Astronomy Voyage on Original

12 days

Oct 2026 - Mar 2028

Hurtigruten Ships

With expert astronomer & exclusive excursions!

2026

2027

2028

from

$2,903

per person

Best Price Promise & Private Fares

Astronomy Voyage on Original

from $2,903 per person

12 days

MS Nordkapp

Date:

Join an expert astronomer as we sail Norway’s Arctic coast under the Northern Lights! Head beyond the Arctic Circle under the dark skies of winter during peak aurora season. Enjoy lectures from our guest astronomer, visit Tromsø’s planetarium, and witness the Northern Lights illuminating fjords, mountains and fishing villages along our original Coastal Express route.

Highlights Itinerary Suites & Cabins Ship info What's included

Highlights

What’s the difference between this tour and a Hurtigruten cruise-only voyage?

The Astronomy Voyage is a themed version of our Coastal Express voyage, sailing from Bergen to Kirkenes and back. It follows the same route and includes all the highlights, but with an added astronomy programme led by expert lecturers. You’ll attend talks, lectures and enjoy an exclusive visit to Tromsø’s planetarium - all designed to deepen your understanding of the Northern Lights and the night sky.

Chase the Northern Lights, the elusive solar phenomenon! Witness the vibrant, dancing colors while on board!
Expert insights into the Arctic night sky! Attend guest lectures on astronomy, the Northern Lights and celestial phenomena!
Full-board dining with Norway's Coastal Kitchen! Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner made from the region's finest local ingredients!
Exclusive visit to Tromsø’s planetarium! Explore Norway’s Northern Lights capital and its state-of-the-art planetarium!
Northern Lights Promise! If the aurora doesn’t show, we’ll give you a 6-day voyage free of charge!

Itinerary

day 1 | All Aboard!

Your astronomy adventure begins in Bergen, the cultural gateway to the fjords and the second-largest city in Norway. If you’ve time before your ship departs, visit the UNESCO-listed wharfs of the colorful Bryggen district with its artisan shops and cobblestone streets. Just across the street is the famous Fish Market which serves delicious seafood or venture to the Fløibanen funicular which whisks you up Mount Fløyen for breath-taking views of the city.

Make yourself at home onboard the ship and enjoy the relaxed ambience, taking the opportunity to meet your fellow guests and astronomers.

day 2 | A day of masterpieces

Arrive at the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund, renowned for its stunning and picturesque architecture. Take time to explore the city and its rich Norse history or visit Atlanterhavsparken, one of the largest saltwater aquariums in Northern Europe. You can also make your way up to small Mount Aksla for a panorama of the town and its picturesque position surrounded by islands.

In the afternoon, we reach the port of Molde and the amazing view of 222 mountain peaks across the fjord, called the ‘Molde Panorama’.

day 3 | The Royal City of Trondheim

As we journey north, we reach the medieval city of Trondheim, a vibrant mix of historic civic architecture and a bustling student population. Nidaros Cathedral is considered one of the most sacred buildings in all of Norway and rightly nicknamed ‘Norway’s Notre Dame’. Whilst here, take the time to visit the Archbishop’s Palace to view Norway’s crown jewels.

Not far from Nidaros Cathedral is Gamle Bybro, a charming wooden bridge that sits over River Nid and marks the entrance to the old Hanseatic district of Bakklandet. This neighborhood features colorful wooden wharves that stand on stilts and host some of the city’s most trendy eateries, making Bakklandet a key destination for all foodies.

day 4 | Welcome to the Arctic!

In the early hours of the morning, the ship crosses the Arctic Circle and enters the Arctic. Join us out on deck to mark the moment with a traditional ceremony that will be sure to wake you up fully! Above the Arctic Circle, your chances of spotting the majestic Northern Lights increase.

As we call into the northern city of Bodø, gaze up at the snow-capped Børvass peaks before experiencing the fabulous street art this city has to offer. From here, we continue across the Vestfjord and towards the Lofoten archipelago which greets you with the stunning sight of the 3,280 foot-high Lofoten Wall.

day 5 | Expand your Northern Lights knowledge

Welcome to the historic Arctic exploration capital of Tromsø, a hive of culture, history and Northern Lights knowledge.

Today you will visit the Science Museum of Northern Norway, learning more about the Northern Lights through a range of exhibits and installations. As part of this trip, you’ll stop at The Planetarium and its full-dome ceiling offering 360-degree views and high-quality digital projectors showing daily films about 'Experiencing the Aurora' and the constellations. Our expert astronomers will be joining you on the trip so make sure to ask them lots of questions!

day 6 | The Northern Lights and the North Cape

As we reach Honningsvåg, at the top of the European mainland, be sure to visit the globe monument at the North Cape. This is a popular excursion, so make sure you book early!

From Honningsvåg, look out for the striking rock formation called Finnkirka near the entrance to Kjøllefjord village. The building-like pillars were once an ancient sacrificial site for the indigenous nomadic Sámi people who still inhabit and herd reindeer in the region today. As we continue north towards Kirkenes, we sail past Slettnes Lighthouse, the northernmost lighthouse in continental Europe.

day 7 | To the top and back again

By breakfast, we will have reached the top of Norway and the town of Kirkenes, situated just a mile from the border. It is at this point of our coastal voyage that we turn and return south. The ports we visited at night are now seen during the day for a full Norwegian coastal experience.

day 8 | Due South

Once the northernmost town in the world, (before Longyearbyern, Svalbard) Hammerfest is a key destination for Astronomy lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Be sure to trek up Mount Salen, for views over the town and picturesque landscapes. You can also take a moment to see the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column which commemorates the first-ever measurement of the globe.

As we sail, keep your eyes open for the Northern Lights, but you might also spot pods of Orcas and Humpback Whales migrating to these waters to feed on herring.

day 9 | Welcome to Lofoten

Passing through the legendary Lofoten and Vesterålen archipelagos, the ship negotiates an intricate network of inlets and isles through one of the most beautiful stretches of the Norwegian coast. From here, the coastal landscape changes from rolling hills to soaring mountains.

Along this stretch of coastline is where The Hurtigruten Coastal Express story began, in the coastal town of Stokmarknes in 1893. Don’t miss the newly opened Hurtigrutemuseet in Stokmarknes, a museum dedicated to The Coastal Express housed in the full-sized and fully restored ship MS Finnmarken from 1952.

day 10 | A date with the Seven Sisters

Leave behind the magic of the Arctic Circle and head towards the ports of Bodø and Ørnes. Marvel at the Seven Sisters mountain range where local legend has it seven beautiful troll princesses, fleeing from an unwanted suitor, got caught out as the sun rose, turning them into the seven beautiful mountains you see today.

The landscapes will continue to amaze you! Don’t miss views of the Torghatten Mountain, with its distinctive hole right through the center. There is a local legend as to why and how this mountain came to have such a hole. Make sure you ask your Expedition Team about it!

day 11 | The old cities and the sea

Early morning arrival in Trondheim will give you time to further explore the city and discover any sites you might have missed on the northbound section of the journey. Some insider advice: treat yourself to a barista-brewed coffee and Nordic patisserie in one of the many cafés in the Bakklandet district before walking up to Kristiansten Fort for great views over the city.

In the afternoon, we dock at Kristiansund, a quaint harbor town spread over three islands. Meander along the cobbled streets of the old town and be sure to sample the local delicacy of klippfisk, salted cod that’s dried on the surrounding cliffs.

day 12 | The final chapter of the fairytale

A few nautical miles are left between you and Bergen today as your Astronomy Voyage draws to a close. Before we say our goodbyes, we voyage across the mouth of Sognefjord, the longest and widest fjord in the whole of Norway.

As we arrive in Bergen, it’s time to say goodbye to the Captain, crew and astronomers who have accompanied you on this unique voyage along Norway’s spectacular coastline. However, if you aren’t ready to leave Norway just yet, there are plenty of extension options that will make your trip that extra bit more special.

Ships

MS Richard With

MS Richard With
This hybrid Hurtigruten ship proudly carries the name of Captain Richard With, the founder who established the Norwegian Coastal Express in 1893. The MS Richard With upholds that legacy, having been upgraded in 2022 to become a greener hybrid vessel. This modernization features large battery packs combined with new efficient engines, cutting fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by approximately 25%. It also includes state-of-the-art navigation and control equipment, new wastewater treatment systems, and SCR technology that reduces NOx emissions by at least 80%.

Guests, max 590, can relax in the ship's panorama lounges and take in the unforgettable coastal views, similar to those seen when the first Hurtigruten boats sailed more than a century ago. Beautiful art throughout the interior adds contemporary elegance to the maritime ambiance. Your voyage also includes a dedicated Expedition Team who will be by your side, sharing stories and insights about Norway’s culture, nature, and history.

Onboard amenities include three restaurants, a panoramic lounge, a sauna and fitness room, complimentary Wi-Fi, contactless payments, a laundry room, and meeting rooms.

Cruise Norway is an expert Hurtigruten travel partner.

MS Kong Harald

MS Kong Harald
Named for Norway’s celebrated sailing monarch, King Harald V, the MS Kong Harald combines a tribute to royal tradition with a commitment to modern, green travel.

Sustainable Upgrades: In 2023, the ship was converted into a hybrid vessel. It now operates with large battery packs and efficient new engines, reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by approximately 25%. Further environmental responsibility is demonstrated by state-of-the-art wastewater treatment and SRC technology, which cuts NOx emissions by at least 80%.

Refined Onboard Experience: Refurbished in 2016 with a modern, Arctic-inspired interior (with additional cabin updates on decks 2 and 3 in 2023), the MS Kong Harald offers an intimate voyage with a capacity of 590 passengers.

Dining: Enjoy three distinct restaurants, plus the Multe bakery and ice cream bar.
Views & Amenities: Relax in two outdoor hot tubs, a sauna, or the fitness room. The top deck features a sun deck, an observation saloon, and a panorama lounge, all providing magnificent views of the coastal scenery. A comfortable bar is located at the front of the ship.
Central Hub: The large compass area serves as the central point for the reception, Expedition Team, conference room, and shop.

Embark on an environmentally conscious and modernized journey on the "world's most beautiful voyage" between Bergen and Kirkenes. You can book your voyage with Cruise Norway, a Hurtigruten expert with nearly 30 years of experience.

MS Nordkapp

The MS Nordkapp
Named after the North Cape (71ºN), the northernmost point on mainland Europe, the MS Nordkapp has been a core part of the Hurtigruten fleet sailing the Norwegian coastline since 2007. Refurbished in 2016, this vessel, with a capacity of 590 passengers, now features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior.

Dining & Amenities: The ship's dining experience is defined by our Norway’s Coastal Kitchen concept, ensuring all three restaurants feature local ingredients from local suppliers.

Relaxation: Enjoy the view from one of two outdoor hot tubs, a sauna, a fitness room, and a cosy bar at the front of the ship.
Discovery: The ship has an Expedition Team and a panoramic lounge for spectacular coastal views.
Convenience: The central compass area includes reception, a tour guide, a conference room, and a shop. Free Wi-Fi, contactless payments, a laundry room, and meeting rooms are available for guest use.

The MS Nordkapp offers a modern and comfortable way to journey toward one of the world's great geographical highpoints. Cruise Norway is a partner and an Hurtigruten expert. Contact us for the best advice and prices.

MS Polarlys

MS Polarlys
Named for the Norwegian term for 'polar light'—the natural Arctic phenomenon the ship pursues in winter—the MS Polarlys was fully refurbished in 2016 and now features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior. This comfortable vessel offers a unique on-board ambiance and provides numerous amenities to enhance your voyage.

Key features and amenities include:

Dining: Guests can enjoy three different restaurants, all dedicated to the Norway’s Coastal Kitchen concept of using local ingredients from local suppliers. You can also find the Multe bakery and ice cream bar on board.
Lounges and Observation: The top deck features a sun deck, an observation saloon, and a panoramic lounge, all offering splendid views of the spectacular coastal scenery. In the Explorer Lounge & Bar, located on Deck 7, you can enjoy a hand-crafted cocktail and sweeping panoramic views of the Norwegian coast.
Relaxation and Fitness: The ship includes a well-equipped fitness room and a cozy sauna. There are also two hot tubs out on deck where you can enjoy the view.
Services: The vessel features a large compass area with the reception, a dedicated Expedition Team, a conference room, and a shop.

Additional amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, three restaurants, contactless payments, a laundry room, and meeting rooms. Cruise Norway is an expert Hurtigruten travel partner.

MS Nordlys

MS Nordlys
The name and modern hybrid design of this Hurtigruten ship are inspired by the spectacular Northern Lights. MS Nordlys was refitted in 2019. The delicate aesthetic, including the art, décor, and colors used throughout the vessel, creates a distinct and unique on-board ambiance. You can relax after a day of excursions and activities in comfy reclining chairs in the panoramic lounge, or refresh in the sauna and fitness room. Each of the ship’s three restaurants offers a different dining experience, but all adhere to Norway’s Coastal Kitchen concept of local ingredients from local suppliers. Additional amenities include a dedicated Expedition Team, complimentary Wi-Fi, contactless payments, a laundry room, and meeting rooms. Cruise Norway is a Hurtigruten partner.

MS Nordnorge

MS Nordnorge
Aptly named for Northern Norway, with most of the region lying above the Arctic Circle, the MS Nordnorge was fully renovated in 2016 and features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior.

This Hurtigruten vessel provides exceptional amenities for relaxation and enjoyment:

Dining: Guests can choose from three different restaurants, all committed to the Norway's Coastal Kitchen concept, which features local ingredients from local suppliers. You can also visit the Multe bakery and ice-cream bar.
Recreation: The ship features two outdoor hot tubs where you can soak while admiring the views of the coast. For indoor relaxation, you can keep active in the fitness room before enjoying a soothing steam in the sauna.
Lounges: The comfortable bar at the front of the ship offers a traditional drink selection. Alternatively, the Explorer Lounge & Bar is the perfect place to settle into a comfy chair, sip a handcrafted cocktail, and watch the world go by.
Services: The vessel also has a large compass area that hosts the reception, a tour guide, a conference room, and a shop.

The MS Nordnorge gained fame in 2011 when its complete voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes was broadcast live for 134 continuous hours, earning a place in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s longest uninterrupted live television documentary.Additional amenities include a dedicated Expedition Team, complimentary Wi-Fi, contactless payments, a laundry room, and meeting rooms.

Contact Hurtigruten’s travel partner Cruise Norway for the best service and prices.

Northern Lights Promise!

If the aurora doesn't occur within sight of the ship on your 11+ day voyage, enjoy a free 6- or 7-day trip. Offer valid for departures from Sep 20 to Mar 31.

Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) onboard

Unlimited tea, filter coffee and water are complimentary throughout the day, but other drinks are subject to payment.

Onboard lectures by an expert astronomer

Guided tour of Tromsø’s planetarium

Free Wi-Fi

Knowledgeable Expedition Team

Access to Hurtigruten photo sharing app!
Small onboard credit gift!
This voyage includes a guided visit to Tromsø’s planetarium on Day 5, plus an onboard lecture series led by the astronomy expert. Other optional shore excursions can be booked at an additional cost.

Who are the expert astronomers?

Each Astronomy Voyage features one of our expert lecturers, depending on your departure date. All are leading voices in astronomy, with decades of experience bringing the wonders of the night sky to life.

Dr John Mason MBE (6 October 2026, 3 November 2026, 28 February 2027, 28 March 2027): A Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and Principal Lecturer at the South Downs Planetarium in Chichester. He has appeared many times on the BBC’s The Sky at Night alongside Sir Patrick Moore.
Dr Sadie Jones (5 November 2026): Astronomy Public Engagement Leader at the University of Southampton. She runs the Aurora Zoo citizen science project, helping people around the world study and understand the Northern Lights.
Dr Darren Baskill (2 January 2027 & 30 March 2027): Lecturer and outreach officer at the University of Sussex, with over 25 years of public science experience. He previously worked at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, where he created the Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition.
Dr Daisy Dobrijevic (26 January 2027): Daisy Dobrijevic is the reference editor and astrotourism lead at Space.com, where she oversees skywatching content covering auroras, eclipses, meteor showers, and other major night-sky events.

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Practical information

The full round-trip voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes and back to Bergen takes 12 days.

Northbound voyage (Bergen to Kirkenes): 7 days
Southbound voyage (Kirkenes to Bergen): 6 days

The Norwegian coastal route includes 34 ports of call, ranging from vibrant cities like Ålesund and Tromsø to remote villages accessible only by sea. While some stops are brief (15–30 minutes), allowing for quick transfers and deliveries, others offer extended visits, providing opportunities for excursions and exploration.

Many ports are visited on both the northbound and southbound journeys, but at different times of the day, ensuring a varied and unique experience in each direction.

Norwegian coastal cruises operate as a working coastal route, serving both travelers and locals. The ships follow a strict, continuous schedule, running day and night to efficiently connect 34 ports along the Norwegian coast.

Short stops (15–30 minutes): Many ports serve as quick drop-off points for cargo and passengers, so stops are brief.
Longer stops (1–6 hours): Major ports, such as Tromsø, Ålesund, and Kirkenes, allow more time for excursions and sightseeing.
24/7 Operations: The ships sail continuously, with passengers boarding and disembarking at different locations along the route.

Your fare typically includes:

Accommodation in your chosen cabin category
Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Coastal transport between ports
Access to onboard facilities (lounges, observation decks, and libraries)

Excursions, beverages, and premium dining options may require an additional fee.

Full-board meals are included in the cruise fare for journeys longer than 5 nights.

Guests can enjoy a buffet-style breakfast and lunch, featuring a variety of high-quality, locally sourced Norwegian ingredients. Dinner is a plated, multi-course meal, carefully curated to highlight fresh, sustainable regional cuisine.

The best time depends on what you want to experience:

Winter (November–March): Northern Lights, snowy landscapes.
Spring (April–May): Blooming fjords, fewer tourists.
Summer (June–August): Midnight Sun, warmest temperatures, best wildlife sightings.
Autumn (September–October): Dramatic fall colors, good chances of Northern Lights.

Yes! The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are visible from late September to March, especially above the Arctic Circle. Some cruises even offer a Northern Lights Guarantee, meaning a free voyage if you don’t see them.

If you travel between May and July, you will experience 24-hour daylight above the Arctic Circle. This means longer excursions, stunning sunsets at midnight, and unique photography opportunities.

Yes, Wi-Fi is available but can be slow or intermittent, especially in remote areas.

Unlike traditional cruise ships, Norwegian coastal cruises focus on nature and exploration rather than entertainment. Instead of casinos and shows, you'll find:

Lectures and storytelling sessions
Cultural and historical presentations
Photography and wildlife spotting opportunities

Norwegian coastal waters are generally calm, but some areas (like the open sea crossing near Stad) can be rough. If prone to motion sickness:

Choose a midship cabin on a lower deck.
Bring motion sickness medication or wristbands.

The onboard currency is Norwegian Krone (NOK), but credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Some ships may offer currency exchange services.

No, the dress code is casual and comfortable. For dinners, smart casual attire is recommended but not required. Warm outdoor clothing is essential for excursions.

No, passengers are not allowed to bring their own alcohol onboard. Drinks can be purchased at the bar and restaurants. Some cruises offer a drinks package.

Temperatures vary depending on the season and how far north you travel:

Winter (November–March): Ranges from -5°C to -20°C (23°F to -4°F) in northern Norway, with milder temperatures closer to Bergen.
Spring (April–May): Between 0°C and 10°C (32°F to 50°F), with snow still present in the north.
Summer (June–August): The warmest time of the year, with temperatures between 10°C and 25°C (50°F to 77°F) in southern regions and around 10°C (50°F) in the Arctic.
Autumn (September–October): Mild temperatures between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F), gradually cooling as winter approaches.

Daylight hours vary dramatically depending on the season and latitude:

Winter (November–January): The Arctic experiences Polar Night, with as little as 2–4 hours of twilight per day in the north. Southern Norway has around 5–7 hours of daylight.
Spring (February–April): Days lengthen rapidly, with 8–16 hours of daylight, depending on the month.
Summer (May–July): The Midnight Sun shines above the Arctic Circle, meaning 24 hours of daylight in the north and very long days further south.
Autumn (August–October): Days start getting shorter, with 16 hours of daylight in early autumn and around 6–8 hours by late October.

Packing for a Norwegian coastal cruise depends on the season, as weather and daylight hours vary significantly. The key is layering, as temperatures can change quickly.

Clothing & Footwear

Layering essentials – wool, silk, or synthetic fabrics (avoid cotton).
Waterproof & windproof outerwear – an insulated jacket and pants.
Thermal base layers – long-sleeved tops and leggings for warmth.
Warm mid-layers – fleece jackets and wool sweaters.
Gloves, hat, and scarf/fleece tube – to protect against wind and cold.
Warm socks – wool socks to keep feet warm and dry.
Comfortable indoor shoes – for relaxing onboard.
Sturdy walking shoes – for shore excursions and exploring ports.
Sunglasses with UV protection – for bright Arctic and coastal light.
Sleeping mask – useful in summer when the Midnight Sun is present.

Essential Accessories

Binoculars – for wildlife spotting.
Camera & extra memory cards – Norway’s landscapes are breathtaking.
Extra batteries & power bank – cold weather can drain batteries faster.
Chargers, adapters & converters – Norway uses Type C and Type F plugs (230V).
Sea sickness medication – for occasional rough seas.

Personal Care & Travel Essentials

Your passport & a copy of it
Credit/debit cards – check if your card is accepted onboard. Norway is mostly Cashless
Sun protection – high-SPF sunscreen and UV lip balm.
Moisturizer – the cold, dry air can be harsh on your skin.
Medications & personal essentials – bring extra in case of travel delays.