Hurtigruten Cruises

The Hurtigruten name now covers two separately run brands. The Norwegian coastal service still sails as Hurtigruten, while the polar and expedition side was renamed HX in December 2023 - so the Antarctica, Patagonia and Alaska voyages on MS Roald Amundsen are sold under HX, and that is the name to search for. Roald Amundsen is a hybrid-powered expedition ship built for ice, carrying up to about 530 guests, which is large for Antarctica and small by any other cruise standard.

HX fares have been all-inclusive for sailings from October 20, 2024. That covers all meals, house wine, beer and standard bar drinks (not premium spirits, vintage wine or Champagne), coffee, tea and soft drinks all day, Starlink Wi-Fi (patchy in remote areas, as it is everywhere at the poles), crew gratuities, daily expert-led landings and activities, the onboard Science Center, an expedition jacket or backpack and a digital photo album. Kayaking and other premium activities, spa treatments, laundry and the Lindstrom fine-dining restaurant cost extra unless you are in a suite.

Dress is practical and casual - there is no formal night, and the packing list is about layers and waterproofs rather than evening wear. Children under 5 are not allowed on Antarctica and South Georgia expeditions, and younger children's participation in landings depends on safety at each stop.

Compared with the luxury expedition lines like Seabourn and Silversea, HX is less pampered and more science-and-lecture focused, with a broader age range on board. It suits travelers who care most about time ashore in remote places and less about suites and butlers.

Sources: travelhx.com, cruiseindustrynews.com, cruiseline.co.uk, cruisedirect.com