Combining Scandinavian design, advanced expedition technology, and immersive learning experiences, MS Fridtjof Nansen offers a distinct cruising experience. Purpose-built for expedition voyages, the ship blends contemporary comfort with a strong focus on sustainability, science, and exploration, creating an onboard experience that feels both relaxed and enriching.
Recently, three members of the ROL Cruise team, Roxy, Sarah, and Gerald, had the opportunity to spend time aboard HX'sMS Fridtjof Nansen to discover what life is really like on board. From innovative learning spaces and relaxed lounges to impressive dining venues and stylish accommodation, here are some of the standout spaces they loved the most during their time at sea.
The Science Centre
One of the most unique spaces aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen is the Science Centre, which sits at the heart of the expedition experience. Designed to bring guests closer to the natural world, this interactive space allows travellers to learn more about the destinations they are exploring through lectures, workshops, demonstrations, and activities led by the experienced Expedition Team.
ROL Cruise team member Roxy found the Science Centre to be one of the most fascinating spaces on board. She said:
“My favourite space on board was the Science Centre; the scientists are all experts in their fields and taught us about the importance of plankton in our oceans. We were able to see these small organisms, so important to our ecosystem, up close through the microscopes. I must admit, I was struck by how terrifying they look; I can see where the inspiration for Aliens came from!”
Beyond the Science Centre itself, Roxy was also particularly impressed by HX’s wider sustainability ethos and commitment to giving back through the HX Foundation. She explained:
“Another part of the voyage that was truly incredible was learning about the HX Foundation and what they do to support the regions they travel to. In addition to sponsoring education in the Philippines, they do not travel there, but they believe it’s important to give back to the Philippines, as a large number of their staff are from there. HX are passionate about the ecosystem and their staff, and this is reflected in their ethos, the ships, and the passionate staff on board.”
For many guests, it’s this strong connection to science, sustainability, and exploration that helps make the onboard experience feel so unique and meaningful.
Dining Experiences & Social Spaces
Dining aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen plays a major role in the overall onboard experience, with multiple venues offering distinct atmospheres throughout the day. Whether guests are searching for refined dining experiences, relaxed comfort food, or somewhere scenic to unwind with a drink after an excursion, the ship offers plenty of welcoming social spaces to enjoy.
For ROL Cruise team member Sarah, the ship’s restaurants quickly became some of her favourite spaces on board. As a self-confessed foodie, she was particularly impressed by both the quality and variety available throughout the voyage. Reflecting on her experience, Sarah said:
“I am a huge foodie, so I was very excited to try out the restaurants on board MS Fridtjof Nansen. In the main restaurant, Aune, we enjoyed a 130th-anniversary celebration featuring a 4-course, high-quality menu with fresh seafood and delectable desserts! Whilst in Fredheim, we enjoyed the casual street-food atmosphere, with burgers and hot dogs also available to take away if you fancy a late-afternoon snack. They also served incredible milkshakes. The CEO of HX recommended the blueberry shake, which I must admit, I couldn’t resist trying, and it certainly did not disappoint!
In the evening, Fredheim has a relaxed vibe with occasional themed evenings. We enjoyed an incredible 3-course Indian meal, including a variety of small plates for starters and a traditional Indian Thali platter for the main course. For breakfast, Aune transformed into a buffet serving every breakfast option you could think of, from freshly cooked eggs and pancakes to continental favourites like fresh fruit, granola and yoghurt. You certainly will never go hungry on this expedition ship!”
Beyond the restaurants, Sarah also loved spending time in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, one of the ship’s most relaxed and scenic social spaces. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the sea, it became the perfect place to unwind after busy days of exploration. Sarah explained:
“The Explorer Lounge & Bar also had a lovely, relaxed vibe, so after a busy day exploring, it was so nice to go there for a drink before dinner, and watch the sun set. Being all-inclusive, we made our way through the cocktails on the menu. There was so much to choose from, and the bar staff were so funny and welcoming - they even sang to us whilst making our drinks! In the evening, this bar turned into the main entertainment area, where we enjoyed a performance from a local sea shanty band.”
Accommodation
After long days spent exploring ashore, attending fascinating lectures, and taking part in expedition activities, returning to your accommodation aboard MS Fridjtof Nansen feels wonderfully calming.
The ship embraces a Scandinavian-inspired style, creating spaces that feel cosy, contemporary, and closely connected to the natural world outside. Natural materials, soft lighting, and muted colour palettes help create a peaceful atmosphere throughout the cabins and suites, while large windows and private balconies in selected accommodation categories ensure the spectacular scenery always remains centre stage. After active days of exploration, the tranquil accommodation feels particularly inviting.
For those searching for a more elevated stay, the ship’s Expedition Suites offer additional space and luxurious touches throughout the voyage. Many feature expansive balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and separate seating areas that create an even stronger connection to the scenery outside, while selected suites also include private outdoor hot tubs for an unforgettable way to admire the views.
One of the most unique accommodation experiences aboard the ship is the 1896 Cabin, created to celebrate HX’s 130th anniversary. Designed to recreate what expedition travel may have felt like when HX’s very first ship sailed from Norway to Svalbard in 1896, the cabin offers a completely different atmosphere from the rest of the ship.
ROL Cruise team member Gerald found the experience particularly memorable, explaining:
“The thing I keep coming back to from my HX experience is the smell of the 1896 Cabin. Not perfume, not air freshener, but woodsmoke and timber. The second you step in, you’re somewhere else.”
Created as a one-night experience tucked away on Deck 4, the cabin has been carefully designed using reclaimed wood, vintage maritime artefacts sourced from markets across Europe, and even features a wood-burning stove as its centrepiece. Gerald added:
“The brief was to recreate what expedition travel was actually like in 1896, when their first ship left Norway for Svalbard. They’ve gone properly deep on it. Reclaimed wood on the walls and ceiling, and a wood-burning stove as the centrepiece. There are vintage bits and pieces throughout, all sourced from markets across Europe. And there’s even a bar hidden inside a wooden barrel!”
Open as a shoe cabin throughout each voyage, every guest has the opportunity to step inside and experience the space for themselves, even without booking an overnight stay. Gerald particularly liked this thoughtful touch, saying:
“It’s open as a shore cabin during each voyage, so every guest gets to step inside, which I think is a nice touch. You don’t need to book it to see it. Guests who book it pay €100, and half the profit goes to the HX Foundation.”
Blending historic expedition inspiration with HX’s modern sustainability ethos, the 1896 Cabin offers one of the most distinctive and immersive accommodation experiences anywhere at sea.
