HX Expeditions is proud to announce a three-year extension of its partnership with Metropolitan Touring, the oldest tour operator in the Galapagos, founded in 1953, in which HX holds a significant minority stake.
The original five-year charter agreement will now be extended until 2029, reaffirming both organizations' shared commitment to responsible, science-based exploration in one of the most ecologically important regions on the planet.
As HX approaches its 130th anniversary in 2026, the company continues to strengthen its presence in the Galápagos. HX has operated carbon-neutral expedition cruises in the archipelago since launching its program in 2022 aboard the Santa Cruz II. The 50-cabin vessel, completely refurbished in 2021, features a locally inspired restaurant, Science Center, Discovery Room, panoramic deck, fitness center, jacuzzis, and 36 interconnecting cabins—more than any other ship in the archipelago—making it ideal for families.
HX CEO Gebhard Rainer commented: “As we celebrate 130 years of exploration next year, our continued partnership in the Galápagos Islands perfectly reflects what HX stands for: connecting guests with the world’s most extraordinary environments through responsible, science-driven travel. The wildlife, conservation work, and immersive experience our guests can enjoy there are truly unmatched on the planet.”.
The Galápagos Islands, located 1,000 km off the coast of South America, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ninety-seven percent of the land is protected as a national park, and the surrounding waters form one of the world's largest marine reserves. HX will offer two Galápagos itineraries that begin and end in either Quito or Guayaquil:
Eastern Route: In the Footsteps of Darwin (9 days) – The original itinerary that HX presented when it launched its program in 2022, focusing on Santa Cruz, Española and San Cristóbal.
Following in Darwin's Footsteps + Machu Picchu (14 days) – Combine the complete Eastern Route with a 5-day pre-Machu Picchu program starting in Lima; ideal for guests seeking a dual-destination adventure, uniting the Galapagos wildlife with one of the world's most iconic archaeological sites.
North & West Route: Nine of the Best Islands (11 days) – Starting in Quito, guests explore nine of the archipelago's most fascinating islands. With kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters at every stage, this is an adventure filled with wonder.
Nine of the best islands + Machu Picchu (16 days) – Starting in Lima, guests visit Machu Picchu and nine of the most outstanding islands in the Galapagos on this combined land and sea adventure.
Bookings for HX's 2027 and 2028 seasons will open on December 22, 2025. This milestone coincides with the launch of a new standalone HX brochure dedicated to the Galapagos, to be published in January 2026, along with a series of exclusive films starring HX's new ambassador, Monty Halls, president of the Galapagos Conservation Trust.
The expanded agreement underscores HX's leadership in responsible, science-guided expedition travel, ensuring guests experience the Galápagos with expert guidance, a deep cultural connection, and minimal environmental impact. By partnering long-term with Metropolitan Touring—one of the region's most respected and conservation-focused organizations—HX continues to support local communities and contribute to safeguarding an irreplaceable destination on the global stage.
Follow cruise news at Cruisesnews.es
