For the first time, HX travellers and expedition teams will have the unique opportunity to explore Antarctic and polar science in a university-developed program blending immersive learning with real-world experiences – a program that will enrich their journey through the wonders of Antarctica.
In an exciting new collaboration, expedition cruise company HX and the University of Tasmania and its Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) have launched the program for the 2024-2025 cruise season.
Participants can access the online course, wherever they are in the world, and will receive an official University of Tasmania certificate when they’ve completed the course.
On course to transform Antarctic travel
IMAS Operations Manager and program co-leader, Dr Kirsten le Mar, said a visit to Antarctica is an extraordinary experience filled with spectacular scenery, phenomenal wildlife and exciting adventures.
“This is truly enhanced by having some understanding of what you’re looking at and how the animals are interacting with each other, and to have insights into the environment around you.
“Now this pre-voyage course will help participants take their Antarctic odyssey to new heights by giving them information and knowledge about what they’re seeing on their voyage.”
UTAS social scientist and program co-leader, Professor Elizabeth Leane, said the HX Antarctica Pre-voyage Coursecovers everything from the history of human exploration in Antarctica, to climate change, wildlife and responsible tourism.
“People finishing the course will know about the environment, how it is governed, and how humans have inhabited it and impacted it. They will also learn how they can minimise their own impact and become part of the solution, not the problem,” Professor Leane said.
A new chapter in mindful expedition travel
HX’s VP Sustainability, Guest Learning and Industry Relations, Tudor Morgan, who is also a world-leading expert in Antarctica, said the partnership was a testament to HX’s commitment to delivering unique and enriching experiences for guests, while empowering their expedition teams with unparalleled knowledge and training.
“Together with the University of Tasmania, we are breaking new ground in expedition travel, offering scientific educational opportunities that are truly transformative and based in ocean conservation.”
University of Tasmania’s Acting Executive Dean of the College of Sciences and Engineering, Dr Angela Castles, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative.
"The University of Tasmania is thrilled to work with HX in this pioneering initiative. We’re combining world-class education with an unparalleled opportunity to explore the polar regions, all while contributing to the understanding of crucial environmental challenges.
"This partnership is a natural extension of our focus on sustainability, climate and marine science. We look forward to seeing both guests and HX staff deepen their knowledge of the Antarctic and make meaningful contributions to scientific research.
"This collaboration highlights the University of Tasmania's commitment to connecting research with real-world experiences. Through this program, we’re giving both guests and expedition teams the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Antarctic environment while advancing their learning journey," Dr Angela Castles said.
HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) and the University of Tasmania have worked together for four years, laying the groundwork for this pioneering partnership. HX has hosted over 30 UTAS scientists and students on polar expeditions over the last three years to work on scientific and social science projects. This is part of HX’s ongoing science support program that provides over 1,800 free cabin and cruise nights to scientists and research students each year, an initiative that’s part of the expedition company’s ongoing and significant focus on sustainability.
Cover image: HX ship in Lemaire Channel,
Antarctica. Photo: Espen Mills