, and internationally inspired. Meals are designed to feel comfortable and sociable after active days ashore, with open seating and an informal atmosphere that encourages conversation between guests and expedition staff. The focus is on quality and comfort rather than formality.
Wellness & Relaxation
Modern HX ships offer a range of wellness facilities including:
Saunas and wellness areas
Fitness centres
Infinity pools and hot tubs on selected ships
Observation lounges with panoramic views
Quiet spaces for reading and relaxation
The atmosphere encourages guests to unwind and reflect between expedition activities.
Entertainment & Enrichment
Enrichment is central to the HX experience. Rather than large-scale entertainment productions, guests can expect:
Expert lectures from scientists and naturalists
Wildlife and photography presentations
Expedition briefings
Science and discovery programmes
Informal evening gatherings and discussions
The onboard experience is shaped by curiosity, learning, and shared exploration.
Atmosphere & Ship Style
The atmosphere onboard HX ships is calm, contemporary, and expedition-focused. Interiors are modern and Scandinavian-inspired, designed to connect guests with the surrounding environment rather than distract from it. Ships feel sociable yet peaceful, with a strong sense of shared purpose developing naturally among guests.
Life Onboard
Who's it for?
HX expeditions are particularly well suited to:
Adventure travellers
Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers
Nature lovers and explorers
Guests seeking immersive small-ship experiences
Travellers interested in sustainability and scientific discovery
Solo Traveller Insight
HX is a particularly strong choice for solo travellers seeking structured adventure and meaningful experiences. Small ship sizes, shared excursions, and expedition-led activities make it easy to connect with fellow guests naturally, while the welcoming onboard atmosphere allows solo travellers to feel both supported and independent throughout the journey.
The Ships
Each cruise line’s fleet offers a variety of ships, each with its own character, design, and onboard experience. Explore the ships below to discover which best suits your travel style and preferences.
