HX, also known as Hurtigruten Expeditions, the global leader in adventure cruises, has officially announced its exciting new line-up for the 2026-2027 season, marking a significant milestone – 130 years of exploring the world’s most remote destinations.
With an impressive selection of fresh itineraries for expedition cruises across Antarctica, Alaska, Greenland, Norway, and the Galápagos, HX continues to redefine the ultimate adventure travel experience.
For those seeking the thrill of exploration and discovery, the upcoming season promises to offer unforgettable experiences, from the icy wilderness of Antarctica to the dramatic fjords of Norway.
HX’s latest collection of adventure cruises takes travellers deeper into these remarkable regions, combining environmental mindfulness with unparalleled access to some of the most awe-inspiring destinations on Earth.
Founded in 1896, HX first launched the “Sportsman’s Route” to the Svalbard archipelago, an isolated outpost near the North Pole. This daring expedition paved the way for what is now known as the modern expedition cruise industry. At a time when only a handful of explorers dared to venture into the Arctic wilderness, HX opened up these remote regions to a wider audience of adventurous travellers.
Today, 130 years on, HX continues to lead the way, pushing the boundaries of exploration while forging deeper connections with local communities and the environments they visit.
“We’re not just offering cruises to these destinations—we’re creating transformative experiences,” said Alex McNeil, HX’s Chief Expedition Officer.
“These are the best destinations done better than ever. With over a century of maritime expertise, we’ve strengthened our local partnerships to ensure we leave a positive impact wherever we go. Each voyage is designed to change the way guests see the world.”
HX’s new season of adventure cruises is designed to deliver unique experiences for travellers who crave the thrill of exploration.
Solar Eclipse Expedition: An Anniversary Event in Greenland, Iceland, and Svalbard
In August 2026, travellers aboard HX’s Solar Eclipse Expedition will have the chance to witness one of nature’s rarest spectacles—a total solar eclipse in the Arctic. The path of totality will stretch across East Greenland, Iceland, and Svalbard, making these remote locations the best places to view this astronomical wonder. This special voyage marks HX’s 130th anniversary, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to relive the pioneering spirit of their original 1896 expedition while celebrating a momentous celestial event.
Ultimate Norway: Under the Northern Lights
Launching in January 2026, the “Ultimate Norway” expedition promises to be a true Arctic adventure. Guests will embark on a seven-night journey through Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes, including the Lyngen Alps, Lofoten Islands, and Senja. Travellers will experience the polar nights and chase the Northern Lights in this friluftsliv (free air life) adventure. Additionally, HX will offer a festive “Ultimate Norway at Christmas” voyage, where guests can celebrate the holiday season surrounded by Norway’s natural beauty.
Alaska’s Inside Passage: Immersive New Voyages
Adventure cruises to Alaska’s stunning wilderness will be available through two distinct itineraries. The nine-night “Fjords of the Great Land” journey is perfect for those seeking an immersive yet compact experience, travelling from Vancouver to Seward. For a more in-depth adventure, the 12-night “Where the Mountains Meet the Sea” voyage will explore Prince William Sound, the Inside Passage, and the Gulf of Alaska, offering access to untamed landscapes and the chance to spot wildlife such as eagles and bears. Guests can kayak through serene fjords, hike towering mountains, and engage with local Alaskan communities.
The Explorer’s Route: A Journey to Iconic Antarctica
As the undisputed leader in Antarctic exploration, HX is set to unveil the “Explorer’s Route,” an exhilarating new voyage across the Antarctic Peninsula. Travellers will follow in the footsteps of legendary explorers, navigating through iconic sites such as the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Sound, and the Weddell Sea. Over nine days, guests will be able to immerse themselves in the dramatic beauty of the Seventh Continent, witnessing colossal icebergs and unique wildlife. Beginning and ending in Buenos Aires, this journey provides more in-depth exploration than any other Antarctic Peninsula itinerary, offering exclusive access to hidden regions seldom visited by other expedition ships.
Europe and Svalbard: New Voyages from Dover and Hamburg
Travellers departing from Dover and Hamburg will have the opportunity to embark on new springtime expeditions along Europe’s west coast, featuring stops at culturally rich and remote locations such as the Channel Islands, the Isles of Scilly, and Heligoland Island. These small-ship cruises will allow for intimate exploration of destinations that larger vessels cannot access.
Further north, HX will offer new expeditions to Svalbard, departing from Dover and Hamburg. These voyages will explore Norway’s fjords before heading into the Arctic, where travellers can experience the untouched beauty of Svalbard’s west coast. With over a century of experience in these regions, HX ensures a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic experience.
With a legacy that spans 130 years, HX remains the world’s largest expedition cruise operator, offering travel experiences that take guests beyond the typical tourist routes. Serving over 250 destinations in more than 27 countries, HX’s adventure cruises combine a commitment to sustainability with a passion for exploration, allowing guests to connect deeply with the natural world while minimising their environmental impact. Through their community-driven approach and responsible travel practices, HX is dedicated to preserving the destinations they visit, ensuring that future generations of adventurers can continue to explore the world’s most remote regions.
