HX and University of Tasmania Launch Free Svalbard Educational Course as HX Marks 130 Years Since Its First Voyage to the Archipelago

HX Expeditions, the longest-running expedition cruise company has launched a new free online educational course dedicated to Svalbard, developed in partnership with the University of Tasmania (UTAS), further expanding its industry-leading programme of pre-departure learning for guests. The launch comes during a landmark week for HX, as the company celebrates 130 years since its very first guest voyage to Svalbard in 1896.

The new HX + UTAS Svalbard Course is designed to deepen guests’ understanding of one of the Arctic’s most iconic destinations before they travel. Through a series of expert-led modules, participants will gain insights into Svalbard’s unique wildlife, ecosystems, history and the principles of responsible exploration, helping them arrive better informed and ready to get more from their expedition experience. The course is available free of charge to guests and participants who complete the programme will receive a UTAS + HX Certificate of Attendance.

The launch builds on the success of HX and UTAS’ award-winning Antarctica pre-departure course and follows the recent introduction of Arctic destination-specific learning programmes. The courses highlight HX’s wider ambition to combine exploration with education through a growing portfolio of university-backed courses designed to enrich the guest experience.

Chief Scientist, Dr. Verena Meraldi said: “The timing of the Svalbard course launch is particularly significant. This week, HX commemorates 130 years since its first guest voyage to Svalbard in 1896 – a pioneering journey that helped establish expedition travel in the Arctic. That first voyage was also attended by scientists, biologists and guests who wanted to learn more – so it feels fitting to launch the educational programme this week. More than a century later, we continue to evolve that legacy by pairing exploration with science, learning and responsible travel.”

Prof Vanessa Lucieer, Interim Co-Executive Director, IMAS, said: "Svalbard sits at the frontline of Arctic change, making it an ideal place to bring science and exploration together for the guests who travel there. This course extends the partnership IMAS has built with HX through our Antarctic program, giving guests the same calibre of expert-led content ahead of their Arctic voyage. For IMAS, it is an opportunity to share our researchers' understanding of polar systems with a global audience, and to support HX's long-standing commitment to responsible, informed travel."

More information can be found here: https://www.travelhx.com/en/campaigns/hx-and-utas-svalbard-science-course/

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