Pushing boundaries since 1893 Hurtigruten gives you the opportunity to travel with meaning.

Building on its explorer heritage dating back to 1893, Hurtigruten is the world’s leading expedition cruise company.  What started, and still exists as a postal and trade route up the coast of Norway has now expanded to a Small Ship Expedition company. As a result, in 2021 Hurtigruten separated their operations and fleet into two distinct businesses, Hurtigruten Expeditions and Norwegian Coastal Express.

About Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express

Building on 128 years of Norwegian pioneering heritage, Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express has sailed the original coastal voyage since 1893.

Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express’ extensive fleet varies in size and style. Each of the ships feature quality restaurants, bars, cafes, observation decks and panorama lounges, but all offer something unique. No matter the vessel, Hurtigruten’s cruises provide an intimate and special travel experience.

Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express fleet

Shore excursions

Join one of more than 70 optional excursions on your coastal journey. You can explore Alesund by kayak, take a pic at The North Cape, or go crab fishing in the Barents Sea.

Mountain Hike in the Hjørundfjord

Join us on a spectacular mountain hike in the idyllic Hjørundfjord region. We begin by taking an old farm road and then it’s a steep climb up the rugged pathway towards the top. Then, we ascend a stone stairway for the last 500 metres. On reaching the summit, you’ll be greeted by the stunning view.

Continue following the trail up the hill to see the village of Sæbø, and explore an abandoned bear cave.

Before descending, we take a coffee break in the Leknes valley overlooking Urke, as well as the breath-taking views of the fjord arm and mountains.

Snowmobile trip into the polar night

The excursion starts with a bus trip from Mehamn, the world’s northernmost mainland town, up and over the mountains to the old trading post and fishing village of Kjøllefjord. Along the way, your guides tell you about the indigenous Sámi people, the area´s geographic and climatic conditions, what life is like in this part of Norway, and how the locals effectively utilise nature. Some of Norway’s best snowmobile instructors are on hand to ensure you receive proper training before departing.

Then off we go to experience snowy valleys, invigorating winter air and perhaps the mesmerizing Northern Lights in the clear, starry sky. During spring, the sun returns, resulting in a different, yet equally exhilarating experience due to many more hours of daylight and a milder climate. We conclude our expedition in Kjøllefjord where you rejoin the Hurtigruten ship.

Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express itineraries

Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express has been operating since 1893 and offers four classic voyages that show you the timeless charm of everyday life in 34 ports. With departures across all four seasons you can choose  sailings of 12, 11, 7 or 6 days. Alternatively, you may want to look at our touring products that combines the beauty of the coast and overland travel with handpicked Scandinavia experiences across Norway, Finland and Estonia. So whether you are chasing the Northern Lights, want to experience the Midnight Sun or simply want to relax and take in the majestic fjords, there is an experience to suit your needs.

The Classic Roundtrip Voyage – 12 days

Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express

Discover our full scenic route with 34 ports visited twice, northbound and southbound, allowing you to really get to know the heart and soul of Norway’s coastline. Bask in spectacular scenery any season of the year as we sail past more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains. Depending on the season, take in the midnight sun or Northern Lights.

Classic Voyage South – 6 days

Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express

Be treated to some of the best scenery of the Norwegian coast, including Senja, the Vesterålen archipelago, the stunning Lofoten Islands, and the Helgeland Coast. Keep on the lookout for whales and a range of Arctic birds, including the white-tailed sea eagle as well as many migratory species.

Classic Voyage North – 7 days

Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express

Enjoy visiting a range of coastal communities, including a number of charming cities, towns, and villages. Sail to world-famous Geirangerfjord in summer from June to August or to Hjørundfjord from September to October.

Follow the Lights – Northbound - 18 days

Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express

Take in this multi country escorted tour starting in Oslo and finishing in Helsinki. You’ll take the famous Flam railway, cruise North from Bergen to Kirkenes and then travel overland to Helsinki. Enjoy city tours, husky and reindeer experiences, an insight into Sami culture and glimpse the Northern Lights.