HX Expeditions Announces 2027–28 Galápagos Season, Standalone Brochure and Partnership Extension

The company reinforces long-running commitment to one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations

4 December 2025 - HX Expeditions, the world’s first and longest-running expedition cruise company, is proud to announce a three-year extension of its successful partnership with Metropolitan Touring, the longest-established travel operator in the Galápagos, founded in 1953, in which HX holds a significant minority stake. The original five-year charter agreement will now continue through 2029, reaffirming both organisations shared commitment to responsible, science-led exploration in one of the planet’s most ecologically significant regions.

As HX approaches its 130th anniversary in 2026, the company continues to deepen its presence in the Galápagos. HX has operated carbon-neutral expedition cruises in the archipelago since launching its programme in 2022 onboard Santa Cruz ll. The 50-cabin vessel, fully upgraded in 2021, features a locally inspired restaurant, Science Center, Discovery Room, sky deck, fitness center, hot tubs, and 36 interconnecting cabins - more than any other ship in the archipelago and ideal for families.

HX CEO Gebhard Rainer commented: “As we celebrate 130 years of exploration next year, our ongoing partnership in the Galápagos reflects exactly what HX stands for: connecting guests with the world’s most remarkable environments through responsible, science-focused travel. The wildlife, conservation work, and immersive experience our guests can have there are truly like nowhere else on the planet.”

A destination unlike any other

The Galápagos Islands, situated 1,000 km off the coast of South America, are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with 97% of the land protected as a national park and the surrounding waters forming one of world’s largest marine reserves. HX will offer two Galápagos itineraries which start and end in either Quito or Guayaquil.

• Eastern Route: In Darwin’s Footsteps (9 days): the original itinerary HX introduced when it launched its Galápagos program in 2022, focusing on Santa Cruz, Española and San Cristobal.
• In Darwin’s Footsteps Plus Machu Picchu (14 days): combines the full Eastern Route with a 5-day Machu Picchu pre-program starting in Lima, ideal for guests seeking a dual-destination adventure pairing the Galápagos’ wildlife with one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.
• Northern & Western Route: Nine of the Best Isles (11 days): starting from Quito, guests can explore nine of the archipelago’s most captivating islands. With kayaking, snorkelling, and wildlife encounters at every turn, this is an adventure filled with wonder.
• Nine of the Best Isles Plus Machu Picchu (16 days): starting in Lima, guests visit Machu Picchu and nine of the most captivating Galápagos Islands on this combined land-and-sea adventure.

New Season Launch and dedicated brochure

Bookings for HX’s 2027 and 2028 seasons will open online on 22 December 2025. This milestone coincides with the release of a new standalone HX Galápagos brochure, launching in January 2026, alongside a series of exclusive films featuring newly appointed HX ambassador Monty Halls, President of the Galapagos Conservation Trust.

Halls recently returned from the islands and shared his experience:“Having just come back from the amazing islands I hold so dear, I was blown away by the amount of active conservation HX are involved in. I’ve seen first-hand the forest area around Mashpi Lodge and how diverse that ecosystem is. Every traveller who journeys with HX contributes directly to its protection - this is tangible, measurable conservation. Each trip not only offsets 100% of carbon emissions but also supports critical reforestation and biodiversity projects.”

Reinforcing a leadership position in responsible travel

The extended agreement underscores HX’s leadership in responsible, science-led expedition travel, ensuring that guests experience the Galápagos with expert guidance, deep cultural connection, and minimal environmental impact. By partnering long-term with Metropolitan Touring - one of the most respected conservation-focused organisations in the region, HX continues to support local communities and help safeguard a destination that is irreplaceable on the global stage.