The Cruise North
About Båtsfjord Airport
All Year, Daily Departures
We sail from Bergen to Kirkenes on this seven-day cruise, where you will see incredible landscapes – each one more dramatic than the next and enjoy the atmosphere and culture in cities such as Bergen, Ålesund, and Tromsø that are filled with coastal history. This cruise will give you spectacular experiences you will never forget.
Dense in Attractions
Your Hurtigruten boat sets sail from Bergen harbor in the evening, heading for the Arctic. As we sail along the coast, a wealth of experiences await: the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund, and a detour into one of the world’s most beautiful fjords, the Geirangerfjord, on summer cruises. We continue north to the medieval town of Trondheim, where the Nidaros Cathedral is a highlight for many of our guests. Experience the exitement as we cross the Arctic Circle and visit Tromsø before we continue even further north and arrive at Kirkenes. This city is right on the Russian border. We are actually as far east as St. Petersburg!
Travel Through the Seasons
No matter what time of the year you travel, you will be surrounded by beautiful nature wherever you turn. But every season has its own special charm.
Winter is a special time to explore the wild and untamed Norwegian scenery. The landscape is a magical winter wonderland covered in white snow, and perfect for action-filled winter excursions such as dog sledding, whale watching, or snowmobiling. On deck the air is fresh and crisp. Clusters of cozy houses glow on the shores like embers. The snow-clad mountains are stunning in the polar twilight. And hopefully you will experiene the mesmerizing northern lights.
During springtime, the contrast between southern and northern Norway is huge. From Bergen to Trondheim you will sail through a lush and green landscape in bloom – and close to summer temperatures! Further north in the Arctic region, winter struggles to maintain its grip. As you cross the Arctic Circle sailing toward the North Cape and Finnmark – it is usually full winter, and from mid-May the midnight sun offers 24 hours of daylight, even if the temperature and weather is more like winter. It is like experiencing three seasons on one cruise!
Summer is the most popular time of the year to explore Norway’s coast. The long, light days during the summer months seem to energize both nature and people. Even as far south as Bergen you can experience 19 hours of daylight. Flowers bloom, rivers fill with fish, and giant waterfalls cascade toward the ocean, creating a picture-perfect setting for a summer vacation cruise.
As summer fades, the first cool evenings summon the colors of autumn. The fresh and clear coastal air enhances the intense reds and yellows that fill mountainsides, hilltops, and woods. From the deck, you may see the sharp profiles of the highest peaks sprinkled with the first snow, and against the background of an ice-blue sky. Gradually, the evenings get darker and the days shorter. With a bit of luck, the northern lights will make an appearance and give you a magical experience.
No matter which season in which you choose to travel, a trip with Hurtigruten from south to north will create lifelong memories and wonderful adventure.
- Discover countless fjords, mountains, islands, and waterfalls.
- Cross the Arctic Circle to hunt the northern lights in winter, and enjoy round-the-clock daylight under the midnight sun in summer.
- Enjoy interesting and exciting land and sea excursions.
- Learn from Hurtigruten guides as they lead lectures and activities both at sea and onshore.
- Cruise in the cabin category of your choice, on a full-board basis
- English-speaking Tour Leader on board
Engaging onboard activities and lectures:
- On-board lectures and presentations on history, biology, geography, geology, and culture that provide context to your voyage and help you understand the destinations you will experience
- Introductory photo presentations, camera adjustment, and tips & tricks, as well as photo and film footage from the voyage
- Opportunities to casually engage with Hurtigruten guides and other guests, including a welcome event, and daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come
- Port presentations providing destination insight
- Excursion presentations
- Point of interest presentations out on deck
- Loan of trekking poles, snowshoes, head lamps, and crampons needed for optional hikes depending on season and conditions
- Captain’s dinner and a farewell event
- International flights
- Optional shore excursions with our local partners
- Hikes with the Hurtigruten guides
- Travel protection plan
- Luggage handling
- Prices are in USD per person based on an inside cabin, double occupancy
- Not all categories are available for all departures
- Single cabin pricing available on request
- Hurtigruten has a flexible pricing system and all prices are capacity controlled and subject to availability.
Sailing Plan
Your cruise prices includes
- Cruise in the cabin category of your choice, on a full-board basis
- English-speaking Tour Leader on board
Not included
- Flights and transfers
- Travel protection
- Optional excursions
- Luggage handling
Please note
- Prices are in USD per person based on an inside cabin, double occupancy
- Not all categories are available for all departures
- Single cabin pricing available on request
- Hurtigruten has a flexible pricing system and all prices are capacity controlled and subject to availability.
Sailing Plan
Learn more about what you will experience on the Classic Voyage North. The day-by-day program will give you a few ideas about what you can see and do on your coastal voyage, but this itinerary is only an indication of what you can experience. This is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions vary, which is why every expedition with Hurtigruten is unique.Itinerary
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Gateway to the Fjords - Bergen
Your cruise starts in the lovely city of Bergen. Before departure, you may want to explore this colorful gateway to the fjords. Bergen was founded in 1070 A.D., and retains a great deal of its character, charm, and history. Visit the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district with colorful wharfs dating back to the 14th century.
You may enjoy a stroll in the cobblestone alleyways, a bite at an outdoor café or restaurant, a trip on the Fløibanen funicular or a visit to the famous Fish Market.
Spoil your taste buds
After we depart, enjoy a tasty dinner buffet made from fresh coastal produce. We sail north from Bergen along the Viking route of Hjeltefjord. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing as you admire the spectacular landscapes from the deck or in our Panorama lounge.- Want to know when the different ships are in port? See the complete sailing plan here.
Time in port:
- Bergen 2:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. all year
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Architectural and Natural Masterpieces - Florø - Molde
Enjoy early morning in the breathtaking Nordfjord - followed by a delicious breakfast. We then sail past West Cape for our approach to Ålesund.
Art Nouveau city
Ålesund is renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and famed Atlanterhavsparken aquarium. Our tour to the aquarium includes a visit to see resident penguins before we continue to nearby Mount Aksla for an amazing view.
Into the fjords
In the summer, we set our course for the spectacular UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, passing sheer, 2,625 foot-high cliffs and dramatic waterfalls. In autumn, we explore Hjørundfjord in the majestic Sunnmøre Alps. The fjord’s pristine natural landscape of steep rock walls, lush green meadows, lonely mountain farms, and tiny villages is unforgettable.
Mountains and roses
Molde is known as the ‘City of Roses’ because of its lovely municipal gardens. This attractive coastal town has an amazing view of 222 mountain peaks across the fjord, called ’the Molde Panorama.’
Time in port:
- Florø 3:30 a.m. – 3:40 a.m.
- Måløy 5:40 a.m. – 5:50 a.m.
- Torvik 8:30 a.m. – 8:40 a.m.
- Ålesund (summer/autumn) 9:45 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
- Geiranger (summer) 2:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
- Hjørunfjorden/Urke autumn 12:15 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
- Ålesund 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m./5:50 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.*
- Molde 10:15 p.m. – 10:45 p.m. **
* Ålesund winter and spring 9:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
** Molde winter and spring 4:15 p.m. –7:00 p.m. -
History and Charm - Kristiansund - Rørvik
Charming Trondheim is home to great history and a rich cultural life.
Magical, medieval, and modern
Founded by Viking King Olav Tryggvason in 997, Trondheim today is a unique mix of the ancient and modern. Join our optional excursion to the soaring Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s only Gothic cathedral and the burial place of St. Olav. Marvel at the cathedral’s exquisite works of art, architectural details, and medieval statues.
In spring and summer, we continue to Ringve Museum of Musical History, where Norwegian music´s past is brought to life in a grand manor with a fantastic view.
Excursions for every taste
From September to May, experience Trondheim with a unique carriage tour on the world’s northernmost tram line. You can also explore Trondheim by kayak on the River Nid or experience the city by bicycle. Be sure to ride the world’s only bicycle lift, near the quaint Bakklandet neighborhood, from April to September. You can also join the Hurtigruten guides for a hike to discover more.
Back on board
In the afternoon, the ship sails northwest, passing the Kjeungskjær lighthouse, islets, and rocky reefs. After sailing through the narrow channel of Stokksund, we head toward charming Rørvik.
Time in port:
- Kristiansund 2:15 a.m. – 2:30 a.m. winter and spring 10:30 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.
- Trondheim 10:00 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
- Rørvik 10:15 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
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Welcome to the Arctic! - Brønnøysund - Svolvær
Today we cross the Arctic Circle, increasing your chances to see the northern lights in winter and experience the midnight sun in summer. We mark the occasion with a fun Arctic Circle ceremony on deck.
Forces of nature
Ørnes is the site of Norway’s second-largest glacier, Svartisen. In summer, join us for a trip to the Svartisen Tourist Center to admire this enigmatic world of ice, and visit a moose farm.
We then sail along the beautiful coast of Helgeland to Bodø, where you can experience Saltstraumen, the world’s most powerful maelstrom, by small boat.
Majestic Lofoten
That afternoon, the 3,300 foot high Lofoten Wall looms on the horizon, ushering us toward majestic granite cliffs and white-sand beaches.
Meet the Vikings
At Stamsund, visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, where you are welcomed into the chieftain’s house for a real Viking feast.
Going organic
Between Stamsund and Svolvær, you can experience life on an organic herb and cheese farm, or visit the Lofoten’s only craft brewery, in Svolvær.
Hunting the northern lights
In winter, crossing the Arctic Circle means an intense hunt for the northern lights, and we present a multimedia show, “The Magic Light, Aurora Borealis.”
As we sail through the narrow Raftsund, we stop at the entrance to Trollfjord, a dramatic natural wonder that should not be missed.
Time in port:
- Brønnøysund 01:45 – 01:55
- Sandnessjøen 04:35 – 04:45
- Nesna 05:55 – 06:05
- Ørnes 09:45 – 09:55
- Bodø 12:40 – 15:00
- Stamsund 19:00 – 19:30
- Svolvær 21:00 – 22:00
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In the Footsteps of Polar Heroes - Stokmarknes - Skjervøy
We briefly dock at Risøyhamn, Harstad, and Finnsnes in the morning.
Polar history and beer
We then sail to the Arctic exploration capital of Tromsø for a prolonged stay. Join our ’Polar History Walk’ in winter to learn more about explorers and Arctic hunters, and taste beer from the world’s second northernmost brewery.
Beyond your imagination
In winter and spring, you can complete your stay in Tromsø with a thrilling dog sled ride, as huskies pull you over the frozen landscape past stunning views on the snowy plateaus. The only light during the polar night comes from our headlamps, the starry sky, and, if we’re lucky, the magical northern lights. Why not have some winter fun by joining a cross-country skiing or snowshoeing adventure, or go deep-sea fishing on an Arctic fjord? All year, you can join the Hurtigruten guides for hikes and discover more of the Tromsø area.
Get close to marine wildlife
Want to experience serenity on the sea? Join us for a kayaking excursion in summer along Tromsø’s coastline - a great way to get close to marine wildlife.
Sailing from Tromsø, we continue to search for the northern lights from September to March.
Time in port:
- Stokmarknes 1:00 a.m. – 1:15 a.m.
- Sortland 2:45 a.m. – 3:00 a.m.
- Risøyhamn 4: 15 a.m. – 4:30 a.m.
- Harstad 6:45 a.m. – 7:45 a.m.
- Finnsnes 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Tromsø 2:15 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
- Skjervøy 10:30 p.m. – 10:45 p.m.
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Top of the World - North Cape - Øksfjord - Berlevåg
Enjoy magnificent landscapes as we sail to the North Cape, one of the northernmost points on the European continent. In summer, you may see herds of reindeer and small camps of indigenous Sámi people in the area.
Experience the North Cape
After a brief stop in Hammerfest, we arrive in Havøysund. Join a small boat excursion here to see the North Cape from the sea, visit the world’s northernmost fishing village, and ride by bus to North Cape plateau.
The ship continues to Honningsvåg, from where you can join a birdwatching excursion to Gjesværstappan, home to millions of birds during nesting season.
Sailing north
The ship continues north into the heartland of the Sámi people. Visit Kjøllefjord, where you can learn about the Sámi way of life and hear traditional joiking (song).
Adrenaline and northern lights
In winter, you can join an unforgettable snowmobile trip across snowy plains and perhaps spot the northern lights in the starry sky.
Sámi traditions
’Sámi Autumn’ is a fall excursion to learn about the Arctic’s natural ’pantry and pharmacy,’ sampling dried-reindeer meat, crowberry juice, herbal tea (nettle), and roseroot tincture. You may also feel the presence of the Sámi shaman, Noaidi.
Time in port:
- Øksfjord 2:00 a.m. – 2:15 a.m.
- Hammerfest 5:15 a.m. – 6:00 a.m.
- Havøysund 8:45 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
- Honningsvåg 11:15 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.
- Kjøllefjord 5:00 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.
- Mehamn 7:15 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- Berlevåg 10:00 p.m. – 10:15 p.m.
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Barents Region and Turning Point - Båtsfjord - Kirkenes
We arrive early today in Vadsø, and just after breakfast, dock at Kirkenes. This is the ship’s turning point for the return journey southbound - and where we bid our Classic Cruise North guests farewell.
Russian frontier
There are a number of fascinating things to do and see in Kirkenes, which is located near the Russian border. You’ll notice the local road signs are written in both Norwegian and Russian.
There are many ways to visit the Russian frontier, depending on the season. You can take a bus year round, or join a riverboat safari, canoing, border hikes, or ATV/quad-bike adventure in summer.
Classic activities
Winter and spring provide you with a wide range of classic wintertime activities to choose from, including dog sledding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
Like seafood? Join an excursion to catch and eat giant king crab from the Barents Sea.
You may want to spend some extra time exploring this unique region at the top of Europe before returning home.
We hope you will take home lifetime memories of a fascinating northbound cruise along Norway’s coastline.
Welcome aboard again soon!
Time in port:
- Båtsfjord 12:00 a.m. – 12:15 a.m.
- Vardø 3:15 a.m. – 3:30 a.m.
- Vadsø 6:45 a.m. – 7:15 a.m.
- Kirkenes 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
