HX completes revamp of second ship

A multimillion-euro refurbishment of HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) ship MS Spitsbergen has been completed. 

 

The overhaul is part of a €7 million investment also involving sister ship MS Fram aimed at improving comfort, accessibility, and operational efficiency across the fleet as well as an updated indigo blue and sand livery. 

 

The 220-passenger vessel resumes service for the summer Arctic season, sailing in and around Svalbard before continuing east for winter, when HX will return to its homeland of Norway.  

 

MS Spitsbergen, one of four vessels in the fleet, will operate all-inclusive sailings above the Arctic Circle from January to March with the start of seven-day Northern Lights sailings.

 

The revamp includes a new informal, brasserie-style dining venue, Brygga Bistro, part of HX’s fleetwide all-inclusive offering, which became standard across all ships in November. 

 

The Explorer Lounge & Bar has received a refreshed interior and updated seating. 

 

A newly built science centre reflects the company’s focus on science and education.

 

HX chief scientist Dr Verena Meraldi said: “Last year alone, our programme supported 32 research projects, 1,911 guest-scientist cruise nights, and more than 30,000 citizen science submissions. 

 

“The new science centre aboard Spitsbergen will allow us to deepen that impact, especially around Svalbard, one of the most climate-sensitive and scientifically significant areas in the world.”