The steamer, DS Vesteraalen marked the beginning of the birth of Hurtigruten in 1893, as she offered a regular service along the Norwegian coast. 120 years later and Hurtigruten is at the top of its game – with 11 ships offering voyages to some superb destinations, including Greenland, Antarctica, Iceland and of course, Norway.
Hurtigruten knows Norway better than any other cruise line in the world, so much so that they are currently offering the “Northern Lights Promise” – if you don’t see the Aurora Borealis on your 12-day voyage they will give you a 6 or 7-day Classic Voyage FREE the following winter to try again – All 12 day voyages, beginning and ending in Bergen between October 2015 and February 2016 are eligible for the Northern Lights Promise – now that is a BIG and bold promise. It’s this level of confidence that brings people back to Hurtigruten year after year, and although the Northern Lights are a big aspect of many of the lines sailings, we also wanted to highlight some of the other Norway excursion options that are available – because they are pretty impressive!
Norway Shore Excursions with Hurtigruten
Dog Sledding
Dog sledding in Norway is an absolute must and this is one of the best options available because of its duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes.
You will drive to the island of Kvaløya where a change of clothes and footwear will be given before you hop aboard the sledges and let the huskies take you on a wonderful adventure. You will cross frozen landscapes and enjoy stunning views of the mountains and open plateaus. During the polar night, the only light you will see will come from your own headlamps, the uniquely Nordic starry sky, and if you are lucky enough, the magical Northern Lights. Following your husky adventure you can warm up as you are invited into a Sámi lavvo (tent) featuring an open fire.
ATV/ Quad Safari to the Russian Border
This is something truly unique and well worth considering. Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Your first stop, the Kjerringstupet viewpoint, overlooking Kirkenes. You will hear the story of Kjerringstupet and look at the settlements located there more than 10,000 years ago, before driving a short distance to your next viewpoint overlooking the Sydvaranger mines. From here you continue to the old Norwegian- Russian border where your guide will tell you all about the history and culture of the area – you will also visit a Norwegian military watch tower, which is often manned. From the tower you will see the imposing Boris Gleb on the Russian side. Before starting your journey back to the ship you will make a stop at the current border station to have tea and muffins.
King Crab Expedition, Kirkenes
Get ready for a fantastic day on the water, where you will be shown how to catch, prepare and most importantly EAT these giants. A highly experienced fisherman will take you for an unforgettable King Crab Fishing tour on a brand new RIB boat, cruising along the Bugøyfjord and the Barents Sea to find the right place to anchor. You will be hands on deck to help pull up the King Crab cages from the depths. Your guide will take you back and serve your catch in a traditional renovated boat house by the fjord. You may eat as many King Crabs as you wish!
Snowmobile Trip in the Polar Night
This is one of our favourites. Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Travel from Mehamn, the world’s northernmost mainland town, located on the often wild and stormy Finnmark coast, over the mountains to the old trading post and fishing village of Kjøllefjord. Along the way, expert local guides will tell you about the Sámi people, the geographic and climatic conditions, what life is like on the Finnmark coast, and how the local population utilise nature in both the summer and winter months. Some of Norway’s best instructors will ensure that proper training is given before you hop onto your own snowmobile for this once in a lifetime trip. Experience the snow-clad valleys, the fresh winter air and perhaps the mesmerising Northern Lights in the clear, starry sky.
Midnight Concert at the Arctic Cathedral
A unique experience offered in Tromso. Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Just a short journey from the port lies the stunning Arctic Cathedral with its exquisite glass mosaic window. End your day with beautiful Norwegian folk songs, as well as some wonderfully powerful classical and sacred selections. This incredible musical experience is enhanced by the Arctic Cathedral’s fantastic acoustics.
Book Your Hurtigruten Norway Cruise with The Cruise Line
Founded in 1993, The Cruise Line has established a reputation for offering clients outstanding customer service alongside highly competitive pricing and special offers – this is a reputation that we are incredibly proud of – and we are delighted to offer some of Hurtigruten’s best Norway voyages.
If you would like further information on any of our Hurtigruten voyages then please call one of our Cruise Experts on 0800 008 6677. Alternatively, please select your preferred voyage from the selection on our website and make an online enquiry
