HX Expeditions Redefines Antarctic Travel with Award-Winning Education Programme

MS Fridtjof Nansen Sea Ice Landing

A New Era of Expedition Cruising

HX Expeditions, the world’s first and longest-running expedition cruise operator, has once again set the benchmark for responsible adventure travel. The company has been recognised as a finalist in the prestigious Expedition Cruise Initiative of the Year award at Seatrade Europe in Hamburg. The accolade highlights HX’s groundbreaking partnership with the University of Tasmania’s Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), which developed a world-first Antarctica educational programme for travellers.

This innovative initiative allows passengers to combine the once-in-a-lifetime experience of visiting Antarctica with meaningful scientific learning. Since its launch, more than 2,250 travellers have participated, with overwhelming feedback praising the programme’s impact. 

Transforming Antarctic Journeys into Life-Changing Experiences

The Antarctica educational programme has revolutionised how expedition cruising can inspire and empower. Surveys show that 99% of guests reported satisfaction with the programme, 99.5% found the course directly relevant to their voyage, and 98% said their awareness of visitor responsibilities in Antarctica had increased.

One guest shared: “This is not just a holiday, but a life experience.” Another added: “Very impressive course. Should or could be a mandatory tourist requirement in future.”

By combining academic insight with the breathtaking landscapes of the White Continent, HX Expeditions ensures every journey becomes more than travel—it becomes a transformative learning experience.

Expansion of the Award-Winning Programme

Building on its success, HX Expeditions and the University of Tasmania are expanding the educational opportunities into two distinct tiers:

• The Introductory Course – A free, flexible online programme available to all HX Antarctica guests. It offers an engaging overview of Antarctic science and sustainability, designed to spark curiosity before, during, or after a voyage.
• The Comprehensive Course – An in-depth, accredited programme offered year-round by the University of Tasmania for a fee. Participants can even earn credits towards future study, making this a unique blend of travel and academic achievement.

The updated Introductory Course will launch in October for the 2025/2026 season, followed by the release of the Comprehensive Course. This two-tiered approach ensures that all travellers—whether casual explorers or passionate learners—can deepen their understanding of the planet’s most fragile ecosystem.

Commitment to Sustainability and Education

Antartica Neko Harbour

HX Expeditions continues to lead the way in sustainable and educational travel. The company’s mission is not only to showcase the pristine beauty of Antarctica but also to cultivate a new generation of environmental stewards.

Iain McNeill, COO of HX Expeditions, shared: “By extending the programme into two tiers, we are giving our guests the chance for an even richer level of education and immersion. They leave their journey not only transformed but also empowered to be stewards of the planet.”

Nicole Webster, Executive Director at IMAS, added: “Our collaboration with HX Expeditions is about making the world’s most remote classroom accessible to everyone. By offering both an introductory and an accredited course, travellers can take their Antarctic experience beyond the voyage, building knowledge that inspires lifelong impact.”

A Benchmark for Responsible Travel

HX Expeditions has redefined what it means to explore responsibly. By pairing world-class expedition cruising with pioneering climate education, the company proves that exploration and conservation can go hand in hand.

For travellers seeking an experience that goes beyond sightseeing, HX’s Antarctic journeys promise not just discovery, but also the chance to contribute to global understanding and sustainability.

For more information visit: www.hurtigrutenexpeditions.com

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