HX Expeditions Explores Alaska & British Columbia with Jenna

When it comes to impressive landscapes, abundant wildlife, and cultural depth, few journeys compare to cruising Alaska and British Columbia’s Inside Passage. Recently, our travel advisor, Jenna Alexander, had the chance to experience a shortened version of HX Expeditions’ 18-day journey from Vancouver to Nome, a five-day sampler that left her awestruck and eager to return for the full voyage.

She cruised around the Misty Fjords’ towering cliffs, experienced the cultural richness of Wrangell and the wildlife havens of Sitka. Here’s a glimpse of what makes this journey so special.

Life Onboard the MS Roald Amundsen

HX blends comfort with adventure aboard the MS Roald Amundsen, a modern expedition ship built for exploring remote coastlines. Guests can expect:

Spacious cabins (many with balconies and floor-to-ceiling views)
Onboard wellness facilities featuring a spa, sauna, infinity pool, and hot tubs.
Daily meals with beer, wine, and spirits included
Engaging lectures, science activities, and zodiac adventures led by a highly-trained Expedition Team
Complimentary expedition jackets, reusable water bottles, and Wi-Fi

With only about 300 guests onboard (capacity 530), the ship never felt crowded. A ship tour gave her insights into cabin categories ranging from Arctic Superior rooms with sweeping views to luxury suites complete with hot tubs. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed; guests often wear jeans or slip into robes after enjoying the sauna or hot tub! For dining, there’s everything from casual fare at Fredheim, the ample breakfast buffet at Aune, to fine dining at Lindstrom.

Highlights from the Voyage

Misty Fjords: Fjords & Zodiac Cruising

Her adventure began sailing north from Vancouver B.C. through the Inside Passage. The Misty Fjords within the Tongass National Forest invite you into a world where Alaska’s majesty feels otherworldly and eternal. Guests can kayak the pristine waters or join zodiac excursions to get up close to the dramatic landscapes. Watching the crew launch the small boats with seamless precision was impressive and being surrounded by sheer cliffs and still waters was an experience she won’t soon forget.

Wrangell: Culture & Heritage

In Wrangell, passengers can choose from a variety of excursions: wildlife viewing, cruising around glacial ice, or cultural tours. Jenna joined a heritage excursion led by a Tlingit guide, learning about local history before exploring Petroglyph Beach and the community museum. Wrangell’s authentic charm and welcoming locals make it a standout stop.

Sitka: Wildlife Encounters

Sitka offered a taste of both nature and culture. Jenna’s group visited the Fortress of the Bear, a sanctuary for rescued bears, and the Raptor Center, home to rehabilitated birds of prey. For something truly unique, she joined an evening snorkeling excursion spotting colorful starfish, sea anemones, abalone, and even an eel!

On-Board Science in Action

The Expedition Team brings Alaska to life through in-depth lectures and discussions. Guests can dive deeper at the Science Center, browsing the library or even getting hands-on with advanced biological and geological tools. And with the Citizen Science Program, passengers don’t just observe, they get the chance to actively contribute to real ongoing scientific research.

Small Touches That Make a Big Difference

Balcony moments: Stargazing under a clear sky, catching a glimpse of a comet, or, if you’re lucky, spotting whales spouting in the distance all while soaking in the breathtaking scenery as you cruise along.
Sustainable travel: Plastic-free practices and refillable water stations throughout the ship. The MS Roald Amundsen is one of two fully hybrid ships in HX’s fleet. By sailing with electric propulsion, HX dramatically reduces emissions, while cutting fuel use and CO2 output by 20% through innovative sustainable technology. And it’s very quiet when sailing!
Wellness perks: Heated bathroom floors (perfect for drying swimsuits after a dip!). Guests can also enjoy full access to the sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges, and, of course, the indulgent spa treatments.
Extra bonuses: Stay informed from the comfort of your cabin with lectures streamed right to your TV. Also, staff are always on hand near the Science Center to chat, answer questions, and help plan excursions.

Final Thoughts

HX’s Alaska and British Columbia expeditions are designed for travelers who want more than just a cruise, they want immersion, discovery, and authentic connection. Whether you’re kayaking beneath towering cliffs, learning Indigenous history from local guides, gathering data with their onboard scientists, or sipping wine while watching the sunset from the ship’s lounge, this journey delivers moments you’ll never forget.

If you’re dreaming of Alaska beyond the ordinary, HX offers the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. And trust us, you’ll want more than just the five-day version!