Press release -
HX Expeditions and the University of Tasmania Expand World-First Education Program Beyond Antarctica, Beginning with the Arctic
Global rollout introduces university-developed pre-departure courses across all HX destinations starting in 2026.
30 October 2025 — HX Expeditions, the world’s first and longest-running expedition cruise company, today announced the global expansion of its pioneering education partnership with the University of Tasmania (UTAS) and its Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS). The planned expansion begins with new Arctic Introductory Courses launching in 2026, featuring programs for Alaska, Arctic Canada, Greenland, Iceland, the Northwest Passage, and Svalbard.
Launching in HX’s 130th anniversary year, the Arctic rollout extends the program to Svalbard, where the company pioneered expedition cruising in 1896.
The collaboration builds on the award-winning HX-UTAS Antarctica Pre-Departure Course, the world’s first university-developed program designed to educate Antarctic passengers. Building on its success, HX and UTAS will now extend the concept from pole-to-pole through a series of destination-specific programs.
First launched in 2024 with a free introductory course, the program was expanded last month with the announcement of Part 2: a deeper dive into Antarctic science and sustainability that also allows participants to earn university credit. To date, 933 guests have completed the program, reflecting strong engagement and growing interest in educational travel.
Recognised at this year’s Seatrade Europe awards for redefining responsible expedition cruising, the initiative pairs transformative travel experiences with academic insight, sustainability education, and world-leading science.
A New Frontier for Learning
The rollout of the HX-UTAS Pre-Departure Program across all HX destinations marks the next evolution of the HX-UTAS partnership.
Planning is underway for Introductory Courses covering Greenland, Alaska, Northwest Passage and Arctic Canada, followed by programs for Iceland, and Svalbard. These courses are expected to launch in 2026, subject to final planning. Developed by leading UTAS and IMAS academics in collaboration with HX’s Chief Scientist, Dr Verena Meraldi, the courses will offer flexible, online pre-departure learning experiences that combine interactive content, live sessions, and expert insights. Additional collaborations with other universities will support the development of location-specific learning materials.
Topics for the Arctic courses include:
- Essential Overview
- Ecosystem Primer
- Iconic Species
- Responsible Tourism
The university-developed program blends immersive learning with real-world experiences – with the online course able to be accessed anywhere in the world.
Participants will experience an enriched journey through the wonders of the polar regions and upon completion, guests will receive an official University of Tasmania certificate.
A Continued Commitment to Responsible Exploration
HX’s Chief Scientist, Dr Verena Meraldi, said the worldwide expansion reflects HX’s ongoing commitment to connecting travel with education and positive impact.
“The success of our Antarctica program showed how eager travellers are to understand the environments they explore. Expanding these learning opportunities across all HX destinations gives our guests a deeper, more meaningful connection to the world around them.”
Iain McNeill, Chief Operating Officer of HX, added:
“This collaboration continues to transform expedition cruising. By combining exploration with structured, university-backed learning, we’re helping guests become informed ambassadors for the planet, and reaffirming HX’s leadership in mindful, science-based travel.”
Professor Nicole Webster, Executive Director Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) said:
“The global expansion of our partnership with HX reflects our shared commitment to education, sustainability, and science. Together with HX, we’re turning the world’s most remote destinations into living classrooms, where travellers can deepen their understanding and contribute to global sustainability awareness.”
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About HX
HX Expeditions the world's first and longest-running cruise company, has been guiding curious travellers on mindful adventures since 1896.
With headquarters in London and a global team of just under 1,000 professionals, HX operates a fleet of five modern ships, offering voyages to over 250 destinations across more than 30 countries. Renowned for its pole-to-pole expeditions, HX combines sustainability, science, and education to create transformative travel experiences. Pioneering in sustainability, HX was the first cruise company to eliminate heavy fuel oils, ban single-use unnecessary plastics in its operations, and launch hybrid cruise ships.
The company also supports scientific research, donating over 1,900 free cruise nights to onboard scientists, and runs the HX Foundation, providing grants to community projects focused on education and marine conservation.
To find our more information go to travelhx.com or follow their Instagram: @hxexpeditions
About IMAS
Located at the gateway to the Southern Ocean and Antarctica, the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) at the University of Tasmania is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for marine and Antarctic research. With collaborative partners across the globe, we deliver our research to government, industry, institutions, and communities. We create exceptional learning opportunities for the next generation of scientists, and we are dedicated to enhancing environmental understanding and facilitating thoughtful and sustainable development for the benefit of Australia and the world.
