The Onboard Experience

Comfortably explore Norway's cultures, ecosystems and historic sites with Hurtigruten. With a mission to bring guests closer to nature, wildlife and local communities, Hurtigruten offers unforgettable trips to this extraordinary destination.

Over 130 Years of Experience
In 1893, Captain Richard With established a steamship service linking northern and southern Norway. Traveling along the country’s coast, the service offered several weekly departures, first from Trondheim to Hammerfest and later from Bergen to Kirkenes in only seven days. He called this important connection "Hurtigruten," meaning "the fast route."

Over 130 years later, the company still travels this route. Today, Hurtigruten ships are a part of Norwegian coastal life, with sailings available year-round, including during the popular Northern Lights season of late-September through March. Recently, Hurtigruten expanded its cruising program to include Signature Voyages. These elevated journeys include all meals and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) on the ship, plus an enhanced onboard activities program and additional in-depth exploration in a selection of Norwegian ports.

Days of Discovery and Relaxation
Unlike traditional cruises, there is no commercial entertainment on board, as Hurtigruten prefers to let nature's beauty be the star attraction. The emphasis is on discovery and relaxation in a welcoming environment, allowing you to share new experiences with fellow like-minded travelers.

Onboard activities, demonstrations and presentations designed to enhance your experience are offered on all trips. Each day, the ship’s Coastal Experience Team shares in-depth knowledge on a variety of subjects, from local wildlife and climate to history and culture, in an entertaining and informal way. Guests may participate in casual lectures, storytelling events and evening gatherings. Some of these gatherings involve tastings of seasonal specialites on the outdoor deck. 
 
Each Hurtigruten ship features an observation lounge where you'll find large panoramic windows, comfortable seats and binoculars so you can view landscapes and wildlife. Most ships also have multiple bars and lounges, as well as a gym, sauna and outdoor hot tub.  Occasionally there may be some musical entertainment in the evenings.

Onboard photographers or Canon-certified instructors can also be found on many sailings, offering tips and helping with camera settings.

Coastal Flavors 
A journey with Hurtigruten is not only a feast for your visual senses, but also a mouth-watering experience for your palate. You'll enjoy the fresh coastal flavors of Norwegian cuisine aboard all ships. Meals are prepared by skilled chefs who create locally inspired, sustainably produced and delicious dishes that showcase the best of Norwegian dining.

Norway's Seasonal Experiences
No matter what season you sail with Hurtigruten, you're guaranteed a memorable journey set against a backdrop of impressive views. But your vacation experience will be different depending on when you travel. Watch as sunlight returns to Norway's shores and rejuvenates life along the coast in springtime, or discover 24-hour daylight above the Arctic Circle during summer. As summer fades into fall, see the coastline shift colors as vibrant reds and yellows fill hilltops and forests. Norway's winter brings crisp air, a blanket of snow and the magical northern lights.