Hurtigruten

The Hurtigruten Experience

Building on an explorer heritage dating back to 1893, Hurtigruten’s explorations are grounded in the likings of people who value learning and personal growth over luxury. Offering unique experiences and impart knowledge in a way that leaves the smallest environmental footprint possible, Hurtigruten’s diverse fleet of nimble, intimately scaled expedition ships enables passengers to enjoy unforgettable nature-based experiences at remote corners of the world.

The Norwegian coastal voyage is one of the most scenic in the world. In addition, selected winter voyages in Norway offer a Northern Lights Promise.

Hurtigruten Cruises are best for

Adventurous affluent travellers who enjoy exploring nature and cultural immersions.

Atmosphere & Experience onboard

Most Hurtigruten ships have a dedicated expedition team aboard all sailings. Enthusiastic and knowledgeable, these experts lead excursions and give onboard lectures on everything from Viking history to Arctic wildlife. You might also hear them over the PA system offering information about the port you are sailing into or about a whale just spotted off the bow.

Onboard dress is casual at all times, though many passengers take it up a notch for dinner; think dress pants and a nice top. You can leave your suit or formal gown at home.

Inclusions

On the Norwegian coastal voyage, you can opt for a Basic, Select or Platinum package, all of which have varying inclusions related to beverages, Wi-Fi and dining. Excursions are not included but there is the option of purchasing excursion bundles that offer great value for money. On the expedition cruises, soft drinks, wine and beer with meals, tea and coffee and limited WiFi are included. Some excursions by zodiac are also included. Gratuities are not expected, but tip boxes are available for anybody who wants to reward a crew member.

Clientele

A cross section of society. Norwegians use the local coastal service as a means of transport and often only stay on for a couple of ports.

Other travellers treat the Bergen-Kirkenes-Bergen round trip as a regular cruise and come from all over the world, but particularly the UK and Germany. On the expedition ships, there will be multiple nationalities, including more people from North America. You will find some families onboard the Norwegian voyages and expeditions, which tend to attract older passengers.

At a glance

Ship size: Small-to-medium-sized  
Class: Niche & Expedition

Highlights

Land-based shore tours are most popular among passengers. With several port calls in one day on Hurtigruten’s coastal voyages, you will have plenty of opportunities to see Norway’s vast wilderness, including hiking, kayaking and cycling, and cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and husky driving in winter. On Northern Lights sailings, staying up late to try and see the lights (or requesting a wake-up call) is a big highlight.

Food & Dining with Hurtigruten

There are several restaurants to choose from offering cuisine that reflects Hurtigruten’s Norwegian heritage. Brown cheese and gravlax (cured salmon) are regular items on the buffet, and other Scandinavian dishes including reindeer soup often show up on the set dinner menus.

The line’s “Norway’s Coastal Kitchen” initiative embraces sourcing locally produced ingredients and sustainable seafood. If you love fish, you’ll be in heaven. For everyone else, there are plenty of alternatives, including meat, pasta, and a small salad bar.

Hurtigruten Ships