Since 1893, ships have traveled Norway’s dramatic coastline, connecting remote communities from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes near the Russian border. What began as a vital mail and supply route has evolved into one of the world’s great sea voyages—a journey that combines the comfort of a cruise with the authenticity of working ships that locals still rely on daily. Covering 2,500 nautical miles across 12 days, the Hurtigruten coastal voyage remains the definitive way to experience Norway’s magnificent coastline, calling at 34 ports northbound and 33 ports southbound as it navigates through fjords, past Arctic islands, and beyond the reach of the midnight sun.
According to Visit Norway, the coastal voyage offers “a floating hotel” experience with “restaurants, bars, and onboard activities while gliding past Norway’s extraordinary coastline.” This is not merely a cruise—it is an immersive journey through one of Earth’s most spectacular landscapes, combining natural wonder with over 130 years of maritime heritage.
Understanding the Coastal Voyage
The Route: 2,500 Nautical Miles of Norwegian Coastline
The classic Hurtigruten coastal voyage covers one of the world’s most scenic maritime routes, threading through landscapes that range from temperate fjords to Arctic tundra.
| Route Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Distance | 2,500 nautical miles (4,600 km) |
| Full Voyage Duration | 12 days round trip |
| Ports Northbound | 34 stops (Bergen to Kirkenes) |
| Ports Southbound | 33 stops (Kirkenes to Bergen) |
| Operating Since | 1893 (132 years) |
| Route Coverage | Bergen (60.4°N) to Kirkenes (69.7°N) |
| Arctic Circle Crossing | Near Ornes, approximately 66.5°N |
Ships travel northbound and southbound simultaneously, meaning ports visited at night going north are seen in daylight returning south—and vice versa. This clever scheduling means a round-trip voyage offers twice the viewing opportunities, with each community revealed under different lighting and atmospheric conditions.
Why the Hurtigruten Route Matters
The coastal voyage follows a route that was essential to Norwegian development and remains vital today:
Historical Significance:
- Established 1893 to connect isolated coastal communities
- Originally the only reliable transportation along the rugged coastline
- Carried mail, cargo, and passengers for over a century
- Enabled year-round commerce north of the Arctic Circle
- Transformed remote fishing villages into connected communities
Modern Relevance:
- Still serves as primary transport for many coastal residents
- Delivers fresh supplies to remote communities
- Provides essential cargo services
- Maintains economic lifelines to isolated villages
- Combines transport function with tourism
The Operators: Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages
Two companies operate the Norwegian coastal route, offering slightly different experiences along identical itineraries.
Hurtigruten:
According to Visit Norway, Hurtigruten “has operated since 1893 with daily departures calling at 34 ports between Bergen and Kirkenes.” The company pioneered this route and remains the most recognized name in Norwegian coastal voyages.
| Hurtigruten Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Years Operating | Since 1893 |
| Fleet Size | 7 coastal ships |
| Daily Departures | Yes, year-round |
| Northern Lights Promise | Yes (11+ day voyages) |
| Expedition Cruises | Also available (Arctic, Antarctic) |
Havila Voyages:
A newer operator that “began coastal service in 2021, operating identical routes from Bergen to Kirkenes.” Their ships utilize “cutting-edge technology, running purely on electric and LNG power” for reduced environmental impact.
| Havila Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Launched | 2021 |
| Fleet Size | 4 ships |
| Ship Age | All built 2021-2022 |
| Power Source | Electric/LNG hybrid |
| Environmental Focus | Zero-emission capable (4 hours) |
Working Ships, Not Just Cruises
These are not typical cruise ships. They serve as vital transport links:
- Carrying cargo and supplies to remote communities
- Providing transportation for locals between ports
- Delivering mail and goods
- Connecting Norway’s scattered coastal villages
- Transporting vehicles for residents and travelers
This working heritage means authentic Norwegian experiences rather than manufactured cruise entertainment. You might share the voyage with fishermen heading home, students traveling to university, or families visiting relatives in distant villages.
2025 Prices and Booking Information
Current Pricing (2025 Season)
Hurtigruten offers various pricing tiers based on voyage length, cabin category, and seasonal demand.
| Voyage Type | Standard Price | 50% Discount Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Route (Round Trip) | $2,954 USD | $1,477 USD | 12 days |
| Northbound (Bergen-Kirkenes) | $2,172 USD | $1,412 USD | 7 days |
| Southbound (Kirkenes-Bergen) | £1,060 GBP | £689 GBP | 6 days |
Price Includes:
- Cabin accommodation
- Full board (meals vary by package)
- Port stops and scenic sailing
- Onboard lectures and entertainment
- Access to all public areas
Price Variations:
| Cabin Category | Price Range (7-day) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Inside Cabin | $1,500-2,200 USD | No window, compact |
| Outside Cabin | $2,000-3,200 USD | Window or porthole |
| Suite | $3,500-5,500 USD | Larger space, amenities |
| Arctic Superior | $4,500-7,000 USD | Best views, premium service |
Additional Costs:
- Shore excursions: $50-350 per activity
- Drinks packages: $200-500 per voyage
- WiFi: Varies by ship and package
- Single supplement: 50-100% of cabin price
- Peak season premium: 20-40% above base
The Northern Lights Promise
Hurtigruten’s Northern Lights Promise represents one of travel’s most generous guarantees:
| Promise Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Voyages of 11 days or more |
| Season | October through March |
| Guarantee | Free 6-7 day voyage if no aurora |
| Booking | Must book within 12 months |
| Restrictions | Original voyage dates; transport not included |
This promise reflects the statistical likelihood of aurora viewing—on 12-day winter voyages, the Northern Lights appear on approximately 90% of journeys.
Check Current Hurtigruten PricesThe Voyage Experience
All 34 Ports of Call
Ships stop at 34 coastal communities northbound, providing windows into Norwegian life from cosmopolitan cities to tiny fishing villages.
Major Cities (Longer Stops):
| Port | Stop Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Bergen | Departure point | UNESCO Bryggen wharf, Floibanen funicular |
| Alesund | 3-4 hours | Art Nouveau architecture, harbor views |
| Trondheim | 3-4 hours | Nidaros Cathedral, historic capital |
| Bodo | 3 hours | Gateway to Lofoten, Saltstraumen |
| Tromso | 4+ hours | Arctic capital, university city |
| Hammerfest | 1.5 hours | Historic Arctic trading post |
| Honningsvag | 3-4 hours | Gateway to North Cape |
| Kirkenes | Turnaround | Russian border, snow hotel |
Scenic Smaller Ports:
| Port | Region | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Rorvik | Central Coast | Coastal culture center, boat museum |
| Bronnoysund | Helgeland | Torghatten mountain with hole |
| Svolvaer | Lofoten | Fishing capital, dramatic peaks |
| Stokmarknes | Vesteralen | Hurtigruten museum |
| Skjervoy | Northern Troms | Arctic fishing community |
| Berlevag | Finnmark | One of Norway’s most isolated ports |
| Vardo | Easternmost | Only mainland Arctic fortress |
Stop Durations and Opportunities
Port times vary significantly by location:
| Stop Type | Duration | Possibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Quick stops | 15-30 minutes | Photo from deck, short walk |
| Brief stops | 45-90 minutes | Village exploration, local shops |
| Extended stops | 2-3 hours | Town exploration, independent sightseeing |
| Major stops | 3-5 hours | Organized excursions, city exploration |
Planning Tips:
- Check schedules carefully—some ports visited only at night
- Northbound and southbound times differ
- Winter arrivals often in darkness
- Summer offers extended exploration in midnight sun
- Pre-book excursions for popular activities
Seasonal Highlights and Special Sailings
Summer (Late May - Early August): Ships enter Geirangerfjord during summer months, one of Norway’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. This detour adds several hours to the voyage but reveals Norway’s most dramatic fjord scenery, with waterfalls cascading from thousand-meter cliffs.
| Summer Special | Description |
|---|---|
| Geirangerfjord Entry | UNESCO fjord with Seven Sisters waterfall |
| Midnight Sun | 24-hour daylight north of Arctic Circle |
| Wildlife Activity | Seabirds, whales, puffins at peak |
| Deck Activities | BBQs, outdoor events, late-night viewing |
Autumn (September-October): Ships detour to Hjorundfjord, hidden amid the Sunnmore Alps—a spectacular hidden gem that most tourists never see. Autumn colors transform the mountains into a painter’s palette.
Winter (October-March): Snow-covered landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and Northern Lights create a magical atmosphere. The polar night above the Arctic Circle adds mystery and drama to the voyage.
| Winter Special | Description |
|---|---|
| Northern Lights | Prime viewing October-March |
| Polar Night | No sun above Arctic Circle (Dec-Jan) |
| Snow Landscapes | Dramatic white scenery |
| Aurora Alerts | Crew wake calls for displays |
Voyage Options Explained
Full Round Trip (12 Days)
The complete Hurtigruten experience:
| Day | Route Segment | Key Ports |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bergen departure | Evening sailing |
| 2 | Florø, Måløy, Torvik | Coastal villages |
| 3 | Ålesund, Molde | Art Nouveau city |
| 4 | Trondheim, Rørvik | Historic capital |
| 5 | Brønnøysund, Sandnessjøen | Helgeland coast |
| 6 | Bodø, Svolvær | Arctic Circle crossing |
| 7 | Tromsø, Skjervøy | Arctic capital |
| 8 | Hammerfest, Honningsvåg | North Cape access |
| 9 | Kirkenes arrival | Russian border |
| 10-12 | Southbound return | Reverse ports, different times |
Best for:
- Those wanting the full experience
- Aurora hunters seeking maximum opportunity
- Travelers with time flexibility
- Photography enthusiasts wanting all lighting conditions
Northbound Voyage (7 Days)
Bergen to Kirkenes:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 7 days |
| Direction | South to north |
| Experience | Building anticipation toward Arctic |
| Highlight | Arctic Circle crossing, North Cape |
| Price 2025 | From $2,172 ($1,412 with discount) |
Best for:
- First-timers wanting the classic direction
- One-way travelers continuing to Finland or Russia
- Those with limited time
- Travelers flying out from Kirkenes
Southbound Voyage (6 Days)
Kirkenes to Bergen:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 6 days |
| Direction | North to south |
| Experience | Arctic to temperate transition |
| Highlight | Different port times, varied perspectives |
| Price 2025 | From £1,060 (£689 with discount) |
Best for:
- Those who flew to Kirkenes
- Travelers combining with Svalbard visits
- Budget-conscious (slightly shorter)
- Return journey after northbound
Short Cruises and Segments
Both operators offer shorter segments for travelers with limited time:
| Segment | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Bergen-Trondheim | 2 days | Fjord Norway, coastal villages |
| Trondheim-Tromsø | 2 days | Arctic Circle crossing, Lofoten |
| Tromsø-Kirkenes | 1.5 days | High Arctic, North Cape |
| Lofoten Experience | 2-3 days | Island archipelago focus |
Port-to-Port Tickets
Book specific segments for local transportation:
- Travel between any two consecutive ports
- Most economical approach
- Working ship experience
- Used by locals regularly
- No cabin required for short hops
Best Time to Travel
Comprehensive Seasonal Comparison
| Season | Northern Lights | Midnight Sun | Weather | Crowds | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Oct-Mar) | Excellent | No | Cold, snow | Low | Moderate |
| Spring (Apr-May) | Fading | Increasing | Variable | Low | Value |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | No | Yes | Warmest | High | Peak |
| Autumn (Sep-Oct) | Emerging | Fading | Cooling | Moderate | Value |
Winter Voyage: The Northern Lights Season (October-March)
Unique Experiences:
- Northern Lights viewing from deck
- Frosty fjords and icy waterfalls
- Snow-covered villages
- Atmospheric polar night (December-January)
- Fewer tourists
- Northern Lights Promise guarantee
- King crab safari at Kirkenes
- Dog sledding excursions
Conditions:
| Month | Temperature Range | Daylight (Tromsø) | Aurora Probability |
|---|---|---|---|
| October | -2°C to 5°C | 10-6 hours | Good |
| November | -5°C to 2°C | 6-0 hours | Excellent |
| December | -8°C to 0°C | Polar night | Excellent |
| January | -10°C to -2°C | 0-4 hours | Excellent |
| February | -8°C to 0°C | 4-9 hours | Excellent |
| March | -5°C to 3°C | 9-14 hours | Good |
Considerations:
- Cold temperatures require warm clothing
- Limited daylight for scenery viewing
- Some excursions weather-dependent
- Possible rough seas
Summer Voyage: The Midnight Sun Season (May-August)
Unique Experiences:
- Midnight sun (late May-late July)
- Geirangerfjord UNESCO detour
- Warmest weather for deck viewing
- Extended port exploration
- Wildlife at peak activity
- Greenest landscapes
- Puffin colonies active
Conditions:
| Month | Temperature Range | Daylight (Tromsø) | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| May | 4°C to 10°C | 20-24 hours | Spring awakening |
| June | 8°C to 15°C | 24 hours | Midnight sun |
| July | 10°C to 18°C | 24-20 hours | Peak midnight sun |
| August | 8°C to 15°C | 16-12 hours | Late summer calm |
Considerations:
- Peak season pricing (20-40% premium)
- Ships fully booked—reserve months ahead
- More crowded ports
- No Northern Lights
Life On Board
Accommodations
Cabin Categories Explained:
| Category | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Inside Cabins | No window, compact space, lower decks | Budget travelers |
| Outside Cabins | Window or porthole, natural light | Standard choice |
| Superior Outside | Larger windows, better location | Comfort seekers |
| Suites | Sitting area, premium location | Special occasions |
| Arctic Superior | Best views, top deck, upgraded amenities | Luxury experience |
All Cabins Include:
- Private bathroom with shower
- Comfortable beds (twin or double configuration)
- Storage space for luggage
- Daily cleaning service
- Climate control
- Electric outlets
Cabin Selection Tips:
- Mid-ship cabins experience less motion
- Higher decks offer better views but more movement
- Forward cabins hear anchor noise at ports
- Port side faces land northbound, starboard southbound
Dining Experience
Included Meals (Varies by Package):
| Meal Package | Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation Only | Buffet included | Purchase | Purchase |
| Half Board | Buffet included | Purchase | 3-course included |
| Full Board | Buffet included | Buffet included | 3-course included |
Culinary Highlights:
- Fresh local ingredients loaded at each port
- Norwegian seafood specialties (King crab, salmon, cod)
- Regional dishes representing each area
- Scenic dining rooms with panoramic views
- Special dinners featuring local traditions
Restaurant Types:
- Main dining room (included meals)
- Buffet restaurant (casual dining)
- Specialty restaurants (additional cost on some ships)
- Cafe and bar areas
Onboard Activities and Entertainment
Regular Programs:
- Lectures on local culture, history, wildlife
- Photography workshops with professional guidance
- Aurora alerts and deck viewing (winter)
- Coastal pilot commentary through scenic highlights
- Library and quiet reading spaces
- Hot tubs with views
- Gym and fitness facilities
- Children’s programs (summer)
What to Expect—and Not Expect:
| Available | Not Available |
|---|---|
| Enrichment lectures | Casino |
| Photography programs | Nightclub |
| Wildlife spotting | Large-scale entertainment |
| Deck parties | Extensive shopping |
| Cultural experiences | Water slides |
| Quiet reflection | Crowds of thousands |
The focus remains on scenery, authenticity, and Norwegian culture rather than manufactured cruise entertainment.
Key Highlights Along the Route
Crossing the Arctic Circle (66°33’N)
A memorable moment celebrated on deck:
| Ceremony Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Ørnes/Nesna |
| Celebration | Traditional crossing ritual |
| Certificate | Official document for passengers |
| Tradition | Ice water (optional!) or aquavit toast |
| Photo opportunity | Commemorative moment |
The Arctic Circle marks the latitude where the sun does not set on summer solstice and does not rise on winter solstice—the boundary of the midnight sun and polar night zones.
Trollfjorden Entrance
One of the voyage’s most dramatic moments:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fjord Width | As narrow as 100 meters |
| Cliff Height | 1,000+ meters on both sides |
| Navigation | Requires exceptional captain skill |
| Wildlife | Sea eagles nest in cliffs |
| Access | Only possible by ship |
Ships enter this extremely narrow fjord when conditions permit, creating an almost surreal experience as thousand-meter cliffs tower on both sides and the ship seems impossibly close to rock walls.
Lofoten Islands Passage
Sailing through the dramatic Lofoten archipelago:
| Highlight | Description |
|---|---|
| Mountains | Jagged peaks rising directly from sea |
| Villages | Historic red rorbu fishing cabins |
| Light | Legendary for photographers |
| Stops | Stamsund, Svolvær, Stokmarknes |
| Season | Spectacular in all seasons |
North Cape Excursion (from Honningsvåg)
Visit Europe’s northernmost accessible point:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cliff Height | 307 meters above Arctic Ocean |
| Latitude | 71°10’N |
| Monument | Iconic globe sculpture |
| Experience | Midnight sun or polar night |
| Excursion | Organized bus tour from ship |
| Price | $100-150 per person |
Shore Excursions Guide
Winter Excursion Highlights
| Excursion | Port | Duration | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog Sledding | Various | 3-4 hours | $200-350 |
| Northern Lights Safari | Tromsø, Alta | 3-5 hours | $150-250 |
| Snowmobile Safari | Kirkenes, Alta | 2-4 hours | $180-300 |
| King Crab Safari | Kirkenes | 4 hours | $200-300 |
| Sami Culture Visit | Alta, Tromsø | 3 hours | $100-180 |
| Reindeer Sledding | Tromsø | 2-3 hours | $150-250 |
| North Cape Visit | Honningsvåg | 3-4 hours | $100-150 |
Summer Excursion Highlights
| Excursion | Port | Duration | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Cape Midnight Sun | Honningsvåg | 4-5 hours | $120-180 |
| Geirangerfjord Exploration | Geiranger | 3-4 hours | $80-150 |
| Hiking Excursions | Various | 2-5 hours | $60-120 |
| Kayaking | Svolvær, Bergen | 3-4 hours | $100-180 |
| Fishing Trips | Various | 3-4 hours | $100-200 |
| Whale Watching | Andenes | 4-5 hours | $150-250 |
Independent Exploration Tips
At longer stops, explore independently:
| Activity | Recommended Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Walk through port towns | 1-2 hours | Follow marked routes |
| Visit local attractions | 1-3 hours | Check opening times |
| Enjoy Norwegian cafes | 30-60 minutes | Try local specialties |
| Photography walks | 1-2 hours | Golden hour timing |
| Local shopping | 30-60 minutes | Norwegian crafts, foods |
Important: Always return to ship before departure—ships wait for excursion groups but not independent explorers.
Photography Guide
Best Photography Opportunities
| Subject | Best Location | Best Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Lights | Open deck | 9 PM - 2 AM | Tripod essential, high ISO |
| Fjord Scenery | Forward deck | Golden hours | Wide angle lens |
| Wildlife | Side decks | Daytime | Telephoto, fast shutter |
| Ports | Any deck | Arrival/departure | Document daily life |
| Ship Details | Throughout | Any time | Tell the voyage story |
| Midnight Sun | Top deck | 11 PM - 1 AM | Filter for direct sun |
Photography Equipment Recommendations
Essential:
- Camera with manual controls
- Wide-angle lens (16-35mm)
- Telephoto lens (70-200mm or longer)
- Sturdy tripod
- Extra batteries (cold drains power)
- Lens cleaning supplies
Northern Lights Specific:
- Fast wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or wider)
- Remote shutter release
- Red headlamp (preserve night vision)
- Hand warmers for batteries
Deck Access and Etiquette
- Most decks accessible 24/7
- Aurora viewing areas designated on some ships
- Tripod-friendly zones available
- Share prime spots with fellow photographers
- Keep noise minimal during night viewing
Practical Information
What to Pack
Essential Items (All Seasons):
- Layers for variable conditions
- Waterproof outer layer
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Binoculars for wildlife
- Camera and chargers
- Motion sickness remedies
- Reusable water bottle
- Small daypack for excursions
Winter Additions (October-March):
- Thermal base layers (merino wool)
- Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- Warm waterproof boots
- Thick gloves and liner gloves
- Warm hat covering ears
- Neck gaiter or balaclava
- Hand and toe warmers
- Sunglasses (snow glare)
Summer Additions (May-August):
- Sunscreen (24-hour sun possible)
- Sleep mask (for cabin)
- Light layers for evening
- Sun hat
- Insect repellent (for port walks)
Booking Tips for Best Experience
- Book Early: Popular dates sell out 6-12 months ahead, especially winter Northern Lights season
- Cabin Location: Mid-ship on middle decks for least motion
- Deck Selection: Higher decks offer views but more movement in rough seas
- Meal Packages: Usually better value than a la carte
- Excursions: Pre-book popular options (dog sledding, King crab)
- Cabin Side: Port side faces land northbound; starboard southbound
- Round Trip Advantage: See all ports in both daylight and darkness
- Shoulder Season: April-May and September-October offer value with good conditions
Hurtigruten vs. Havila: Making Your Choice
Hurtigruten Advantages
| Strength | Details |
|---|---|
| Heritage | 132 years of experience |
| Fleet Size | 7 ships, more departure options |
| Northern Lights Promise | Guarantee for 11+ day voyages |
| Excursion Program | Extensive, well-established |
| Brand Recognition | World-renowned reputation |
| Explorer Heritage | Connection to expedition cruising |
Ships: MS Nordnorge, MS Nordkapp, MS Polarlys, MS Richard With, MS Vesteralen, MS Midnatsol, MS Kong Harald
Havila Voyages Advantages
| Strength | Details |
|---|---|
| Ships | All launched 2021-2022 |
| Environment | Electric/LNG hybrid, zero-emission capable |
| Design | Modern Scandinavian interiors |
| Technology | Cutting-edge amenities |
| Pricing | Often competitive |
| Sustainability | Lowest environmental impact |
Ships: Havila Capella, Havila Castor, Havila Polaris, Havila Pollux
Recommendation
Both operators deliver excellent experiences along identical routes. Choose Hurtigruten for heritage, the Northern Lights Promise, and more departure options. Choose Havila for the newest ships, environmental leadership, and modern design. You cannot go wrong with either choice.
Combining with Other Travel
Pre/Post Voyage in Bergen
| Activity | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Bryggen UNESCO Site | 2-3 hours | Hanseatic wharf, wooden buildings |
| Floibanen Funicular | 1-2 hours | Mountain viewpoint over city |
| Fish Market | 1 hour | Fresh seafood, local atmosphere |
| Day Trip to Fjords | Full day | Sognefjord or Hardangerfjord |
| Bergen Card | 1-2 days | Museums, transport included |
Pre/Post Voyage in Kirkenes
| Activity | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| King Crab Safari | 4 hours | Catch and eat giant crabs |
| Snowmobile Tours | 2-4 hours | Arctic wilderness adventure |
| Snow Hotel | Overnight | Ice accommodation experience |
| Russian Border | 1-2 hours | View into Russia from Norway |
| Sami Culture | 3 hours | Indigenous heritage experience |
Add-On Destinations
| Extension | From | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Svalbard | Tromsø or Kirkenes | Arctic archipelago, polar bears |
| Lofoten Extended | Svolvær | Island exploration by car |
| North Cape Independent | Honningsvåg | Extra time at 71°N |
| Rovaniemi (Finland) | Kirkenes | Santa Claus Village |
| Alta | Tromsø | Northern Lights Cathedral |
Final Advice
The Hurtigruten coastal voyage offers something no fly-in, fly-out trip can match—the slow unfolding of Norway’s extraordinary coastline, the rhythm of port arrivals and departures, and the authentic experience of traveling the way Norwegians have for over 130 years. Since 1893, these ships have connected remote communities across 2,500 nautical miles, and joining this voyage means becoming part of a living maritime tradition.
Whether you choose winter’s Northern Lights and frozen landscapes or summer’s midnight sun and verdant fjords, the voyage delivers a profound connection to Norway’s maritime heritage and natural beauty. The Northern Lights Promise ensures aurora seekers have maximum opportunity to witness the celestial display, while 34 ports offer windows into Norwegian life from Bergen’s UNESCO wharf to Kirkenes on the Russian border.
Final Tips for the Best Experience:
- Book Early: Especially for Northern Lights season or summer Geirangerfjord sailings
- Consider Round Trip: See all ports in both daylight and darkness
- Choose Your Season: Northern Lights (winter) or Midnight Sun (summer)
- Pack Properly: Layers, warm gear for winter, camera equipment
- Book Excursions: Popular options sell out
- Embrace the Pace: This is not a race—enjoy the slow reveal
- Connect with Fellow Travelers: Shared meals and viewing create lasting friendships
- Stay Flexible: Weather changes plans; go with the flow
From Bergen’s colorful wharf to Kirkenes at the Russian border, the Hurtigruten coastal voyage delivers one of the world’s truly great journeys. The Norwegian coast awaits.
Information in this guide is sourced from Visit Norway, Hurtigruten, and Havila Voyages. 2025 prices: Full route from $2,954 ($1,477 with 50% discount), Northbound 7 days from $2,172 ($1,412 with discount), Southbound 6 days from £1,060 (£689 with discount). Northern Lights Promise applies to 11+ day voyages. Prices and schedules subject to change—verify current information before booking. Last updated January 2026.