HX Expeditions marks its 130-year anniversary with a new offering that places travelers in a recreated 19th‑century cabin, an experience named the “1896 Cabin.” The program launches on Jan. 29, 2026 and runs through the entire anniversary year.
Historic Cabin Recreated on a Modern Vessel
The cabin will appear aboard the MS Fridtjof Nansen for a single night per guest. Hand‑crafted furnishings, period‑accurate scents and curated details aim to echo the atmosphere of the original Arctic voyages that began in 1896.
AROS Marine, a specialist in ship interiors, consulted archival drawings and period photographs to shape the space. Their research focused on late‑1800s expedition cabins, balancing authenticity with the safety standards expected on contemporary cruise ships.
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Guests will pay €450 (about $522) for a night, whether they occupy the room alone or with a companion. The price includes the immersive décor and a share of the proceeds earmarked for charitable work.
Profit Sharing and Anniversary Wine
Half of the cabin revenue will be directed to the HX Foundation, supporting a fleet‑wide fundraising goal of £130,000 (roughly $174,000). The allocation is intended to bolster future exploration and conservation projects.
“The 1896 Cabin is a chance for our guests to not just see history, but to live and sleep in it,” said Gebhard Rainer, CEO of HX. “As we celebrate 130 years of pioneering journeys, we wanted to create an experience that is immersive, atmospheric, and meaningful—connecting our guests to our amazing heritage while helping fund the future of exploration and conservation through the HX Foundation.”
The initiative also includes a specially crafted barrel of fortified Zweigelt from the Austrian Regele Vineyard. The barrel will travel across the entire HX fleet, moving from ship to ship and absorbing the spirit of each voyage before being bottled in late May 2027.
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Reservation slots are limited to one night per passenger on each sailing, and the offering is available on every MS Fridtjof Nansen itinerary throughout 2026. Prospective guests are urged to book early, as demand is expected to outstrip supply.
The barrel’s journey will culminate in a limited‑edition vintage released in 2027, marketed as a taste of the expedition spirit. The wine will be presented to guests as part of the anniversary celebrations, adding a sensory dimension to the historical tribute.
Details on pricing, availability and booking procedures are posted on the company’s website. The experience represents a blend of heritage tourism and charitable fundraising, aligning with HX’s broader mission to support exploration and environmental stewardship.
