HX

Story

Since 1896, HX has pioneered expedition travel, taking explorers beyond the familiar into some of the world's most remote and untamed destinations. Born in Norway and inspired by the spirit of polar exploration, the company began its legacy with the first expedition voyage aboard DS Lofoten, sailing from Hammerfest to Svalbard at a time when the Arctic remained largely unmapped. These early journeys established a foundation built on resilience, scientific discovery, active exploration, and responsible adventure that continues to define HX today.

The company's heritage is closely connected with legendary Norwegian explorers such as Fridtjof Nansen, Otto Sverdrup, and Roald Amundsen, whose pioneering achievements between 1893 and 1911 helped shape the values of modern expedition travel. Their determination, adaptability, and respect for the polar environment continue to inspire HX's voyages across the Arctic and Antarctica. Throughout the 20th century, HX expanded its reach across the polar regions, strengthened partnerships with scientists and conservationists, and made exploration more accessible while advancing environmental research and stewardship.

Entering the new millennium, HX continued to lead the industry with milestones that reflected its commitment to responsible exploration. The company launched Antarctic expeditions in 2002, became the first expedition cruise operator to ban heavy fuel oil in 2008, established the HX Foundation in 2015, and eliminated single-use plastics across the fleet in 2018. In 2019, HX introduced MS Roald Amundsen, the world's first hybrid battery-powered expedition ship, setting a new standard for sustainable expedition cruising. Celebrating 130 years of expedition heritage in 2026, HX continues to combine innovation, scientific collaboration, and immersive exploration, giving travelers meaningful experiences while protecting the extraordinary environments that have inspired the company since 1896.
Mission

Take you beyond the familiar through responsible expedition travel that combines scientific discovery, active exploration, innovation, and environmental stewardship. Deliver meaningful journeys that deepen your understanding of the world's most extraordinary destinations while helping protect them for future generations.

Vision

Continue leading expedition travel by advancing sustainable innovation, supporting scientific research, and inspiring you to explore the world's most remote regions with curiosity, respect, and a lasting commitment to conservation.
 

Taking Sustainability Seriously
They support 41 environmental, cultural, and social projects in 11 countries, including initiatives to protect endangered orcas, Galápagos seabirds, vulnerable Greenlandic children, and promote storytelling for Itquamavit elders. They hope these efforts will create lasting change.

Saying Goodbye to Unnecessary Single-Use Plastic
In 2018, they became the first expedition company to ban non-essential single-use plastics. Their ships no longer use plastic cups, straws, or cutlery, and they offer natural wool clothing instead of microplastic-made fleeces. Guests receive complimentary reusable bottles, saving up to 1,000 plastic bottles daily on larger ships.

Inspiring Environmental Ambassadors
They aim to inspire environmental ambassadors through their expedition cruises, with the Expedition Team offering lectures on climate change and ocean plastic. By engaging with nature, they hope guests will feel motivated to protect the planet and share their experiences.

Connecting With Communities
They support local communities by sourcing food and excursions from local suppliers, boosting livelihoods while respecting cultural values. Their goal is to create positive interactions and authentic experiences that benefit both guests and communities.

A Footprint They’re Proud Of
Guests observe wildlife from a safe distance, ensuring the welfare of the animals and themselves. Their goal is to leave only footprints and take only pictures.

Working Together as One
Sustainability requires industry collaboration. As founding members of AECO and members of IAATO, they promote sustainable tourism in polar regions, limiting mass tourism and protecting fragile environments.

Serving Plant-Based Food
Their menus offer various plant-based dishes to promote healthier living. Food waste management programs have resulted in a 22% reduction in waste per guest in 2023.

Investing in Greener Tech
The construction of their hybrid-powered ships, MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, represents their largest investment in nearly 130 years. These ships reduce carbon emissions by over 20% compared to similar vessels. They stopped using heavy fuel oil over a decade ago and advocate for its global ban.