HX (previously known as Hurtigruten Expeditions) has today announced an exciting new partnership with renowned marine biologist and broadcaster, Monty Halls called The Big Blue Bag project. The pilot project (which will take place on land in the UK) will be supported by a donation from the HX Foundation – the charity which supports, champions, and drives environmental and positive community change in the destinations that HX sails to. The donation will fund a pilot of this innovative citizen science initiative which is hoped to revolutionise public engagement in marine conservation.

The Big Blue Bag is designed to empower individuals of all ages and from all walks of life to directly contribute to the protection of waterways and oceans. Participants/communities on land will be provided with a specially designed "Big Blue Bag" that contains easy-to-follow protocols, enabling them to collect vital data on marine health—including microplastic pollution, species biodiversity, water temperature, and coastal debris. The collected data will be uploaded to a global, open-access database, contributing to vital research that informs conservation efforts around the world.

This partnership aligns perfectly with HX mission of protecting marine life and raising awareness of environmental challenges which also aligns to the HX Foundation mission 'To fund and collaborate with projects, researchers and enthusiasts around the world who help bring knowledge, awareness and action to our vulnerable ecosystems.'  The project demonstrates a community-led approach to conservation and ocean health.

Monty Halls, founder of The Big Blue Bag, expressed his enthusiasm:

"We are thrilled to join forces with HX and the HX Foundation. By providing the tools and knowledge needed to protect our seas, we are creating a global movement of ocean stewards. This partnership will not only raise awareness but will empower local coastal communities in the UK to take ownership of their marine environments. We can't wait to get started and the donation from the HX Foundation which will build on the initial concept we started in the Isle of Man (The Isle of Man is a UNESCO Biosphere – designated under the Man and the Biosphere Programme) where the bags are being tested after an initial donation earlier this year.”

The Big Blue Bag aims to expand into a nationwide initiative across the UK, with a long-term goal of global outreach, bringing citizen science to coastal communities. The HX Foundation's funding will support the development of the digital platform and production of 50+ co-branded Big Blue Bags, which will be distributed to 50+ different communities across the UK.

The Big Blue Bag activities mirror similar work that HX already do on the ships for guests which includes their state-of-the-art science centres, hands-on citizen science activities on all of their voyages and which sees them donate over 1800 cabin nights free to guest scientist each year.  

Managing Director of the HX Foundation Henrik A. Lund added:

"We are incredibly excited to collaborate with Monty Halls on The Big Blue Bag project. This initiative aligns with our goal as a foundation of engaging the public in conservation efforts, while also furthering our commitment to protecting marine life. The project is a powerful tool for both education and action, inspiring individuals to make a meaningful impact."

This collaboration reinforces HX Foundation leadership in marine preservation and represents a bold step forward in community-driven conservation efforts. With the support of the HX Foundation and the expertise of Monty Halls, The Big Blue Bag is poised to become one of the UK's most exciting citizen science movements for 2025, delivering tangible results for ocean health and biodiversity.

For more information on The Big Blue Bag.  

About HX

HX, the world's leading expedition cruise company, has been guiding curious travelers on mindful adventures since 1896. With headquarters in London and a global team of over 1,300 professionals, HX operates a fleet of five modern ships, offering voyages to over 250 destinations across more than 30 countries. Renowned for its pole-to-pole expeditions, HX combines sustainability, science, and education to create transformative travel experiences. Pioneering in sustainability, HX was the first cruise company to eliminate heavy fuel oils, ban single-use unnecessary plastics in its operations, and launch hybrid cruise ships. The company also supports scientific research, donating over 1,800 free cabin nights to onboard scientists, and runs the HX Foundation, providing grants to community projects focused on education and marine conservation.

To find our more information go to travelhx.com or follow their Instagram.

About the HX Foundation

The HX Foundation is the dedicated charity for Hurtigruten Expeditions (HX). Created to drive environmental conservation and support local communities in the destinations visited by HX's expedition ships. Evolving from the Hurtigruten Foundation, the HX Foundation focuses on preserving wildlife, battling marine litter, and fostering sustainable development. With over 15 million NOK in donations since 2015, the Foundation continues to make a positive impact worldwide.

 About Monty Halls:

https://www.montyhalls.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Monty-Halls-Biography-Download.pdf