What is HX and what type of cruising do they offer?

HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) is an expedition cruise company that has been operating since 1896, making it one of the oldest expedition travel companies in the world. They specialize in expedition cruises to polar and remote destinations using purpose-built hybrid-powered ships. HX is a member of both AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators) and IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators).

What sustainability achievements has HX accomplished?

HX achieved the best ESG ranking in 2023 of any cruise company by Morningstar Sustainalytics. They were the first cruise company to eliminate single-use plastics and heavy fuel oils, and introduced the world's first hybrid-powered expedition ships. They buy food locally where possible, trade with communities where they sail, clean up marine plastics from remote beaches, and partner with global scientific institutions by providing free onboard space for research.

What makes the HX 2026-2027 Antarctica season special?

The 2026-2027 Antarctica season is notable as HX celebrates 130 years since its first expedition voyage in 1896. The season features voyages to lesser-visited destinations in Antarctica, including historic exploration sites. HX also offers onboard scientists working on real research projects free of charge, and guests can participate in Citizen Science projects and beach clean-ups of marine plastics.

What destinations does HX cover in the 2027-2028 season?

The 2027-2028 brochure covers Antarctica, Greenland, Svalbard, the Northwest Passage & Arctic Canada, Alaska & British Columbia, Norway, Iceland, Scottish Isles, Europe, and Patagonia. These span both polar regions and other remote destinations across the Atlantic and Pacific.

What destinations does HX cover in the Europe & Americas 2026-2027 brochure?

The Europe & Americas 2026-2027 brochure covers Alaska & British Columbia, Galápagos Islands, South America, British Isles, and Europe. The season runs from April 2026 to March 2027 and includes destinations spanning from tropical Galápagos wildlife to Arctic Norway winter expeditions.

What Antarctica expedition options does HX offer for 2025-2026?

HX offers dedicated Antarctica expedition cruises for the 2025-2026 season using ships MS Roald Amundsen, MS Fridtjof Nansen, and MS Fram. The cruises explore the Antarctic Peninsula and surrounding areas, with opportunities to see penguins up close, go kayaking (such as in Orne Harbour), participate in shore landings via small expedition boats, and engage in Citizen Science projects.

What Arctic destinations does HX offer for 2026-2027?

The HX Arctic Expeditions 2026-2027 brochure covers Norway, Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland, and the Northwest Passage & Arctic Canada. The season runs from March 2026 to March 2027 and includes expanded expedition experiences in Arctic Norway during winter and Christmas. Ships used include MS Roald Amundsen, MS Fridtjof Nansen, MS Fram, and MS Spitsbergen.

What destinations does HX cover in the British Isles, Norway & Europe brochure?

This HX brochure covers expedition cruises to the British Isles, Norway, and Europe for the 2025-2026 season. Ships used include MS Spitsbergen and MS Fridtjof Nansen. The expeditions offer an alternative to polar voyages, bringing HX's expedition-style experience with small boat excursions, Expedition Team lectures, and Citizen Science projects to more temperate European destinations.

What ships are in the HX expedition fleet for 2027-2028?

The HX fleet for 2027-2028 includes MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen (both advanced hybrid-powered expedition ships), MS Fram, and MS Spitsbergen. These ships are purpose-built for expedition cruising, equipped with fleets of small expedition boats and kayaks, a dedicated tender deck at sea level, a Science Centre, and multiple restaurants.

What ships does HX use for Europe & Americas expeditions?

For Europe & Americas 2026-2027, HX deploys MS Roald Amundsen, MS Fridtjof Nansen, MS Fram, MS Spitsbergen, and MS Santa Cruz II (used for Galápagos expeditions). These purpose-built ships balance size for comfort and equipment with agility to reach off-the-beaten-track destinations that larger ships cannot access.

What ships does HX use for Antarctica expeditions in 2025-2026?

HX deploys three expedition ships for Antarctica in 2025-2026: MS Roald Amundsen, MS Fridtjof Nansen, and MS Fram. These are purpose-built hybrid-powered expedition ships equipped with fleets of small boats and kayaks for shore landings, a Science Centre for onboard learning, and multiple dining options.

What onboard experience can guests expect on HX Antarctica expeditions?

HX Antarctica expeditions offer a casual atmosphere with no dress code, where guests can enjoy fine dining in a comfy fleece and hiking shoes. The experience includes meals and drinks included in the fare, an onboard Expedition Team providing lectures on history, culture, science and art, a Science Centre, Citizen Science projects, kayaking opportunities, small boat excursions, and shore landings at remote Antarctic locations.

What ships does HX deploy for Antarctica 2026-2027 expeditions?

For Antarctica 2026-2027, HX uses MS Roald Amundsen, MS Fridtjof Nansen, and MS Fram. These hybrid-powered expedition ships are designed to be large enough for comfort and multiple dining venues, yet small enough to reach off-the-beaten-track locations in Antarctica that larger ships cannot access.

What ships are used for HX Arctic expeditions in 2026-2027?

HX uses four ships for Arctic expeditions in 2026-2027: MS Roald Amundsen, MS Fridtjof Nansen, MS Fram, and MS Spitsbergen. All ships feature fleets of small expedition boats for shore landings, a dedicated tender deck at sea level, onboard Science Centres, and multiple restaurants, and are designed with sustainability in mind including hybrid power technology.

What ships does HX use for British Isles, Norway and Europe expeditions in 2025-2026?

HX uses MS Spitsbergen and MS Fridtjof Nansen for British Isles, Norway and Europe expedition cruises in 2025-2026. These ships are purpose-built for expedition cruising with small boat excursion capabilities, lecture areas, and Science Centres for onboard enrichment.

When does the HX Antarctica 2026-2027 season operate?

The HX Antarctica 2026-2027 season operates from October 2026 to March 2027. This season features voyages to lesser-visited destinations in Antarctica, including places from the history books of early exploration. HX also offers a special 'cosmic' voyage to Greenland to coincide with a total solar eclipse.

What is the season duration and what special voyages are offered in the HX Arctic 2026-2027 brochure?

The HX Arctic 2026-2027 season runs from March 2026 to March 2027. Special highlights include expanded winter and Christmas expedition experiences in Arctic Norway, and a 'cosmic' voyage to Greenland timed to coincide with a total solar eclipse. Destinations covered include Norway, Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland, and the Northwest Passage & Arctic Canada.

What is included in HX Europe & Americas expedition fares for 2026-2027?

HX all-inclusive fares cover meals and beverages (no bill after meals or nightcaps for most items), Expedition Team-led activities including lectures in the Science Centre, small boat excursions and shore landings, and Citizen Science projects. Suite guests receive additional inclusions such as premium cocktails and spirits. The atmosphere is casual with no dress code. Charges apply for cabin guests at the Lindstrøm fine dining restaurant, and premium wines by the bottle cost extra for all guests.

What is included in HX all-inclusive expedition cruises?

HX all-inclusive expedition cruises include meals and drinks (no bill at end of meals), an Expedition Team with onboard lectures and Science Centre access, small boat excursions and shore landings, Citizen Science project participation, and a casual no-dress-code atmosphere. For suite guests, premium cocktails, beers and spirits are included. For cabin guests, dining at the premium Lindstrøm restaurant and premium drinks carry additional charges.

What is included in HX British Isles, Norway and Europe expedition fares?

HX expedition fares include meals with no bill at the end (charges apply for cabin guests dining in Lindstrøm restaurant), an Expedition Team providing lectures and guided excursions, small boat shore landings, Citizen Science project participation, and access to the onboard Science Centre. For suite guests, premium cocktails, beers and spirits are included. Premium drinks for cabin guests and premium wines by the bottle carry additional charges.

MS Santa Cruz II — HX Expeditions

When you are exploring the Galápagos islands with us onboard the MS Santa Cruz II, you will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in high quality surroundings. The small size - with a guest capacity of maximum of 90 allows for a cozy yet classy environment. You'll easily feel at home on board. With carbon-neutral operations, MS Santa Cruz II is environmentally-sustainable and socially conscious with the local community. This sleek, spacious ship has a layout that allows you to enjoy your cruise from start to finish. Enjoy delicious food in the elegant restaurant, increase your knowledge of the Galápagos Islands with your fellow travellers in the Science Center or maybe mingle out on the multiple decks. While exploring the Galápagos, you'll have the ability to actively engage in activities and encounters. After a day in Darwin's footsteps, you will enjoy coming home to a casual atmosphere with the best service there is. MS Santa Cruz II's amenities easily appeal to all world explorers. **Welcome aboard** An HX Expeditions trip includes everything from daily excursions and activities to our onboard Science Centre, meals, gratuities, drinks* and more. All designed to give you the expedition experience of a lifetime.

Our three Darwin suites on the Panorama deck, featuring double picture windows, will provide superb comfort and deluxe amenities for more discerning guests. Available in twin or double bed and if more space is desired, they can be interconnected with an Explorer cabin.

With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant relaxation areas after a day of active exploring. There are 17 Explorer cabins located as on the Expedition deck.

With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant relaxation areas after a day of active exploring. There are 2 Explorer family cabins located on the Horizon deck. Cabins are equipped with twin beds and a sofa bed (ideal for children under 12).

With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer single bed, and plenty of space for solo travelers. There are 2 Voyager cabins located on the Horizon deck.

Mouthwatering meals and creative cocktails await you aboard MS Santa Cruz II. With creativity and dedication, our cheerful staff draw inspiration from everything from the weather to the region’s flavours and local ingredients.

The MS Santa Cruz II has a team of trained staff members that utilize locally-sourced organic food to prepare every dish. This ship provides a Le Cordon Bleu (a trained Gastronomy Director) and a wide variety of culinary experiences that encompass all diets and preferences. Each and every meal served onboard is exquisite.

Your ship gives you everything you could wish for in a home away from home: places for stimulation, relaxation, and meetings with your fellow guests. With a Scandinavian-inspired décor and all modern conveniences, MS Santa Cruz II does it in comfort and style.

The Sky deck offers spaces where guests can relax and enjoy their Galápagos expeditions basking in the sun at the very top of the ship. The sun deck and fitness room are located here.

The Outdoor Terrace is located on Deck Three.

This large and well-lit area is not only the main bar, but also the place where most ship events will take place (welcome and farewell cocktail), and doubles as an ideal place for lectures. It’s the ideal site to chill and relax with Wi-Fi hot spot and direct access to our al fresco terrace.

Located at the main intersection on the ship, the reception is the place where you will find the central bulletin board with daily program and other valuable information on the expedition experience.

The Discovery Room is located on Deck Three.

Facing the front of the ship, the Expedition Lounge – complete with a refreshment station and library – is a fantastic place to admire the beauty of the Galápagos’ Islands from inside. The Science Corner includes a glass cabinet, a microscope and a whale vertebrae clone, a perfect learning zone about our science activities.

The Gift Shop is located on Deck Two.

What if you could discover the unforgettable wonders of the Galapagos Islands, Earth's natural wonderland? With HX Expeditions, you can! Exploring these idyllic islands onboard our small expedition ships will take you off the beaten track and closer to nature for a more intimate experience. Nestled in the Pacific Ocean, this remote archipelago is a living laboratory of evolution, home to unique and diverse wildlife that have been inspiring explorers and naturalists ever since Charles Darwin first stepped foot here in 1835. With our Travel Guide, we have all the essential travel tips, packing lists, and insights to get you ready for your Galapagos trip.

Expect the unexpected as you explore the Galápagos Islands by sea and land, with a range of daily excursions, science projects, and talks we will ensure you uncover the magic of these iconic islands. Our small expedition boats allow us to land on beaches and terrain away from the crowds. Exploring the various islands on foot turns an adventure into an expedition - with hikes amongst the distinct ecosystems for a more intimate experience amongst the truly unique flora and fauna. Or what could be better than drifting over a colourful reef and seeing marine life illuminated in crystal-clear water? Where the conditions allow, you can take to the water where you could snorkel amongst sea lions or even paddleboard past penguins. With MS Santa Cruz II as your floating base camp, it is the perfect spot to return to for some relaxation and reflection on some of the lifelong memories made in the Galápagos Islands.

The Expedition Launch Pad can be found on Deck 1.

Whenever you feel the need to get your body moving, exercise facilities are on hand to get your pulse up. And whether you’re relaxing after a day of fascinating lectures, or a long hike, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to relax your body and mind.

Our fitness center is equipped with yoga mats, set of weights, 2 treadmills, 2 stationary bikes, and an elliptical trainer for those guests who do not want to let their routine slide.

For a nice relaxing time our two hot tubs with capacity for 5 guests each. Located on the Expedition deck are ideal.

The Galápagos offers a plethora of adventures as you experience the rich nature and unique wildlife of these idyllic islands. Regardless of what time of year you visit, a pair of sturdy walking shoes is recommended for the hikes as trails vary in difficulty, but most are of volcanic nature. For those travelling in the warm season (January - May), we recommend focusing on shorts and loosely-fitting tops. This time of year is also the wettest, so be sure to pack a light rain jacket or poncho. If you are visiting during the cooler months (June - December), we suggest packing a light jumper or windbreaker for those chilly nights onboard. We also recommend packing the following: - Insect repellent- Polarised sunglasses and sunscreen- Sandals or shoes you don‘t mind getting wet- Wide-brimmed sun hat with a chin strap- Swimsuit for the hot tubs- A pair of casual shoes for onboard use- Waterproof small back pack or bag- Rain Jacket- Prescription Snorkeling Masks Don't forget you will also receive a complimentary reusable waterproof bottle, which is yours to keep at the end of the voyage.

It may seem like getting to these remote islands is an expedition in itself however, many carriers fly to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito or José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) in Guayaquil. Within the cost of your voyage, we include return flights in economy class between key gateways, and entirely dependent upon the expedition you choose. Be sure to check the 'What's Included' section of the voyage to see which applies to you, flights include: - from/to Quito or Guayaquil to Baltra and the Galápagos Islands.- from/to Lima - Cusco (Peru) for those with the Machu Picchu combination. Please Note: The checked baggage allowance is up to 23kg, and a cabin bag of up to 8 kg. These limits can vary between long-haul and the included short-haul flights run by LATAM, to/from Lima (for the Machu Picchu programme) and Quito/Guayaquil (for Galápagos Islands). Additional luggage can only be booked as a paid service at the check-in counter.

With their unique wildlife and captivating natural beauty, these islands offer a memorable experience for all of the family. Exploring these islands provides numerous educational opportunities for children, from learning about evolution and diverse ecosystems to close encounters with the local stars such as the Galápagos giant tortoises and playful sea lions. Our Family-friendly cruises and guided tours ensure safety and comfort, while activities like snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife spotting create cherished moments for families to bond and appreciate the wonders of nature together.

Smoking is allowed only in designated outdoor areas, not in cabins or private balconies. Smoking while the ship is refuelling is prohibited.

Guests will receive limited complimentary Wi-fi access. Additional Wi-Fi is available for purchase.

The minimum age for travel to Antarctica and Galápagos is 5 years and the participation of children under the age of 12 years in small-boat landings during expedition cruises is at the discretion of the captain.

Guests who require special diets or have food allergies can contact the Restaurant Manager in the restaurants during opening hours.

Everything you need to know about your cruise, including your bookings, daily programme, restaurants and services on board and essential information about available excursions is at hand at any time. **What have I booked?** Take a look at My bookings to explore the excursions you have booked and prepare for your adventure accordingly with practical tips. **What's happening today?** The daily programme helps you to know what’s happening on board. It shows you all the on-board events, meals, optional excursions/activities, and important announcements so that you can relax and enjoy the expedition. **What’s available on board?** You can find all the services and facilities available on board in one place: exciting excursions and information about the state-of-the-art vessel.