This new cruise line loyalty program has lots of great perks — but only 2 tiers
Want shore excursion discounts, free cocktails and other great perks, even at the lowest levels of your cruise line's loyalty program? Hurtigruten Expeditions, which has split from sister brand Hurtigruten, has launched a new reward system for its passengers with just two levels — one for those who have cruised with the line previously and one for those who haven't.
Under the new HX Explorers program, passengers enjoy Level 1 rewards during their first voyage. Twenty-four hours after completing their first trip, they move up to Level 2. Both levels have access to discounts with external brands, offering savings on apparel, hotels, restaurants and more, even when passengers aren't sailing — something that's unusual for cruise lines. Here's a breakdown to show what makes this program valuable right out of the gate.
Level 1
- Social media competitions to win prizes
- A welcome cocktail on embarkation day
- 5% shore excursion discount
- In-cabin welcome fruit basket on embarkation day
- 10% off Helly Hansen and Longyear78 apparel
- 25% off Waterhaul sunglasses
- Hotel and restaurant discounts
- 20% off Priority Pass membership
- Discounts on sustainable water bottles and jewelry
- Discounts on photo books
- A dedicated loyalty manager to offer tips and cruise deals
Level 2
- All benefits afforded to Level 1 travelers
- 5% discount on HX cruise bookings
HX said in a statement that it's still developing the program, and its expedition cruise enthusiasts can expect to hear more about other surprises as they roll out.
For a limited time, all HX Explorers members who book an expedition cruise through December 2026 will receive a special 130-year anniversary patch to commemorate Hurtigruten's inception. The patches represent the company's first expedition voyage, between Hammerfest and Spitsbergen in Norway, made in 1896 on its original ship, Lofoten.
"HX Explorers is our commitment to recognizing and rewarding our loyal guests, encouraging them to dive into new adventures and discover the world with a fresh perspective," said HX CEO Gebhard Rainer. "With HX Explorers, we recognize that today's travelers seek more than just vacations — they desire meaningful experiences that resonate and inspire."
Cruisers who were previously part of the 1893 Ambassador program under sister brand Hurtigruten will have their status carried over to HX Explorers when they sail on expedition cruises. Hurtigruten will continue to reward its passengers under the original program.
Want to learn more about HX and expedition cruises? Check out these stories:
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