55 Photo: Espen Mills Photo: HX Expeditions include local voices in the destinations we visit, which is why we have Cultural Ambassadors onboard our ships. We are leaders in responsible expedition travel, and engaging meaningfully with communities, designing thoughtful itineraries and reducing our footprint are integral to our strategy.” Delivering these experiences requires careful planning behind the scenes, particularly in the remote and often unpredictable regions HX Expeditions visits. “Expedition voyages are complex for guests, particularly if it is their first experience, and we need to give them enough time to familiarise themselves with the ship, get their jackets and boots, and attend mandatory safety or Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators briefings,” says Roebers. “We must build all this into the itinerary while still maximising the time guests have to explore and experience the destination. The challenge is finding the balance so the voyage feels full of experiences but never rushed.” Itinerary planners must also respond to changing traveller expectations and emerging trends. “We are incorporating more active experiences, culinary experiences and cultural excursions, as well as exploring destinations off season, such as winter in Norway or autumn in Scandinavia, where the season adds another level to the voyage,” Roebers says. The introduction of shorter itineraries is intended to attract new travellers to the sector. What advice would Roebers give to someone considering their very first expedition cruise? “Try it for yourself with an operator that has decades of experience,” he says. “Expedition cruising is a complex product in a complex environment, and expertise is built over time. Shorter itineraries can make it easier to enter the world of expedition cruising as they can often be done in a week and offer easy access through established gateways. Many of the shorter itineraries are also in more sheltered areas, which can be appealing if this is your first cruise and you are uncertain about spending extended periods at sea.” HX Expeditions’ guests explore Damoy Point in Antarctica HX Expeditions’ guests on a small-boat excursion in Icy Bay, Alaska
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