Norway · Arctic · Antarctica · Beyond

Hurtigruten

Discover the world’s most spectacular coastlines and remote wilderness destinations with the original expedition cruise line — over 130 years of exploration heritage.

A large MSC cruise ship docked at the pristine Ocean Cay marine reserve in the Bahamas, with a white lighthouse and turquoise waters surrounding a white sandy beach.
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The Original Expedition Cruise Line

Founded in 1893, Hurtigruten is one of the world’s most storied cruise lines, born from the iconic Norwegian Coastal Express route that has connected the remote communities along Norway’s breathtaking coastline for over a century. Today, Hurtigruten combines that pioneering spirit with modern expedition cruising, taking adventurous travelers to some of the planet’s most remote and pristine destinations — from the Norwegian fjords and Arctic wilderness to Antarctica and beyond.

At a Glance

Cruise Line: Hurtigruten – Expedition & Coastal Voyages

Founded: 1893 – Over 130 years of exploration heritage

Fleet: Purpose-built expedition ships carrying approximately 250–530 guests, including hybrid-powered vessels

Destinations: Norwegian coast, Arctic (Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland), Antarctica, British Isles, Alaska, and more

Service: Knowledgeable expedition teams, onboard Science Centers, and expert-led excursions

Signature Feature: The original Norwegian Coastal Express voyage — a working coastal route combined with world-class expedition cruising and sustainability leadership

  • Full-board cuisine featuring fresh, locally sourced Norwegian ingredients
  • Expedition team-led landings, hikes, and activities
  • Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket (on expedition voyages)
  • Onboard Science Center and expert lectures
  • Access to onboard fitness facilities, hot tubs, and panoramic lounges
  • Port calls at remote and hard-to-reach destinations
  • Reusable water bottle and boot lending program (expedition voyages)

Inclusions vary by voyage type and cabin category. Optional excursions and beverage packages available.

  • Over 130 years of experience navigating the world’s most remote coastlines
  • Industry leader in sustainable cruising with hybrid-powered ships and green initiatives
  • Immersive expedition experiences with expert teams of scientists, historians, and naturalists
  • Authentic Norwegian Coastal Express route — a cultural voyage unlike anything else at sea

Aune Restaurant: Main dining room featuring Norwegian-inspired cuisine with locally sourced ingredients

Lindstrøm Restaurant: Fine dining experience with a curated tasting menu (available on select ships)

Fredheim: Casual bistro-style dining and gathering space

On-Deck BBQ: Weather-permitting outdoor grilling events in scenic locations

Hurtigruten’s “Norway’s Coastal Kitchen” concept celebrates regional cuisine, sourcing ingredients from local farms, fisheries, and producers along the route. Expect fresh seafood, reindeer, and seasonal Nordic flavors throughout your voyage.

The original Hurtigruten voyage — the Norwegian Coastal Express — has been operating since 1893, connecting 34 ports along the stunning Norwegian coastline from Bergen to Kirkenes. This iconic 12-day roundtrip journey takes you past dramatic fjords, the Lofoten Islands, and above the Arctic Circle to witness the Midnight Sun or Northern Lights, depending on the season.

Part working ferry, part expedition voyage, the Coastal Express is one of the most unique cruise experiences in the world — a true immersion into Norwegian life, culture, and nature.

At a Glance

Expedition Cruising

Since 1893

130+ years of exploration heritage

  • Purpose-built expedition ships
  • Expert expedition team onboard
  • Norwegian Coastal Express route
  • Hybrid-powered green technology
  • Included expedition landings
  • Full-board Norwegian cuisine
  • Onboard Science Center

Inclusions vary by voyage type

Explore

Discover Hurtigruten

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The Norwegian Coastal Express

Often called “The World’s Most Beautiful Voyage,” the Norwegian Coastal Express has connected 34 ports along Norway’s dramatic coastline since 1893. This iconic 12-day roundtrip journey from Bergen to Kirkenes takes you past towering fjords, the stunning Lofoten Islands, charming fishing villages, and above the Arctic Circle. Depending on the season, experience the magical Midnight Sun or chase the elusive Northern Lights. It’s part working coastal ferry, part expedition voyage — and there’s truly nothing else like it on earth.

Norway’s Coastal Kitchen

Hurtigruten’s award-winning “Norway’s Coastal Kitchen” concept transforms onboard dining into a culinary journey through the regions you sail past. Fresh ingredients are sourced from local suppliers along the route — think freshly caught seafood from Arctic waters, king crab from Kirkenes, lamb from coastal farms, and seasonal berries from Norwegian hillsides. Every meal reflects the local culture and traditions of the coastline outside your window, making dining an integral part of the expedition experience rather than just a meal at sea.

A picturesque harbor view of Ketchikan, Alaska, featuring colorful waterfront buildings, fishing boats, and mountains at golden hour, showcasing the town's maritime character.
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A stunning turquoise alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped Rocky Mountains and dense evergreen forest. The pristine waters perfectly reflect the rugged mountain peaks in Banff National Park, Canada.
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Expedition Cruises to the Ends of the Earth

Beyond the Norwegian coast, Hurtigruten’s expedition fleet ventures to some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring destinations. Sail to Antarctica and witness vast colonies of penguins against pristine ice landscapes. Explore the Arctic wilderness of Svalbard, where polar bears roam and glaciers calve into turquoise waters. Discover the raw beauty of Greenland, the geothermal wonders of Iceland, or the rugged coastlines of the British Isles and Alaska. With expert expedition teams leading every voyage, these are immersive journeys designed for travelers who crave authentic exploration — not just sightseeing from a deck chair.

Experience

The Hurtigruten Experience

Sustainability Leaders

Hurtigruten leads the cruise industry in green innovation with hybrid-powered ships, a ban on single-use plastics, and a commitment to carbon-neutral operations. They were the first cruise line to power ships with battery-hybrid technology, reducing emissions and protecting the destinations they visit.

Science & Exploration

Every expedition ship features a dedicated Science Center where onboard experts — biologists, geologists, historians, and photographers — share insights through lectures, workshops, and citizen science projects. Learn about the ecosystems you’re exploring and contribute to real scientific research.

Extraordinary Destinations

From the Norwegian fjords and Arctic Svalbard to Antarctic ice shelves, Greenland’s remote east coast, Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, Alaska’s Inside Passage, and the British Isles — Hurtigruten takes you where few others can, with small ships designed to explore up close.

Images

Gallery

Silversea Silver Endeavour

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Hurtigruten combines over 130 years of Norwegian seafaring heritage with modern expedition cruising. Their ships are purpose-built for exploration, carrying smaller numbers of guests to remote destinations that larger ships can’t reach. The experience is centered on immersive exploration — expert-led landings, onboard Science Centers, locally sourced cuisine, and a deep commitment to sustainability. It’s adventure travel with comfort, not luxury-resort-at-sea.

Inclusions vary by voyage type and cabin category. On expedition voyages, fares typically include full-board meals featuring locally sourced cuisine, expedition team-led landings and activities, a complimentary expedition jacket, use of boots and hiking poles, onboard Science Center lectures and workshops, and access to fitness and wellness facilities. Beverage packages, optional excursions, and Wi-Fi packages are available for purchase. The Norwegian Coastal Express includes full-board dining on select fare levels. When you book through Cruise Help, we’ll clearly explain exactly what’s included in your chosen fare — plus you’ll benefit from our exclusive group rates, weekly price monitoring, and no booking fees.

The Norwegian Coastal Express is Hurtigruten’s iconic original route — operating since 1893. It’s a 12-day roundtrip voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes, calling at 34 ports along Norway’s spectacular coastline. The route crosses the Arctic Circle, passes the Lofoten Islands, and navigates stunning fjords. It’s part working coastal ferry (carrying passengers and cargo to remote communities) and part cruise experience. In winter, you can witness the Northern Lights; in summer, the Midnight Sun. It’s one of the most unique voyage experiences in the world.

Hurtigruten offers a range of cabin categories from comfortable Inside Cabins to spacious Expedition Suites with private balconies. On newer ships like MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen, options include Polar Outside cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows, Arctic Superior cabins, and top-tier Expedition Suites with separate living areas and panoramic views. All cabins are Scandinavian-designed with clean lines and functional comfort. Our expert advisors can recommend the right cabin category and specific cabin location based on your priorities and budget.

Hurtigruten operates a fleet of purpose-built expedition ships including the hybrid-powered MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen — the world’s first battery-hybrid powered cruise ships. These modern expedition vessels carry approximately 500 guests and feature onboard Science Centers, expedition boat launches, infinity pools, and panoramic observation decks. For the Norwegian Coastal Express route, Hurtigruten operates additional vessels specifically designed for coastal navigation. Ship sizes are intentionally small to access remote ports and provide intimate exploration experiences.

Hurtigruten sails to some of the world’s most remarkable destinations. Their core route is the Norwegian Coastal Express (Bergen to Kirkenes). Expedition voyages explore Antarctica, the Arctic (Svalbard, Greenland), Iceland, the British Isles, Alaska, and more. They also offer voyages to the Northwest Passage, South America, and other unique destinations. With smaller ships designed for exploration, Hurtigruten accesses ports and wilderness areas that mainstream cruise ships simply cannot reach.

Hurtigruten’s dining centers on their award-winning “Norway’s Coastal Kitchen” concept, which celebrates regional cuisine with ingredients sourced from local farms, fisheries, and producers along the route. The main restaurant (Aune) serves Norwegian-inspired breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On newer expedition ships, Lindstrøm offers a fine dining experience with multi-course tasting menus. Fredheim serves as a casual bistro and gathering space. Weather-permitting on-deck barbecues add a unique outdoor dining experience in stunning scenic locations.

Hurtigruten maintains a relaxed, casual dress code that reflects its expedition and adventure-travel ethos. There are no formal nights — smart casual is the most dressed-up you’ll need to be. Comfortable, practical clothing is encouraged, especially for expedition landings. On expedition voyages, you’ll receive a complimentary expedition jacket, and waterproof boots are available for loan. The atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious — focused on the experience, not the dress code.

Hurtigruten can be an excellent choice for families with older children and teens who have an interest in nature, science, and adventure. The expedition team offers engaging activities and educational programs, and the onboard Science Center provides hands-on learning experiences. Children often love the Zodiac landings, wildlife spotting, and the sense of real exploration. However, Hurtigruten is not a traditional family cruise line with kids’ clubs and waterslides — it’s best suited for families seeking meaningful, educational travel experiences together.

Hurtigruten is widely regarded as the cruise industry’s sustainability leader. They operate the world’s first battery-hybrid powered expedition ships, have banned single-use plastics fleet-wide, and are working toward carbon-neutral operations. Their ships use shore power where available, and they invest in local communities along their routes. The Hurtigruten Foundation supports conservation and community projects in the destinations they visit. For environmentally conscious travelers, Hurtigruten represents a meaningful way to explore the world responsibly.

When you book Hurtigruten through Cruise Help, you get access to exclusive group rates with savings up to 50% off published fares — with just one room. Our team of 23+ expert advisors, many with real cruise ship experience, provides personalized cabin selection advice, itinerary planning, and help choosing the right voyage type for your interests. We perform weekly price monitoring on every booking and automatically adjust your rate if the price drops. Plus, we never charge booking, consultation, or change fees — ever. With 365-day support, you’re never on your own from the moment you inquire to the moment you disembark.

Get Started

Ready for an Extraordinary Expedition?

Whether it’s the iconic Norwegian Coastal Express, an Arctic adventure to Svalbard, or an Antarctic expedition of a lifetime, Hurtigruten delivers exploration like no one else. When you’re ready to discover the world’s most remote and breathtaking destinations, speak with our expert advisors at Cruise Help. With exclusive group rates, weekly price monitoring, and no fees — ever — your expedition begins with us!