Founded in 1893, Hurtigruten Cruises (also referred to as Hurtigruten Coastal Express) are the world’s leading provider of coastal voyages to Norway and Scandinavia. Boasting a fleet of twenty distinctive vessels, Hurtigruten offers almost daily departures from ports including Bergen, Kirkenes, and Oslo and are ideally suited if you’re looking for a way to discover the beautiful Norwegian Fjords, the Arctic Circle and see the Northern Lights.
Hurtigruten Cruises Destinations & Highlights
Hurtigruten is famous for the cruise programme it operates along Norway’s rugged coastline. They offer a wide range of departures from Bergen in the region’s southwest up to the icy climes of the Arctic Circle. Hurtigruten’s itineraries schedule incorporates visits to major cities, remote coastal towns and seldom-visited shores.
A huge attraction for many is the Northern Lights cruises offered by Hurtigruten. Available to book from 4 to 12 days, these sailings operate primarily on a round-trip basis from Bergen in the winter months. It’s a bona fide bucket list experience, so if you have ever wanted to witness the majesty of Aurora Borealis, we highly recommend you consider one of Hurtigruten’s immersive Arctic Circle voyages. Furthermore, should you choose a Classic Round Voyage or an Astronomy Voyage, and the Lights not make an appearance, then Hurtigruten will give you a free voyage as part of their Northern Lights Promise.
Away from the Arctic, Hurtigruten also offers an ever-increasing portfolio of destinations. Cross the Atlantic into Iceland and Canada or head south to enchanting Antarctica on a once-in-a-lifetime odyssey with Hurtigruten Expeditions. Hurtigruten now even offer cruises in the Caribbean, which are a great alternative to the more traditional cruise experiences in the region, focusing on exploring hidden coves and walking in the footsteps of ancient Mayan civilisations.
What to expect on a Hurtigruten cruise:
A Fleet For All Seasons
Hurtigruten’s fleet has years of experience in cruising many of the world’s most remote regions. Some of the ships are so adept in polar waters that they still carry out working functions today, including the transportation of mail and vehicles. Hurtigruten’s fleet has been built with the conditions in mind and is, therefore, a safe and environmentally conscientious way to travel.
Onboard Comforts
Hurtigruten’s onboard comforts are somewhat at odds with the rugged terrain you will often be exploring ashore. Nevertheless, the accommodations are comfortable and equipped with all the mod cons you would expect, while the dining room serves up a blend of light-bites and sumptuous regionally-influenced cuisine in a relaxed setting. By evening, enjoy time in the ship’s lounge with your favourite tipple or head to the deck for a privileged view of the shimmering stars.
Amazing Shore Excursions
Hurtigruten offers a comprehensive shore excursion programme that features over 200 different activities. These range from their famous dog-sledging excursions in the Arctic to summertime hikes of the breathtaking Geirangerfjord. You can book your excursion onboard; however, we recommend reserving your place with Voyage Consultants before departing to avoid disappointment.
Like-minded Guests
One of the great things about cruising with Hurtigruten is that you will find yourself in the company of like-minded guests for the duration of your voyage. The maximum guest capacity aboard any Hurtigruten ship is just 1,000, so there are plenty of opportunities to make new friends or catch up with old ones while enjoying a genial, communal atmosphere onboard.
If you would like further details regarding Hurtigruten Cruises or if you would like to receive a quote for an upcoming Coastal Express voyage, please call our Voyage Consultants on 0800 008 6677. Alternatively, please make an online enquiry for your preferred cruise via our website.
