HX Expeditions Launches Largest Kayaking and Camping Program in Antarctica

More People Will Kayak and Camp in Antarctica with HX Than Ever Before —Starting October 2025

London, 15 July 2025 - This Antarctic season, HX Expeditions, the world’s oldest expedition cruise company– is launching the industry’s most diverse kayaking and camping program in Antarctica. Starting in October 2025, HX will offer more guests the opportunity to kayak and camp in Antarctica than ever before —with a 188% increase in kayaking capacity and double the camping spots (up to 60 guests per night) —all while upholding the highest standards of environmental stewardship and operating fully within IAATO guidelines, of which HX is a founding member.

“We’re not just adding more spots, we’re reimagining how guests experience Antarctica,” said Karin Strand, VP of Expeditions Development, who has completed more than 150 expeditions to Antarctica and designed the new offering program. With over 20 years of experience programming Antarctic travel, HX continues to lead the category in both scale and innovation.

“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.”

What’s New for the 2025/26 Antarctica Season?

• 188% increase in kayaking capacity across the HX fleet
• Camping capacity doubled- up to 60 guests per night
• Solo traveller access expanded, no partner required for kayaking or camping
• New ‘Discovery Kayaks’ – solo, inflatable, self-guided paddling with no language requirement. The HX ‘Discovery Kayaks’ are an industry first—custom-designed in partnership with two of the world’s leading water sports equipment specialists: NRS (Northwest River Supplies) in the US and Escape Watersports in the UK—bringing together cutting-edge design and performance on a global scale.
• New ‘Bivvy Bag’ camping – are a lightweight, low-impact overnight experience beneath the stars and the closest you can get to being the ultimate explorer! The new HX Bivvy is a custom-built, top-tier set-up sourced from Scandinavia; the industry-first combination has been rigorously tested by the HX experts (Price: EUR 350 pp ‘Bivvy Bags’ and EUR 429 pp for two-person Tent offering’).
• Expanded activity mix – now includes two kayaking types, two camping styles, snowshoeing, polar plunge, and extended hikes (where available, subject to guest numbers and ship capabilities).

Two Ways to Kayak in Antarctica

• Discovery Kayaks (Inflatable): Inflatable, self-guided kayaks with a lightweight yet robust and ultra-modern design that allows for a closer-to-the-water experience; ideal for calm conditions and intimate exploration. Guests paddle independently at their own pace in a dedicated space, with safety boats monitoring at all times. Solo travellers are able to paddle on their own; no English required. Price: EUR 129 pp

• Sea Explorer Kayaks (Hard Shell): Hard-shell Sea kayaks guided by two expedition guides, built for longer-range paddling and greater control in dynamic Antarctic conditions. Built for range, stability, and slicing through the Antarctic silence, these sleek expedition-grade kayaks are perfect for more technical outings. Kayaks come in pairs for the ultimate experience with a friend or companion. Price: EUR 199 pp

HX’s enhanced offering isn’t just about quantity - it’s about smarter, more inclusive, and more diverse adventures. From calm solo paddles to more deep dive guided excursions, HX is offering seven distinct activity options across its fleet, including two kayaking styles, two camping styles, snowshoeing, polar plunge, and extended hikes (where available, subject to guest numbers and ship capabilities).

For the Antarctica 2025/2026 season, all kayaking and camping bookings will be managed onboard by the Expedition Team, allowing real-time flexibility based on weather and guest preferences – the previous lottery system will be removed and a first-come-first served system will be used on most sailings. A pre-booking system is in development for future seasons. All activities are subject to weather and if a session is cancelled, HX will attempt to reschedule or provide a full refund if that’s not possible.

“Experiencing Antarctica must come with responsibility,” Strand concludes. “Every step we take is guided by the principles of sustainable tourism. We work within the framework of IAATO guidelines to ensure our presence leaves no trace – minimising impact, respecting wildlife, and preserving the pristine beauty of the polar environment for generations to come.”

HX is proud to now offer their largest and most diverse kayaking and camping program in Antarctica. With the addition of new gear, upgraded programming, and smarter operations, the brand continues to lead the category, not only in scale but in ambition and innovation.

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