HX Expeditions Launches Electric Zodiacs Ahead of 130th Anniversary

A Quiet Revolution in Polar Exploration

Electric Zodiac on icy waters

As HX Expeditions approaches its 130th anniversary, the world’s oldest expedition cruise line is leading yet another leap forward in sustainable exploration. The company has added two new fully electric Zodiacs to its fleet—ushering in a new era of cleaner, quieter voyages to the polar regions.

For nearly 130 years, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) has pioneered responsible travel in some of Earth’s most fragile environments. Now, with these electric MK 5 vessels powered by RAD Propulsion’s cutting-edge RAD 40 drive system, HX continues to combine innovation, science, and sustainability at sea.

Electric Zodiacs Join MS Fram and MS Fridtjof Nansen

MS Fridtjof Nansen with electric zodiac in foreground

The new boats have been deployed aboard MS Fram and MS Fridtjof Nansen—the latter already a hybrid-battery-powered ship. They will primarily support HX’s science teams, guest scientists, and guests taking part in Citizen Science programmes in the Arctic and Antarctic.

Their electric design allows for near-silent operation, offering a more immersive and respectful way to experience pristine environments and observe wildlife undisturbed.

“Sound Pollution Is One of the Most Underestimated Impacts”

“Sound pollution is one of the most underestimated environmental impacts in these polar regions,” says Dr Verena Meraldi, Chief Scientist at HX.

“For wildlife under the surface—especially whales—noise can mean the difference between thriving and struggling. With these silent boats added to our hybrid-electric ships, we’re reducing our environmental footprint in the places that need it most.”

Marine scientist Dr Ari Friedlaender, a long-term collaborator with HX, agrees:

“The silence of these vessels compared to traditional engines allows us to approach whales with far less disturbance, making our observations more natural. It’s a game-changer for science in these remote environments.”

Cleaner, Quieter, and Compliant

Built within IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) regulations, the new electric Zodiacs meet all environmental and safety standards. They mark a crucial step in HX’s mission to replace traditional combustion engines across its small-boat fleet with clean, electric alternatives.

“This marks the beginning of a fleet-wide transformation,” says Iain McNeill, HX’s Chief Operating Officer. “These boats allow our science teams and guests to conduct wildlife observations and biodiversity studies with minimal acoustic interference.”

Pioneering a Sustainable Future for Expedition Cruising

As HX heads toward its 130th anniversary, its investment in electric Zodiacs signals a clear direction for the future of expedition cruising: authentic adventure balanced with scientific integrity and environmental respect.

Whether collecting oceanographic data, photographing whales, or simply exploring ice-filled bays, guests on HX’s Arctic and Antarctic voyages can now do so with an even lighter footprint—and a lot less noise.