The recruitment drive comes soon after the expedition specialist announced plans to host its largest-ever agent fam on its Fridtjof Nansen ship in 2026 as part of its 130th anniversary celebrations.

Matt Irwin joins HX as trade partnerships manager, EMEA, from Royal Caribbean International, where he managed markets across the Middle East, Africa and parts of Eastern Europe.

At HX, Irwin will focus on building and strengthening partnerships across emerging markets including Ireland, Italy, Spain, Central and Eastern Europe, while also supporting the UK market.

Henry McCoid-Filby has joined as inside sales executive, bringing a strong trade background from his previous roles at Mundy Cruising and Hays Travel.

McCoid-Filby will support travel agent partners and drive sales performance within the UK market.

HX's UK and Northern Europe expanded sales team stands at seven members, led by Mark Walter, recently promoted to sales director, Northern Europe.

It now includes two UK trade partnerships managers, a business development manager, and a head of sales for the Nordics, alongside these new additions.

The trade sale steam will focus on "deepening trade relationships, expanding HX Expeditions’ presence across key markets, and driving continued growth in the expedition cruise sector", the line said.

Nathaniel Sherborne, senior vice-president and managing director, EMEA, ANZ and global sales enablement, said: “These new appointments mark another step in HX Expeditions’ ambitious growth strategy as we build towards our 130th anniversary next year.

"Matt and Henry both bring exceptional experience and energy to the team, and their expertise will help us continue to grow our trade relationships and reinforce HX Expeditions’ position as a leader in expedition cruising.”

HX Expeditions operates a five-ship fleet, offering voyages to more than 250 destinations across more than 30 countries.