hurtigruten cruise in december

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First Hurtigruten Cruise? Tips for your Maiden Voyage

Whether it's your first time ever on a cruise, or just your first experience with the Hurtigruten coastal voyage, we're here with some tips to make sure it's all smooth sailing.

Lonely Planet called this cruise along Norway's breathtaking coastline "The World's Most Beautiful Voyage", and rightly so. 

The classic one-way journey covers roughly 1,255 kilometres (780 miles) of craggy, fjord-studded coast between Bergen in the south to Kirkenes, in the arctic north. Taking 6 or 7 days, the route takes in stops at 34 ports of call, including the charming cities of Trondheim, Ålesund and Tromsø.

So it's time to get your feet wet. Figuratively speaking, of course! Read on for handy hints on how to make the most of your time on a Hurtigruten voyage. 

1. Embrace the flexibility

Apart from the stunning scenery, one of the best things about Hurtigruten is its hop-on, hop-off style, so if you're new to cruise travel—or simply don't have time to do the full route—you have the option of joining just part of the coastal voyage with only one or two nights on board.

Bonus tip : you're not limited to certain seasons as cruises are available year-round.

• Explore our range of tours including Hurtigruten voyages
• Find out more about our Norway coastal cruises

2. Slow down and get to know your cruise

Before rushing ahead with our travel tips, let's get to know Hurtigruten and its story.

It's not an ordinary cruise line, and that's perhaps why the experience is so unique. These cruise ships also double as ferries, shuttling locals and supplies between towns just as it's been done for decades.

This Norwegian cruise line traces its roots back to the 19th century, when the journey at sea was long and gruelling with the simple steamers, and the mountains and fjords made travel by road difficult and sometimes dangerous.

It wasn't until 1893 that one man, Richard With, revolutionised Norwegian maritime travel with his sturdy and better-equipped steamer, the DS Vesteraalen. He thus established a regular route with weekly departures from Hammerfest to Trondheim, later extending it to the route we still use today, Kirkenes to Bergen. This "new service" cut travel and shipping times significantly around the turn of the century and was thus deemed "the fast route", or hurtigruten in Norwegian.

The irony is that today Norway is hailed as leaders in the "slow travel" movement , with Hurtigruten at the forefront. In 2011, Norway's national TV station NRK broadcast a 134-hour live stream of a Hurtigruten voyage from Kirkenes to Bergen. This "Slow TV" show, Hurtigruten Minute by Minute , was a hit—drawing over 3 millions viewers! (For context, Norway has just over 5 million residents.)

3. Entertain yourself

It may be called 'slow travel', but rest assured there's plenty of excitement around.

As John T., a recent Nordic Visitor traveller, quipped, "Who needs entertainment when you have windows?" He explained that seeing the northern lights fluttering overhead on more than one night of his coastal voyage in December was all the show he needed.

On these ships, nature takes centre stage.

It's not a party boat or a travelling circus; instead the crew offers seasonal activities—such as demonstrations or presentations—that seek to educate passengers about the nature and wildlife they're apt to encounter on the route.

Or, if you want to entertain your friends back home with your own "slow TV" video from the sundeck, you can connect to Wi-Fi in most public areas indoors. Note that this requires a fee, paid at reception desk. And bandwidth and signal strength can sometimes be limited.

And if you're perfectly content to disconnect from the digital world to watch the real-time scenery, the outdoor sun decks or indoor lounges with their extra large windows are the best places to be.

4. Stay up past your bedtime

In summer or winter, staying up late has its advantages. Thanks to the tilt of the Earth between seasons, Norway experiences some rather eye-catching phenomena. Stay up until the wee hours in summer—especially around the solstice —and you'll enjoy the pastel hues of the midnight sun, or in winter you can watch for bursts of colourful aurora borealis ( northern lights ) to illuminate the nighttime darkness.

Planning to photograph the northern lights on a winter cruise? Get our camera tips here

5. Get out of your shell

Sleeping quarters are important, and the range of cabins on board Hurtigruten—though snug in size for some—are equipped with comfortable amenities. But let's face it, after finding out how much there is to do on your cruise, you won't be able to justify spending much time inside your cabin.

Even if you're staying in the best available class of cabin on an upper deck with a nice window, nothing beats being outside with a 180- or 360-degree view of your natural surroundings. Besides the wonderful views you'll have ample opportunities to meet other travellers from around the world, or perhaps to spot sea eagles or other wildlife.

Good to know:  There are 11 different ships for Hurtigruten's Norway cruises—all with varying size, facilities and deck plans—and the specific ship you're booked on will depend on the departure point, voyage route and season. Cabins also vary in size, views and amenities according to category.

6. Get moving

Hurtigruten vessels aren't huge—they carry about 500 guests on average versus thousands in the mega-ships—but there's still plenty of room for moving around and stretching your legs.

And thankfully for the fitness enthusiasts among us, most Hurtigruten ships have small fitness rooms equipped with a small number of basic cardio and nautilus machines. For a truly interesting experience, go for a jog on the treadmill while the boat gently rocks in the waves. Should you go overboard (ahem) with your fitness routine, you can use the jacuzzi while gazing at some fjords.

Keep in mind:  Not all the ships have fitness rooms, pools, sauna or jacuzzis.

7. Move even more

Are you stuck on the ship the whole time? No! At the shorter ports of call, you can of course choose to disembark and have a quick look around—just be sure to be back on time, because Hurtigruten doesn't wait for the punctually-challenged.

And at the longer stops during daytime hours, we highly recommend  joining one of the shore excursions. These short guided trips, organized by Hurtigruten, are designed to make the most of your time on land. Best of all, you won't have to worry at all about keeping track of the time for getting back to the ship.

Some excursions, such as the popular Atlantic Road Excursion, also take you from one port to the next—making them a good option for those who need a little time on dry land.

Pro tip :  It's best to plan ahead for what you'd like to see along the route and then pre-book some shore excursions, ideally a month or more in advance (though excursions can also be booked on board the cruise, subject to availability). Your Nordic Visitor travel consultant can assist with this or offer suggestions.

Need some ideas? We featured some of the more popular ports of call in this blog post .

8. Enjoy the local cuisine

All this movement can make a person hungry, right?

Whether your Hurtigruten cruise lasts just one night or a full week, breakfast is included in the price. And trust us – you won't go hungry. The breakfast buffet is usually well stocked with cold meats, cheese, eggs, cereal, fruit, assorted breads and pastries.

When it's time for lunch and dinner, you're free to choose from the options available on board. For instance, the lunch buffet has several salad and fish/meat options, and dinners are a mixture of buffets and set menus.

Hungry now? We'll bet you are! These are the typical meal times on most cruises:

• Breakfast from 07:30 to 10:00 (open seating)
• Lunch from 12:00 (open seating)
• Dinner from 18:30 (set seating)

It's highly unlikely you'll leave the main dining room still feeling hungry, but if you do get peckish between meals you can always pop into one of the cafes or lounges for a snack or beverage.

So, are you ready to cruise? Nordic Visitor is a certified Hurtigruten agent and offers a range of package tours with varying cruise durations. Most also include scenic road and railway journeys to or from Oslo, such as the famous Norway in a Nutshell®  route.

If it's your first time as a cruise passenger, your Nordic Visitor travel consultant will be glad to help you navigate the sea of options and offer suggestions regarding recommended attire, itinerary modifications, cabin categories and more. Just ask!

Contact our travel consultants   for more information.

When not writing about Northern European tourist attractions, Jessica Bowe is busy daydreaming about her next trip or scouring Instagram for travel inspiration. Originally from Wisconsin (USA), she's lived in Iceland since 2008 and has since become fully immersed in Eurovision mania and Scandinavian coffee culture.

Find Jessica on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

NORWAY IN A NUTSHELL® - CLASSIC

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NORWAY IN A NUTSHELL® & PULPIT ROCK

Related posts, my norway: fjords, goats & bikes.

Scandinavia , Norway , In Focus

Norway Cruises in Focus: Get on a boat!

In brief: what to do in bergen, in focus: norway’s amazing unesco sites.

Astronomy and Northern Lights Expedition Cruise from Dover

Come with us on a Northern Lights expedition along the coast of Norway to the top of the world at North Cape, directly from Dover.

• Learn more about the Northern Lights, the Arctic sky and the solar system in lectures on board from renowned astronomer - Tom Kerss
• Explore Norway’s amazing coastline in winter
• Visit the Northern Lights Planetarium in Tromsø
• Learn about Norwegian culture, history and nature with our Expedition Teams

Community charm and culture

Your expedition will take you to a range of communities living and thriving on the Norwegian coast. Visit the exciting cities of Bergen, Tromsø, and Ålesund and get to know the local culture. You’ll fall in love with the many charms of the Lofoten Islands in Svolvær and the picturesque fishing village Reine. Our ship also takes you where the big ships of other cruise lines can’t sail, such as the hidden gems of Fjærland and Mosterøy which few ever get to see. 

Polar nights and Northern Lights

Sailing north and crossing the Arctic Circle to places such as Narvik, Alta, and North Cape will mean short winter days and long polar nights. This creates the best possible conditions to experience the magical Northern Lights, the phenomenon that has fascinated visitors, artists, scientists, and locals for centuries. Learn more about this astronomical phenomenon with an exclusive visit to the Planetarium at the Science Centre in Tromso led by our astronomy expert - Tom Kerss.

Setting off from the White Cliffs

Estimated time of departure is 16:00

All aboard at Dover! MS Maud is here, ready and waiting to bring you north to Norway´s magical landscapes on the hunt for one of nature’s greatest spectacles: The Northern Lights. 

Once on board the ship, you’ll pick up your complimentary expedition jacket, settle into your cabin, explore the ship and attend a mandatory safety drill. After the first of many sumptuous dinners and a welcome toast by the Captain, you’ll meet your expert Expedition Team. They are your knowledgeable lecturers, warm hosts, and good-natured guides throughout your journey. Many grew up and live in the places you’ll be visiting and are passionate about sharing their home with you. First and foremost though, they are there to keep you safe and well. They’ll be making it a priority to run through important health and safety aspects with you and your fellow guests.   

When the ship sets sail, we’ll pass the white cliffs of Dover and head up to the North Sea. Stretch your sea legs and get to know MS Maud, your cosy home away from home. If the weather holds, take in the salubrious sea air from out on deck or park yourself in the Explorer Lounge and Bar to watch the world go by from the panoramic windows, maybe together with a relaxing glass of wine. Your adventure to the Arctic under the Auroral Zone is officially underway! 

Later in the evening, we’ll call at Harwich, which is one of the most important ports on the Essex coast and boasts a rich maritime heritage. Famous explorers such as Sir Francis Drake, Sir Richard Hawkins, and Sir Martin Frobisher all departed from here on several expeditions of discovery. Perhaps most famously, the town was the home port of the Pilgrim ship ‘Mayflower’ and birthplace of its captain, Christopher Jones.  

In keeping with Harwich tradition, and to celebrate the start of your journey, you’ll enjoy a local sea shanty performance before crossing the North Sea. 

Norway bound

Ease into your journey and relax on board 

The next day at sea will give you plenty of time to enjoy the onboard facilities, such as our hot tubs, sauna and gym. You'll also dine on delicious seasonal produce in our restaurants.

The Expedition Team will begin the first in their series of lectures over at the Science Center. Each member of the Expedition Team is an expert in their field. They’ll share fascinating insights about the places, history and nature you may encounter on your Norwegian coast adventure.

Find out about our Citizen Science projects, where you can contribute to important scientific research. Or pick up pointers on improving your wildlife and landscape images from our expedition photographers.

Views from Mount Hoven 

Enjoy the glacial beauty of Nordfjord 

In the morning, we’ll enter Nordfjord. We’ll pass Hornelen, Europe's highest sea cliff – look out for it if your cruise is passing in daylight – and head towards Jostedalsbreen, Europe's largest glacier. 

As we cruise past picturesque inlets, you'll spy old fishing communities dating back to pre-Viking times. One of these is Loen, where we'll land if conditions are right. In the shadow of the mighty glacier, there's much to discover. 

After a short boat ride to the floating jetty, you'll take the Loen Skylift to enjoy spectacular views from the summit of Mount Hoven. After, why not join exciting activities such as snowshoeing, sledding or winter kayaking. 

Approaching the Arctic Circle

Today you can spend time in the ship’s lounge, soaking in a hot tub, or out on deck. Whatever you do, don’t take your eyes off the scenery as we sail through Helgeland county and the thousands of islands of the lowland area. Pick out the peaks of the Seven Sisters mountain range, thought to be the petrified bodies of seven troll sisters caught out at sunrise. You’ll likely be amazed at Torghatten mountain too, with its distinct hole right through the middle. Local legend states that the mountain was in fact the troll-king’s hat which turned to stone when it was pierced through by an arrow. 

At this point of your expedition, we are around the halfway mark along Norway’s long coastline and you won’t be far off from the Arctic Circle. This is an exciting time as the further north we sail, the greater your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The natural phenomenon occurs when charged particles carried by the solar wind disturb the Earth’s upper atmosphere, creating mesmerising ripples and rays. The end result is a cosmic lightshow of dazzling colour and dance. Our route along the Norwegian coast will take us directly under the Auroral Zone, a prime area of Northern Lights occurrences. We’ll be hoping to see multiple sightings of the lights in different locations. 

The weather in northern Norway will be noticeably nippier and the amount of snow you’ll see will normally start to increase as well, which actually has the effect of making the landscapes seem brighter. Depending on when in the winter season you sail, the periods of daylight will be fairly short and grow even more brief above the Arctic Circle. It’s not complete darkness though as you’ll also get to experience the very romantic ‘blue hour’. This is an extended twilight that can actually be several hours long. The winter sun glows just below the horizon, bathing Norway’s fjords and mountains in a dreamy cobalt-blue light. 

The Expedition Team will continue their onboard lectures which may cover local folklore and fairytales or a history of navigation along the coast from lighthouses to satellites. You might also learn about the quintessentially Norwegian love of the outdoors known as friluftsliv. Or perhaps pick up tips from the professional onboard photographer on how best to capture the aurora when they appear. 

Idyllic Lofoten

One of the world's most spectacular destinations 

A majestic wall of mountains signals your arrival in stunning Lofoten. The breathtaking scenery is a masterpiece of jutting snow-capped mountains, sheltered bays, untouched beaches and fishing villages. 

With its iconic red fishing huts, or rorbuer, dotted against a backdrop of granite peaks, Reine is an idyllic place to visit and photograph. And if the weather conditions don’t allow, there are plenty of other, equally memorable ports for us to explore.  

• Included Reine - The Fishing Village of Å

Arctic Alta, Aurora city

Go snowmobiling or learn about Sámi culture  

Lying 70º north of the Arctic Circle, Alta is the perfect destination for winter activities such as visiting snow hotels, dog sledding and snowmobiling. Alta lies directly beneath the Auroral Oval. If conditions are right, you could be in for quite a show. 

Visit Alta’s Northern Lights Cathedral, with its striking Aurora-inspired architecture, and learn more about the science in a fascinating interactive exhibition on Northern Lights research.  

Or why not visit a Sámi village and learn more about these indigenous and semi-nomadic reindeer herders. The Expedition Team may even give a lecture on Sámi culture. 

• Included Experience the Northern Lights Cathedral

Tromsø, the Arctic gateway

Join exciting winter activities in the Arctic capital 

Our Northern Lights cruise continues to the capital of the Arctic, Tromsø. Set in a majestic landscape and packed with culture and history, this small, cosmopolitan city has plenty of fascinating sights to discover.   

We’ll visit the Polar Museum to learn about the city’s Arctic and exploration heritage. See the Arctic Cathedral – with its huge stained-glass window, it’s one of the most striking landmarks in Tromsø. 

You can also take the Fjellheisen cable car to the top of Mount Fløyfjellet for incredible views. From December to April, you’ll have the chance to try exciting winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or dogsledding. 

• Included The Polar Museum

Historic Narvik

Discover one of the world's most northerly towns 

We arrive at Narvik in the morning. Sitting 150 miles inside the Arctic Circle and surrounded by three fjords, the town enjoys a spectacular setting. Spend some time exploring the galleries, shops and restaurants specialising in local seafood and reindeer meat. 

An important port, Narvik was a strategic target for Germany during WWII. You'll visit the Narvik War Museum and learn about the Allied troops' liberation of the town. 

Then ride the cable car to the top of Mount Narvik, or go hiking, snowshoeing or kayaking on the fjord. In the evening, we'll look out for the Northern Lights as we cross Vestfjord. 

• Included Narvik War Museum Visit

Expedition days

Take time to connect and learn something new 

Over the next two days, we may go off the beaten track to wherever takes our fancy. There are many islands and fjords to discover in this region. In true expedition style, we'll go ashore in our small expedition boats, giving you the chance to experience the exhilarating feeling that comes from exploring a wild and remote island or discovering a hidden fjord. 

Activities and landings will be picked at the discretion of the Expedition Team, and they’ll draw on their in-depth knowledge of the area to bring you to the most captivating and naturally beautiful locations.  

You'll also learn more about what we've seen – with lectures from our Expedition Team or in our Science Center. You can join a Citizen Science project like Happywhale, which uses photos of sightings to track whale migrations around the world. 

Norway’s dried cod capital

We dock at Kristiansund which is one of the most densely populated cities in Norway. Its urban area is spread across four islands with bustling waterfronts, scenic marinas and distinctive architecture, decorated in shades of red, yellow and green.  

Kristiansund is also known as Norway’s ‘Dried Cod Capital’ because of its historic export of salted fish or bacalao, known locally as klippfisk. If you’re interested in the topic, head to the local Norwegian Bacalao Museum housed in a 250-year-old building.  

There are optional excursions to sign up for, including kayaking with local guides or a hike with the Expedition Team. You can also join an excursion to the famous Atlantic Ocean Road – an 8km scenic drive, with eight uniquely designed, undulating bridges linking a series of islands. 

Beautiful Bergen

Visit Bergen's UNESCO-listed Bryggen district 

Enjoy the unique charm of what was once Norway's capital, Bergen. Today, it remains one of Norway's most picturesque cities, surrounded by seven mountains and the sea. 

Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district and discover its colourful wooden wharves, dating back to the 14th century. Explore Bergen’s cobbled streets and alleys on foot, stopping at fascinating museums, artisanal boutiques, cafés or a pub for a glass of local Hansa beer along the way. 

Then enjoy a ride up Mount Fløyen on the funicular railway. At the summit, you'll find amazing views over the city. If there’s time, we might even venture into the alpine forest for a short hike. 

• Included Bergen - The Fløibanen Funicular

Cosy Egersund

A beautiful town of wooden houses and ancient runes 

You’ll love the cosy, small-town feel of Egersund, with its brightly coloured wooden houses. People have lived here since the Stone Age, and you can even find ancient runes carved into rocks nearby. It’s also one of the best natural harbours in Norway – as a fishing town, Egersund used to land more fish than anywhere else in the country. 

The best way to explore is on foot. You can take a hike in the hills or enjoy exploring the town on your own. For panoramic views, hike to the viewpoint at Varberg, a short walk from the town centre. 

Homeward bound

Relax at sea as we return to Dover 

As you cruise back across the North Sea to Dover, you'll have time to relax and look back on some of the incredible experiences you've enjoyed on this expedition cruise. Spend time in the Explorer Lounge & Bar with your fellow adventurers or relax in the hot tubs or sauna.  

You can also enlist the help of our onboard photographer for editing tips on the photos you've taken on this cruise. If you have more questions about the Northern Lights and Norway, our Expedition Team will be on hand to fill in any gaps – head to the Science Center to discover more. 

Return to England

Estimated time of arrival is 09:00

Unforgettable memories of Norway in winter 

We pass the White Cliffs of Dover during the early morning. After breakfast, it's time to head ashore. 

Dover is the gateway to the English countryside, so before you rush off, why not visit Dover Castle or the Roman lighthouse, reputedly the UK’s oldest building. You can also tour the underground hospital and secret WWII tunnels beneath the castle. 

As your expedition ends, you'll take with you wonderful memories of coastal Norway in winter, Norwegian culture and history, and with any luck, the Northern Lights. 

What's included

Expedition cruise.

• Expedition cruise in a cabin of your choice
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water) in restaurant Aune
• A la carte restaurant Lindstrom included for suite guests
• Complimentary tea and coffee
• Complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with very limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
• Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill stations on board
• English speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
• Range of included excursions

Onboard Activities

• Tour Manager & Lecturer
• Lecture series on the Northern Lights & astronomy
• Exclusive visit to the planetarium at the Science Centre in Tromso. You’ll enjoy an impressive show about the polar sky in the Arctic; the constellations and of course the Aurora Borealis.
• Experts on the Expedition Team deliver in-depth lectures on a variety of topics
• Use of the ship’s Science Center which has an extensive library, biological and geological microscopes and samples
• Citizen Science programme allows guests to assist with live scientific research
• Professional onboard photographer gives top tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Use of the ship’s hot tubs, panoramic sauna and indoor gym, outdoor running track and gym
• Informal gatherings with the crew such as daily recaps and preparation for the day to come

Landing Activities

• Loan of trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket
• Expedition Photographers help with your camera settings
• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please ensure you meet all visa entry requirements
• No gratuities expected

Not included in your voyage

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
• Spa treatments

Formerly MS Midnatsol, MS Maud was renamed in honour of the ship that brought Norwegian polar explorer Roald Amundsen through the Northeast Passage.

Read more about MS Maud

Practical information

Related cruises, autumn expedition cruise to svalbard from dover.

• The Norwegian Coast from Bergen to North Cape and Svalbard in one expedition
• Spend 11 nights above the Arctic Circle chasing the Northern Lights

Fjords Expedition Cruise from Dover

• Explore the most famous fjords of Norway in one sailing – Hardangerfjord, Sognefjord, Nordfjord, Geirangerfjord and Lysefjord.
• Experience the fjords in spring when snow dusts the mountains and flowers begin to bloom.
• Learn more about the Northern Lights, the Arctic sky and the solar system in lectures on board from a renowned astronomer
• Explore Norway’s amazing coastline in winter
• Visit the Northern Lights Planetarium in Tromsø

Here are a few suggestions:

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The wild beauty and unique ecology of the Galápagos Islands make for the perfect expedition cruise destination.

Grand Expedition Cruises

Embark on the ultimate global adventure and follow in the wake of the great explorers on one of our Grand Expedition Cruises.

The beautiful land of contrasts

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Northwest Passage

In the footsteps of legendary explorers

Norway’s wild and dramatic coastline is made for expedition-style adventure. Sailing here for almost 130 years, we’re the experts, showing you both its highlights and its hidden gems.

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Hurtigruten

• Norway Fjords Cruise
• Northern Lights Cruise
• Norway Midnight Sun Cruise
• HX Expeditions UK

More From Forbes

How to see the best of norway on hurtigruten cruises.

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Hurtigruten's coastal ferries rarely venture far from the Norwegian coastline.

Hurtigruten is a well-known name among tourists with a keen interest in Scandinavian travel. Renowned for its scenic voyages along the Norwegian coast, Hurtigruten has been a staple in the Nordic travel industry for decades.

What travelers might not realize is that Hurtigruten now offers three distinct types of cruise experiences in Norway, provided by two separate companies under the Hurtigruten brand.

These experiences cater to different interests and expectations, making it essential for travelers to understand the nuances of each option before booking their trips.

Whether you are looking for a classic coastal voyage, an Arctic expedition, or fancy trying out a new signature route, Hurtigruten has something to offer everyone with an interest in visiting Norway.

Understanding the three options will help you select the experience that best aligns with your travel goals and ensure that your adventure through Norway's stunning landscapes and rich culture is everything you hope for.

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Hurtigruten is not a typical cruise line. Instead of focusing on onboard entertainment and luxury amenities, Hurtigruten emphasizes the natural beauty and cultural richness of Norway.

Hurtigruten emphasizes the Norwegian coastline as the entertainment on its voyages, shown by the ... [+] design of its observation lounge.

Passengers can expect an immersive experience that brings them closer to Norway's stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.

Most Hurtigruten ships are older cruise ferries, with a few newer expedition ships added to the fleet. All ships prioritize functionality and comfort over amenities. Regardless of the age of the ship, there is no onboard entertainment in the traditional cruising sense.

Instead, the entertainment is the Norwegian coastline, wildlife, and some limited enrichment activities, such as lectures and occasional guided tours, depending on the itinerary.

Excellent food is a feature across the fleet, with an emphasis on local and sustainable ingredients. Fish and seafood feature strongly on the dinner menus, while lavish breakfast and lunch buffet meals ensure passengers never go hungry.

Norway’s Historic Coastal Route

Although the line has diversified since losing the exclusive rights to operate the route, Norway’s historic coastal ferry route remains the backbone of Hurtigruten's offering.

Daily departures from Bergen continue. Hurtigruten operates departures on seven of 11 days, with Havila Voyages operating the other four.

There's a casual atmosphere aboard Hurtigruten's coastal route ships.

This route has been operating since 1893, serving as a lifeline for Norway’s remote, coastal communities. Today, the journey stretches from Bergen in the southwest to Kirkenes in the northeast, covering over 2,500 miles.

Passengers can embark on a full 11-night round trip from Bergen, take a one-way voyage, or do as the locals do and use the service as a ferry for shorter segments.

Regardless of the option you pick, this route offers a thoroughly enjoyable blend of scenic beauty and cultural experiences. Passengers will see dramatic fjords, charming coastal towns, and the northern lights in the winter or the midnight sun in the summer.

Multiple daily port calls allow for excursions and exploration in some ports, but many are short stops designed simply for the loading and unloading of cargo and local passengers.

Hurtigruten’s New Signature Voyages

To mark the 130th anniversary of the coastal route and make more use of MS Trollfjord , Hurtigruten introduced two unique itineraries called the Svalbard Express and North Cape Express.

The passenger-only voyages proved popular, so Hurtigruten recently made them a permanent addition to its program , with departures available from Bergen and Oslo.

Now named ‘Signature Voyages’, the renamed Svalbard Line (summer) and North Cape Line (winter) offer unique itineraries with longer port stays, no local ferry service, all-inclusive Nordic cuisine, personalized guiding, and enrichment activities.

Norway's North Cape has been a tourist destination for hundreds of years.

The experience is arguably better for experienced cruisers than the coastal route, with fewer, longer port calls, and a more cruise-like experience, despite still lacking the entertainment of traditional cruise lines.

Expedition Cruises In Norway

Now known as HX , Hurtigruten Expeditions offers expedition cruises across the world, but also in its home waters of Norway.

These cruises are designed for those who want to explore remote and less-visited areas of Norway, often beyond the Arctic Circle. Expedition cruises are conducted on smaller, specialized ships equipped for polar waters and include a range of activities such as kayaking, hiking, and wildlife spotting.

Passengers are accompanied by expert guides and scientists, who provide insights into the natural environment and local culture. These cruises retain the core of the Hurtigruten experience but offer a more rugged and hands-on approach to exploring Norway’s wilderness.

Available HX expedition cruises to Norway include exploring the Arctic winter aboard MS Spitsbergen or circumnavigations of Svalbard aboard MS Fram .

Expedition cruises in Svalbard allow visitors to get closer to nature.

The latter offers a much more in-depth exploration of Svalbard’s glaciers and wildlife than some other lines' Svalbard cruises, which may make just one port call in Longyearbyen.

Booking Tips For Hurtigruten Cruises In Norway

Although Hurtigruten trips are a bucket list item for many travelers, research should be done in advance of booking to fully understand the ships, travel concept, and other factors that may impact enjoyment. That’s especially true for someone used to traditional cruising.

Hurtigruten’s smaller ships mean that guests will feel the movement of the ocean more. On the coastal route, certain stretches such as rounding Norway’s West Cape and crossing Vestfjorden towards Lofoten are renowned for their rough seas, especially when sailing outside of the summer season.

Hurtigruten fares are also higher than guests may expect, especially on the coastal route.

Part of the reason for this is the coastal route ships are subject to local laws and must use Norwegian-speaking crew primarily for safety reasons. This requires the payment of relatively high salaries and imposing high taxes on alcohol, among other factors, that keep prices higher than some alternative travel options.

Despite the high prices, there’s a lot to love about the Hurtigruten experience in Norway, which keeps many travelers coming back year after year.

The breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and unique itineraries that cater to a range of interests make Hurtigruten cruises a standout choice for exploring Norway.

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Hurtigruten

Hurtigruten offer unforgettable voyages from pole to pole, on intimate ships that bring you closer to the communities and environments you visit.

With over 125 years’ experience, Hurtigruten are the market leader in exploration travel and offer unique nature-based adventures to the far ends of the planet. With new ships and new destinations, they have something for everyone and their experienced and dedicated on-board expedition teams are on hand to make their trips truly remarkable.

From the magnificent Norwegian fjords to the ice-filled bays of Antarctica, Hurtigruten takes you beyond the realms of conventional cruises by offering voyages that allow travellers to immerse themselves in a vast range of nature, cultures and wildlife, whilst travelling through breath-taking natural environments. The voyages are very much destination focused with little in the way of on board entertainment, apart from educational lectures lead by the on-board expedition teams.

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Here at Hurtigruten, we put great effort into enhancing our environmental initiatives and running a responsible, sustainable operation. For love of the Norwegian coast and horizons across the planet, we…

– Have removed single-use plastic, such as straws and plastic cups, from all our ships; becoming the first cruise line to do so

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– Have installed new propellers on our ships to reduce emissions of CO2 by 2,300 tonnes a year

With 125 years of experience, Hurtigruten gives you the opportunity to experience not only the natural, unspoiled and endless beauty of the Norwegian coastline but also the Arctic environments, people and wildlife at the very ends of the Earth.

Thanks to the size of its ships, Hurtigruten can show you a wider range of destinations than bigger ships. This means you’ll get the chance to explore stunning fjords, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites and enjoy wildlife and nature along more than 1,000 miles of pristine coastline in a relaxed atmosphere.

Hurtigruten are experts in every aspect of expedition travel. On our journeys along the Norwegian coast and across the world, you will benefit from the skills of a full Expedition Team, who serve as hosts, lecturers, instructors, teachers and guides. All experts in different fields, the team will enhance your trip by leading you towards a deeper understanding of the areas you are travelling to, making your adventure truly unforgettable.

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Review - Hurtigruten Fridtjof Nansen Highlights of Antarctica December 28, 2022

By CDNPolar , January 14, 2023 in Hurtigruten

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Just got home yesterday - Friday January 13, 2023 - from our Highlights of Antarctica cruise on the Fridtjof Nansen.

A few notes of interest:

• We booked this cruise over two years prior to the sail date.  I think 27 months in advance.  
• We flew into Buenos Aires a day earlier to ensure that there were no travel delays that would prevent us getting to the ship on time - no way to "catch up" with this cruise if the ship departs without you.
• We packed the following in our carry on in case our checked luggage was lost - Gloves, hat, scarf, wool under layers, wool heavy socks, waterproof pants, fleece top, and down jacket.  If you lose any of these then you are not going to be comfortable on the landings or zodiac cruises.
• We did NOT get prescription medication for sea sickness, but did take with us powdered ginger capsules, and Gravol 50mg.  Some of the prescriptions medications have side effects that we did not want to risk.  Our MD suggested the Gravol and to take at as much as 100mg every 4 hours if necessary.  We had 5-7 metre waves on the Drake Passage and we each took one 50mg Gravol in the morning and one in the late afternoon and we were perfectly fine.  MANY on the ship did not leave their cabins on these days.
• We did buy Reliefband at about $120 each and in our opinion they did nothing.
• We purposely booked a mid-ship cabin to reduce the movement that we would experience

Now to the review:

The Hurtigruten experience starts with one night in a hotel in Buenos Aires (BA) and then an early morning call (2:30am) for your charter flight to Ushuaia.  We go with the flow of travel over the many that complain constantly.  If we leave the hotel at 2:30am, then there must be a reason for it.  You are flying a small charter flight with no upgrades available and it is a 3 hour flight.  Again, just go with it.

We arrived in Ushuaia at about 11am and cannot board the ship until after 2pm so we were let loose on the little city.  We found a seafood restaurant that had the best fresh crab we have ever had and started our trip that way.  Fabulous meal.  The restaurant was La Cantina Fueguina De Freddy.  It is on the main shopping street in Ushuaia.  

We boarded the ship and were immediately impressed with the decor of the ship - not overstated but still elegant enough.  We were very happy with our cabin as it was well appointed and very comfortable.

We headed out that night and hit the Drake Passage after we had fallen asleep.  I woke in the middle of the night knowing we were in rough waters because I was literally rolling side to side in the bed.  Next morning after being up for an hour or so was when we decided to take the Gravol.  We were not really sick at all, but there was a "Twinge" that was there.  The other thing recommended is to eat.  You should have food in your stomach to reduce the effects.  It was also "fun" to learn how to walk around the ship in these kinds of seas.  We have been in what we considered rough waters before, but nothing like this.  You are advised to always have one hand on the ship - either a wall or a handrail.  Always remember that if the ship lists or rolls to the left, it is going to go back to the right.  This is where people lose their balance when they are not prepared for the opposite action.

Unfortunately about 14-16 hours into sailing we were informed by the Captain that we were turning back to Ushuaia to evacuate an ill guest.  We did not know then what the issue was, but later found out that it was a guest that fell due to the rolling of the ship and broke her hip.

This put us behind, but everyone seemed to take this in stride, and we have to remember that we could have been that person that needed medical attention.  Once you are in the Drake Passage, there is no helicopter evacuation or fixed wing evacuation.  Only thing the ship can do is turn back.

The itinerary has time built in for things like this and the Captain turned our itinerary around so we would not lose any days of landings and activities.

We arrived for our first day near the continent at Deception Island with both a landing and a boat cruise anticipated.  Unfortunately the weather was not good and we could not do either.

As we moved through the rest of the itinerary we had fabulous weather and had landings, boat cruises, camping, snowshoeing, and kayaking, as anticipated.

The biggest part of my review will be the Expedition Team.  One word describes this team.   AMAZING   Amazing in every way.

The expeditions - the landings - the kayaking - the snowshoeing - the Penguins, Whales, and Seals - this is why you go to Antarctica.  You need a great team to bring you an experience that is memorable and exceeds expectations, and this team did just that.

This team and every member on this team was personable, fun to be around, knowledgable, and WORKED VERY HARD everyday to ensure that we had a great time and the best experience possible.  This team deserves a standing ovation.  They don't have an easy job getting all of us non-kayakers, non-snowshoers, non-hikers in and out of zodiac boats and on and off of landing sites that are not landing sites, they are raw and rough coast lines that are NOT built for ease of in and out and up and down.  I am in reasonable shape and still almost landed in the water during the transfer from the kayak back to the zodiac.  Yes, these transfers are done in the water away from the ship.

I cannot say enough about the Expedition Team.

The food and the service in general:

• The buffet was always different for breakfast and lunch each day and frankly we felt the buffet food was better than another luxury line that we frequent.  That clue is in the signature....
• The menu dinners however were adequate.  Nothing special, but nothing wrong with the food either.  
• There was one "burger joint" beside the main restaurant that did not excite us either.
• There is one "pay for extra" restaurant that after looking at the menu we were not even going to try to get a reservation.  Simply not worth it if the food is coming out of the same kitchen.
• The service in the restaurant was a bit lacking, but it was buffet for 2 of 3 meals a day.  We found a team of two servers that we loved and we asked for their section from that point forward. These two were attentive and personable.  (We however were not on this ship to be wowed by the food or the servers, we were on this ship for an Antarctic experience which we were ecstatic about.)
• The guest service desk and team were great and immediately reacted to any need that we had.

The Lottery for excursions and general flexibility:

• Sign up for what you want to do - kayaking, showshoeing, camping, etc., but keep in mind that you may not get one or any of your options.  It is truly a lottery.  Some cabins got 2 and 3 options, and others got nothing.
• You must be flexible.  The activities and the plans will change in a minute as the weather can change in a minute.  You have to be prepared for plans that you looked forward to go away with little notice.   The one great thing about 24 hour a day light is that if you have a bad day today, and tomorrow is great, they can run the expedition excursions well into the night.  We left for our snowshoeing at 8pm one night.

Overall thoughts:

• Would highly recommend Hurtigruten and this cruise.  We got everything and more that we expected from this cruise.  We are seasoned world travellers and have learned that most people raise expectations and end up disappointed.  We take everything as it comes and at face value and understand that with travel, there are delays, cancelations, problems, and challenges, and it is not what happens but how you handle it.  We were not without issues on this trip, but you will not hear us complaining especially when the core purpose of this trip exceeded our expectations.  Many had issues with the time we had to leave the hotel on the first night and are going to write letters to Hurtigruten - go ahead - but in the end, did this distract from the experience in Antarctica?  For us no.  Are we going to attack Hurtigruten about this?  No.

We LOVED this cruise and the experience.  End of story.

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Thank you for the very helpful report. Delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful experience and were very impressed by the ship overall. We're heading north rather than south but have been keen to hear views on the ship. We have a while to wait for our trip but are looking forward to it!

Thank you so much for such a great report. I am setting off for BA on Monday and very much looking forward to this trip. Thank you for your tips. 

Yes, fabulous report. We are on the Jan 28th package. Are very excited!!!

2 hours ago, HeadNorth said: Thank you for the very helpful report. Delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful experience and were very impressed by the ship overall. We're heading north rather than south but have been keen to hear views on the ship. We have a while to wait for our trip but are looking forward to it!

This was our first Expedition ship and we have been Viking Ocean and River diehards.  We were wondering how we would find the ship, but in general, it is very clean and nice.  There is nothing overall that I could be negative about with the ship, the cabin, and the decor.

We are now considering heading North for an Expedition in the future too after this experience.

2 hours ago, JCN51 said: Thank you so much for such a great report. I am setting off for BA on Monday and very much looking forward to this trip. Thank you for your tips. 

Oh my goodness, you will love it.  The problem that you will face as we are now is that no picture will tell the emotion that you feel when you see the landscapes, the ice, the penguins.  The pictures will be your memory of the real thing but no one that you show the pictures to will get the same feeling as you will being there.

1 hour ago, shortme said: Yes, fabulous report. We are on the Jan 28th package. Are very excited!!!  

Thanks for this. We are on the Amundsen Antarctic Circle Feb. 13. You gave some great info, especially about the 2:30 wake up, which isn't in the Hurtigruten info. I was also was wondering when they left port. Good to know.

On 1/14/2023 at 2:27 PM, edhopper said: Thanks for this. We are on the Amundsen Antarctic Circle Feb. 13. You gave some great info, especially about the 2:30 wake up, which isn't in the Hurtigruten info. I was also was wondering when they left port. Good to know.

There was coffee and I think some muffins available as of 1:30am in the basement ballroom of the hotel - this was something that some were complaining about, they wanted full breakfast.  It's 1:30am - who is eating breakfast?

The charter flight will give you a ham/cheese bun and a drink/coffee only during the three hour flight.  Perhaps there was an additional "snack" item too.

The Ushuaia airport level where these fights take off from is small and very crowded.  There are all kinds of early flights to other areas in South America - the departure gates were full to overloaded and many were sitting in the corridor and on the floor.  All seats were taken.

You bus to the aircraft from there.

The ship left port at 7:00pm that night.

When we got to the ship, there was a Viking ship in port - anchored, not at the pier - that was to have left the day before and it remained in port because the Drake was too rough.  We left at 7pm, but the Viking ship remained and did not leave until the next day.

We were "warned" by many - be prepared to be flexible.  Everything is weather dependent, including the departure the first night.

Also you won't find out what flight time of three that you will be on returning from Ushuaia to BA until perhaps 2 days before being back in port.  

Be aware that if you are flying out of BA the same day the cruise ends, that Hurtigruten does not recommend a flight out earlier than - I think - 9:00pm that night.

Thanks again. Fortunately we are staying in BA for a few days after.

CDNP, could you go over the night before the flight again. You said there was a wake up call at 2:30am, but people wanted breakfast at 1:30 am. (did anybody sleep? 🙂 ) I thought the flight was at 7 or 8am, what time did the bus leave the hotel? 

Was relaying this info to my wife and trying to work out the timing.

Yes, I know, we will go with the flow. As long is there is coffee along the way, we are fine.

9 hours ago, edhopper said: CDNP, could you go over the night before the flight again. You said there was a wake up call at 2:30am, but people wanted breakfast at 1:30 am. (did anybody sleep? 🙂 ) I thought the flight was at 7 or 8am, what time did the bus leave the hotel?  Was relaying this info to my wife and trying to work out the timing. Yes, I know, we will go with the flow. As long is there is coffee along the way, we are fine.

Absolutely. 

Assuming that you are staying at the Emperador Hotel, when you arrive the day before you will go through covid testing in the lower level ballroom.  At this time you will be given the time of your flight and the pick up time of the bus.  You will also be given luggage tags and the time that your luggage must be in the hallway that night for pick up.  The luggage will go separately to the airport from the busses on a luggage truck.

Our PICK UP TIME was 2:30am - meaning our bus LEFT the hotel at 2:30am.  I think that when we left there were four buses all staged in a row to depart.

Yes, the coffee was ready in the lower level ballroom at 1:30am.  

Our flight was scheduled to leave at 6am.  We were at the airport at 3:30am'ish and thought that this is ridiculously early, but the airport was buzzing with people and flights leaving at 4:30am and 5:00am.  The airport departure lounge was standing room only and hundreds were sitting on the floor.  As a seasoned world traveller, I reasoned that for a charter of this size, if the time is cut too short, there would be all kinds of potential issues with lines, people not down in time, etc., and I then supposed that even though this was probably one hour too early, it was just one hour.

There will be at least 3 charter flights all with staged departure times - I think by 30 minutes - and whatever bus number you were on to go to the airport you will look for in Ushuaia when you land.  The worst part is that our flight was an hour delay.  We were all on board for 6am but then we sat on the tarmac for 60 minutes with no explanation why.

When you land in Ushuaia you will identify your checked luggage and leave it with Hurtigruten representatives and it will go to the ship and you will go to your bus and be taken to a parking lot a stones throw from the ship and then you have several hours of free time in Ushuaia.  They will not allow you to walk to the ship when you want, you have a bus departure time from that parking lot to go to the ship.

You will be issued your cruise cards and lanyards on the bus when you arrive in Ushuaia, so the check in on the ship is basically scanning your cruise card to indicate that you are on the ship.

In the first couple of days there are many things that you will have to do in preparation - you will be given an "animal" group name and you will go with your animal group to do all of these things.

Everyone will do the Muster drill on day one before departure.

The other activities are and some of these are day one, and some are day two / three while in the Drake Passage.

Picking up your Hurtigruten red jacket

Picking up your rubber boots and your animal patch that you velcro to your jacket

Vacuuming your outerwear 

Attending mandatory seminars on the rules/laws of Antarctica

All of these activities will be by animal group and some with tight timelines.  The first couple days I listed all the activities and seminars on a piece of paper to keep it all straight.

Lots of groups and activities are listed and posted on the wall of Deck 5 around the elevator.  This is where you go to see if you have made the lottery for some excursions like snowshoeing or kayaking.  This is also where your return flight schedule will be posted near the end of the cruise.

NOTE that the Expedition Team announce the animal groups for landing, and you may be in your cabin when this is happening waiting to get ready because what you have to wear is too hot to dress too soon.  The announcements are not heard in the cabin unless you enable the phone speaker to do so.  This phone speaker also defaults to off if you make a call to the reception desk or anywhere else on the ship - you have to turn it back on after a call.

Great info CDNP. Thanks so much.

Really great review.  I'm wondering what do those who do not win the lottery do?  Do those with a more expensive cabin get preference in the lottery?  I might be a bit cranky if I was on a cruise to Antarctica and was unable to experience the adventures I am hoping for.  I'm flexible when traveling but this is a trip when flexibility does not always allow for substitutions.  The food is not the big deal for me, because I would not be planning or cooking, but the activities are really important. If you don't win the lottery do you have other fabulous options?  Again, great review.  Cherie 

What time is the flight back to Buenos Aires? Looking to book a 430 pm flight back to Canada.

10 hours ago, cccole said: Really great review.  I'm wondering what do those who do not win the lottery do?  Do those with a more expensive cabin get preference in the lottery?  I might be a bit cranky if I was on a cruise to Antarctica and was unable to experience the adventures I am hoping for.  I'm flexible when traveling but this is a trip when flexibility does not always allow for substitutions.  The food is not the big deal for me, because I would not be planning or cooking, but the activities are really important. If you don't win the lottery do you have other fabulous options?  Again, great review.  Cherie 

We did not ask, but the Expedition Crew claimed that the lottery is a real lottery.  You sign up and then randomly you are chosen - or not - to do 4 or maybe 5 different activities.  The activities in the lottery are:  Snowshoeing, Kayaking, Camping, Science Boat, and one other that must have been insignificant to us because I cannot remember.

All of a sudden there is an announcement and the results of the lottery are posted on the wall of Deck 5 atrium.  The crowds rush and you battle the crowd to get close enough to see if you were chosen.

We got one of four that we signed up for, but it was clear immediately as I looked across the lists that one cabin number with 3 people in it was chosen for 3 different things.  Why it is clear to see is we were two in the cabin and then our cabin number appears twice in the list indicating that both of us go.  This cabin appeared three times in a row on the lists and just stood out.

We talked to 2 couples that signed for 4 things and got nothing, where one cabin of 3 people got three things.

Is it fair?  To the cabin that got three things yes, but to the cabin that got nothing, no.

It is a lottery.

The truth of the matter is this:

Only 100 people can go ashore at one time and the expedition crew are busy with transiting people back and forth.

Only 16 people can kayak at one time and it takes almost 2 hours to get that 16 suited up, briefed/coached/trained and then out and back in.

Camping has a limit too.

The science boats have a limit as there are limited science expedition team.

All of the above is also dependent on weather.  If the weather changes - which it does in a minute - then excursions are cancelled or moved to another destination.  We lost all excursions in our first day of five days at the continent because of weather and you cannot make that time up.

Lottery "winners" are also chosen as Group A, B, C etc.  If A is to go this morning and weather does not permit, then B gets bumped and A goes in their time slot.  If this continues, some of the lottery winners get bumped all together and are out of luck.

We were coached by our TA many times and by the posted information from Hurtigruten, that you must be flexible and ready to accept changes in schedule and activities.  It is conceivable that you could have several days of poor weather that severely impacts excursions.  For instance, we never go the polar plunge because the two places that were set for people to participate the weather or conditions were not ideal, so it did not happen at all.

If you want to guarantee that you are going to get the expedition excursions you want, then you want to travel on a smaller ship.  We had friends go on a much smaller ship and they got every activity and also got to land on the continent twice a day.  We were only promised once a day at best.  Smaller ships have more flexibility to ensure that you get what you want, but weather still can impact what they can and will deliver.

You cannot go into this with the expectation of Kayaking and then be devastated if you don't get it.  If you go on a cruise like this with that expectation you will most likely be disappointed and there is no recourse with the cruise line.

Oh, and no, having a more expensive cabin does not give you privilege in the lottery, or it would not be a fair lottery.

If you don't win the lottery do you have other fabulous options?  If the weather is good, you have one landing per day and potentially a boat cruise that are promised to everyone.  Other fabulous options are gaze at the enchanting scenery from your balcony, or the Explorer Lounge with a drink?  There is nothing much else to do on this ship if you are not on excursion other than gaze at the landscape, the icebergs, and whale watch. 

3 hours ago, frankh1969 said: What time is the flight back to Buenos Aires? Looking to book a 430 pm flight back to Canada.  

STOP STOP - no, do not book a flight that early back to Canada.  I believe that the Hurtigruten information states to not have a connecting flight in BA before 9:30pm the same day.

The first flight - of three - that we were on did not leave Ushuaia until 12:30pm and these small charter airlines are often late.  This is a 3 to 3.5 hour flight so the first flight would not get you back in time for that.

The second flight was 1:30pm or something but the last flight did not leave Ushuaia until 8pm.  

These flights are only announced as to the departure time - like the lottery - on the wall of deck 5, about 2 maybe 3 days before the end of the cruise.

I would personally recommend that you stay the night in BA and fly home the next day.  Safest option.  We stayed 4 days in BA on our own after.

There were several people that were on our first flight out of Ushuaia that had 9pm'ish or 10pm'ish flights out and they were good.  If you are intent on going same day, then book as late as possible but cover this with Hurtigruten before you pay for the flight or you may be having some expensive change fees.

36 minutes ago, jonikal said:    

Right on!  We knew that we were faced with a lottery on the size of ship we were travelling and we would not have liked it if we got nothing, but we were prepared for getting nothing.

How often were there other ships at your stops?

We encountered no other commercial vessels at any of our stops.  We did see some private masted yachts near Port Lockroy.  Once we returned to Ushuaia we pulled up next to one of the smaller Princess ships and we felt very small indeed!  

Being in a small ship we were also allowed access to the bridge for wild life watching at any time.

2 hours ago, edhopper said: How often were there other ships at your stops?

We had to wait for one smaller ship to leave the area at one landing point before we could land.  There is a max number of people allowed on the continent at one time at any landing point, so if a ship is there you cannot start your landing.  This is not per ship max, it is a max at that landing point.

We passed and saw other ships, but there was never another ship landing at the same time, or kayaking in the same bay.  

My impression is that the ships book these landing points in advance and have to stick to their times otherwise it would always be chaos.   We looked frequently on the cruise tracker and there were often 15+ ships on the vicinity map.

CDNPolar, Thank you for such a detailed explanation.  The good news is that, weather permitting, all guests have one landing per day and possible boat cruise.  Only the exceptional activities are included in the lottery, if I understand.  I was afraid that most activities were lottery controlled.

Watching the beautiful scenery while cruising this area would be amazing.  Thank you again for the post and reminding us of needing to be extremely flexible.  Cherie     

7 hours ago, cccole said: CDNPolar, Thank you for such a detailed explanation.  The good news is that, weather permitting, all guests have one landing per day and possible boat cruise.  Only the exceptional activities are included in the lottery, if I understand.  I was afraid that most activities were lottery controlled.   Watching the beautiful scenery while cruising this area would be amazing.  Thank you again for the post and reminding us of needing to be extremely flexible.  Cherie     

Yes, you are correct, you should get one landing per day and boat cruise where they run them - all weather permitting. 

The lottery excursions are:  Camping, Snowshoeing, Kayaking, and Science Boat.

Where there any extended hikes?

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Hurtigruten Expeditions is now HX!

• Discover Norway

2025/26 Launch Offer | Up to £800 credit per cabin

Our 2025 and 2026 voyages have landed. book your favorite cabin early and get up to £800 to spend on board for a limited time., tailor your own norwegian adventure.

Seek adventure with thrilling hikes or bask in tranquility under the Norwegian sky. Immerse yourself in culture via historic towns or chase the Northern Lights . Craft your own Norwegian getaway amidst stunning landscapes and endless choices.

On board, you’ll experience a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and dine on local cuisine from local suppliers along our select itineraries . Don't forget to visit our onboard shop!

There’s no better way to embrace Norwegian bliss and way of life!

Seasonal excursions

Hurtigruten excursions take you on a remarkable journey that explores the country's stunning landscapes, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage. They are graded according to four effort levels. If you want more challenging activities, sign up for kayaking, snowmobiling, or dog-sledding.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a unique adventure, these excursions are designed to offer an unforgettable experience. Craft your own journey amidst stunning landscapes and endless choices!

Find your Norwegian cruise and begin your adventure

The Coastal Express

Bergen – Kirkenes – Bergen (Roundtrip)

Departure Dates

Regular departures

Price from £1,323

The North Cape Line

Full voyage from Oslo

Oslo - Honningsvåg - Oslo (Roundtrip)

September 2025 - April 2026

MS Trollfjord

The Svalbard Line - South

Svalbard – Bergen (Southbound)

May 2025 - September 2025

Dive into exciting new excursions

From dog sledding in Svalbard to sea eagle safaris in Vesterålen, we have worked closely with local activity providers to create an exciting programme of new and exclusive excursions. With around 50 to choose from and an average of three excursions in each port, there’s something for all interests and activity levels.

Dog Sledding in Winter Wonderland

Svalbard Wilderness and History Experience

Viking Experience by RIB

Terms & conditions.

Offer is valid on new bookings made between 2nd April 2024 – 31st August 2024.

Offer applies to the following itineraries: Svalbard Line (previously the Svalbard Express), The North Cape Line (previously the North Cape Express Full voyage from Oslo & from Bergen) - departing between April 2025 – March 2026 (until April 2026 for North Cape Express).

Up to £800 onboard credit per cabin is based on 2 people sharing – onboard credit is up to £400 per person. Specific onboard credit amount is based on cabin category and departure date. Please see below for applicable amounts.

Onboard credit will be displayed in the booking in NOK and is subject to our exchange rates.

Subject to availability.

Based on 2 people sharing a cabin. Not applicable to solo travelers.

Can be combined with Ambassador Loyalty and select partnership discounts.

Prices may increase and offers may be withdrawn without prior notice. Subject to availability.

Full booking Terms and Conditions apply.

Onboard credit amount

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• Baltic - Norwegian Fjords - Russia Cruise Ports

Bronnoysund (Norway)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Baltic - Norwegian Fjords - Russia

Local Time 2024-06-09 21:33

Port Bronnoysund cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Bronnoysund, Norway. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Bronnoysund is a port town in Bronnoy municipality (Nordland county, Helgeland region, Norway. The settlement received town status in 2000 and has population around 5,000. As cruise port, Bronnoysund is usually visited by smaller- and medium-sized cruise ships visiting the Lofoten Islands .

Bronnoysund Airport serves the airlines Bristow Helicopters, CHC Norway (Helikopter Service) and Wideroe Flyveselskap. Helicopters link to the oil fields Skarv and Norne. Regularly scheduled flights (domestic-only) link to Bergen , Bodo , Oslo , Trondheim , Rorvik , Sandnessjoen , and Mo i Rana. The town is also linked to mainland Europe via E6 highway.

During season 2019, Port Bronnoysund handled a total of 15 cruise ship calls, mainly by Hurtigruten ships (operating as cruiseferries on the Bergen- Kirkenes Norwegian coastal route. Port's largest liner so far is Holland America 's MS Koningsdam .

Following the Coronavirus crisis, in 2021 the port's schedule had listed 21 cruise ship calls.

In June 2020 was officially inaugurated downtown's Lille Bronnoya folkepark - an outdoor waterfront playground (facing the harbor) fitted with a rampline park, climbing sails (the largest are 8,5 m / 28 ft high), mini-Zipline, Tarzan Track (a mini-trail for hopping on tree stumps), Stage (for live performances and Rootsfestivalen/Roots Festival events), and the Scenic Bridge (7-m/23-ft above sea-level lookout point with benches) connecting to Stromsneset. For the "family park" project was contracted the company Implenia Norge AS, which started works in December 2018. The Park's total cost was ~NOK 30 million (Norwegian krone/~EUR 2,85M/USD 3,3M).

The city also offers bicycle tours (themed on nature and arts) and a picnic camping experience at Sauren Island (accessed via a ferryboat).

Bronnoysund cruise terminal

Smaller-sized ships (with max LOA length 150 m / 490 ft) berth in downtown Bronnoysund. Medium-sized vessels (with LOA length 240 m / 790 ft) dock at Gardsoys - quay located approx 2 km / 1,2 mi from downtown. Larger cruise liners anchor in the harbor and their passengers are transported to downtown's berth via ship's tender boats.

Bronnoysund is one of the ferry ports along the "Express Route" - Government-subsidized "Norwegian Coastal Express". This is a regularly scheduled passenger and cargo shipping service in Norway. The "ferry and cruise" itinerary is between two turnaround ports - Bergen (southmost) and Kirkenes (northmost). It connects a total of 34 ports, which are Norwegian communities without any road or air access.

Since January 2021, Norway's coastal ferry service is operated by two companies - Hurtigruten (7 ships) and Havila Shipping (4 ships). The Norwegian Government's annual subsidy for the ferry service is around USD 100 million.

The list of all ports along the northbound "Norwegian Coastal Express" itinerary includes Bergen (turnaround port), Alesund , Floro , Geiranger (Stranda) , Maloy (Vagsoy) , Molde , Torvik (Heroy, Leinoya Island) , Kristiansund , Rorvik (Vikna) , Trondheim , Bodo , Bronnoysund (Bronnoy), Nesna , Ornes (Meloy) , Sandnessjoen (Alstahaug) , Stamsund (Vestvagoy Island) , Svolvaer (Vagan, Austvagoya Island) , Trollfjorden (Hadsel) , Finnsnes (Lenvik) , Harstad (Hinnoya Island) , Risoyhamn (Andoy Island) , Skjervoy , Sortland (Langoya Island) , Stokmarknes (Hadseloya Island) , Tromso , Berlevag , Hammerfest , Honningsvag (Mageroya Island , Nordkapp / North Cape ), Kjollefjord (Lebesby) , Mehamn (Gamvik) , Oksfjord (Loppa) , Batsfjord , Vardo (Vardoya Island) , Kirkenes (turnaround port).

The port receives daily visits by Hurtigruten ships cruising southbound (in the afternoon) and northbound (at night). During cruiseship calls, dockside the seaport provides 18 tour guides (12 English- and 6 German-speaking) and 20 tour busses by local operators.

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Bronnoysund - user reviews and comments

12 Themed Cruises You Should Have On Your Radar In 2024

T aking a cruise is an experience unlike anything else. Days at sea on a ship full of entertainment and relaxation make for a fantastic vacation. But what if you want even more from your cruise? A theme might be what's missing. In addition to all the usual cruise experiences, themed cruises allow fans of a particular artist, lifestyle, hobby (or even animal), to celebrate their passion on the high seas with activities, events, surprises, and sometimes special guests.

There are dozens of themed cruises on offer each year, usually hosted by major cruise lines like Norwegian , Carnival, and Royal Caribbean. But don't let their numbers fool you. According to  Business Insider , themed cruises are rapidly climbing in popularity, and some trips are selling out in record time. That means it's important to find your dream-themed cruise and reserve your tickets as early as possible.

Fortunately, even if they're sold out, most themed cruises will let you join a waiting list, so there's still hope! Here are 12 themed cruises that will set sail in 2024 and are well worth boarding, either now or the next time they hit the high seas.

Read more: Under-The-Radar Beaches You Need To Visit In The Caribbean

The Emo's Not Dead Cruise

If you truly know it's not a phase, the Emo's Not Dead Cruise is perfect for you. Gather with fellow emo fans for four days (and nights) of concerts, activities, and even a private party at Great Stirrup Kay in the Bahamas. Over a dozen bands will perform, including Yellowcard, Senses Fail, and Armor for Sleep. Alongside themed activities like a masquerade ball, cruisegoers can also enjoy surprisingly cheerful activities like a bellyflop competition in the ship's pool.

The first Emo's Not Dead cruise was in 2022. Cruisegoer and emo fan TheReelChris shared highlights on  YouTube , calling it "EPIC." Fans in the comments section agree, with Schecterplayer92 adding, "This was one of the best experiences of my life." With a killer lineup and entertaining activities scheduled, it seems like Emo's Not Dead 2024 will also be a rad experience. The cruise will be hosted on the Norwegian Pearl, leaving from Miami on February 26 and returning on March 1, 2024. But what would an emo-related cruise be without a little sadness? Unfortunately, the cruise is already sold out. If you're interested, you can  sign up for the waiting list  and hope.

Meow Meow Cruise

Some of us know that no matter how great a vacation might be, cats would make it even better. Meow Meow Cruise has solved that problem. While guests unfortunately aren't allowed to bring their own furry friends aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady, the four-day cruise will give them their feline fix in plenty of other ways. 

Activities include cat-themed trivia and a scavenger hunt. But the best part may be communing with fellow cat people (many of whom stroll around the ship wearing cat ears). You'll also be able to mingle with real cats -- one of 2024's ports of call is Key West, where you'll find the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum and its community of about 60 friendly polydactyl kitties, many of them descended from one of the author's own pets.

It's hard to find reviews for Meow Meow Cruise, but the fact that this themed cruise has been going on annually since 2015 speaks for itself. The 2024 Meow Meow Cruise sets sail from Miami on February 21, with a return date of February 25. Tickets are still available, but to be sure you don't miss out, consider booking right now.

In My Cruise Era

Sure, cruises are great — and cruising is a multi-billion dollar industry — but is anything more popular than Taylor Swift? For those who can't imagine anyone saying "no" to that question, there's no better cruise than In My Cruise Era. While not officially affiliated with Taylor Swift, this themed cruise is a passionate fan homage. Swifties will be able to dress up in their favorite Taylor-inspired looks, exchange friendship bracelets, perform their idol's songs during karaoke sessions, and more. We're also guessing there will be of lots impromptu song breaks throughout the ship from Taylor's extensive catalog.

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas will host this cruise, which sets sail from Miami on October 21, 2024 -- which, as People Magazine points out, is one day after the Eras Tour will be in the city. Fans lucky enough to attend the concert can continue their Taylor euphoria for four more days on the high seas. Since this is a new themed cruise, there aren't any reviews, but based on the positive fan vibes from Eras Tour concerts and movie viewings, among other events, we're guessing it's going to be a great time for Swifties. Swifties must agree, since the cruise is already sold out. Cancellations do happen, though, so hopeful fans can join the waiting list.  Contact the cruise's organizers to sign up.

Disney's Halloween On The High Seas

Go on just about any cruise-related blog or website and you'll see that Disney Cruise Line's Halloween-themed cruise, officially called Halloween on the High Seas, is a popular favorite. As you probably expect from Disney, this themed cruise is perfect for a family vacation , so it's not too scary. The cruise is hosted on multiple Disney Cruise Line ships, and each one is decorated with the care and attention to detail you'll find in most Disney-related enterprises. The Pumpkin Tree is the highlight of the decor, with pumpkins that eventually appear on its branches and transform into lit and unlit jack o'lanterns.

Halloween on the High Seas also features Halloween activities (including a trick-or-treating night) and exclusive Halloween-themed desserts. Disney cruises in general are known for their opportunities to meet the studio's beloved characters, and during the Halloween on the High Seas cruises, some of those characters are in costume. Notably, Disney Cruise Line's official site tells us, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow will be dressed as the Sanderson Sisters -- who wouldn't want to see that? 

This magical mixture of whimsy, fun, and exclusive opportunities is the perfect way to cast a spell on Disney fans of all ages. Luckily, Halloween on the High Seas is held during a number of different times in September and October, so you and your family should be able to find a place on board!

The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise

Sure, Hallmark Channel Christmas movies might be a little on the cheesy side, but let's be honest: lots of us dream of being in one in real life. You can get a little of the real-life Hallmark movie experience by visiting some of the movies' filming locations , but now there's a way to have an even more immersive experience: The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise.

Passengers will get to meet Hallmark Channel movie stars, attend panels and photo ops, and get to see a new Hallmark Christmas movie before its world premiere. Maybe best of all, passengers can take part in lots of Hallmark Christmas movie-inspired activities, including tree lighting and cookie decorating -- all while wearing their favorite ugly Christmas sweaters.

2024 is the first year of the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise. It was originally intended to be just one cruise, but a second one was added after the first one sold out. As of now, two Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruises are scheduled for 2024. Both go from Miami to the Bahamas and back and last four days in November. ... And both are sold out. But Christmas is a time of miracles, so if a Hallmark Channel Christmas experience on the high seas sounds like your dream come true, sign up for the waiting list as soon as you can!

Hurtigruten Northern Lights Cruises

Themed cruises are often about fandoms and hobbies. But Norway-based cruise line Hurtigruten offers a themed cruise that's about something even bigger: the Northern Lights . There are several Northern Lights-themed cruises out there, including some luxurious options by Cunard. Unfortunately, the Northern Lights aren't always visible, but Hurtigruten stands out by offering a Northern Lights Promise for cruises scheduled between September 26 and March 31 and lasting longer than 11 days. If the Northern Lights aren't visible during your cruise, they'll give you another one. So if you're serious about seeing the Aurora Borealis, this is the company to choose.

The Northern Lights are the focus of Hurtigruten's eponymous cruises, but there are also other things to do on board, including scientific lectures and photography lessons. There are excursions, too -- notably a dog sledding option. Passengers who've taken one of Hurtigruten's cruises unanimously praise the stunning fjords and landscapes you can admire from the ship and during excursions, not to mention their experiences of seeing the Northern Lights. Some warn that the ships aren't as luxurious or modern as many other cruise ships, primarily because Hurtigruten's ships are also functional vessels intended to transport and deliver mail to various points on the Norwegian coast. Still,  Cruise Critic reviewers like cmolaison praise the friendly crew, the surprising level of comfort, and the "stunning vistas" you'll see, saying he and his family "highly recommend" taking a Hurtigruten cruise.

Cruise & Crop Crafting Cruises

If the perfect vacation for you is a combination of R&R and crafting, you're in luck! There are several crafting-themed cruises. One of the most popular is organized by Cruise & Crop, with ships around the world hosting different crafting- and arts-themed trips. This makes them the most accessible themed cruises on our list, with different price ranges, departure points, itineraries, and ports of call. One thing all crafting cruises have in common, though, is groups of like-minded people exploring their creativity amid the other joys of cruising.

For instance, one of Crop & Cruise's 2024 offerings is a Mexican Riviera cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, featuring scrapbooking and other papercraft classes taught by artist Barb Warne. The ship departs from Los Angeles on April 19, returning April 26. Many Cruise & Crop cruises sell out quickly, so if this idea has sparked both your wanderlust and your creativity, be sure to check their list of 2024 cruises and reserve as soon as you can.

Star Trek: The Cruise

For seven days and nights every year, thousands of Star Trek fans gather to be a part of a fandom extravaganza at sea. Star Trek: The Cruise is an experience that features celebrities aboard (2024's guests include LeVar Burton and Wil Wheaton, among many others), costume and cosplay events, and lots of fun activities. 

But what makes Star Trek: The Cruise truly unique is that audience participation is very much encouraged. Passengers and celebrity guests are all considered the crew of one great, big, intergalactic vessel. Passengers get to interact with the guest stars in events like karaoke battles, and stars share parts of their earthly lives with Q&A sessions and even glimpses at other projects they may be involved in.

The first Star Trek: The Cruise was held in 2017 and since then it's been a fan favorite. Star Wars and cruising aficionado Aaron Bossig writes on  Trek Movie.com that many fans go on the cruise every year, and proudly wear t-shirts from the previous ones. He calls Star Trek: The Cruise "an extra special convention experience." 2024's edition will be held on the Mariner of the Seas, departing from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on February 22 and returning on February 29.

Literature Festival At Sea

Once a year, aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2, passengers can mingle with writers, poets, journalists, and critics in a full-blown literary festival in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Literature Festival at Sea invites writers in all genres to host round table discussions, participate in Q&As revolving around their work and areas of expertise, host workshops, and converse with passengers.

Whether passengers want to participate as much as possible or just attend a few events, the Festival seems to be an excellent addition to a typical Queen Mary 2 voyage. On TripAdvisor , passenger Artemis C writes of her experience at a previous Literature Festival at Sea that "the whole week was a joy". 

2024's lineup features crime novelists, journalists, historians, and more, for what's sure to be a fascinating week of discussion and discovery. If you'd like to combine an elegant transatlantic cruise and a literary experience, 2024's Literature Festival at Sea will take place from November 13-20, departing from Southampton, U.K., and arriving in New York. Cunard has also launched an Australian Literature Festival at Sea, scheduled from December 11-16, 2024, on the Queen Elizabeth, which departs from and returns to Sydney. 

Chefs Making Waves

Many cruise lines are proud of their food offerings. Some cruises feature dishes created by world-famous chefs, and others even host food and wine festivals. But no culinary cruise event seems quite as, well, fun, as Chefs Making Waves. This culinary-themed cruise will set sail for the first time in 2024. Onboard will be a number of beloved celebrity chefs, including Anne Burrell and the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. Cooking demos and, of course, food tastings of all kinds (including sit-down meals, desserts, and street food) are on the menu. Best of all, Chefs Making Waves is an all-inclusive cruise, so everyone can eat and drink without having to pay extra!

There will be all of the usual cruise-related fun, from swimming to excursions, to help you work up an appetite. There will also be unique games, with some of the chefs participating in events like bingo and a celebrity chef sing-off. If this sounds like an awesome cruise, you're not the only one who feels that way. Chefs Making Waves will take place from March 25-29, departing from Miami with excursions in Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas ... and it's already sold out. But you can still  sign up for the waiting list . With a little luck, you'll be able to enjoy this delicious, themed cruise experience.

Soul Train Cruise

Imagine a festival with a lineup featuring some of the best soul and R&B acts of all time. Now imagine it's on a relaxing cruise ship. This dream is actually reality -- it's called the Soul Train Cruise. The popular themed cruise will be celebrating its 11th year in 2024 and the lineup is on fire. Dozens of groups and artists will perform, including The Temptations, Boyz II Men, and En Vogue. Passengers can also learn how to dance like people did back in the old school days of Soul Train's TV show, with lessons from some of the show's actual dancers. There will also be wine tastings, Q&A's, comedy shows, and a lot more.

With all of this on offer, it's no surprise that the Soul Train Cruise is sold out. But sign up on the waiting list and keep your calendar free from January 27-February 3, and you may get lucky. If you do, the cruise leaves from Fort Lauderdale, with ports of call in Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and St. Maarten.

The Gothic Cruise

The Gothic Cruise is an annual event held on an ordinary cruise ship. Goths mingle with "norms" but have their own private events on board, mostly DJ sets and concerts. There's also a masquerade ball, with Goths decked out in their finest Victorian-style garb ... as long as it meets ship safety requirements, that is. The cruise's website specifies that simulated weapons aren't allowed and notes that hoop skirts are fine for the ball but not in the ship's dining areas, "due to the close proximity of the tables". And yet, the Goth community thrives on these cruises -- and even gains norm fans along the way. 

In a Porthole Magazine article about the Gothic Cruise, longtime attendee Spike Pittman says that many mainstream passengers are wary of the Goths at first, "But by the end they're begging to get into our private events." Some even book their future cruises to coincide with the Gothic Cruise, even if they don't plan on attending every event. 

The Gothic Cruise has been held since 1989. Cruising doesn't seem very Goth, but in the end, the article points out, it comes down to what all themed cruises offer: a sense of community (in this case, one that often stays up all night and sleeps during the day). If this moves your little black heart, the 2024 Gothic Cruise will be held on the Norwegian Escape (but book through the Gothic Cruise's website for private event access), departing from Orlando on March 2, and returning March 9.

Read the original article on Explore .