Join the North Cape Express in the beautiful city of Bergen for an autumn, winter, or spring voyage to the roof of Norway at North Cape in the Arctic, perhaps under the Northern Lights. Your ship will then turn around and sail back south towards Lindesnes, bound for the cool capital of Oslo.
Come aboard exceptionally designed MS Trollfjord, freshly refurbished in 2023 with the finest materials and ship craftsmanship and learn about local communities all along the coast, across a range of latitudes, and join a range of exciting optional excursions.
Welcome to Norway
It’s only fitting that your Norwegian adventure begins in Bergen, Norway’s cultural and artistic hotspot. Take the transfer from the airport to your hotel, located in the heart of the city. The rest of the day or evening is spent at your leisure.
In many ways, Bergen is like a medieval living museum. Founded by King Olaf III in 1070 AD, Bergen was Norway’s capital for many years. As you wander its cobblestone streets and alleyways, you’ll note how this bustling city has lost none of its heritage and historic charm.
Depending on how much time you have, you can take a funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen. At the summit, you’ll be able to take in spectacular views of Bergen, its neighbouring fjords and surrounding mountains.
Exploring Norway’s cultural hub
You’ll go on a guided sightseeing tour of Bergen after your breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy visiting well-known sites such as Nordnes peninsula, medieval Håkon’s Hall, the Renaissance-era Rosenkrantz Tower, and 12th century St Mary’s Church, known as Mariakirken in Norwegian.
Your tour will also take in the UNESCO-listed buildings in the Bryggen district. Once the haunt of 14th century Hanseatic League traders, these colourful wooden wharves now house artisanal boutiques and galleries ideal for souvenir shopping.
The sightseeing tour also includes a visit to the 7 Fjell brewery, Bergen’s first microbrewery and one of the 50 Norwegian suppliers we partner with. You can look forward to a relaxed tour of the brewery and sampling a range of their delicious beers in a tasting session.
Perfect panoramas
Molde is the capital and commercial centre of Romsdalen, which sits on the southern coast of the Romsdal Peninsula. Hurtigruten stop at this port many times before on their Coastal Express route, but this time the stop will be much longer, so you’ll have all the time you need to get your fill of the town.
An ancient fishing town
The Vikna archipelago is a chain of around 6,000 islands, islets and skerries. The largest of the chain, Inner-Vikna, is where we make our next stop. Aiming to dock at the port town of Rørvik around mid-morning, remaining there most of the day.
The town and its surrounding areas have a long history, with burial mounds found there that date back to ancient times. The area’s maritime legacy is well-documented across Rørvik’s many museums, particularly The Norwegian Coastal Museum.
Similarly, at SalmoNor visiting centre, you can take a tour of a modern salmon farm and find out more about the Norwegian aquaculture industry that supplies the world with tasty Nordic salmon.
Village life and fjord nature
The administrative centre of a municipality with the same name, Lødingen is a village on the southwestern shore of Hinnøya, with a population of under 2,000. This is a port that Hurtigruten ships used to visit on one of their earlier coastal routes and returning here is a kind of homecoming for them.
Docking at around midday, use Lødingen as a base for a few hours to explore more of Hinnøya island, Norway’s largest island south of Svalbard. Wander the streets near the port and admire the traditional red fishing huts, or rorbuer, that line the shore. As you walk, you’ll likely notice the calming atmosphere that village life brings.
The city of Northern Lights
Alta is one of the bigger coastal towns we visit, with a population of over 10,000 people. A particularly famous part of the town is Alta River, one of Norway’s best salmon rivers. Here, large salmon are regularly caught, with some even weighing up to 24 kg. You won’t regret trying some fresh grilled salmon in one of the local restaurants.
At 70 degrees north, this town is still far above the Arctic Circle. The area is known for particularly good Northern Lights visibility, so keep your camera ready. If the skies are clear and the conditions are right, you should be able to get some amazing shots of the lights dancing above you.
The northernmost point
The northernmost city on the mainland, Honningsvåg’s landscape is quite distinctive, with barely any trees or bushes. This far north, winters are long and snowfall is high, so get ready for some fantastic winter scenery and activities.
Feel the snow crunching under your snowshoes as you hike across the plains. You might even be able to try your hand at ice fishing, a beloved winter tradition in the far north. Get a taste of the local delicacy, king crab, which is caught in the waters around Honningsvåg and served year-round. Admire local art in the Once Upon a Dream art gallery, and don’t miss the Honningsvåg Church. This is the oldest building in the area, dating back to 1885.
The highlight of any trip to Honningsvåg is a visit to the North Cape. This is one of the northernmost points of mainland Europe, and as we’re visiting in winter, we can get there by snowmobile. Standing near the northern edge of Norway and looking out over the Barents Sea under the polar night sky is a truly special experience. Add the ethereal Northern Lights dancing in the sky above, and you’ve got a sight you’ll never forget.
The gateway to the Arctic
Today you’ll get the chance to see the Arctic Capital itself. Often called the “gateway to the Arctic”, Tromsø is Norway’s northernmost university city, and the ideal place to enjoy some proper winter activities, like dog sledding and snowshoeing.
Sitting around 217 miles north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø experiences Polar Night for just over a month in the winter, and will give you a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
This urban city is buzzing with life, with everything from trendy restaurants and cafés to boutique shops selling local crafts and produce, and even high fashion. MS Trollfjord will be in port here for 13 hours, giving you plenty of time to both join optional excursions and explore the city yourself.
Lofoten Islands and Hurtigruten’s historic birthplace
Today, we explore Lofoten, a striking group of islands that rise out of the Norwegian Sea. As soon as you see the towering peaks around you with fishing villages clinging to their sides, you’ll understand why this island chain is so often praised as one of Norway’s most stunning locations.
We can’t visit the area without spending some time in Stokmarknes. This historic town is part of Vesterålen, an archipelago just northeast of Lofoten. Of all the places we visit, this one is particularly special to us. It was here that the Original Coastal Express was founded in 1893 by shipping pioneer Richard With.
The Coastal Express soon became a lifeline for Norway’s remote coastal communities, and fittingly, the Hurtigruten legacy has been immortalised in the place where it all began. Standing on the waterfront, you’ll find their 1956 ship MS Finnmarken, encased in a glass building like a ship in a bottle.
This is Hurtigrutemuseet, the museum that chronicles Hurtigruten’s history as Norway’s leading expedition cruise line from start to now. On a guided tour, you can explore the retired vessel and experience the atmosphere of a past era.
Distinctive Nordic nature
Surrounded by islands and water, Brønnøysund sits on a narrow peninsula that juts out of the mainland. Around 5,000 people live in this small town, many in colourful houses against a backdrop of gentle slopes and dramatic mountain peaks.
Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the harbour and take a walk along Havnegata. Drop into one of the pubs for a snack, or treat yourself to a meal in a local restaurant. Wander the visitors’ marina, or visit an 1870 Neo-Gothic stone church. For some extra excitement, you may be able to go kayaking, or island-hopping on a RIB safari.
You can also look forward to visiting the Vega Islands. Made up of over 6,500 islands, reefs, and skerries, this island chain has apparently been inhabited since the Stone Age. The archipelago received status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, in recognition of the sustainable lifestyle led by generations of islanders and their practice of farming eider down.
A picturesque town
After a hearty breakfast on the ship, we’ll dock mid-morning at Ålesund, a town that spreads out across a string of islands.
As we approach the shore, you might first notice the distinctive style of architecture. Every detail of the buildings, from the bright colours to the rounded spires, was inspired by the Art Nouveau style, which was popular in the early 1900s. Almost the entire town received a makeover in the style when it was rebuilt after a major fire in 1904.
As you leave the waterfront, you’ll find yourself in a fairy-tale town, wandering narrow streets lined with unique houses. If your camera’s memory card isn’t already full after this, you can get impressive photos of the archipelago from the nearby Mount Aksla viewpoint. The 418 steps leading there might look intimidating, but the views are well worth the effort.
Viking history
Journeying south along Norway’s west coast, we sail past some of Norway’s most famous fjords, none more so than Hardangerfjord.
At 179 kilometres in length, it is the second longest fjord in the country, and fifth longest in the world.
The stunning waterway is one of Norway’s finest. See mountain scenery everywhere you look, with the white peaks that tower over the fjord being reflected in the shimmering water below.
The region is famous for its apple products, from jams and juice to its award-winning cider, which one food writer described as ‘Nordic Champagne’.
Weather permitting, we may be able to dock at Rosendal or one of the other picturesque settlements that cling to the shores by the fjord. A small, charming village, Rosendal’s main highlight is the 16th century Barony, a manor famous for its beautiful rose garden and landscaped grounds.
The city of lighthouses
In the early morning we’ll reach Farsund. There, you’ll get the chance to hike the sandy beaches of Lista and see Lista Lighthouse.
You may also be able to visit a German fortress. This fortress was used in World War II and is remarkably well-preserved with many of the original barracks still intact. Learn all about the war history of the area on a guided tour of this historic site before we sail to Kristiansand.
Sitting along the southern tip of the country, Kristiansand is Norway’s fifth largest city, with a population of 112,000 people. Hopefully arriving late afternoon, this will give you a few hours to explore.
As you enjoy a guided walk, you might notice that the city is built on a very uniform grid plan, with several straight roads running from the harbour all the way through the city. Along these roads, you’ll find architecture from different eras, speaking to the extensive rebuilds the city had to go through after major fires in the 18th and 19th centuries, and even a World War II attack.
Discovering Norway’s capital
From the south to the north, and back down to the south, reflect on your journey as you watch our approach to our last port of call, Oslo, in the early morning
A transfer will take you from the ship to the airport via a guided sightseeing tour of two of Oslo’s landmarks: Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Holmenkollen Ski Jump. After the tour, your transfer will continue to the airport for your included flight back to the UK.
You’ve sailed on The North Cape Express, exploring Norway’s coastal cities and villages all the way to the top of the European continent.
Undergoing refurbishment in spring 2023, MS Trollfjord is an homage both to Norwegian nature and Hurtigruten’s 130-year heritage sailing the Norwegian coast. Locally sourced natural materials such as wood and stone feature prominently throughout the ship’s furnishings, reflecting the beauty of the fjords she sails through.
Deck 5 is where the main restaurant Flora is located, as well as all-day dining bistro Brasserie Árran. The onboard shop can be found here too, selling essentials, snacks, and souvenirs.
At the front of the ship on Deck 5 is a large lecture hall with two side rooms. The Coastal Experience Team will deliver thought-provoking lectures here on an eclectic range of topics.
The top of the ship is Deck 9. The furnished outdoor deck here is the place to go to enjoy some fresh air while the two-storey observation lounge offers unmatched views of the Norwegian coast from the bow.
You’ll also find the panoramic sauna and fitness room up on Deck 9. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to work up a sweat without missing the spectacular scenery.
A chic bar can be found at the front of the ship on Deck 8. Comfortable and stylish, the area will feature modern and classic artwork as well as serve a range of Norwegian aquavit.
You’ll also find the activity centre on this floor, where your Coastal Experience Team will be busy organising onboard activities, optional hikes, or booking you on exciting excursions
These are similar in size to Polar Outside cabins, just without the window. Cabins may have twin single beds, one of which converts into a sofa, or have upper and lower berths with one bed above the other for a traditional sailing experience.
Picking an Arctic Superior cabin grants you the precious luxury of being able to gaze out your window at the majestic Norwegian coast while still cuddled up in the comfort of your cabin.
Pure comfort is the hallmark of these cabins. Situated on almost every deck, they all have ensuite shower rooms, a TV, mini bar, and kettle with complimentary teas and coffees. Most of the cabins have double beds and some have separate beds.
These comfy cabins offer a room with a view and easy access to the restaurant, bistro, activity centre, and lecture halls. Some windows look out onto the mid-level walking deck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please note: should group numbers not reach 10 passengers, no Solos Tour Leader will accompany this departure. However, you will be looked after by the on board Hurtigruten Team
All guests must present a passport or government-approved ID card with a validity of six months to enter Norway.
We suggest that you take a small amount of local currency (Norwegian Kroner–NOK) in cash. Major credit cards are widely accepted, except possibly at smaller businesses.
You may be asked to provide identification when you pay by credit card or exchange money.
Please note that when using your credit card onboard the ship, your account will be debited in EUR. The rate of exchange will be the one validated by your credit card company.
For your convenience, we also offer a Cruise Card system onboard all our ships. This system allows you to charge all onboard purchases to your cruise card. Cruise card accounts can be created at all points of payment on board the ship. We accept VISA, Master Card, Diners, American Express or cash (NOK, EUR, GBP, USD) as deposit. The itemised statement will be sent by email. Please contact reception if you require a printed version. The cruise card account needs to be settled by 22:00 on your last night on board.
For your convenience, your cruise card charges will be billed automatically to your credit card. The credit card must be valid for at least another three months. Any discrepancies must be reported before disembarkation. This also applies if you want to pay part cash and part credit card. The currency used onboard is as outlined above. Exchange rates are similar to those in a hotel. Please check with the reception for methods of payment. Please note that a PIN code may be required when paying with your personal credit card onboard.
What to wear
On board, dress is informal. Although some passengers choose to change for dinner, the dress code is casual rather than formal. The weather in Norway can vary during the course of each voyage or even during the day. To cater for these variations, we recommend the layered-dress approach that enables you to adapt to changes in temperature, wind and precipitation conditions easily.
For all voyages, we advise you to take breathable rain and windproof clothing. A warm hat, gloves, scarf and thermal clothing can be useful. On land, where it may be icy, sturdy shoes are important for shore excursions and a walking stick/trekking pole may be useful.
To make packing a bit easier we have made a short list, suitable for all seasons along the Norwegian coast. This should be in addition to the basics. If you forget something, don’t worry! The on-board shop carries a selected range of high-quality knitwear, clothing, souvenirs and gift items. In addition, there is also a small selection of toiletries available for purchase.
All year-round
Here are some essential items to bring along with you, whatever the season:
Binoculars
Camera and memory card
Comfortable everyday shoes
Boots with good grip
Spikes
Wool sweater or fleece
Scarf
Passport and/or ID card (this also applies to Scandinavian citizens)
Sun protection
Sunglasses
Swimwear
Credit cards
Wind and waterproof jacket and trousers
Mid layer jacket
Woollen underwear
The dress code aboard the ship is relaxed and casual, and you are not expected to dress formally for meals
All routes and excursions are provisional and subject to change – weather and sea conditions may affect the itinerary. Excursions may also be subject to minimum/maximum numbers. Please take care that you are back on board on time, especially when your ship arrives with a delay but departs on time to keep the schedule. The departure time is displayed at the gangway. Please note that ships cannot wait for late passengers. If you miss your ship, you will need to arrange transport by yourself and at your own expense to the next harbour.
Guests with reduced mobility are warmly welcomed. You will have to bring along your own standard-sized collapsible wheelchair. If you’re able to get around the ship in a wheelchair unaided, you do not need to travel with a companion.
When the ship stops in a port along the Norwegian coastline, there is always a ramp or a gangway to get you on and off the ship. Ask our coastal experts when you are on board and they’ll be able to advise you as to which excursions are suitable.
It’s important that you inform us of any mobility challenges when making your booking, so we can make the best possible arrangements for you.
You will need to bring along your own standard-sized collapsible wheelchair, which should be stored in your cabin when not in use.
220v AC. – 2 pin Continental-type for which an adapter is required. Guests are advised to bring their own adapters with them on the voyage.
It is not common practice to tip on Hurtigruten ships on the coastal voyage, but if you feel that crew members should be rewarded for providing exceptional service, tip boxes are placed in the restaurant together with envelopes.
We have wireless internet available onboard (Charges may apply). Please note depending on the vessel’s location, internet connectivity and telephone usage may be out of range or limited.
Special diets, e.g. vegetarian can be catered for if requested in good time. Passengers on strict diets may find that there is a limited choice.can be catered for if requested in good time. Passengers on strict diets may find that there is a limited choice.
There is no doctor or pharmacy on board. However, officers are trained in first aid and can provide emergency medical assistance. The ships are also close to land should urgent medical assistance be required.
All Hurtigruten ships (except MS Vesterålen) along the Norwegian coast, have Hurtigruten Guides who undertake special activities on board like lectures and presentations, on-deck guiding, photo activities and offer hikes and outdoor activities in many ports.
These activities take place both inside the ships and out on deck, designed with relevance to the season we are sailing in. The aim is to get closer to unique environments and share the experience with fellow passengers. It is up to the guest whether they wish to join.
The Hurtigruten Guides also sell and advise on excursions, issues a daily programme, and makes announcements regarding places of interest, disembarkation, etc.
We recommend pre-booking excursions to avoid disappointment. You can pre-book excursions up to four weeks prior to departure (2 weeks if paid by credit card).
Any remaining excursion places will be sold on board. All bookings on board will be charged in Norwegian Kroner at the ship’s exchange rate. The price in local currency may differ due to exchange rate fluctuations.
Luggage handling is not included in the cost of your holiday. Unless you are embarking or disembarking the ship at the Hurtigruten Terminal in Bergen, you will need to carry your own luggage on and off the ship at all other ports.
Average Temperatures
| Month(s) | Highest temperature | Lowest temperature |
|---|---|---|
| January | -1.8 °C | -6.8 °C |
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