HX Temporarily Suspends West Africa Expeditions Due to Regional Instability

HX, the adventure cruise line known for its expedition voyages, has announced a temporary suspension of its new West Africa sailings, citing the need to “ensure the safety of our guests and crew” amid growing instability in the region. This decision impacts the company’s recently launched 14-day itineraries, which started in November 2023, spanning from Dakar to Cape Verde and the Bissagos Islands.

The suspension affects the upcoming season, initially planned from September 25, 2024, to March 30, 2025, demonstrating HX’s cautious approach towards its operations in areas of concern. The cruises, operated aboard MS Spitsbergen, have been put on hold as the company seeks alternative plans, including sending MS Spitsbergen to dry dock for the duration of the pause.

Affected guests will be directly contacted by HX or their travel agents, offering a full refund or an enticing 125 percent future cruise credit, depending on their specific itinerary. This move underscores HX’s commitment to customer satisfaction and safety amidst unforeseen circumstances.

In a strategic shift, HX also revealed that its vessel, MS Maud, will temporarily rejoin the Hurtigruten fleet to operate the Coastal Express route. This decision comes after MS Maud faced challenges, including being struck by a rogue wave in the North Sea. Following repairs, MS Maud is set to return to service for expedition cruises around the British Isles and spend the summer in the Arctic. In November, it will support Hurtigruten’s obligations under its contract with the Norwegian government, ensuring continuity of the iconic Coastal Express service, which has connected 34 Norwegian communities since 1893.

Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten Group, highlighted the fleet’s flexibility and the ongoing significant environmental upgrades across the cruise industry, which allow for such temporary reallocations. Guests impacted by changes in Antarctic sailings on MS Maud have been transferred to alternative voyages on MS Fridtjof Nansen, MS Fram, or Roald Amundsen, ensuring that adventurers can still experience the unparalleled beauty of the polar regions with minimal disruption.

This adaptive strategy by HX and Hurtigruten Group exemplifies their dedication to maintaining high safety standards, environmental stewardship, and providing exceptional travel experiences, even in the face of regional challenges and operational adjustments.