Hurtigruten Sailings Around the Norwegian Fjords

The Norwegian Coastal Hurtigruten Voyage along the spectacular Norwegian coastline has been defined as “The Most Beautiful Voyage in the World”. Established more than 110 years ago, the route is an essential connection to the outermost coastal communities, that ferried supplies and passengers. The vessels never strayed far from their customary route, always clinging to the rugged Norwegian coastline, experiencing some of the last wildernesses of Norway.

The Hurtigruten vessels carry passengers, post and supplies to 34 ports along the Norwegian coastline, most of which are rarely called on by larger cruise ships. With regular daily departures, the voyage begins in Bergen and travels northward to the Arctic Circle and beyond as it meanders its way along the dramatic beauty of the Norwegian coastline.

Quite a number of the ports of call are tranquil hamlets on small islands where the inhabitants rely for their survival on the Hurtigruten ships to bring the communities essential supplies and to bring together friends and family.

Each Hurtigruten ship has its own style and character and no two trips will ever be the same, as the continually-evolving seasons, weather, flora and fauna, local people you meet, and the sociable English speaking crew make every trip a unique adventure.

People journeying from far and wide come to witness the stunning coastline and relaxed atmosphere on board. Many opt to sail in summer during the midnight sun when the sun dips to the horizon before arching to the sky, bathing the magnificent panorama in continuous sunlight. Others choose to sail during the winter months when the Northern Lights often illuminate the night sky in a magical show of dancing lights.

The connection between the ships and local people could explain the affection many Norwegians have for the service. The culture and heritage of the service, and the mammoth efforts of the crews and captains who have helped steer so many coastal communities into the modern age, has never been seen with anything save for admiration.