As HX Expeditions celebrates 130 years of exploration, the brand is turning its focus firmly to the future—launching its most ambitious fundraising initiative to date through the HX Foundation.
Running throughout 2026, the campaign invites guests and crew to play an active role in protecting the very environments and communities that define expedition travel. With a bold target of raising more than €130,000 per ship (roughly AU$245,000), the initiative is designed to amplify the impact of grassroots organisations working on the frontlines of conservation, science and community development.
Rather than traditional fundraising, the campaign will be deeply embedded into the onboard experience. Guests can contribute through curated events, onboard giving and ‘Green Stays’, connecting their travel experience with meaningful, real-world impact.
“The future of expedition travel lies in purpose—ensuring every journey helps protect the places we explore.”
At the heart of the initiative are five carefully selected anniversary grantees, each aligned to the Foundation’s three core focus areas: endangered species, marine conservation and local communities.
Among them is a groundbreaking ocean research collaboration between the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel and the Alfred Wegener Institute. Building on the SOOP (Shaping an Ocean of Possibilities) initiative, the project expands CO₂ monitoring in remote ocean regions—critical to understanding the global carbon cycle.
In Antarctica, HX continues its long-standing partnership with the California Ocean Alliance, led by marine scientist Dr. Ari Friedlaender. Using drone technology and biologging, the team studies whale behaviour and health, with HX vessels providing vital access to some of the planet’s most remote research sites.
Closer to shorelines, UK-based Surfers Against Sewage will receive funding to expand its Million Mile Clean initiative—mobilising communities to remove plastic waste while collecting data to drive systemic change.
The Foundation’s commitment to people is equally strong. In Greenland, its long-term partnership with the Association of Greenlandic Children supports youth development programs and safe community spaces. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, the OSM-AD Foundation is working with HX to build solar-powered learning centres in underserved communities.
Beyond these flagship projects, the HX Foundation will continue its Rapid Response Fund, enabling crews to provide immediate support to communities in need during voyages.
To mark the milestone, HX will also release a limited-edition Ocean Bottle, with proceeds from onboard auctions supporting the campaign.
For HX Expeditions, the 130-year anniversary is less about looking back and more about redefining what exploration means today.
For more information on HX Expeditions, visit travelhx.com.
This article is brought to you by HX Expeditions.
