Historic Arctic Exploration Recreated At Sea
HX Expeditions has unveiled a new immersive cabin experience aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen, allowing travelers to step back into the “golden age” of Arctic exploration.
The newly introduced 1896 Cabin forms part of the company’s 130th anniversary celebrations and pays tribute to the summer of 1896, when the steamship DS Lofoten carried passengers from mainland Norway to Svalbard on what is considered the world’s first expedition cruise.
According to HX Expeditions CEO Gebhard Rainer, the project was designed to honor the company’s origins while offering guests a more immersive connection to expedition history.
“The 1896 Cabin is not just open — it’s surpassed everything we first envisioned,” Rainer said.
Luxury Cabin Inspired By 19th-Century Expedition Ships
Available as a one-night add-on for guests sailing aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen, the cabin recreates the atmosphere of a late 19th-century expedition vessel while blending it with modern comfort.
The interior features reclaimed wood, vintage maritime décor and historically inspired design details intended to evoke the feeling of early Arctic exploration.
Among the more unusual additions are a hidden bar concealed inside a barrel and a specially created “scent of 1896” designed to recreate the aroma of salt air and aged timber.
Project Overcame Major Construction Challenges
HX Expeditions said the project faced significant setbacks during development after key construction materials, including flooring, walls and ceiling elements, were lost in transit to Buenos Aires earlier this year.
Despite the disruption, the company said the challenges ultimately helped shape an even stronger final result.
The cabin was developed together with AROS Marine, whose design team carried out extensive historical research into period craftsmanship, lighting and materials used aboard expedition vessels of the era.
Reclaimed Materials Used Throughout The Build
More than 140 pieces of wood were incorporated into the cabin’s construction, including recycled oak planks and reclaimed timber sourced from old European barns and cabins.
According to HX Expeditions, the build required a total of 309 working hours to complete.
AROS Marine Head of Design Mantas Lataitis said the cabin was carefully designed to balance historical authenticity with contemporary comfort.
Bookings Open For 2026 Voyages
The 1896 Cabin is now available on select 2026 sailings at a cost of €100 per person per night, with bookings limited to one night per guest.
HX Expeditions also confirmed that half of all profits generated from the cabin experience will be donated to the HX Foundation to support conservation, scientific research and heritage initiatives.
The project forms part of the company’s broader anniversary fundraising campaign while reinforcing the growing popularity of experiential and history-driven luxury travel.
