HX Expeditions has strengthened its long-term commitment to the Galápagos Islands by extending its partnership with Metropolitan Touring through to 2029. The renewed agreement builds on a successful five-year charter and supports both organisations’ shared focus on science-led, responsible exploration in one of the world’s most fragile ecosystems.
As HX approaches its one hundred and thirtieth anniversary in 2026, the company continues to grow its presence in the archipelago. Since 2022, it has operated carbon-neutral expeditions aboard the 50-cabin MS Santa Cruz II, which features a Science Centre, Discovery Room, sky deck, hot tubs, fitness centre and an impressive 36 interconnecting cabins—more than any other ship in the region, making it ideal for families.
New itineraries for 2027–28 season
HX has unveiled a series of itineraries for 2027–28, offering a mix of signature and enhanced journeys designed to showcase the wildlife, landscapes and conservation efforts that define the Galápagos. Highlights include:
- Eastern Route: In Darwin’s Footsteps (nine days) – the original HX journey focusing on Santa Cruz, Española and San Cristobal.
- In Darwin’s Footsteps Plus Machu Picchu (14 days) – combines the Eastern Route with a five-day Machu Picchu pre-program starting in Lima.
- Northern Route: Nine of the Best Isles (11 days) – round-trip from Quito, visiting nine of the archipelago’s most iconic islands.
- Nine of the Best Isles Plus Machu Picchu (16 days) – begins in Lima and blends a Machu Picchu visit with the full Northern Route.
With 97% of the land protected as a national park and the surrounding waters forming one of the world’s largest marine reserves, the Galápagos remains a bucket-list destination for Australian travellers seeking meaningful, conservation-focused exploration.
Brochure launch and new ambassador films
Bookings for HX’s 2027–28 season will open on 22 December 2025, aligned with the release of a standalone Galápagos brochure in January 2026. The brochure launch will be supported by exclusive new films featuring HX ambassador Monty Halls, President of the Galapagos Conservation Trust.
Fresh from a recent visit, Halls emphasised HX’s direct conservation impact, noting that every traveller contributes to reforestation, biodiversity protection and fully carbon-offset voyages.
Leading the way in responsible expedition cruising
The extended agreement underscores HX’s position as a leader in sustainable, science-forward expedition travel. Its long-term partnership with Metropolitan Touring ensures guests experience the Galápagos with expert guidance, minimal environmental impact and strong support for local communities.
