Coastal Express - South

6 days
Sep 2026 - Aug 2028
Hurtigruten Ships
Included: full-board, coffee-tea, wi-fi
50% off select sailings in August through October 2026 in double occupancy only!

2026
2027
2028

from

$776

per person

Best Price Promise & Private Fares
from $776 per person

Start this Norway scenic route with an Arctic tour of Norway, near the Russian border. You’ll go from the dramatic landscapes of Northern Norway to views of Senja, one of Norway’s most beautiful islands. We’ll then pass through the jaw-dropping Vesterålen and Lofoten islands, and along the Helgeland Coast with its mountain ranges and maze of islands.

Highlights


Itinerary

day 1 | Kirkenes

Your voyage begins in the Arctic in the town of Kirkenes, just a few miles from the Norwegian border—farther east than St. Petersburg and Istanbul!

World War II history

For those interested in history, the Varanger Museum in Kirkenes has exhibits about how the town was involved during World War II, where it was bombed a total of 328 times in four years, making it the most bombed place during the war after Malta.

For more insights into this somber period, visit the Andersgrotta World War II Bomb Shelter which could house up to 2,500 people underground.

Norway’s northern frontier

In the port of Vardø, you’ll find the star-shaped Vardøhus Fortress, built in 1737. The northernmost fortification of any kind, it remains in use by the military to this day.

We’ll cruise Norway’s coastline to the small port of Båtsfjord in the evening. Then it’s on to Berlevåg. You might be able to make out Mount Tanahorn to the west, or see Kjølnes Lighthouse blinking atop its cliff overlooking the Barents Sea.

Time in port:

  • Kirkenes: 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

  • Vardø: 4:05 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

  • Båtsfjord: 8:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

  • Berlevåg: 10:25 p.m. – 10:35 p.m.


day 2 | Mehamn - Tromsø

In the early afternoon, you’ll spend time in Hammerfest, which has the largest population on a list of the world’s northernmost settlements.

See the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, shop for souvenirs at the Polar Bear Society, or take the path behind the town to the viewpoint atop Mount Salen.

Mountains and marine mammals

We continue cruising Norway’s coastline south to Øksfjord and then to Skjervøy, surrounded by mountain peaks. We’ve been docking at this vital fishing port since 1896.

If you’re visiting in winter, you might spot orcas and humpback whales that gather here to feed on herring.

As we make our way to Tromsø, you might also glimpse views of the Lyngen Alps which boast some of the highest peaks in all of Norway.

Midnight magic

We dock at Tromsø just before midnight. In the summer months, you can stroll around the still busy city in glorious 24-hour daylight.

Time in port:

  • Mehamn: 01:20 a.m. -01:30 a.m.

  • Kjøllefjord: 03:25 a.m. -03:35 a.m.

  • Honningsvåg: 05:45 a.m. -06:00 a.m.

  • Havøysund: 08:00 a.m. -08:15 a.m.

  • Hammerfest: 11:00 a.m. -12:45 p.m.

  • Øksfjord: 03:50 p.m. -04:05 p.m.

  • Skjervøy: 07:30 p.m. -07:45 p.m.

  • Tromsø: 11:45 p.m. -01:30 a.m.


day 3 | Tromsø - Stamsund

Today, you’ll be exploring the archipelagos of Lofoten and Vesterålen, real highlights of our Norway scenic route.

After Finnsnes early in the morning, the ship calls at Harstad where the white-washed Trondenes Church, the world’s northernmost medieval stone church, sits on the peninsula.

Next is our smallest port of call Risøyhamn and then Sortland where the landscape slowly transforms from hills to 1,000-metre-high mountains.

Our birthplace

Stokmarknes is where Captain Richard With began The Coastal Express in 1893. Visit Hurtigrutemuseet, a ship-in-a-bottle building that chronicles our legacy, centred around retired ship MS Finnmarken from 1956.

A ship-size fjord

Sailing along Raftsund, the Captain may choose to take the ship into tiny Trollfjord if the weather allows. The mountain walls will look so close you’ll think you can reach out and brush them! To exit the fjord, the ship will rotate 180 degrees on the spot, then sail back out. Remember to look out for sea eagles here too.

Leaving Lofoten

We reach Svolvær in the evening. The huge mountain that sits above the town is named the Svolvær Goat due to its supposed resemblance. See if you agree!

The ship then sails for Stamsund, eventually passing the giant granite cliffs of the Lofoten Wall.

Time in port:

  • Tromsø: 11:45 p.m. - 01:30 a.m.

  • Finnsnes: 04:20 a.m. - 04:40 a.m.

  • Harstad: 08:00 a.m. -08:30 a.m.

  • Risøyhamn: 10:45 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

  • Sortland: 12:30 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

  • Stokmarknes: 2:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.

  • Svolvær: 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

  • Stamsund: 10:15 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.


day 4 | Bodø - Rørvik

The ship calls at Bodø in the small hours of the morning and then Ørnes at 7 a.m. We then cross over the Arctic Circle** just after breakfast. Commemorate the moment with a tradition of tasting a spoonful of good ol’ Norwegian cod liver oil!

We make a short stop at Nesna before sailing on to Sandnessjøen, gateway to the magnificent Helgeland Coast.

Legend has it…

Admire the stunning landscape of the Seven Sisters mountain range, with peaks up to 1,100m high. The tale goes that 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.

You’ll also not want to miss views of Torghatten Mountain, with the distinctive hole in it. There is a local legend as to why and how this mountain came to have such a hole. Make sure you ask your Coastal Experience Team about it!

We reach Brønnøysund mid-afternoon. Explore the bustling marina on a walk along Havnegata. In the centre of town is Brønnøy Church: a stone church in the Neo-Gothic style dating back to 1870.

Our last stop of the day is the cozy fishing port of Rørvik in the picturesque Vikna archipelago.

Time in port:

  • Bodø: 02:30 a.m. - 03:30 a.m.

  • Ørnes: 06:25 a.m. - 06:35 a.m.

  • Nesna: 10:25 a.m. - 10:35 a.m.

  • Sandnessjøen: 11:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

  • Brønnøysund: 3:00 p.m. - 5:25 p.m.

  • Rørvik: 9:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.


day 5 | Trondheim - Ålesund

Spend the morning in Trondheim, then sail past beautiful island scenery and some of Norway’s smallest communities before exploring Kristiansund and Molde.

Capital of the Viking Age

Stroll around Trondheim in the early morning as the city wakes. Visit the sacred Nidaros Cathedral, resting place of St. Olav. Then, walk to Gamle Bybro bridge for a photo opportunity over Nid River.

Treat yourself to quality coffee and a Nordic patisserie in one of the Bakklandet district’s many chic cafés then walk up to Kristiansten Fort for great views of Norway’s third-largest city.

Dealing in dried cod

We dock at Kristiansund’s harbor in the late afternoon. The town is spread over three islands and known for being Norway’s “Bacalao Capital” for the salted cod that’s dried on the surrounding cliffs, called klippfisk in Norwegian.

Take a walk around the cobblestone streets of the old town and tour the lively port. You can also head up to the old watchtower at Varden viewpoint for a lovely panorama.

Peaks and petals

The penultimate port of the day is Molde where you can spot the tops of the Romsdal Alps. Nicknamed “The City of Roses”, flowers should be in bloom between mid-June and late August.

Time in port:

  • Trondheim: 06:30 a.m. - 09:30 a.m.

  • Kristiansund: 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

  • Molde: 9:15 p.m. - 9:45 p.m.


day 6 | Ålesund - Bergen

Our Norwegian coastal cruise together, at least this time, will reach its end later today. During the previous night, we’ll call at Ålesund and Torvik. On our approach to Måløy, you might catch a glimpse of the northbound Coastal Express if you’re up early enough.

Morning highlights

You’ll have a chance to glimpse Nordfjord, under the enormous Jostedal Glacier, mainland Europe’s largest.

The ship then docks at Florø in the morning where you can take in the harbor and marina.

The home stretch

Leaving Florø, you’ll spot Stabben Lighthouse, a favorite subject for photographers. There’s also stunning views to enjoy as we cross the mouth of Sognefjord, the longest and widest fjord in the whole of Norway.

As we reach our final port in the afternoon, the ship will navigate through the last islands and skerries of our Norway scenic route, and sail down Hjeltefjord to arrive into Bergen.

Explore more of Norway

Sadly, it’s time to say farewell to the Captain, crew, and fellow guests.

But your journey doesn’t have to stop after disembarkation. We offer a Bergen sightseeing tour as well as a range of post-voyage programs that you can add to your trip, including seeing Sognefjord by train or a tour of Oslo.

Time in port:

  • Ålesund: 00:30 a.m. - 01:20 a.m.

  • Torvik: 02:35 a.m. - 02:45 a.m.

  • Måløy: 05:45 a.m. - 06:00 a.m.

  • Florø: 08:15 a.m. - 08:30 a.m.

  • Bergen: 14:45 p.m.


Ships

ms nordlys

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 nordkapp

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

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 richard with

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 nordnorge

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.


ms kong harald

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 vesterålen

MS Vesterålen

MS Vesterålen is one of the oldest and smallest ships, named an archipelago in Nordland country, to the north of Lofoten. Vesterålen was also the name of the first Original Coastal Express steamship from 1893.

Fresh and lightly refurbished in 2019 and again in 2022, MS Vesterålen has bright, informal public areas and lounges throughout. The last refurbishment included upgrading 32 outside cabins to Arctic Superior standard with double beds, rebuilding 4 cabins into 2 mini suites, upgrading the restaurant, the café, the reception area, and the gym, in addition to giving Trollfjord lounge a new look and feel.

On a journey with MS Vesterålen, you will have a "behind the scenes" focus where the guests will get an opportunity to get closer to the Hurtigruten heritage, emphasizing maritime operations, logistics and hotel operations. With a focus on edutainment and engaging activities, Hurtigruten will provide guests with an in-depth knowledge of the different departments and the interaction between them. To book the best cabin and get some inside advice, contact the experts at Cruise Norway.



What's included

Included

  • 6-day voyage in the cabin category of your choice

  • Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) from Norway's Coastal Kitchen

  • English-speaking Tour Leader on board

  • Access to Cameralla photo sharing app

Engaging onboard activities and lectures:

  • Lectures and presentations on history, biology, geography, geology, and culture that provide context to your expedition voyage, and help you better understand the destinations you will experience

  • Introductory photo presentations, camera adjustment, and photography tips and tricks, and photo and film footage from the cruise.

  • Opportunities to casually engage with Hurtigruten Guides, including a welcome event, daily gatherings to recap the day, and preparations for the day to come.

  • Port presentations providing destination insight

  • Optional excursion presentations

  • Point of interest presentations on deck

  • Captain’s dinner and a farewell event

Not Included

  • Flights and transfers

  • Travel protection

  • Optional seasonal excursions

  • Baggage handling

  • Optional hikes with our Coastal Experience Team


Excursions

The Northernmost Town In The World

1.45 hours
Level


from

€119

per person

Enjoy a scenic bus tour of one of the world’s northernmost towns

Learn about Norway’s WWII history at the Museum of Reconstruction

See the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column

Enjoy breathtaking views from Mount Salen

Enjoy a guided exploration of one of the world’s northernmost towns and find out about the historical events that have shaped it. Once we arrive in Hammerfest, the bus will take us to the Museum of Reconstruction for Finnmark and Northern Troms. Here, you’ll come to appreciate the massive efforts that were made to rebuild the region of Northern Norway after WWII.

We’ll then head over to the Meridian Column, Hammerfest’s UNESCO World Heritage site. This monument marks the northernmost measuring point of the Struve Geodetic Arc, a chain of survey triangulations that established the exact size and shape of the Earth.

Our last stop on this tour is Mount Salen. On the way up the mountain, you’ll get a chance to learn more about Hammerfest’s unique history from your knowledgeable guide. From the top, you can enjoy gorgeous views of the town below.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

Practical information

Embarking/Disembarking port: Hammerfest

Available: 2 Jan - 30 Dec, except 24-25 Dec

Transportation: Bus

Meals: N/A

Clothes: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing

Excursion can also be combined with:

Snowmobile Trip in the Polar Night

Lofoten Islands

3.3 hours
Level


from

€139

per person

Admire the stunning scenery of the Lofoten Islands

Visit the picturesque fishing village of Henningsvær

Enjoy looking around local boutiques and galleries

Learn more about Lofoten, its nature, and its history

The Lofoten Islands are known for excellent fishing, extreme and wild nature and small fishing villages. During the guided trip from Svolvær to Stamsund, you get to see sheltered bays, white sandy beaches, and large, green farmland. The scenery, the special light and the fishing have attracted artists from both Norway and abroad for centuries. We stop in Henningsvær, a charming fishing village with 500 inhabitants. In the 18th century it was the most important fishing village in Lofoten. Fishery is still important today, but the beautiful harbour is also full of charming local arts and crafts shops.

Henningsvær became protected in 2022 and is one of our most historically important fishing villages.

In Henningsvær we will visit Galleri Lofoten, which exhibits one of Norway’s largest collection of paintings from Northern Norway dating back to the turn of the last century – a period by many called the golden age of North Norwegian painting.

 After the visit in Henningsvær, the bus takes you to Stamsund, where the ship awaits.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

Practical information

Disembarking port: Svolvær

Embarking port: Stamsund

Available: 9 Apr - 31 Aug

Duration: 3 hours 30 min

Transportation: Bus

Clothes: Comfortable shoes and warm clothing

Excursion can also be combined with:

A Taste of Vesterålen

Sea Eagle Safari

Breakfast at the North Cape

6 hours
Level


from

€235

per person

Visit the North Cape early in the morning

Enjoy a tasty breakfast buffet while overlooking the Barents Sea

See a film about how the North Cape changes throughout the seasons

Admire the majestic Porsangerfjord from the bus

The North Cape plateau rises 307 meters (1,000 feet) above the Arctic Ocean. Welcome to Europe’s northernmost point. Unlike the travellers of old who once had to climb up the cliff, we’ll be taking a bus from Honningsvåg all the way to the top. You’ll have time to walk the plateau and pose for photos at the globe monument.

Enjoy a lavish breakfast buffet in the North Cape Hall while looking out over the Barents Sea, before experiencing the four seasons of the North Cape through a panoramic film. Inside the cliff at the North Cape Hall, you can buy handmade gifts for your loved ones in the gift shop and tour the chapel and small museum.

On our way back, we’ll drive through an underwater tunnel that connects the island of Magerøya with the mainland. The bus will then take us south along majestic Porsangerfjord, before heading back towards the coast to Hammerfest, one of the world’s northernmost towns.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

Practical information

Disembarking port: Honningsvåg

Embarking port: Hammerfest

Available: 8 May - 7 Oct

Transportation: Bus

Meals: Breakfast

Clothes: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing

Excursion can also be combined with:

Snowmobile Trip in the Polar Night

Snowmobile Trip in the Polar Night

2.15 hours
Level


from

€399

per person

Learn how to operate your own snowmobile from experienced instructors

Drive your snowmobile through the night over the mountains

Hear your guides tell stories about life in Finnmark county

Gaze in awe at the Northern Lights if they happen to appear during your ride

Join us on an unforgettable snowmobile trip in one of Europe’s most pristine natural areas. For a safe and enjoyable ride, listen closely to your expert instructors as they give you snowmobile training before you begin.

You’ll then travel from Mehamn, the world’s northernmost mainland town, over the mountains and halfway to the old trading post and fishing village of Kjøllefjord. A short bus ride will take you down to the port, where you’ll rejoin the ship.

Along the way, your guides will tell you about the local lifestyle and customs. You’ll also learn about the geographic and climatic conditions of the area, and you’ll find out more about the indigenous Sámi people.

Experience the snow-clad valleys and the fresh winter air, perhaps under the mesmerising Northern Lights should they occur in the skies above. If you travel with us during springtime, you might still see the aurora borealis, and possibly the soft glow of the sun towards the end of your ride, along with a milder climate.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

Practical information

Disembarking port: Mehamn

Embarking port: Kjøllefjord

Available period: 15 Dec - 30 Apr, except 25 Dec and 1 Jan

Transportation: Bus and snowmobile

Meals: Warm drink

Clothes: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing. Thermal clothing is provided

Subject to weather and snow conditions

Minimum age: 6 years old when accompanied by an adult

Valid driving license required

Excursion can also be combined with:

Breakfast at the North Cape

The Northernmost Town in the World

Lofotpils Brewery

0.44 hours
Level


from

€55

per person

Visit Lofotpils, a local brewery in the Lofoten Islands.

Learn about the brewery’s history.

See how Lofotpils brews its quality beer on site.

Taste local beer in a beer-tasting session.

In 2006, a local beer enthusiast repurposed an old fish-landing facility from 1937 in the centre of Svolvær, turning it into the site of Lofoten’s first brewery. On today’s excursion, you’ll meet the brewery’s owner, Thorvadur, and take a tour of the building.

Our guided tour will take you around Lofotpils, the only craft brewery in Lofoten, where you’ll learn all about the beer-making process, from start to finish. You’ll also hear about the history of the brewery, and how the special conditions of Lofoten’s water made it possible to embark on this ambitious enterprise.

At the end of the tour, you’ll taste some of the beer brewed here in a beer-tasting session. All Lofotpils beer is brewed using fresh water from the Lofoten mountains. This gives the beer a fresh and unique taste, offering you the freshness and beauty of the mountains of Lofoten with every sip.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

Practical information

Embarking/disembarking port: Svolvær

Languages: English and Norwegian

Available period: 4 Jan - 19 Dec

Transportation: A short, 275-yard walk

Clothes/footwear: Comfortable shoes and warm clothing


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.

Meet your expedition cruise experts

Australia and
Latin America

DISCLAIMER: Rates are per person, subject to availability and can change at any time

Subscribe to our free newsletter

Receive exclusive offers and updates directly to your inbox


Head Office

CRUISE NORWAY
373 Broadway, Suite C1

New York, NY 10013, USA

Cruise Norway International

Tallinn, Estonia

info@cruisenorway.com

Contact us

U.S. & Canada Toll Free: 1-888-538-8652
Europe & Global: +372 5299 832 / WhatsApp
Germany: +49 156 7820 3775 / WhatsApp
Australia: +61 7 537 95922 / WhatsApp
India: +91 98300 53005 / WhatsApp


•
About Cruise Norway
•
Contact Us
•
Home
•
Offers
•
Insights
•
Privacy Policy
•
Best Price Promise
Compare trips (0)
28 years ©2026 Cruise Norway. All Rights Reserved.