HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions), the world’s oldest and leading expedition cruise company, has today announced the launch of ‘HX Explorers’, its first standalone dynamic loyalty programme set to inspire curiosity and enrich the travel experiences of all its guests. Designed for both seasoned travelers and newcomers alike, HX Explorers will offer an array of exclusive benefits and rewards starting this month (November).
The new loyalty programme has two tiers: Level 1 – for those who are about to sail, and Level 2 for those who have sailed more than 3 nights. The membership offers special rates for repeat bookings but also aims to cultivate a community of like-minded travelers who value authentic experiences, making each member feel appreciated and understood.
The scheme will provide special activities and offers on HX products, as well as special rates for chosen like-minded and sustainable brands, including CEWE, Waterhaul, and Ocean Bottles.
Other HX Explorers offers include:
- Exclusive Partner Rewards: Members will enjoy discounts on CEWE photo products, including the HX x CEWE branded photobook to capture and cherish their adventures.
- Dedicated Loyalty Manager: Each HX Explorer will have access to a dedicated onboard Loyalty Manager to enrich their experience.
- Welcome Cocktail: A special new loyalty cocktail awaits members on embarkation day, offering a chance to connect with fellow HX Explorers.
- Year-Round Activities: Even when not traveling, members can look forward to a variety of bespoke activities throughout the year.
- Additional Surprises: Stay tuned for more exciting announcements as we continue to develop this programme!
Gebhard Rainer, CEO of HX, who has experience with industry hospitality brands such as Sandals and Hyatt, where loyalty schemes were prevalent, said of the new programme:
“At HX, we believe that travel is not just about reaching a destination but about embracing the journey and the stories that come with it. HX Explorers is our commitment to recognizing and rewarding our loyal guests, encouraging them to dive into new adventures and discover the world with a fresh perspective.”
He adds: “With HX Explorers, we recognize that today’s travelers seek more than just vacations—they desire meaningful experiences that resonate and inspire. HX is dedicated to creating unforgettable moments, whether in the polar regions or during wildlife encounters in Alaska or the Galapagos Islands, fostering a sense of belonging among our community of curious travelers.”
Celebrating Our 130 Years of Expertise
As part of the launch of the programme, HX has created a specially designed range of anniversary badges to celebrate the HX Explorers programme as well as their 130-year anniversary, which will take place in 2026. HX Explorers booking in from today through to the end of 2026 will all receive a special badge when they arrive on board for their voyage.
The badges depict the first expedition voyage made by the company back in 1896, called the “Sportsman Route” between Hammerfest and Spitsbergen in Svalbard, using the DS Lofoten, which included kayaking and exploring the artic destinations.
The badges will be available for a limited time only and will only be given out during the anniversary period.
The loyalty programme has also been developed with insights from many previous guests.
One such loyal HX guest is Ian Sanderson, who has traveled with HX over four and has completed trips to Alaska, Iceland, Antarctica and South America.
“In March 2020, when all South American ports closed, HX went above and beyond by chartering a flight to ensure our safe return home. This remarkable effort demonstrated that HX truly has our backs and puts their guests as their top priority. It’s not just about the adventures; it’s the instant familiarity of boarding an HX ship, knowing that the experiences will always exceed my expectations. I cherish the lifelong friendships formed during the voyages and the wonders of our planet that we share together. I’m excited to see what this new HX loyalty scheme has to offer, which I’m sure will help make our trips even more unforgettable. As I have said before, ‘Loyalty is something that is earned, not bought—and it is always a two-way street,’ so I’m looking forward to more interactions with HX and the HX Explorers community.”
