HX Expeditions vs Viking Expedition Cruises

Is HX Expeditions vs Viking Expeditions the right cruise line for me?

HX Expeditions and Viking both hail to Nordic roots and share a passion for informative and enriching cruise journeys. They both focus more on the destination and edutainment than the razzle dazzle and casinos found on contemporary lines. You won’t find butlers, white gloves, or formal nights on either line, and their itineraries cater for education-focused and culturally curious world travelers.

Which ships will suit me best?

HX Expedition Ships

HX Expeditions operates a fleet of small expedition ships designed for immersive travel in remote regions. The current fleet includes MS Fram, MS Fridtjof Nansen, MS Roald Amundsen, MS Spitsbergen and MS Santa Cruz II, with guest capacities ranging from around 90 on MS Santa Cruz II to 490 on MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen.

HX places a strong emphasis on responsible exploration, science, sustainability and destination-led travel. MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen are hybrid-powered expedition ships, while smaller vessels such as MS Fram and MS Spitsbergen are well suited to remote polar and expedition routes. MS Santa Cruz II is purpose-built for intimate Galápagos exploration

Facilities vary by vessel, but you can generally expect comfortable lounges, observation areas, restaurants, a gym, sauna, hot tubs and expedition spaces designed for lectures and science-led activities. The larger hybrid ships also offer more extensive facilities, including wellness areas, multiple dining venues and spacious public areas for viewing and relaxing.

Dining on HX is included. Aune is the main restaurant on the larger expedition ships, while Fredheim offers casual dining on selected vessels. Lindstrøm is HX’s fine dining restaurant on selected ships and is included for suite guests, with other guests able to dine there for an additional charge where available.

Accommodation varies by ship and category, ranging from comfortable cabins to larger suites. Unlike many traditional expedition vessels, selected HX ships offer balcony accommodation and spacious suites, particularly on MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen. Across the fleet, cabins are designed to provide a comfortable base between landings, wildlife viewing, lectures and days spent exploring remote destinations.

MS Santa Cruz II is the most distinct ship in the HX fleet. Carrying only around 90 guests, she is designed for Galápagos expeditions and offers a more intimate experience than HX’s polar expedition ships. Facilities and inclusions may differ from the rest of the fleet, particularly in areas such as Wi-Fi, onboard accounts and destination-specific operations.

Viking Expedition Ships

Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis share an identical design and incorporate signature Viking elements, with Scandinavian décor and an abundance of windows for lots of natural light. As working research vessels, they are equipped with spaces tailored to their expedition journeys. Viking describes its expedition fleet as two identical, state-of-the-art Polar Class ships built specifically for expeditions, at an ideal size for safety and comfort in remote destinations. Each ship carries just 378 guests.

The Hangar is a highlight, with an enclosed marina where guests can board small excursion craft protected from the elements. The Hangar is also home to The Laboratory, where scientists undertake research throughout the voyage. There is also The Aula, an auditorium spanning two decks to host lectures and presentations, with floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views that keep guests connected to the destination even while indoors.

Guests can also expect some familiar venues from the Viking ocean fleet such as the Nordic-inspired spa, the Living Room, and the Explorer’s Lounge. There are also pools, a fitness centre, a library, self-service launderettes and complimentary 24-hour room service. Dining is also a strong point, with all onboard meals included, alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge, and beer, wine and soft drinks served with onboard lunch and dinner.

Offering a very comfortable home base for their adventures, the accommodation on board Viking’s expedition ships is spacious. Options range from 21 m² Nordic Balcony Staterooms to the Owner’s Suite, which includes a private garden lounge area. The entry-level staterooms through to the Junior Suites have a Nordic Balcony with floor-to-ceiling glass and a retractable upper panel. This allows guests to enjoy the views from indoors or convert the space into a sheltered al fresco observation area. If guests are looking for a traditional outdoor balcony, they can opt for the Explorer Suite with both a private veranda and a Nordic Balcony, or the Owner’s Suite.

Which shore excursion program is better for me?

Guests can enjoy a range of included expedition activities with both HX Expeditions and Viking, although the experience differs by destination, ship and itinerary.

HX’s program is built around the Expedition Team and the conditions of each voyage. Activities may include landings, small-boat cruising, guided hikes, wildlife watching, community visits, lectures, workshops and science-led experiences. The daily program is flexible and shaped by weather, wildlife activity and local conditions, particularly in polar regions. Optional excursions may also be available at an additional cost, depending on the destination and itinerary. HX’s current all-inclusive model includes core expedition activities, gratuities, Wi-Fi, drinks and meals, although some premium drinks, optional excursions, spa treatments and selected extras may still cost more.

With a focus on education, science and the environment, HX offers travelers the opportunity to engage with science-led programming during their voyage. Guests may join lectures, take part in workshops, visit the Science Centre on selected ships, assist with Citizen Science projects and learn from specialists in fields such as marine biology, geology, ornithology, photography, polar history and environmental science.

Similarly, Viking has established strong partnerships to elevate its expedition ships to floating learning laboratories. Viking’s expedition program includes scientists and experts from a range of disciplines, with opportunities for guests to participate in fieldwork and research-related activities. One complimentary landing or shore excursion is included in every port of call, while kayaks, Zodiacs and Special Operations Boats are also included at no extra charge where relevant to the itinerary. Optional excursions may be available for purchase.

HX is likely to suit travelers who want a more expedition-first style, with a strong focus on landings, wildlife, science, remote landscapes and the natural environment. Viking is likely to appeal to guests who want expedition discovery paired with a more spacious, highly polished onboard experience and a broader range of comfort-focused facilities.