Hurtigruten Cruises: Norway’s Coastal Voyage Since 1893
For more than 130 years, Hurtigruten has sailed Norway’s coastline, linking remote fishing villages, deep fjords and Arctic ports. It is one of the few cruise experiences where you travel alongside Norwegians going about their daily lives, not just other tourists.
Choose the classic Coastal Express from Bergen to Kirkenes, a winter voyage to the North Cape in search of the Northern Lights, or a journey on to the Svalbard archipelago. We can help you match the right Hurtigruten voyage to your dates, budget and travel style.
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Hurtigruten at a Glance
Founded: 1893, as Norway’s original coastal passenger and mail route
Fleet: 8 ships, including MS Trollfjord, MS Kong Harald, MS Midnatsol, MS Nordkapp, MS Nordlys, MS Nordnorge, MS Richard With and MS Polarlys
Signature route: The Coastal Express, up to 34 ports between Bergen and Kirkenes
Voyage styles: Original Voyages, Signature Voyages, Cruise & Tour packages and port-to-port segments
Best known for: Northern Lights, Norwegian fjords, the Midnight Sun and Arctic Norway
Loyalty program: the 1893 Ambassador Program
Why Cruise With Hurtigruten?
A Real Coastal Route, Not a Resort at Sea
Hurtigruten is a working coastal line, not a mega-ship with a water park. Port stops range from ten minutes to four hours, so you see everyday life along the coast and not only curated shore excursions.
Built for Northern Lights Season
Hurtigruten’s winter voyages sail deep into Arctic Norway, where the aurora is most likely to appear. Its Northern Lights Promise offers another voyage at no cost if you don’t see the aurora on a qualifying sailing. Check the current terms before you book.
Two Ways to Sail
Original Voyages follow the classic Coastal Express route with regional Norwegian ingredients on board and full board dining.
Signature Voyages are handpicked itineraries, such as the North Cape Line and the Svalbard Line, with longer port stops, Norway’s Coastal Kitchen cuisine and unlimited select drinks.
Small-Ship, Destination-First Travel
With a fleet of eight ships built around fjords and Arctic ports, Hurtigruten suits travelers who want to explore, not just relax at sea.
Popular Hurtigruten Voyages
The Coastal Express: Bergen to Kirkenes and Back
The original 1893 route. This 12-day roundtrip calls at up to 34 ports and includes full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner). It is the most complete way to see Norway’s fjords, coastal towns and Arctic reaches in a single voyage.
The North Cape Line: Oslo to Honningsvåg and Back
A 15-day, all-inclusive winter voyage to Norway’s North Cape, designed around Northern Lights viewing. It makes 13 stops and includes all meals and unlimited select drinks.
The Svalbard Line
For travelers who want to go further north, the Svalbard Line continues into the Arctic archipelago for an expedition-style journey through dramatic landscapes and polar wildlife.
Astronomy and Specialty Sailings
Select departures pair the coastal route with expert-led programming, such as winter astronomy cruises hosted by an onboard astronomer.
See Current Departures and Pricing
When Is the Best Time for a Hurtigruten Cruise?
Winter (October to March): Northern Lights and Polar Night
The best season for aurora viewing and snow-covered coastal scenery. Ideal for photographers and anyone chasing the Northern Lights.
Spring (April to May): Waterfalls and Long Days
Snow-capped mountains, rushing waterfalls, green valleys and lengthening daylight, often with lower prices and thinner crowds.
Summer (June to August): The Midnight Sun
Nearly endless daylight in the Arctic, mild weather and active wildlife. A popular choice for first-time visitors and families.
Early Fall (September): Autumn Color and Early Aurora
Shoulder-season travel with fall color and the first chances of the year to see the Northern Lights.
Hurtigruten Cruise FAQs
What is Hurtigruten known for?
Hurtigruten is known for the Coastal Express, a passenger and cargo route along Norway’s coastline founded in 1893. It connects more than 30 ports between Bergen and Kirkenes and also offers Northern Lights and Svalbard voyages.
How long is a Hurtigruten cruise?
It depends on the voyage. The full Coastal Express roundtrip is 12 days, and the North Cape Line roundtrip is 15 days. Shorter port-to-port segments are also available if you want to sail only part of the coast.
Is Hurtigruten good for seeing the Northern Lights?
Yes. Hurtigruten’s winter voyages sail deep into Arctic Norway, where aurora sightings are most likely. The Northern Lights Promise offers another voyage free of charge if you don’t see the aurora on a qualifying sailing, so check the current terms when you book.
What is the difference between Original and Signature voyages?
Original Voyages follow the classic Coastal Express route with full board dining and many ports of call. Signature Voyages are handpicked premium itineraries with longer port stops, Norway’s Coastal Kitchen cuisine and unlimited select drinks.
Does Hurtigruten sail to Svalbard?
Yes. The Svalbard Line takes guests into the Arctic archipelago north of mainland Norway for expedition-style cruising.
Is Hurtigruten a luxury cruise line?
Hurtigruten is a small-ship, destination-focused line rather than a mega-ship resort. Its Signature Voyages offer a more premium, inclusive experience, while Original Voyages focus on authentic coastal travel.
When should I book a Hurtigruten cruise?
Winter Northern Lights sailings and summer Midnight Sun departures are the most popular, so booking early gives you the best choice of dates and cabins. Limited-time offers appear regularly, such as seasonal discounts on spring sailings.
Ready to See Norway From the Water?
Tell us your travel dates, budget and what you most want to see, whether that’s the Northern Lights, the fjords or the Arctic. We’ll compare Hurtigruten’s Original, Signature and Svalbard options and look for current offers before you book.