Immersive Alaska with HX Expeditions: Sailing From Vancouver to Whittier
There’s something magical about beginning an expedition cruise in a city as beautiful as Vancouver. We arrived for a short but memorable stay, greeted by glorious sunshine and clear blue skies that gave us the perfect opportunity to explore one of Canada’s most scenic cities.
Although we only had one night in Vancouver before boarding our cruise, we made the most of every minute. We strolled along the waterfront at Coal Harbour and around Bayshore before heading into the iconic Stanley Park. With its towering trees, coastal pathways, and stunning harbour views, it’s easy to understand why Vancouver is considered one of the world’s most liveable cities.
That afternoon, we made the short walk from our hotel to the Canada Place cruise terminal to board our HX Expeditions voyage aboard the MS Roald Amundsen. The terminal itself was incredibly busy, with four cruise ships in port that day, making security and boarding feel chaotic at times.
Thankfully, HX Expeditions had organised a separate check-in and security process for guests, which meant we were onboard remarkably quickly. This was not a “normal” Alaskan cruise, calling at the larger ports. This was an authentic voyage, exploring the wild frontiers of Alaska where we encountered only wildlife and no other ships.
The moment we stepped aboard, we were blown away.
The ship instantly felt luxurious yet welcoming, combining Scandinavian elegance with expedition practicality.
One of the first places we encountered was the impressive Science Centre — a hub for learning, research, and discovery that would become one of our favourite parts of the voyage. Nearby, the reception area flowed seamlessly into a stunning glass elevator featuring immersive video displays of breathtaking destinations visited by HX around the world.
Our home for the journey was the Ernest Shackleton Suite, and it exceeded every expectation. Spacious, beautifully designed, and incredibly comfortable, the suite featured a large private balcony, a luxurious bathroom with a walk-in shower, generous storage space, and thoughtful expedition touches throughout. The suite also included a complimentary minibar, fine wines, champagne, laundry service, and access to premium dining experiences.
We also loved dining at Aune, which served buffet breakfasts and lunches before transforming into an à la carte dining experience each evening. Another favourite was the informal Fredheim restaurant, perfect for casual breakfasts and lunches featuring burgers, hot dogs, and skewers. In the evenings, Fredheim became a themed dining venue — and one unforgettable night we enjoyed a fantastic Indian meal there.
What truly sets HX Expeditions apart, however, is the expedition experience itself. Onboard were around 20 expedition specialists, including ornithologists, marine biologists, geologists, and historians. They were always available in the Science Centre to answer questions, deliver fascinating lectures, and host hands-on workshops throughout the voyage.
We joined an origami-making session while others participated in pottery workshops, watercolour painting, and arts sessions inspired by the landscapes around us. There genuinely was something for everyone onboard, whether you preferred science, creativity, wildlife, or simply relaxation.
For us, the highlight was taking part in one of the citizen science programmes during our visit to College Fjord in Prince William Sound. We boarded a small science boat alongside the expedition team to learn about environmental data collection and marine ecosystems.
During the excursion, we collected samples of phytoplankton and plankton, which were later examined under microscopes back onboard the ship. The team explained how they monitor plankton blooms and search for signs of microplastics in the water — valuable scientific research that contributes to wider environmental studies. It was fascinating to be actively involved rather than simply observing from afar.
On sea days, there was plenty of time to unwind and soak in the spectacular scenery. We spent hours enjoying the outdoor hot tubs while snow-capped mountains drifted past around us. The panoramic sauna offered incredible ocean views and became one of our favourite places to relax after excursions.
Wildlife spotting from the ship was equally exciting. We were fortunate enough to see humpback whales, seabirds, and other marine life while sailing through the pristine Alaskan wilderness. Every moment out on deck felt like something from a nature documentary.
One of the most breathtaking destinations on the itinerary was Misty Fjords National Monument. True to its name, the area is often covered in mist and rain, but we were incredibly lucky to experience calm waters, sunshine, and crystal-clear visibility. Towering cliffs, waterfalls, and untouched wilderness surrounded us in every direction, creating some of the most memorable scenery of the trip.
Later in the voyage, we visited Craig on Prince of Wales Island. This charming Alaskan town offered a glimpse into local life, complete with a picturesque harbour, welcoming residents, and beautifully carved totem poles that celebrate the region’s Indigenous heritage and traditions. We even stopped for a local Alaskan brew at a nearby pub before returning to the ship.
Another unforgettable excursion took us through the stunning Inian Islands. Here, we boarded zodiacs and explored dramatic coastlines filled with waterfalls, dense forests, rugged cliffs, and incredible wildlife. Sea lions barked noisily from the rocks while adorable sea otters floated peacefully beside us with their babies resting on their stomachs — a truly heart-melting experience and one of the standout memories of the entire trip.
Eventually, our expedition came to an end in Whittier, where we disembarked before travelling onward to Anchorage. The one-hour drive itself felt like another excursion, taking us through dramatic mountain scenery, waterfalls, coastal landscapes, and the famous Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel — a remarkable single-lane tunnel shared alternately by both cars and trains.
Anchorage provided a pleasant final stop before our journey home. While relatively small, it offered a relaxed atmosphere, a handful of seafood restaurants, local shops, and a few small museums to explore. For us, one night there was the perfect ending to an unforgettable Alaskan adventure before flying home the following day.
This voyage with HX Expeditions was far more than just a cruise. It was an immersive journey filled with learning, wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable experiences. From the vibrant streets of Vancouver to the icy wilderness of Alaska, every day brought something new to discover.
If you’re looking for a cruise that combines luxury with genuine exploration and purpose, an expedition voyage through Alaska with HX Expeditions is truly hard to beat.
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