Hurtigruten Cruise Line
Hurtigruten Cruises - 120 Years of Coastal Voyages
Since 1893, Hurtigruten Cruises has led the way as the original Norwegian coastal voyage along Norway's fjords, ports and waterways. The Norwegian Coastal Express was created by maritime pioneer and Hurtigruten founder, Richard With, as an important communications, mail and freight link along Norway's long, jagged coastline, and quickly became the most reliable passage into the remote and isolated lands of northern Norway. Today, as then, the Hurtigruten cruise ships are a part of Norwegian coastal life; 120 years later, the line still carries mail, freight and passengers.
It is from this rich heritage and experience that marks Hurtigruten Cruises as one of the most authentic exploration-oriented cruise lines in the industry. Hurtigruten delivers voyages that go beyond the realms of other cruise lines, providing expertise on journeys that will exceed your expectations and provide you an opportunity to encounter environments, wildlife and people at the very ends of the Earth. On a Hurtigruten cruise, you have the chance to immerse yourself into the rhythm of the local culture, history and cuisine with enriching shore excursions, onboard presentations and seasonal menus with fresh and locally sourced produce.
Described as the world's most beautiful journey, Hurtigruten voyages among the coastal communities of Norway get you closer to the real Norway. Embrace the maritime and cultural traditions of Western Europe, or choose the adventure of a lifetime to the remote and pristine polar waters of Antarctica, Greenland or Spitsbergen.
Hurtigruten Cruise Destinations
Hurtigruten voyages bring you the Norway seldom seen by tourists. Some of the 34 ports are home to just a few hundred people, and the residents often visit the open ships and welcome guests ashore. In addition, they rely on Hurtigruten cruise ships to arrive as they still deliver groceries and other essential supplies. Other ports are well-established towns, which own their prosperity to the fishing, mining or shipbuilding industries.
Adventures to Norway are available year-round. In spring the warmth and sunlight return to the shores of Norway to rejuvenate the life along the coastline. In summer, the extended daylight can last up to 24 hours above the Arctic Circle. As summer fades, the green coastline shifts to vibrant red and yellows that fill the mountainsides, hilltops and woods. In the winter, an expedition along the coast of Norway becomes a pure white wonderland beneath the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis.
Hurtigruten Voyages to Antarctica, Greenland and Spitsbergen are complimented by exhilarating landings led by an experienced Expedition Team. Presentations on history, biology and geology further enhance your experience. The Expedition Team prioritizes the preservation of the natural, unspoiled condition of the area and always operates with the highest level of environmental awareness.
Antarctica is nature at its most sublime. Sail in the wake of the historical explorers to this endless white wilderness dedicated to science and peace. Weather, wind and ice conditions make every expedition unique. Greenland is an exciting land of mountains, glaciers and icebergs. Plus, like no other polar destination, Greenland offers close interaction with the Inuit peoples' heritage and fascinating way of life. Remote, mysterious and extreme, the island of Spitsbergen is Norway's realm of the polar bear, and also home to other marine wildlife and thousands of migrating seabirds.
In Europe, follow the trail of the Vikings and discover the fascinating Norse heritage and historical landmarks, visit the lesser-visited areas of the Canary Islands, or see the autumn colors and magnificent landscapes, culture and history of Western and Southern Europe.
Throughout all Hurtigruten cruises there is an exciting range of shore side adventures available, designed to give you the opportunity to experience the best that each destination has to offer. Choose from sightseeing tours, visits to cultural sites, bird-watching trips, or even dog sledding or snowmobiling.
Onboard Activities - What to do on a Hurtigruten Cruise
Hurtigruten cruise ships are designed to showcase the spectacular scenery and local culture of unique destinations. There are no Broadway-style shows or casinos, but Hurtigruten voyages offer enriching onboard activities, demonstrations and presentations during the cruise. The emphasis is on relaxation and getting away from the commercial entertainment which is so often a part of conventional cruises.
Each Hurtigruten ship offers the many comforts of a larger cruise ship, including gourmet cuisine, high quality service and public spaces including libraries and lounges, depending on the ship. Plus, the atmosphere is relaxed and informal, with no dress code required, so you can focus on new friendships with like-minded travelers, your love of adventure, and fun!
Dining
Hurtigruten Cruises delivers authentic food experiences by creating seasonal menus that compliment the diverse cultures and landscapes to which they sail. The ships feature locally sourced, fresh ingredients in the onboard restaurants as well as opportunities to take a closer look into the region�s cuisine through onboard storytelling.
Dining onboard on a Hurtigruten voyage includes a selection of Norwegian and international delicacies. Breakfast is served buffet style, featuring cold meats, cheese, eggs, cereals and fruit. Lunch is also served open-seating, buffet style with a choice of fish dishes, cold meats, salads, a selection of hot dishes, desserts and fruit. Dinner is a three-course set meal at a set time, please note there is not usually a choice of menu. During high season, there may be several sittings, the times of which will be shown on board. Hot and cold drinks and snacks may be bought in the cafeteria, usually open 24 hours a day.
On the evening at departure day from Bergen a buffet dinner with open seating is served and the information about your dinner table assignment for the rest of the voyage can be found in the information envelope handed over at check-in.
The usual meal times are:
- Breakfast from 07:30am to 10:00am (open seating)
- Lunch from 12:00pm or 1:00pm (open seating)
- Dinner from 6:30pm or 7:00 hours (assigned seating)
For any special dietary restrictions or allergies, Hurtigruten Cruises must be advised at least 90 days prior to sailing. Passengers on strict diets may find that there is a limited choice.
Hurtigruten Cruise Ships
Hurtigruten cruise ships have been a staple along the Norwegian coast and a vital link between the cities, towns and hamlets in Norway carrying local passengers, freight and tourists for 120 years. The fleet consists of 12 ships, varying in size (300- to 1000-guests) and age (1964-2007).
Each comfortable Hurtigruten ship has its own individual design and decor, but they provide the same intimate and welcoming travel experience. Hurtigruten cruise ships have a large lounge with panoramic views, cafe serving snacks and drinks 24 hours a day, and the newer ships offer a small library, Jacuzzis and a fitness room. There is an internet cafe on board all ships except MS Lofoten. Laundry rooms with washing machines, dryers and irons are available on most ships.
Book a suite on one of Hurtigruten�s cruise ships, and enjoy a host of exclusive extras including a welcome present, tea/coffee making facilities in your cabin, complimentary free tea/coffee on board throughout your voyage and late check-out. Have breakfast served in your cabin for a nominal fee and the use of a mini bar.
Millennium Ships
- MS Finnmarken (2002): the only ship with both a swimming pool and Jacuzzis on deck.
- MS Trollfjord (2002): extensive use of Norwegian wood and stone characteristics.
- MS Midnatsol (2003:) modern design, with two-storey panorama lounge above the bow and the large glass expanses that allow natural light to enter as well as 23 beautifully appointed suites, some of which have a balcony.
Contemporary Ships
- MS Nordnorge (1997): beautiful Art Nouveau and Art Deco decor.
- MS Nordkapp (1996): recently upgraded with junior suites and Jacuzzis.
- MS Polarlys (1996): stylish ship, furnished with mahogany paneling, polished brass, and a choice selection of Norwegian contemporary art.
- MS Nordlys (1994): art, d�cor and colors are all inspired by the Northern Lights phenomenon.
- MS Richard With (1993): named after the founder of Hurtigruten, Captain Richard With, and features Jacuzzis and eight junior suites on board.
- MS Kong Harald (1993): named after the King of Norway and also pays tribute to other famous Norwegians, including decorative details of the King's Crown emblem, the Nansen club bar and Amundsen cafe.
Traditional Ships
- MS Vesteralen (1983): one of the smallest ships in the fleet, upgraded both in 1988 and 1995, and is characterized by her bright, cheerful public areas and lounges.
- MS Lofoten (1964): old time favorite, voyage of real nostalgia with an intimate informal atmosphere. The ship was refurbished and refitted in 2003.
Explorer Ships
- MS Fram (2007): designed for sailing in polar waters, the perfect size for optimum nautical maneuverability and guests' comfort. Guests are closer to nature and unforgettable experiences, and also have access to amenities including numerous lounges, well-equipped gym, Jacuzzis, and comfortable staterooms.
Hurtigruten Cruises for Kids & Teens
Children are welcome on Hurtigruten cruises, offering the opportunity for the whole family to experience the excitement of exploring some of the world's most remote and beautiful destinations in a meaningful, enriching way. However, child-friendly facilities and activities are limited.
Note: Hurtigruten ASA cannot accept children under the age of 5 on voyages to Antarctica (there is no age restriction on other destinations). For safety reasons, children under 12 years of age will be considered on each shore landing. It is entirely at the Captain's discretion whether or not to allow children on shore landings.
Hurtigruten Past Guests
Upon completing a minimum of 3 nights on a previous Hurtigruten cruise, you are automatically welcomed into the 1893 Ambassador Program, a special family of past passengers.
As a member you will receive a host of exclusive special 1893 Ambassador discounts and onboard benefits to add even more value to your future Hurtigruten voyages. Plus you will be the first to know about special offers, new products and events from Hurtigruten.
Membership Benefits Include:
- 5% repeater discount on your next Explorer Voyage
- 5% repeater discount off Norwegian Coastal voyages
- 5% discount on selected excursions*
- Free quarterly member newsletter
- Free and personal membership card
- A free gift in your cabin
*Discounts are available on most voyages, exclusions apply.
