Hurtigruten stands as one of the world’s most respected names in exploration travel. The company holds a long legacy shaped by courage, discovery, and commitment to remote coastal communities. After many difficult years, including the global pandemic, the brand now enters a new era with renewed focus on its heritage and future vision. This momentum grows stronger as the company prepares to celebrate 130 years of exploration in 2026.
Founded in 1881, Hurtigruten transformed travel along Norway’s rugged coastline. Under the leadership of shipmaster Richard With, the company started passenger voyages in 1896. These journeys shaped the roots of modern expedition cruising and set new standards in maritime travel. HX Expeditions now honours this legacy with a special anniversary initiative that invites guests to step into the past.
A Journey Into History: The 1896 Cabin Experience
HX Expeditions will introduce an immersive historic cabin aboard the expedition ship Fridtjof Nansen. The experience begins on January 29, 2026. One selected cabin will showcase a detailed recreation of a late 19th-century expedition room. Guests can experience the atmosphere early explorers lived through during their harsh polar travels.
The 1896 Cabin captures the raw spirit of the era. Designers used handcrafted furnishings inspired by early Arctic and Antarctic expeditions. The décor reflects the rugged lifestyle of explorers who faced extreme climates with limited resources. Subtle details create a sensory journey with authentic touches that bring the past to life.
Modern comfort remains available across the ship. However, the cabin offers a strong contrast that encourages travellers to reflect on the challenges of early exploration. The project team from AROS Marine conducted deep research to ensure accuracy. Their goal was to create a meaningful tribute to pioneers like Roald Amundsen and Frederick Cook.
A Modern Expedition with a Historic Twist
The 1896 Cabin offers an overnight stay for guests who want a deeper connection with exploration history. The price starts at $795 per night. The cabin supports single or double occupancy. When not booked, other travellers can tour the space and learn more about the heritage behind it.
The experience blends nostalgia with purpose. HX will donate half of the profits from the cabin to the HX Foundation. The foundation supports environmental initiatives that protect fragile natural areas. These efforts align with the company’s long-standing focus on responsible and conscious adventure travel.
Guests also enjoy the comforts of Fridtjof Nansen. The ship features advanced technology, spacious lounges, and learning zones guided by trained expedition teams. This combination makes the journey educational, comfortable, and historically rich.
A Strong Educational Focus for Modern Explorers
HX Expeditions invests heavily in education for guests who travel to the polar regions. In 2024, the company teamed with the University of Tasmania to create the HX-UTAS Antarctica Pre-Departure Course. The online program prepares guests for their polar voyages with a strong focus on science and history.
The course gained strong interest from travellers who want deeper understanding of the regions they explore. HX now expands the partnership with UTAS to include new learning experiences for Arctic journeys. Travellers heading to Alaska, Arctic Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Svalbard, and the Northwest Passage will soon benefit from these programs.
UTAS holds a strong reputation for marine research. The university’s Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies shares decades of knowledge. This partnership helps travellers gain meaningful insight into the ecosystems they will encounter.
HX also welcomes researchers aboard its ships. Scientists use these voyages to support fieldwork and ongoing conservation studies. This collaboration strengthens the company’s leadership in educational adventure tourism.
Sustainability and Exploration for the Next Century
HX continues to invest in conscious travel. The company recognises that polar regions face rapid environmental changes. Their sustainability work supports research, carbon reduction, and local community needs.
Guests who choose HX participate in responsible exploration. They learn about wildlife, climate challenges, and the cultural heritage of remote communities. This approach shapes more aware travellers who value the landscapes they explore.
The 1896 Cabin fits seamlessly into this philosophy. The project honours Hurtigruten’s past while supporting future conservation goals. It shows how travel can blend historic reflection, modern comfort, and environmental responsibility.
A Milestone for the Future of Expedition Cruising
Hurtigruten prepares to celebrate its 130th anniversary with passion and pride. The company continues to evolve while honouring the spirit of its origins. HX Expeditions leads this evolution with experiences that combine learning, adventure, and cultural depth.
The 1896 Cabin marks one of the most creative additions to modern expedition cruising. Travellers seeking rare experiences will find this journey meaningful and memorable. As 2026 approaches, interest continues to grow among travellers who want to join the celebrations and connect with Hurtigruten’s remarkable legacy.
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