HX Expeditions has officially rolled out its Alaska program for 2026, introducing two fresh itineraries, enhanced shore excursions, and inaugural visits to Klawock and Valdez.
Crafted to offer greater immersion in Alaska’s wilderness, coastal settlements, and seldom-visited destinations, the newly introduced nine-night Fjords of the Great Land journey (from Vancouver to Whittier) and the 12-night Where the Mountains Meet the Sea (from Whittier to Vancouver) itineraries highlight enriched shore experiences developed in partnership with local communities. All new HX Alaska voyages will take place on the MS Roald Amundsen.
“While many Alaska cruises focus on the shoreline, HX ventures further, connecting with seldom-seen areas, collaborating directly with Alaska Native corporations, and creating experiences alongside communities rather than around them,” stated Sam Imes, Alaska product planner for HX Expeditions. “This philosophy is central to our 2026 Alaska season, featuring two new itineraries and first-ever visits to new ports.”
The recently launched excursion portfolio provides agents and travelers with a comprehensive overview of the 2026 Alaska offerings ahead of the upcoming summer sailings. This portfolio includes 11 new excursions that center on the two new ports of call: Klawock and Valdez.
Nestled on Prince of Wales Island, Klawock is a newly established Indigenous-owned cruise terminal that presents an intimate introduction to Łingit culture as well as Southeast Alaska’s coastal ecosystems. Available excursions consist of:
- Klawock Highlights: An engaging Łingít cultural experience showcasing master carvers, apprentice artists, and the largest authentic totem park in Alaska.
- Coastal Flavors of Klawock: A tasting event led by a chef featuring locally sourced oysters, salmon, halibut, roe, kelp, and wild berries, perfectly paired with wines embodying the essence of the island.
- Forest Walk and Pub Stop: A two-mile trek through the Tongass National Forest culminating in locally crafted Alaskan beer with views of the bay.
- Prince of Wales Marine Wildlife Tour: A guided journey through multiple marine ecosystems teeming with wildlife.
- Klawock River Hatchery & Lake Kayak: An idyllic kayaking adventure on Klawock Lake, highlighting the ecological and cultural significance of its nutrient-rich waters.
Set against the backdrop of the Chugach Mountains, Valdez beautifully melds stunning alpine landscapes with a rich historical narrative. Once marked by the catastrophic Exxon Valdez oil spill in 1989, the town has now become a testament to environmental recovery and resilience. Offered excursions include:
- Thompson Pass Hike: Elevated hiking experiences with vistas of glaciers, tarns, and the majestic Chugach Mountains.
- Valdez Glacier Lake Kayaking: Inflatable kayaking amid floating ice while gaining insights about the 1898 gold-rush All-American Route.
- Taste of Valdez: A guided trolley tour showcasing freshly baked scones, craft beer tastings, and local culinary highlights.
- John Hunter Memorial Trail: A wooded hike that rewards with breathtaking views of Valdez, Port Valdez, and the Trans Alaska Pipeline.
- Museums of Valdez: Explorations of the Valdez, Old Town, and Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museums, which shed light on Gold Rush history, Alaska Native heritage, and the region’s seismic activity.
- Scenic Valdez Tour: A guided investigation of the stunning coastal and mountainous terrains in the area.
Fonte: Travel Market Report
