HX and Monty Halls Partner for Galápagos & Scottish Isles Expeditions

HX Paetner with Monty Halls. Images: HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)

HX Welcomes Monty Halls as Brand Ambassador for 130 Years of Exploration

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) has always been about more than travel - it’s about discovery, connection, and protecting the natural world. As the company gears up to celebrate an extraordinary 130 years of expedition cruising in 2026, it has announced an inspiring new partnership: broadcaster, explorer, author, and marine biologist Monty Halls will become the official brand ambassador for the next three years.

For those who know Monty’s work, this feels like a natural fit. He’s already collaborated with the HX Foundation, launching the Big Blue Bag initiative in 2024 - a clever campaign encouraging travellers everywhere to help reduce plastic pollution using four simple marine clean-up protocols. Now, his role with HX expands both at sea and on land, amplifying his message of conservation and purposeful exploration.

First Stop: The Galápagos

Galapogas Islands. Image: HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)

Monty’s first voyage as brand ambassador will take him to one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth: the Galápagos Islands. Sailing on 19 November 2025, he’ll join HX guests on an unforgettable journey that coincides with his work as President of the Galápagos Conservation Trust. Guests can look forward to talks and workshops around the Big Blue Bag project, and the timing couldn’t be more symbolic: the announcement comes exactly 190 years after Charles Darwin first stepped foot in the Galápagos in 1835, a milestone that reshaped how humanity understands the natural world.

A Return to the Western Isles

MS Spitsbergen in Scottish Isles. Image: HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)

In 2026, Monty will headline two exclusive expedition sailings to the Scottish Western Isles, departing on 7 May and 17 May. These special voyages, now open for booking, are a chance for guests to discover the rugged beauty of the Hebrides through Monty’s eyes.

With a background steeped in marine biology and a passion for storytelling, Monty will help curate these itineraries, blending natural history with cultural heritage. Guests will be treated to Big Blue Bag sessions, a Q&A with Monty, and a sneak peek into his forthcoming book, which delves into the fascinating wartime history of the region and the foundation of the Commandos. Add in his BBC “Great Escapes” expertise, and it’s clear these sailings promise something truly special.

Why Monty, Why Now?

HX has always stood apart in the cruise world. Long before “sustainable travel” became a buzzword, HX was eliminating heavy fuel oils, banning unnecessary single-use plastics, and even launching hybrid-powered expedition ships. The brand is also deeply committed to science, donating thousands of cruise nights to researchers and supporting conservation projects through the HX Foundation.

“Monty embodies the spirit of exploration and conservation that is at the heart of HX,” said Nathaniel Sherborne, Vice President and Managing Director of Europe and Global Sales Enablement at HX. “His expertise and passion make him the perfect ambassador as we celebrate 130 years of expedition cruising.”

For Monty, the feeling is mutual:

“HX has always stood for meaningful exploration with real purpose and connection with the natural world – that aligns perfectly with my own values and aspirations… It’s going to be a truly exciting journey and fitting of such a significant year.”

A Year to Celebrate

HX’s partnership with Monty Halls is more than a headline — it’s a statement of intent as the company enters a milestone year. Expect deeper connections with the places HX sails to, more opportunities for hands-on conservation, and voyages that continue to balance adventure, education, and sustainability.

With Monty onboard - whether in the wild Galápagos or the remote Hebrides - guests can look forward to experiences that are as inspiring as they are unforgettable.

👉 Find out more and book your place on the exclusive Scottish Isles expeditions at travelhx.com.