HX Expeditions (HX) has announced its first-ever Artist in Residence program, launching with writer and novelist Katie Hale.

The initiative is designed to bring creative perspectives onboard selected sailings, giving guests new ways to engage with the places they visit while supporting the arts.

Gebhard Rainer, CEO of HX, said: “By introducing artists on board selected voyages, HX is creating new ways for guests to experience expedition travel, not only through our core offering of science, nature and exploration, but through creativity too.”

“This new offer underscores the company’s belief that travel can open minds, spark ideas and create lasting connections, while helping champion artistic talent on a global stage,” added Rainer.

HX said that Hale’s appointment is a fitting beginning for the program, as her latest novel, “The Edge of Solitude,” was inspired by her 2020 voyage aboard an HX vessel to Antarctica, making this residency a full-circle moment between artist and cruise company.

The company said in a press release that as official HX Artist in Residence in 2026, Hale will join sailings to present talks, workshops and informal moments of reflection that help guests connect more deeply with the landscapes, wildlife and cultures around them.

Hale said: “We come together through travel and through stories; as well as finding my own inspiration, I want to give guests an opportunity to explore their own responses to this incredible region of the world through creativity and writing.”

The program will become a global annual event for HX, inviting artists from a range of disciplines to sail with the company in the years ahead.

Hale’s first sailing as Artist in Residence will be HX’s Northwest Passage voyage this September, the “Arctic Canada and Greenland Expedition — Circumnavigating Baffin Bay” sailing.

Workshops that Hale will be offering guests at no cost will include “Writing the Arctic” and “From Idea to Story,” as well as “Quiet Writing” mindful hours and a talk/reading about her book.

HX added that guests onboard can expect opportunities to hear from Hale directly and to take part in numerous creative sessions.

Image: Katie Hale (Photo credit to Wordsworth Grasmere)