Alaska's Untamed Beauty: A Review of My Once-in-a-Lifetime HX Expedition

There are places on this earth that defy description, landscapes so vast and primal they seem to hum with an ancient energy. Alaska is one such place. For years, I had dreamed of its towering glaciers, its silent fjords, and the legendary wildlife that roams its wilderness. But I didn't want to just see Alaska from a distance, a fleeting glimpse from the deck of a floating city. I wanted to immerse myself in it, to feel the chill of the glacial air, to hear the thunderous crack of calving ice, and to walk the same paths as bears and eagles. That is what led me to HX Expeditions, and to a journey that redefined my understanding of travel.

This wasn't just a cruise; it was a genuine expedition into the heart of the Last Frontier. If you've ever felt that same pull towards the wild, that desire for a more profound connection with nature, then pour yourself a cup of coffee and allow me to share the story of my voyage. It might just be the beginning of yours.

Why an Expedition Cruise? The HX Difference

The term "Alaskan cruise" often conjures images of massive ships navigating the Inside Passage. While those trips have their appeal, an expedition cruise operates on an entirely different philosophy. It’s about depth over breadth, access over amenities, and education over entertainment. HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), with its 130-year legacy of polar exploration, has perfected this model.

The difference is palpable from the moment you step aboard. Instead of thousands of passengers, you're with a few hundred like-minded explorers. The smaller, purpose-built hybrid-electric ships can navigate narrow channels and remote coves that are inaccessible to larger vessels. This means you’re not just sailing past the wilderness; you’re venturing directly into it. The daily agenda isn't fixed months in advance; it's a fluid plan, guided by weather, ice conditions, and, most excitingly, wildlife sightings. A pod of orcas spotted off the port bow? The captain has the flexibility to linger, allowing for an unforgettable, unscripted encounter.

At its core, the HX philosophy is about responsible, science-led exploration. It’s for the traveler who asks "why?" and "how?"—the one who wants to understand the geology of a fjord, the life cycle of a salmon, or the cultural history of the Tlingit people. This isn't a passive vacation; it's an active, enriching, and utterly transformative experience.

The Ship: Our Basecamp for Adventure

Our vessel for this journey was a marvel of modern engineering and Scandinavian design, a floating sanctuary that was both a luxurious retreat and a state-of-the-art exploration platform. HX’s ships, like the MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, are pioneers in sustainable travel, featuring battery hybrid-powered propulsion that significantly reduces emissions and allows for silent sailing in sensitive areas. The quiet hum as we glided through misty fjords was a testament to this commitment, ensuring our presence was as unobtrusive as possible.

You can explore the deck plans, current sailings, and pricing for these incredible ships right now using the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. It's the perfect way to visualize your own floating basecamp.

A Sanctuary at Sea

After a day spent kayaking near icebergs or hiking through a temperate rainforest, returning to the ship felt like coming home. My Arctic Superior cabin was a cocoon of comfort, with a private balcony that became my personal perch for watching the world drift by. The clean lines, natural materials, and panoramic windows created a constant connection to the outside world. Waking up to the sight of a bald eagle soaring past my window is a memory I will forever cherish. The suites offer even more space and luxury, but every category of accommodation is designed with the explorer's comfort in mind.

Gastronomy in the Wilderness

I had anticipated the scenery, but I was genuinely surprised by the culinary excellence. HX offers three distinct dining venues, each with its own character:

• Aune: The main dining room, serving a beautiful array of breakfasts, lunches, and dinners with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Fredheim: A more casual spot offering international comfort food. The burgers and milkshakes were a welcome treat after a chilly Zodiac cruise.
• Lindstrøm: The fine-dining restaurant, reserved for suite guests but available to all for a supplemental fee. The tasting menus here were exquisite, a culinary journey that mirrored the grandeur of our physical one.

The Heart of the Expedition: The Science Center

The true soul of the ship is its Science Center. This wasn't just a room with a few books; it was a dynamic hub of learning and discovery. Equipped with microscopes, interactive screens, and a well-stocked library, it was where the Expedition Team held lectures, briefed us on the day's activities, and analyzed samples collected from the field. Guests are encouraged to participate in Citizen Science projects, contributing to real-world research on everything from cloud patterns to whale sightings. It transformed the journey from a sightseeing tour into a meaningful contribution to understanding this vital ecosystem.

The Itinerary: A Journey into the Wild Heart of Alaska

No two HX expeditions are exactly alike, but our route through the Inside Passage was a masterclass in showcasing the diversity and drama of Alaska. Each day brought a new landscape, a new adventure, and a deeper appreciation for this untamed land.

Misty Fjords National Monument: Nature's Cathedral

Our journey began in what can only be described as a granite cathedral. The Misty Fjords are a realm of sheer cliffs rising 3,000 feet from the sea, draped in waterfalls and ancient forests. We explored these silent, awe-inspiring waterways in our small expedition boats (Zodiacs), getting so close to the rock faces we could touch the moss-covered stone. The silence was profound, broken only by the cry of a seabird or the whisper of water cascading down the cliffs. It was a humbling introduction to the sheer scale of Alaska.

Wrangell & the Stikine River: A Cultural and Natural Nexus

In Wrangell, one of Alaska's oldest towns, we delved into the rich history of the Tlingit people at the Chief Shakes Tribal House. The highlight, however, was an optional excursion up the mighty Stikine River. On a high-speed, shallow-draft jet boat, we navigated the fastest navigable river in North America, a journey that took us deep into a wilderness of glaciers and towering peaks. It felt like traveling back in time. Have a quick question about excursions like this? Just click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner. One of our cruise experts is ready to help.

Petersburg: Alaska's "Little Norway"

The charming fishing village of Petersburg, founded by a Norwegian immigrant, offered a delightful cultural contrast. We strolled past colorful houses and fishing boats, feeling the town's proud Scandinavian heritage. But the true magic lay in the surrounding waters of Frederick Sound. This area is one of the premier feeding grounds for humpback whales in Southeast Alaska. From the ship's observation deck, we spent hours watching these magnificent creatures—breaching, tail-slapping, and working together in teams to bubble-net feed. It was a wildlife spectacle of the highest order.

Tracy Arm & Endicott Arm: The Dance of Glaciers

This was the day I had been waiting for. Navigating the narrow, ice-choked fjord of Tracy or Endicott Arm is an experience that imprints itself on your soul. The ship moved slowly, respectfully, through a maze of floating icebergs, each one a unique sculpture of brilliant blue and white. Our destination: the face of the Sawyer or Dawes Glacier. We boarded the Zodiacs and motored closer, keeping a safe distance. The air grew colder. The silence was broken by a sound like a gunshot—a precursor to the thunderous roar as a massive slab of ice calved from the glacier's face and crashed into the sea. To witness such raw, geological power is to feel the immense force that shaped this continent. If this specific type of exploration speaks to your soul, we recommend you Inquire About This Sailing to get details on availability and exclusive offers.

The Expedition Team: Your Guides to the Unseen

What truly elevates an HX voyage from great to extraordinary is the Expedition Team. This hand-picked group of experts—geologists, marine biologists, ornithologists, historians, and seasoned naturalists—are the heart and soul of the journey. Their passion is infectious. They weren't just guides; they were educators and storytellers.

On deck, they would point out a distant bear on the shoreline or identify a passing seabird. In the Science Center, their lectures on topics like glacier dynamics or Tlingit art brought context and depth to everything we were seeing. During a Zodiac cruise, our driver, a marine biologist, explained the intricate ecosystem of the intertidal zone as we floated past. Their knowledge transformed our perception, allowing us to see beyond the beautiful scenery and understand the complex stories of the landscape.

Is an HX Alaska Expedition Right for You?

This is a critical question. If your idea of a perfect vacation involves Broadway-style shows, casinos, and a rigid schedule, an expedition cruise might not be the best fit. But if you possess a spirit of curiosity, a love for the natural world, and a desire to learn and be challenged, then the answer is a resounding yes.

An HX expedition is for the traveler who:

• Prefers intimate, small-group experiences over large crowds.
• Values education and enrichment as much as relaxation.
• Is comfortable with a flexible itinerary that adapts to nature's whims.
• Wants to actively participate in their vacation through hiking, kayaking, and Zodiac cruising.
• Cares deeply about sustainable and responsible travel.

It is, in short, for the modern explorer.

Planning Your Own Alaskan Odyssey

My journey with HX Expeditions was more than a vacation; it was an investment in wonder. It was a reminder of the raw beauty that still exists in our world and the importance of experiencing it in a way that is both meaningful and respectful. The memories of the blue ice, the breaching whales, and the silent fjords are now a part of me.

If my story has ignited a spark of adventure in you, the next step is easier than you think. Crafting the perfect expedition requires expertise. Our team of travel advisors specializes in matching clients with the right ship, the right itinerary, and the right time of year to travel. We handle all the complex details, from flights and pre-cruise hotels to choosing the best excursions, so you can focus on the anticipation of your adventure.

Our Alaska specialists are on hand to answer your most detailed questions. Give them a call at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for a no-obligation chat about your travel style and what you hope to discover in the Last Frontier. They can provide insights that go far beyond what you'll find in a brochure.

The first step to feeling the spray of a calving glacier and hearing the call of an eagle is simple. Plan Your Alaska Adventure today by filling out our brief inquiry form. We’ll provide you with a personalized quote and options tailored specifically to your interests. Your once-in-a-lifetime journey awaits.

Frequently Asked Questions about HX Alaska Expeditions

What is the best time of year to take an Alaska expedition cruise?

The Alaska cruise season typically runs from May to September. May and June offer longer daylight hours and fewer crowds. July and August are the warmest months and are peak season for wildlife viewing, especially for bears and salmon runs. September brings beautiful autumn colors and a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights as the nights grow longer.

What is included in the price of an HX expedition?

HX is known for its inclusive pricing. Typically, your fare includes the voyage itself, all meals in the main dining venues, beverages (beer, wine, and soft drinks) with lunch and dinner, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and a wide range of included excursions like Zodiac cruising and community visits. Some more specialized activities, like kayaking or certain cultural tours, may have an additional cost.

How physically demanding are the excursions?

HX caters to a wide range of fitness levels. Activities are typically graded so you can choose what's right for you. There will be options for gentle walks and Zodiac cruises, as well as more strenuous hikes. The Expedition Team will always brief you thoroughly on the physical requirements for each activity so you can make an informed choice.

What should I pack for an Alaska cruise?

Layering is key! The weather in Alaska can change in an instant. You should pack a waterproof and windproof outer jacket and pants, warm mid-layers like fleece or wool, thermal base layers, a hat, gloves, and warm socks. Waterproof boots are essential for wet landings. Don't forget binoculars, a good camera with extra batteries, sunglasses, and sunscreen—the sun reflecting off water and ice can be intense.

Will I see the Northern Lights?

While possible, it's not a primary feature of most summer Alaska cruises. The best chances are at the very end of the season, in late August and September, when the nights become dark enough for the aurora borealis to be visible. For a trip focused on the Northern Lights, you would typically look at HX's winter sailings in Norway or Antarctica.

Ready to see what your personalized journey could look like? Get a Custom Quote and let our experts craft an itinerary just for you.