HX Expeditions is one of the original pioneers of expedition cruising, with a legacy that dates back to 1896. Born during the golden age of exploration, HX began by taking travellers to the Arctic at a time when few had ventured that far north. More than 130 years later, the company remains a global leader in expedition travel, operating immersive voyages from pole to pole.
This long-standing heritage is more than a marketing line. HX’s operational expertise has been built over decades of navigating challenging environments, adapting to unpredictable weather and leading travellers safely into some of the most remote regions on Earth. For agents, that history translates into credibility, trust and confidence when selling to discerning clients.
Today, HX explores Antarctica, Greenland, Alaska, Svalbard, the Northwest Passage and Arctic Canada, Norway, Iceland, the Scottish Isles and Patagonia. These are destinations where nature dictates the itinerary and flexibility is essential. HX’s experience allows itineraries to adapt in real time, whether rerouting for a wildlife sighting or adjusting to shifting sea ice.
Made for Curious Travellers
HX attracts well-travelled, intellectually curious clients who value learning and meaningful experiences over traditional cruise entertainment. The core demographic remains 60+ couples and multi-generational families, with a strong and growing solo segment. Many have previously taken safaris, wildlife-focused land journeys or educational trips and are seeking a deeper style of exploration.
What drives their purchase? Reputation, expertise, sustainability credentials and all-inclusive value.
HX is particularly appealing to travellers who see expedition cruising as the ultimate way to experience outstanding natural beauty while feeding their curiosity.
Experts in Expedition Since 1896
A key selling point is the Expedition Team. Every HX voyage is led by handpicked experts including ornithologists, geologists, marine biologists, historians and professional wildlife photographers. These specialists guide shore landings, host onboard lectures and lead Citizen Science initiatives.
HX operates one of the most comprehensive science programmes in expedition cruising. Guests can visit the onboard Science Centre to analyse samples under microscopes, participate in research projects and engage directly with scientists.
In Antarctica, HX offers guests access to a world-first pre-departure programme through its partnership with the University of Tasmania’s Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies. The course explores Antarctic wildlife, climate and governance, and awards an official certificate, adding significant educational depth before guests even board the ship.
Adventure Is All-Inclusive
One of HX’s strongest commercial advantages is its genuinely all-inclusive model.
Daily Zodiac landings, guided nature walks and expedition boat cruising are included in the fare. Onboard lectures, science sessions and workshops are also part of the core experience.
Beyond that, HX includes:
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- House wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
- Complimentary Wi-Fi powered by Starlink
- All onboard gratuities
- Expedition jacket to keep
- Essential gear such as boots and trekking poles to borrow
- Professional digital photo logbook and voyage highlights
For agents, this makes pricing simpler and removes friction in the sales process.
Purpose-Built Polar Fleet
HX operates a fleet of purpose-built expedition ships carrying between 90 and 490 guests. Standout vessels include MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, two of the world’s most advanced hybrid-powered expedition ships.
Designed for manoeuvrability and stability, these vessels combine battery packs and emissions-reduction technology with spacious public areas, multiple dining venues and large Science Centres. They are large enough for comfort at sea yet agile enough to access remote fjords and narrow channels.
Sustainability Leadership
HX is a long-standing member of AECO and IAATO, adhering to strict environmental and wildlife guidelines. The company was among the first to introduce hybrid propulsion to expedition cruising and has eliminated heavy fuel oils and single-use plastics across its operations.
Independent organisations including Friends of the Earth and NABU have recognised HX for its environmental leadership, strengthening its appeal to environmentally conscious travellers.
Trade Support and Onboard Sales
HX offers strong trade partnerships, competitive commission and a structured onboard sales programme. Bookings made onboard are automatically allocated back to the original agency, with full commission paid. Guests benefit from additional discounts, flexible post-voyage booking conditions and reduced deposits, while agents retain ownership of the client relationship.
The Bottom Line for Agents
HX Expeditions delivers a compelling combination of heritage, expertise, science-led discovery and genuine all-inclusive value. With more than 130 years of expedition experience and a strong sustainability focus, it is a confident, credible sell for advisors targeting curious, well-travelled clients seeking meaningful adventure in the world’s wildest places.
How to learn more about HX Expeditions
HX provides a comprehensive suite of trade resources to support advisors at every stage of the sales journey.
Agent Portal
The HX Agent Portal is the central hub for trade tools and training. Here advisors can access:
- HX training modules
- Campaign assets
- The HX Selling Toolkit
- Product updates and promotional materials
- Imagery & videos
Visit: https://agentportal.travelhx.com/
Consumer Website
For itinerary details, ship information and destination inspiration, advisors can direct clients to the Australian consumer website –
https://www.travelhx.com/en-au/
Corporate Social Responsibility
Advisors looking to better understand HX’s environmental, social and governance commitments can review the company’s latest ESG report here.
To learn more about the HX Foundation and its global conservation initiatives, visit https://www.travelhx.com/en-au/stories/foundation/
Trade Support Contacts
To speak with your local representative about advisor events, co-op marketing opportunities, incentives and agent rewards, email:
tradesupportANZ@travelhx.com
For Guest Excellence enquiries relating to HX-only bookings and service calls, contact the Melbourne-based team:
Email: apac@travelhx.com
Phone: 1300 159 127 (AU) or 03 288 2085 (NZ)
