Spitsbergen

Welcome aboard HX Hurtigruten Expeditions! The Norwegian shipping company is part of the Hurtigruten Group, which has its origins in 1896 with the traditional mail ship line. Since 2007, exciting expedition cruises have been offered worldwide, accompanied by experts from various fields. You can expect hikes, visits to villages and settlements, kayak tours, lectures and much more.

The ships of HX Hurtigruten Expeditions have an elegant, modern and simple interior design. 

The HX Foundation, founded in 2015, also supports projects and initiatives around the world, strengthens local communities and protects endangered species.

• Year of construction or commissioning: 2009
• Renovation: 2016
• Length / size: 100 m/ 18 m
• Tonnage: 7344 GT
• Speed: 14.5 knots
• Decks: 8
• Number of passengers: 220
• Languages spoken on board: English
• Currency on board: $
• Internet: WLAN free of charge (Starlink from SpaceX, limited availability depending on destination)
• Smoking: may be permitted in designated outdoor areas 

On board the Spitsbergen, single-use plastic is avoided and alternative, environmentally friendly materials are used instead. Many vegetarian and vegan dishes are available in the restaurant, and the ingredients and food are purchased from local suppliers. Food waste on board has also been significantly reduced. The ship uses advanced technologies to reduce emissions and does not use heavy fuel oil.

During the expedition voyages, experts give lectures on the topics of environmental protection, climate change and microplastic pollution in the oceans.

HX Hurtigruten Expeditions is also a co-founder of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) and is a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO). These organisations are working to establish sustainable tourism in the polar regions and to combat mass tourism.

On board the Spitsbergen you have the choice between various modern and comfortably furnished staterooms, all of which are equipped with a double bed (some with additional Pullman beds), television, bathroom with shower and toiletries, safe and tea and coffee making facilities. Bathrobes and slippers are available on request.

The Polar interior and oveanview staterooms range in size from approx. 9 to 20 sqm, the Arctic Superior oceanview staterooms are approx. 11 to 18 sqm in size. These staterooms are located on the lower and upper decks.

The Expedition Suites not only offer luxury, but also a unique view of the sea. The Mini Suites are approx. 16 to 23 sqm in size, while the Grand Suite is approx. 28 to 29 sqm in size and has a private balcony, as does the Owners Suite with approx. 32 to 33 sqm. All suites are also equipped with a seating area, minibar (for a fee) and some have a sofa bed. Guests of the suites benefit from daily room service, a laundry service and iced champagne and a delicatessen platter await you on arrival.

The focus of the cruises with the Spitsbergen is on discovery. Thanks to the expedition team on board, you will gain in-depth knowledge of the areas explored. The Scandinavian furnishing style in the public areas and in the staterooms creates a cosy atmosphere even in uncomfortable weather.

The restaurant on board the Spitsbergen serves exciting menus with ingredients from the regions being travelled through.

The following restaurant is included in the price:

• Aune (main restaurant): Breakfast and lunch are served here, as well as a changing selection of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes for dinner.

Taste delicious cocktails in the Explorer Lounge & Bar while you chat with your fellow travellers about the day or marvel at the passing scenery.

The discovery of new regions and the intensive experience of nature are at the centre of an expedition cruise. For this reason, voyages on the Spitsbergen focus on imparting knowledge, which is deepened by expert lectures. The Science Centre on board is an edutainment facility that combines knowledge and entertainment and enables guests to learn more about the areas visited through interactive learning. It has lecture rooms, a small library and special areas for workshops in photography, biology and more. In addition, the spacious outdoor decks allow guests to observe nature at close quarters.

After exciting excursions, you can relax in the sauna. The warm outdoor whirlpools also ensure extensive relaxation. For sports enthusiasts, there is a small fitness room equipped with treadmills, exercise bikes, a rowing machine, a table tennis table and free weights.

HX Hurtigruten Expeditions offers a wide range of varied shore excursions and activities during the cruises, e.g. hikes or trips on the expedition boat. In many ports of call, guests can take part in an excursion that can be booked at no extra charge. These excursions can sometimes be combined with other optional excursions (for a fee) in the harbour. Most excursions can be booked in advance, but can also be booked on board if places are still available. It is recommended to book well in advance to secure a place on the activities and excursions of your choice. Unless otherwise stated, the excursions are led by English-speaking tour guides. Please note that excursions are subject to change at short notice and may be cancelled due to weather conditions.

The Spitsbergen is the ideal cruise ship for explorers and travellers who want to experience nature up close. Anyone interested in new regions and the environment is in the right place here.