HX Expeditions

HX Expeditions organizes expedition voyages to remote natural regions. The brand grew out of Norway’s maritime and polar heritage; its expedition history dates back to the first Arctic voyage in 1896. Today, its itineraries span the polar regions and destinations in warmer waters. Routes and activities are adapted to nature, weather and local conditions.

On February 12, 2025, the separation of Hurtigruten Group from Hurtigruten Expeditions Holdings and the HX companies was completed. The two companies had previously belonged to the same corporate group.

Destinations and the expedition experience

For HX, an expedition ship is a base for exploring on land and at sea. In addition to port visits, the concept includes trips in smaller expedition boats, which enable landings and exploration along coasts inaccessible to larger ships. The route and shore landings depend on local conditions. Destinations include the Arctic, with Greenland and Svalbard, the Northwest Passage, Alaska, the Galápagos Islands and Antarctica. The program also includes voyages to European island regions and winter trips in Northern Norway.

Expedition ships and research

The fleet includes MS Roald Amundsen, MS Fridtjof Nansen, MS Fram, MS Spitsbergen and MS Santa Cruz II. Expedition teams accompany guests on the voyages. Depending on the trip, these teams include experts in natural history and science, such as biologists, oceanographers, archaeologists and glaciologists. They share knowledge through lectures, support excursions and explain the landscapes and habitats of the regions visited. The program thus combines the voyage by ship with guided observation and learning both on board and ashore.

Another part of the offering is the Science & Education program. On board, guests can observe nature, engage with ongoing research and take part in citizen science projects. Their observations can contribute to research projects; HX cites, for example, projects to record whales and photograph phytoplankton. The Science Centres on board serve as places for learning and research.

Protecting the habitats visited is a priority during shore landings and wildlife observation. The expedition teams follow the guidelines of AECO and IAATO, as well as those of other relevant organizations. They provide guidance on responsible conduct and accompany activities ashore. In this way, HX combines its expedition voyages with natural history, scientific participation and responsible visits to sensitive regions.