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Departing all year round, the 5-day Bergen – Tromsø voyage stops at 21 small and large ports along the Norwegian coastline and is perfect to give you a taste of what this beautiful country has to offer.
You’ll get a chance to explore the rugged natural landscapes, be dazzled by the dramatic mountains rising majestically from the sea and stare into the deep fjords as we sail along the spectacular coastline.
If you’ve always dreamed of seeing the Northern Lights, join us for a winter expedition. Or, if, on the other hand, summer is more your thing, then why not take advantage of the around the clock daylight under the Midnight Sun.
Gateway to the Fjords and The Northern Lights
Your journey of discovery starts in the historic city of Bergen before heading to the Arctic Circle and the stunning Lofoten archipelago. But it’s not just about meandering through this idyllic landscape.
You’ll also get the chance to take part in some exhilarating activities along the way. Indulge your sense of adventure and:
Our itinerary will give you a few ideas about what you can expect to see and do on your coastal voyage but bear in mind that this is just an indication of what you can experience.
Day 1 Bergen
Bergen, Bryggen and UNESCO
This amazing voyage starts from the lovely city of Bergen. Founded in 1070 AD, Bergen is steeped in history. With its colourful wharfs and cobblestone alleyways there’s plenty to see and do and we highly recommend that you take some time to explore the city before you board the ship in the afternoon.
Once onboard, settle in, relax and prepare to be amazed as you allow yourself to be enveloped in this enchanted landscape.
Hurtigruten guides are onboard several of the ships and guests are welcome to join them for lectures, activities or hikes during the many port stays. Talk to us if you’d like to know more about optional excursions or activities.
Day 2 Florø - Molde
En Route to Molde
Heading north, we set sail for Ålesund en route to Molde, an attractive coastal town with an amazing view of no less than 222 mountain peaks across the fjord. Ålesund is renowned for its early 20th century Art Nouveau architecture.
In the autumn we set sail for the Suhnnmøre Alps to explore Hjørundfjord. The fjord’s pristine natural landscape of steep rock walls, lush green meadows, lonely mountain farms and tiny villages is quite simply, unforgettable.
Day 3 Kristiansund - Rørvik
Nidarosdomen, Nidelven and Bakklandet
Home to Norway’s only gothic cathedral and the burial place of St Olav, Trondheim, founded by Viking King Olav Tryggvason in 997, was Norway’s first capital city. Today it is a unique mix of the ancient and modern. Whether you prefer to sit and watch the world go by at the peaceful harbour or explore the city on foot, this city really does have something for everyone.
Day 4 Brønnøysund - Svolvær
Crossing Into The Arctic
Crossing the Arctic circle in the morning, we continue our journey, arriving at the stunning Lofoten archipelago in the early evening. White sandy beaches and small fishing villages nestled between the imposing cliffs, Lofoten is heralded as one of the highlights of the voyage.
Day 5 Stokmarknes - Tromsø
Following our Polar Heroes
Tromsø, our final stop, is often described as the ‘Paris’ of the north.
Almost 400km north of the Arctic Circle, thanks to the Gulf Stream, it has a surprisingly moderate climate. Packed with snow and with the skies lit up by the northern lights, during the winter, it’s the perfect backdrop to enjoy sports such as skiing and dogsledding.
‘Back in the day’ it was the starting point for several Arctic expeditions – today the Polar Museum, set in a traditional wharf house dating back to the 1830s, recounts the polar history.
Offering something for everyone, it really is something out of the ordinary and we would encourage you to take some time to explore the town before heading home.
Life On Board
The Hurtigruten line was originally launched to transport people and goods along the coast of Norway. It was particularly prevalent in winter when infrastructure was still in its infancy and land travel was generally more difficult. Even though there are now alternative means of transport, the Hurtigruten line still runs, calling at 34 ports along the Norwegian coastline.
They are though, not traditional cruise ships and life on board a Hurtigruten ship is vastly different to what you might expect onboard a traditional cruise liner and offers less in terms of entertainment. However, as a majority of their ships are much smaller than traditional cruise ships (150 – 500 passengers as opposed to 1000s) it means that they can enter the fjords in both winter and summer. And because they stop at so many ports, you will get to see more of the Norwegian coastline as opposed to just the ‘highlights’.
They also don’t fall short when it comes to comfort and amenities. The cabins are all elegantly furnished with a choice of cabin to suit all budgets. One of the most popular ships, the MS Polarlys, was refurbished in 2016. Featuring a modern, Arctic-inspired interior, there are three restaurants offering a range of different cuisine, a Multe bakery and ice cream bar, a sauna and fitness room. On deck you can while the time away and take in the view from one of the two hot tubs, or if you prefer, enjoy a drink at the bar at the front of the ship.
But Hurtigruten really does come into its own with its on-board Expedition team. Passionate and experienced about all things ‘Norwegian’, the team host lectures, presentation programmes and activities on a regular basis.
Features at a glance:
Need more info?
Tel: 01582 349 480