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Iconic Polar Cruise Line to Celebrate 130 Years With Limited-Time Offers, Exclusive Events, and an Unforgettable Guest Experience in 2026.

In an extraordinary celebration of human endurance, discovery, and legacy, HX Expeditions, the world’s oldest expedition cruise line, has announced a monumental celebration to commemorate its 130th anniversary 2026. With roots tracing back to its first polar voyage in 1896 between Hammerfest and Spitsbergen, HX stands as a timeless icon in Arctic and Antarctic travel. In 2026, the company will embark on a landmark year brimming with history, elevated experiences, and once-in-a-generation opportunities for travelers, media, and partners around the globe.

“This is more than an anniversary. It’s a tribute to 130 years of exploration, to the spirit of adventure, and to the guests who have been part of our incredible story,” says Gebhard Rainer, CEO of HX Expeditions. “2026 will not only reflect our heritage but also chart our future through meaningful, immersive experiences that leave lasting impressions.”

A Legacy of Leadership in Expedition Cruising

Since its first voyage through the icy waters of Svalbard, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) has pioneered polar tourism. From breaking boundaries in early Arctic navigation to championing sustainability and scientific collaboration in modern voyages, HX has remained steadfast in its mission: to inspire through discovery.

The 130th-anniversary celebration will span the entire 2026 calendar year, with exclusive activations crafted for guests and media to experience the past, present, and future of expedition cruising.

Highlights of the 130th Anniversary Celebration

HX Loyalty 130 Years Badge

HX is elevating its guest offerings with a richly curated programme, combining nostalgic tributes and modern indulgences:

✦ Limited-Edition 130th Anniversary Voyage Keepsakes

Travelers embarking in 2026 will receive a bespoke 130th-anniversary badge commemorating the company’s first 1896 expedition. This collectible item is a nod to the company’s humble beginnings and a symbolic gift honoring its pioneering spirit.

✦ Official Historian On Board

Renowned storyteller and historian Magnus Winvold will join select voyages as HX’s official anniversary ambassador. His captivating lectures will dive into the rarely told tales of polar navigation, expedition survival, and the rise of responsible exploration.

✦ Suite Upgrade for 2026 New Bookings

HX is offering a limited-time Suite upgrade in a move that will delight early bookers. Guests booking an Arctic Superior cabin will be automatically upgraded to a luxurious Suite—an exclusive offer for new bookings between April 2 and June 30, 2025.

✅ Book Now: Suite Upgrade Offer – HX Expeditions AU.

✦ Gastronomic Surprises and the “130 Cocktail”

Bellsund Svalbard – Photo_Jan_Hvizdal

Onboard dining takes a celebratory turn in 2026 with limited-edition menus crafted by HX’s acclaimed culinary team. Guests can indulge in specially themed dishes inspired by early expedition meals—reimagined with gourmet flair. The highlight? A signature 130th Anniversary cocktail, a handcrafted blend that captures the flavors of Arctic resilience and celebration.

✦ Northern Lights Science Lecture

As part of HX’s commitment to exploration and education, a compelling lecture will be offered on 130 years of Northern Lights data, tracing the evolution of scientific methods to observe one of nature’s greatest wonders.

✦ The Anniversary Ocean Bottle

A specially branded 130th 130th-anniversary ocean Bottle will be gifted to guests sailing in 2026. Sustainably produced and designed for reuse, it aligns with HX’s long-standing pledge to reduce single-use plastics and empower environmental stewardship.

Unique Guest Moments and Immersive Storytelling

In true HX fashion, surprises await. The 2026 sailings will feature curated “Surprise & Delight Moments,” enhancing each voyage with unexpected experiences—whether it’s a midnight toast under the Northern Lights, a personalized keepsake left in your cabin, or spontaneous on-deck celebrations led by the crew.

Travelers will also be invited to participate in a unique photo competition designed to capture the awe of polar travel through their lens. Winning entries will be featured in HX’s official anniversary gallery and across global media channels.

Magnus Winvold

Fundraising for the Future: The HX Foundation

In keeping with the values that have defined the brand for over a century, HX will also use its 130th year to raise funds through its HX Foundation. The goal: to invest in climate research, community empowerment, and polar conservation. Guests can contribute through onboard auctions, merchandise, and interactive lectures emphasising the urgent need for environmental responsibility.

“Our mission is more than travel,” notes Rainer. “We aim to create meaningful change in the places we explore. 2026 will reflect this ethos more powerfully than ever.”

An Exclusive Booking Window—And Once-in-a-Lifetime Journeys

In addition to the suite upgrade, HX will unveil a calendar of anniversary-labeled voyages and promotions throughout 2025. Each itinerary will have a distinctive ‘130 Years’ symbol to identify exclusive pricing and experience enhancements.

✅ Explore Offers: HX Expeditions Anniversary Deals

These anniversary voyages will include destinations such as:

Svalbard & Greenland: Following the route of the original 1896 expedition
Antarctica & The Falklands: With new wildlife photography workshops
The Northwest Passage: Telling stories of Arctic firsts and frontier communities

A Year That Will Go Down in History

HX Expeditions has long been synonymous with adventure, integrity, and trailblazing travel. Its 130th year is not simply a celebration of time passed but a bold recommitment to shaping the future of polar exploration with compassion, intellect, and awe.

As Gebhard Rainer concludes, “Our guests are not just passengers—they’re part of history in the making. We look forward to welcoming the next generation of explorers aboard.”