Why should we cruise with HX Expeditions?
We asked HX Expeditions why you should cruise with them, here's what they said...
To travel with HX is to open yourself to a world of awe. From cultural encounters to wildlife wonders, what you see and learn on your trip will inspire and energise you. And when you come back home, you’ll have a deeper, richer love of the planet we all share.
What destinations are HX Expeditions exploring this season?
Alaska Antarctica Arctic British Isles Europe Galápagos South AmericaHX Expeditions snapshot
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The low down on HX Expeditions from our expert team of advisors at Global Journeys...
HX Expeditions is a good fit for travellers who want their cruise to be centred around exploration rather than the ship itself. Their focus is firmly on expedition destinations such as Antarctica, the Arctic and remote islands, with daily landings, expedition activities and a strong emphasis on learning along the way.
We particularly like how much is included in the fare. Dining, drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, expedition gear and most daily expedition activities are covered. HX also places a strong emphasis on science and education, including it's citizen science programs that give you the opportunity to take a more active interest in the regions read more you're visiting.
The ships are purpose-built for expedition cruising, while still offering a comfortable onboard experience, and HX has also invested in hybrid technology across parts of its fleet. If you're looking for a more immersive, expedition-first style of cruising without giving up modern comforts, HX is certainly worth considering.
Who cruises with HX Expeditions?
Travellers seeking authentic, immersive and educational experiences, including wildlife, nature and photography enthusiasts, active explorers, environmentally conscious travellers, solo travellers and couples.
What are HX Expeditions known for?
Polar and remote-region expedition cruising, science-led exploration, onboard Science Centres and sustainability-focused expedition travel.
Are HX's fares all-inclusive?
Not all-inclusive but close with meals, core expedition activities, Wi-Fi, gratuities, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks all included.
What extras will we need to pay for, on top of the cruise fare?
Premium drinks, cocktails, champagne, optional excursions, spa treatments and selected onboard extras may incur additional charges.
Are gratuities included?
Yes.
Are shore excursions included?
A mix of included and optional shore excursions are offered. Daily expedition activities and landings vary by destination, conditions and itinerary; optional excursions may incur additional charges.
Is there WiFi on board?
Yes. Speed and coverage can be limited in remote expedition regions, and MS Santa Cruz II has limited or intermittent Galápagos Wi-Fi.
Does HX Expeditions have a loyalty program?
HX Explorers benefits include HX discounts, an onboard welcome gift and drink and selected partner offers.
Is HX Expeditions a family friendly cruise-line?
Children are welcome, but HX is better suited to families with older children who are comfortable with expedition conditions.
Are any onboard activities included?
Lectures, workshops, wildlife viewing, Science Centre activities, destination briefings and expedition programming.
Are there casinos on board your ships?
No.
Are there any onboard activities that cost extra?
Optional excursions, some specialist activities, spa and wellness treatments, and selected onboard extras may incur additional charges.
Are there specialty restaurants on board HX's ships?
Yes, on selected ships. Lindstrøm is HX’s fine-dining restaurant; it is included for suite guests and available to other guests for a cover charge where offered.
Are there dining packages for purchase?
No.
Are non-alcoholic beverages included?
Yes. Still and sparkling water, soft drinks, coffee and tea are included and are available throughout the day.
Are alcoholic beverages included?
Wine, beer and spirits are included, but premium drinks such as cocktails and champagne will cost you extra.
Do HX Expeditions sell any beverage packages?
No.
Do HX Expeditions offer room service?
Limited. Free room service is available only in selected suites aboard MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, from the Lindstrøm menu during restaurant opening hours.
Are spa and salon services available?
Yes. All expedition ships have hot tubs and saunas; MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen also have wellness centres. Spa and salon treatments incur charges and are available on select ships.
Are there gyms onboard HX's ships?
Yes.
Are fitness classes available onboard HX's ships?
No, although some yoga and meditation classes may be held on select voyages.
Do HX Expeditions offer personal training?
No.
Are there self-service laundry facilities?
No, except MS Santa Cruz II has washers and dryers for guest use.
Do HX Expeditions offer a laundry service?
Yes. Laundry is included for suite guests; charges apply to other guests.
Recent HX Expeditions reviews
The scenery was spectacular and the zodiac trips a real highlight. There is nothing like the experience of the midnight sun, the -14C of the Arctic and the grandeur of glaciers and ice floes. Animal sightings were MUCH fewer than I had expected or hoped - and VERY distant - but still wonderful to see animals in their native habitat. A VERY strong set of binoculars and/or ultra long camera lens are certainly necessary. I would certainly consider another Arctic trip - but probably not with HX ... at least until their systems and communications improve.
I booked over a year in advance (Antarctica) and had a cancellation from the Hurtigruten end which she managed with ease. It was good to have the same person handle my booking. The trip we did had an extended time (11 days) in Antarctica including going below the Antarctic Circle which most ships do not do. It was a perfect experience of Antarctica. Thank you Global Journeys!!!!
HX's most popular trips this month...
21 Days Copenhagen to Copenhagen
Why should we cruise with Viking?
We asked Viking why you should cruise with them, here's what they said...
A Viking ocean cruise is the discerning traveller’s dream. Whether you choose to visit Scandinavia, Asia, the Mediterranean or the Americas, our itineraries are designed to immerse you in the history and culture of each destination. With us, you could be exploring a local food market with our head chef one day and experiencing an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of a world-famous museum the next.
Our state-of-the-art small ships take you right into the heart of each destination, and you won’t find any casinos or kids on board. Plus, our fares read more include just about everything you need - from meals, beverages and Wi-Fi to a culturally enriching shore excursion at every port of call. This unique combination of features has become affectionately known as ‘the Viking difference’.
Viking is the world’s leading small-ship cruise line, and we can’t wait to welcome you on board to discover the Viking difference for yourself.
What destinations are Viking exploring this season?
Alaska Antarctica Arctic Asia Australia & New Zealand Baltic Canada & New England Caribbean More...Viking snapshot
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The low down on Viking from our expert team of advisors at Global Journeys...
Purpose built and newly launched in 2017, Viking now boasts 16 mid-sized ships each accommodating between 930-998 guests, as well as 2 expedition ships (max 378 guests) that explore the world's most remote destinations. Already award winning, their itineraries are varied from worldwide journeys to smaller explorations of the Nordic region, Indian ocean, Asia, Oceania, Caribbean and the Med. Viking position these cruises as 'The Thinking Person’s Cruise', with included and optional shore excursions covering each destinations cultural and historic highlights. So if you are looking for water-slides, children's facilities and casino's, then perhaps read more another cruise company is more suited.
Who cruises with Viking?
Retired and semi-retired world travellers.
What are Viking known for?
Adults only cruising, Scandinavian design, destination-focused experiences and no casinos.
Are Viking's fares all-inclusive?
No. Premium beverages and some excursions cost extra. House beers and wine are included with meals and a courtesy shore excursion is offered at each port.
What extras will we need to pay for, on top of the cruise fare?
Premium beverages and selected shore excursions, plus some onboard experiences such as The Kitchen Table, cost extra.
Are gratuities included?
Yes, but only for Australian and New Zealand passengers.
Are shore excursions included?
Yes. One courtesy shore excursion is offered at each port on classic cruises; expedition cruises include at least one shore excursion per landing day.
Is there WiFi on board?
Yes. Complimentary WiFi is available.
Does Viking have a loyalty program?
No. The Viking Explorer Society offers credit and referral rewards to past Viking passengers only.
Is Viking a family friendly cruise-line?
No. Children under 18 are not accepted.
Are any onboard activities included?
Enrichment lectures, film screenings, presentations, daily expedition briefings, scientific programs in The Laboratory, complimentary dining, evening entertainment and free WiFi.
Are there casinos on board your ships?
No.
Are there any onboard activities that cost extra?
Some experiences, such as The Kitchen Table, incur additional charges. Specialised fitness classes may also cost extra.
Are there specialty restaurants on board Viking's ships?
Yes. Viking offers seven complimentary restaurants on its mid-sized ships.
Are there dining packages for purchase?
No.
Are non-alcoholic beverages included?
Yes. Purified water is provided in all staterooms; soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner, and specialty coffees and assorted hot teas are available 24 hours a day.
Are alcoholic beverages included?
Complimentary house wines and beers are served with lunch and dinner.
Do Viking sell any beverage packages?
Yes. For premium cocktails or wines and spirits, Viking offers the Silver Spirits beverage package.
Do Viking offer room service?
Yes. Complimentary 24/7 room service.
Are spa and salon services available?
Yes. Spa access is complimentary and spa and salon services are available for a charge.
Are there gyms onboard Viking's ships?
Yes.
Are fitness classes available onboard Viking's ships?
Yes. Classes may include yoga, Zumba, TRX and Body Conditioning; specialised classes may attract a charge.
Do Viking offer personal training?
Yes and charges apply. Not available on expedition ships.
Are there self-service laundry facilities?
Yes. Complimentary self-service laundry.
Do Viking offer a laundry service?
Yes. Charges apply.
Recent Viking reviews
Be aware there are a few sea days extra as we missed Falkland Islands high winds. Extension Iguazza Falls brilliant read more but very tiring as no free time longs days. Advice is this is extended by one day in both Brazil and Rio! Great memories so glad we saw parts of South America 🌺
One bit we found a bit perhaps unfair is when they release the excursions, the penthouses, owners suites, Explorers suites etc get to choose & book first, thereby making it harder to get a spot in places where there is a very big highlight…such as Alhambra. We booked our excursions the second they were sent to us & still missed out. Three of the restaurants stand out, Manfredi, Chefs Table & The Restaurant - excellent food choices & high standard but not snooty at all, but that is not to say the casual restaurants & cafes were anything other than very good. You do not need to dress up, just smart casual is fine. It’s never been our choice to go to any of the shows so can’t comment. It will be nearly impossible for us to choose another company to sail with in the future.
Viking's most popular trips this month...
The Verdict - HX Expeditions vs Viking Expeditions
HX Expeditions and Viking Expeditions both have Nordic roots and place science, enrichment and destination discovery at the heart of their expedition cruises. HX operates an entire fleet dedicated to expedition cruising, while Viking Expeditions operates two purpose-built expedition ships - Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis - combining exploration with spacious accommodation, multiple dining venues and extensive onboard comforts.
Which ships will suit me best?
HX Expeditions’ fleet ranges from the intimate 90-guest MS Santa Cruz II in the Galápagos to the 490-guest hybrid-powered MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, with facilities and accommodation varying considerably by ship. Viking Expeditions two identical purpose-built expedition ships, Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis, each carry 378 guests and featuring The Hangar, onboard laboratories, The Aula, Nordic Spa, multiple dining venues and spacious Scandinavian-style accommodation. HX gives you more variation in ship size and expedition style, while Viking delivers a consistent experience across its two vessels.
Which has the better expedition experience?
Both place science and expert-led exploration at the heart of the journey, with landings, small-boat exploration, lectures and opportunities to learn from specialists. HX draws on a long history of expedition travel and places particular emphasis on flexible expedition days, wildlife, Citizen Science and destination-led exploration. Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis are also purpose-built for expedition cruising, with zodiacs, kayaks and integrated research facilities supporting a strong science and exploration program. The main difference is style rather than capability - HX offers a more traditional expedition feel, while Viking combines expedition discovery with a more polished and spacious onboard environment.
Which has the better shore program?
HX includes daily expedition activities such as landings, small-boat cruising, hikes, community visits and wildlife experiences, with some optional excursions available at extra cost. Viking Expeditions includes at least one landing or shore excursion in every port of call, together with use of zodiacs, kayaks and relevant expedition equipment at no extra charge. Both offer comprehensive expedition programs, although HX’s daily schedule tends to be more fluid and dictated by conditions, while Viking generally follows a more structured included-excursion model.
Which offers better value?
Both are highly inclusive. HX includes meals, drinks throughout the day, Wi-Fi, gratuities and its core expedition activities, with premium beverages and selected optional excursions among the main extras. Viking Expeditions includes all onboard dining, Wi-Fi, drinks (with lunch and dinner), Nordic Spa access, self-service laundry and its core expedition craft and equipment; onboard gratuities are also included, but only bookings in the Australian & NZ markets. HX offers strong value for travellers primarily focused on expedition discovery, while Viking pairs a comprehensive expedition program with extensive onboard comforts and facilities.
Which has the better itineraries?
HX has the broader expedition portfolio, with voyages through Antarctica, Svalbard, Greenland, Arctic Canada, Alaska, the Galápagos, South America and other remote regions. Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis focus on Antarctica, the Arctic, North America’s Great Lakes and the Americas, along with longer Grand Journeys and Longitudinal World Cruises. HX offers more variety in expedition destinations and ship styles, while Viking provides a consistent expedition cruise experience across its two identical ships.
