HX Expeditions is revolutionizing Antarctic exploration with the launch of the industry's most comprehensive kayaking and camping program, beginning October 2025. The world's oldest expedition cruise company has dramatically expanded its adventure offerings, increasing kayaking capacity by 188% and doubling camping spots to accommodate up to 60 guests per night.?
Leith Cove (Photo Credit: Karin Strand/HX Expeditions)
The enhanced program introduces two distinct kayaking experiences designed for different skill levels and preferences. Discovery Kayaks feature inflatable, self-guided vessels that allow solo travelers to paddle independently without language requirements. These lightweight kayaks provide an intimate, close-to-water experience perfect for calm conditions. For more adventurous explorers, Sea Explorer Kayaks offer hard-shell vessels guided by expedition experts, built for longer-range paddling and dynamic Antarctic conditions.?
Yalour Island (Photo Credit: HX Expeditions/Oscar Farerra)
Camping options have similarly evolved with the introduction of Bivvy Bag camping alongside traditional tent experiences. The custom-built Bivvy setup, sourced from Scandinavia, offers a lightweight overnight experience under Antarctic stars, representing the closest guests can get to pure polar exploration. Traditional two-person tent camping remains available for those seeking more conventional shelter.
Karin Strand, vice president of expeditions development, with more than 150 Antarctic expeditions under her belt, said:?¡°We¡¯re not just adding more spots, we¡¯re reimagining how guests experience Antarctica.?With expanded kayaking and camping capacity, plus greater flexibility and access - we¡¯re opening the polar regions to more adventurers than ever before. It¡¯s about making these once-in-a-lifetime moments available to everyone on board, while delivering them in small, intimate and responsible groups. Whether you're gliding past icebergs on your kayak or sleeping under the stars, we¡¯re here to help you write your own Antarctic story. And importantly, all experiences are designed in harmony with nature and in strict adherence to the environmental regulations that govern human activity in Antarctica.¡±?
Leith Cove iceberg (Photo Credit: HX Expeditions/Yurr Matisse Choufour)
The new system replaces previous lottery-based bookings with real-time, onboard management by expedition teams. This allows greater flexibility based on weather conditions and guest preferences, with most sailings operating on a first-come, first-served basis.?
Beyond kayaking and camping, the program includes snowshoeing, polar plunges and extended hiking opportunities where conditions permit. Pricing ranges from EUR 129 for Discovery Kayaks to EUR 429 for two-person tent camping experiences.
HX's expanded Antarctic program demonstrates how adventure tourism can scale responsibly while preserving the pristine polar environment for future generations.
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