HX Expeditions published its 2025 ESG Report on World Oceans Day alongside the launch of its first long-term sustainability strategy, setting measurable targets through to 2030, according to a press release.
The report marks the first in the expedition cruise sector to be developed in line with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), the company said.
“This report marks a significant step forward in how we define and deliver on our sustainability ambitions,” said Gebhard Rainer, chief executive officer of HX Expeditions.
“As we celebrate 130 years of exploration, our 2030 strategy sets a clear path for the future, strengthening accountability, sharpening our focus and ensuring we continue to lead in responsible expedition travel.”
The company recorded a 12 percent reduction in direct CO2 emissions year-on-year, down to 64,630 metric tons, partly reflecting the removal of the Maud from the fleet.
Sulphur oxide emissions fell 50 percent and nitrogen oxide emissions dropped 14 percent, which was aided by an increased use of low-sulphur marine gas oil.
The company also recorded zero environmental spills across all operations in 2025 and a 64 percent decrease in externally sourced water, according to the release.
HX Expeditions provided 1,652 complimentary cabin nights to scientists and research institutions in 2025, valued at more than 1.4 million euros, which the company said is the highest in the industry.
The company has announced it will even increase that figure by 30 percent for sailings from 2027, reaching a total of 3,900 cabin nights.
“HX is setting the industry standard because we lead with science – and our ambition is to keep pushing further, so scientists and researchers can reach the most remote places on Earth and deliver knowledge that really matters,” said Dr Verena Meraldi, chief scientist at HX Expeditions.
During the 2025-26 Antarctic season, Dr Manuel Novillo recorded a world-first observation of Antarctic blackfin icefish spawning behavior near Danco Island using underwater drones, a discovery that had never previously been documented in the area, according to the company.
The company deployed 97 onboard scientists and expert lecturers across its sailings in 2025.
Citizen science contributions increased 52 percent, with guests submitting 46,466 observations to projects including eBird and Happywhale.
The HX Foundation distributed 226,370 euros to 28 global projects, with guests contributing an additional 215,195 euros.
The company also removed 1,200 tons of ocean plastic through its partnership with Ocean Bottle.
HX has introduced a fully electric silent science boat to support low-impact exploration and research, and has expanded its slow cruising itineraries to reduce fuel consumption, according to the release.
