HX, formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions, has announced that it will offer all-inclusive sailings from October 2024, with existing customers receiving a free upgrade

The phased approach will begin with the line’s Antarctica and Galápagos expeditions, with HX’s MD for Europe, Nathaniel Sherborne, telling Cruise Trade News that there are no plans to increase prices at this stage.

“There’s a lot of training and understanding we need to get across in the expedition sector, so one of the things we wanted to provide real simplicity on was our pricing,” he said.

“Our plan is that this all-inclusive offering will give agents a springboard to engage with the brand and make it a real possibility for their customers who may not have thought about it previously to book an expedition cruise.”

Following the announcement, all passengers sailing in a regular grade cabin from October 2024 onwards will be able to enjoy features such as daily expeditions and hikes; full board dining with house wine, beer, spirits and cocktails; Wi-Fi; science programmes and access to HX’s onboard Science Centre; and sauna and hot tub access at no extra cost. A full list can be found at the bottom of this article.

‘We want to be the UK’s number one expedition brand’

The news comes as HX, which split from the Hurtigruten brand last September, looks to further establish itself with guests and travel agents.

“We want to forge that number one position in the UK as an expedition brand,” Sherborne said.

“We take more people to Antarctica than any other brand in the UK, we actually take more people on expedition cruises than anyone in the UK. That gives customers and the trade the confidence that they’re working with the number one operator.”

Alex Delamere-White, chief commercial officer, HX added: “In direct response to guest and partner feedback, this product evolution marks one of many initiatives to establish our new brand identity and enhance the guest experience.

“We have been the experts in expedition since 1896, now our team are focussed on strengthening our position as the global leaders in expedition cruising by providing pioneering experiences, unmatched itineraries and great value.”

Earlier this year, HX announced a raft of changes to its senior leadership team, Delamere-White being officially appointed as chief commercial officer following six months as acting interim CCO.

A full breakdown of all features now included with every HX expedition can be found below:

• Daily expeditions and activities such as hikes, community visits, talks and more
• Full board dining, including breakfast, lunch and dinner with house wine and beer
• Wine, beer, spirits and cocktails available across the day and evening
• All-day coffee, tea & soft drinks
• Free Wi-Fi
• Gratuities
• Our interactive science programme, Science Centre and activities both on and off the ships
• Access to sauna, hot tubs, fitness room and more
• Professional photos from the onboard photographer
• Opportunities to engage with and support local communities and environmental initiatives through Hurtigruten Foundation.
• Take home expedition gear and reusable water bottle