Is Roald Amundsen worth it?
The Roald Amundsen is HX’s hybrid-electric expedition ship, launched in 2019 and rated Polar Class 6. She carries around 530 guests, though numbers are capped lower for polar sailings — vessels carrying more than 500 passengers are not permitted to land in Antarctica. Hybrid propulsion makes her notably quiet in fjords and ice.
We toured the Roald Amundsen in Boston in April 2022. This review is based on that visit rather than a full voyage.
Ship at a glance
- Operator
- HX
- Guests
- Approx. 530, usually capped lower for expedition sailings
- Ice class
- Polar Class 6
- Launched
- 2019
- Power
- Hybrid-electric propulsion
- Regions
- Antarctica, the Arctic, Chilean fjords, Greenland, Northwest Passage
- Style
- Modern comfort with deep exploration
Does her size limit where she can land?
At around 530 guests she sits at the upper end of expedition vessels. IAATO does not permit passenger landings from ships carrying more than 500, so HX caps numbers below that threshold for Antarctic sailings. Even so, landings run in rotation rather than putting everyone ashore at once.
What is she like to step aboard?
There’s a quiet, confident elegance aboard Roald Amundsen. The minimalist Scandinavian interiors, rich in natural wood and muted tones, keep the focus on the outside world. Panoramic lounges, floor-to-ceiling windows, and wraparound decks provide unobstructed views of icebergs, wildlife, and vast landscapes.
And the silence? Remarkable. Thanks to the hybrid-electric engines, she glides through fjords and polar waters with minimal noise — ideal for preserving delicate ecosystems and catching the subtle sounds of cracking ice or distant birdcalls.
What are the cabins like?
Cabins are designed with a minimalist, Scandinavian style using natural materials, offering a peaceful sanctuary after a day of exploration. All cabins are outside-facing, with a variety of options from cosy Polar Outside cabins to spacious Expedition Suites, some with private balconies.
- Scandinavian design and comfort: natural materials and a restrained palette throughout.
- Outside views and layout: every cabin faces outside, from Polar Outside cabins to Expedition Suites, some with private balconies.
- Thoughtful amenities: heated bathroom floors, ample storage, and comfortable bedding, blending expedition-level adventure with premium comfort.
What’s the food like?
The dining experience is inspired by Nordic traditions and uses local, sustainably sourced ingredients like Arctic char and wild herbs to connect guests to the regions they are exploring. This is the farm-to-fjord philosophy, served across three venues.
- Aune Main Dining — relaxed and open.
- Fredheim — a casual bistro.
- Lindstrøm — more formal, an intimate multi-course meal experience.
What are the excursions like?
Daily landings and Zodiac cruises are where Roald Amundsen shines. The ship carries a full expedition team of naturalists, scientists, photographers, and historians. Each morning brings a briefing with safety instructions, destination overviews, and insight into what wildlife or geological features you might encounter.
You’re not just a traveler — you’re an explorer in training.
Expedition Center: a hands-on hub where naturalists, scientists, and guests converge for lectures, microscope sessions, and citizen science projects. You’re not just watching — you’re participating in real-time research.
- Snowshoeing or hiking with glaciologists.
- Kayaking through quiet coves.
- Wildlife photography masterclasses.
- Ice landings or community visits in Greenland or Nunavut.
What’s daily life aboard like?
Multiple decks offer uninterrupted views, but my favourite is the Explorer Lounge, with plush seating, warm lighting, and wraparound windows — ideal for whale watching with a cappuccino in hand. Wellness spaces run from an outdoor infinity pool to hot tubs, panoramic saunas, a fitness room and a full-service spa.
- Outdoor infinity pool (yes, really).
- Hot tubs and panoramic saunas overlooking the icy world outside.
- Fitness room and full-service spa.
How sustainable is she?
Hybrid-electric propulsion reduces emissions and noise. There are refillable water stations, no single-use plastics, and sustainably sourced food. Crew-led sustainability briefings teach guests how to be active stewards of polar regions.
Who should book her?
Environmentally conscious travelers who care about sustainable travel, science lovers and curious minds eager to participate in citizen science, active adventurers who want daily excursions and educational immersion, first-time expedition cruisers seeking a stable modern ship, and photographers.
- Environmentally conscious travelers who care about sustainable travel.
- Science lovers and curious minds — especially those eager to participate in citizen science.
- Active adventurers who want daily excursions and educational immersion.
- First-time expedition cruisers seeking a stable, modern ship with enriching programming.
- Photographers — the ship design is made for landscape, wildlife, and astro shots.
The verdict
The Roald Amundsen doesn’t just bring you closer to the world’s wildest places — it makes you feel part of something bigger. The hybrid technology, the deeply engaged staff, the authentic landings… it’s not just luxury or adventure. It’s meaningful travel, at a time when it matters most.
Related reading
Written by your expedition advisor
Erika Commisso · Travel Experience Architect
CLIA Elite Cruise Counselor · ASTA Verified Travel Advisor
Chris and Erika have personally sailed 18 expedition ships and explored eight expedition regions.
Last updated .