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Cruise line review

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)

Penguins, icebergs and landings by small boat, with a science centre on board and a casual, Norwegian-style atmosphere: HX makes the polar regions feel accessible without diluting the adventure.

The line

HX, the expedition arm of Hurtigruten and now a separate company, has more than 130 years of polar heritage. It sails Antarctica, Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Alaska, Arctic Canada and the Galápagos, and runs around 50 Antarctic departures a season.

The ships

A small fleet of expedition ships, led by Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, the world's first hybrid-powered expedition ships, each carrying about 500 guests. Fram and Spitsbergen are smaller, and Santa Cruz II sails the Galápagos.

Cabins and suites

Comfortable rather than lavish, with Scandinavian design and big windows. Expedition suites with balconies and hot tubs are worth it on a long polar voyage, when you will want somewhere warm to watch the ice go by.

Food and drink

Nordic and local menus, often built around regional produce, with house wine and beer at meals included. Specialty dining is available on the larger ships.

Onboard life

Lectures in the science centre, citizen-science projects, photography workshops and plenty of time on deck with binoculars. The tone is informal and outdoorsy: practical clothes, early starts and a shared sense of discovery.

Excursions

Landings and cruises by small expedition boat are included, led by an expedition team of naturalists, geologists and historians. Kayaking and some other activities cost extra and book up early.

What is included

HX moved to all-inclusive fares in 2024: meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities and the core landings and activities. Flights and some optional activities are extra; check the exact inclusions for your voyage.

Who will love it

Curious, reasonably active travellers who want real expedition content at a price below the luxury polar lines. You will need to manage steps into and out of small boats in cold weather.

Questions

Is HX all-inclusive?

Yes, since 2024 fares include meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities and the core landings. Some activities such as kayaking cost extra.

When is the Antarctic season?

November to March. November brings pristine snow, December and January the longest days and penguin chicks, February and March whales.

How fit do I need to be?

Fit enough to step into and out of small boats and walk on uneven, snowy ground. The expedition team helps at every landing.

Which HX ships are hybrid-powered?

Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, the first hybrid-powered expedition ships.

Last updated 30 October 2026

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