Norwegian Coastal Cruise - Hurtigruten

It is not surprising that, given the rugged nature of their homeland and its long, penetrating coast line, getting around by boat comes naturally to the Norwegians.

It was in 1893 that a new steam boat service was introduced to serve the many small communities which had grown up along the coast and edges of the inland fjords. With 34 ports of call the Norwegian Coastal Voyage was a lifeline and vital form of communication and it is still a lifeline along the west coast of Norway today, carrying freight and cargo.

The journey showcases the dazzling scenery of fjords, snow-capped mountains, and farm communities tucked away in between rolling hills, as well as bustling fishing villages and picturesque towns. This fact has not been overlooked by visitors to Norway who regularly use t he service as a cruise in its own right, and this is something that the operators are happy to accommodate as you will see.

The Journey

The complete 12-day roundtrip journey takes you northbound from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes in the north, close to the Russian border, stopping at 34 picturesque ports along the way. In Kirkenes the ship turns around and sails back down south along the coast to Bergen, making calls at the same 34 ports. The ports visited during the day on the northbound journey are visited during the night on the southbound voyage, and vice versa. For passengers who would like an in-depth Norwegian experience, the complete 12-day roundtrip is an ideal choice.

Western Norway Village
© Innovasjon Norge
Jens Henrik Nybo/Innovasjon Norge

Passengers with less time may choose to experience a one-way voyage; the 7-day northbound journey embarking in Bergen and disembarking in Kirkenes, or the 6-day southbound voyage embarking in Kirkenes and disembarking in Bergen. Regardless of the length of the voyage you choose, you are guaranteed days filled with majestic scenery from deep spectacular fjords to high snow-capped mountains, and a varied flora and fauna—make sure to pack your camera, extra film, and your binoculars for this “The World’s Most Beautiful Voyage.”

The Ships

MS Trollfjord

The fleet has changed dramatically over the years to accommodate even the most discerning travelers. Spacious suites, comfortable cabins, and a variety of elegant public areas and panoramic lounges fill the ships.

Hurtigruten/The Norwegian Coastal Voyage is served by a new and modern fleet of 11 ships. The facilities provided by the ships are uniform, but the choice of colours, materials and design means that each ship retains its own character.

They have large, comfortable lounges providing good views, extremely good facilities for meetings and conferences, wonderful cabins and suites of a high standard, fully licensed restaurants, cafés and bars, and souvenir shops that also sell a selection of toiletries.

The majority of the ships also have fitness rooms and saunas for passengers. MS Finnmarken has a spa and outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzis. MS Midnatsol, MS Trollfjord, MS Nordnorge, MS Nordkapp and MS Richard With have outdoor jacuzzis.

The very newest ships have several bars, restaurants and cafés with varied menus, extended conference facilities and internet cafés. All the ships, with the exception of MS Lofoten and MS Nordstjernen, have good facilities for disabled people and have lifts. MS Lofoten and MS Nordstjernen, which are traditional ships, are used as replacement ships during the winter season.

The artwork on board the Norwegian Coastal Voyage ships is renowned. The scenery and people along the route have inspired well-known artists who have brought them to life on board.

On Board

The guests on board the ships originate from all corners of the world. You’ll have the opportunity to meet people from a variety of countries and cultures—and will perhaps make lifelong friends who become future traveling companions.

All the eleven passenger ships are modern and provide comfort and safety. Elegant lounges with art from local artists mean each vessel has a distinctive character. Top quality meals are served at specific times throughout the day with excellent service. Light refreshments are available all day in cafes while bars and lounges allow you to relax while the Norwegian countryside slips steadily by. Some ships are now equipped with an internet cafe and gym. Conference facilities on all ships.

Most cabins have outside views and have en suite facilities. There are some suites with separate bedrooms, tv telephone and mini bar. There is good coverage for mobile phones along most of the route.