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Norway’s coastline is nothing short of magical — rugged mountains, stunning fjords, cozy towns, and the Arctic wilderness. The Tour Designers at Collette wanted to help our travelers experience this incredible landscape in the most authentic way — so we've included a cruise with Hurtigruten on our upcoming Exploring Scandinavia by Land & Sea tour! This iconic coastal ferry’s been sailing these waters for over 130 years. But don’t expect your typical cruise. This is a journey that immerses you in the culture, history, and scenery of Norway like no other.
A Lifeline Turned Dream Voyage
Hurtigruten wasn’t always about unique voyages or panoramic Arctic vistas. It started as a vital lifeline, connecting isolated towns along Norway’s coast. Originally a postal route and cargo ferry, the ships delivered goods and supplies to remote communities, some of which were only accessible by sea until the 1940s. Over the years, what was once a simple ferry route has evolved into one of the world’s most beautiful and unforgettable sea journeys. Today, this coastal route offers not just a way to get from one place to another, but a chance to connect with the soul of Norway itself. Whether you're savoring locally sourced food or gazing at distant mountains from the ship’s deck, the Hurtigruten ferry takes you on an epic adventure that blends nature, culture, and history.
Experience the Real Norway
Unlike your typical cruise, Hurtigruten isn't about Broadway shows, spas, or bingo halls. Instead, it’s all about the cultural journey. If you're looking for a cruise that goes beyond the surface, where the real adventure is in the stories told by locals, the history etched into every town, and the landscapes that change at every turn, this is it. Every stop along the way connects you to Norway's rich history and the people who live there. Food on board is a highlight, offering a real taste of Norway's coastal cuisine. Each meal reflects the regions you’re passing through — fresh fish, local berries, and seasonal vegetables, all sourced from local farms and suppliers. You’re not just eating; you're tasting Norway.
The Coastal Express: 33 Stops, 6 Days, Endless Beauty
The original route, which has been operating for over 130 years, is a journey like no other. Over six days, you'll visit 33 stops along Norway's breathtaking coastline. It’s an ever-changing experience, with each port offering something new and exciting.
Here’s just a sneak peek at the itinerary of a Hurtigruten cruise:
Day 1: Depart from Kirkenes, a small port town on Norway’s northeastern tip. While here, history buffs may want to make a stop at the Varanger Museum to learn about the town’s involvement during World War II; it was bombed a total of 328 times in four years, making it the most bombed place during the war after Malta.
Day 2: Stop in Hammerfest, the world’s northernmost city with over 10,000 residents. In the winter months, you might catch a glimpse of orcas and humpback whales, here to feed on herring.
Day 3: Check out Harstad, home to the world’s northernmost medieval stone church, and visit Stokmarknes, where Captain Richard began the Coastal Express in 1893. Visit Hurtigrutemuseet, a ship-in-a-bottle building that chronicles the Hurtigruten legacy. From there, if the weather cooperates and the Captain allows, the ship may sail into the tiny Trollfjord where the mountains feel so close you could reach out and touch them.
Day 4: Cross the Arctic Circle and commemorate the moment with the tradition of tasting a spoonful of cod liver oil! The legendary Seven Sisters mountain range awaits you with its mythical tales. Look out for Torghatten Mountain, with the distinctive hole in it, and make sure you ask your Expedition Team about the legend surrounding this unique peak.
Day 5: Explore Kristiansund, known as the bacalao capital of Norway for the salted cod that’s dried on the surrounding cliffs, and take a walk through its charming old town, maybe treating yourself to some coffee and pastry at a cozy Nordic café.
Day 6: Sail past Nordfjord, home to the Jostedal Glacier, and marvel at the sheer beauty of the landscape. You’ll spot the oft-photographed Stabben Lighthouse, and get a view across the mouth of Sognefjord, the longest and widest fjord in Norway, before arriving in Bergen, the gateway to the fjords.
Onboard Hurtigruten: Comfort Meets Adventure
Comfort is a big priority for us at Collette, and while Hurtigruten might not be your typical cruise ship, it doesn’t mean you have to rough it. The ships are designed for comfort, with cozy cabins ranging from small rooms to spacious suites. Each cabin has heated floors and many offer coastal views. If you’re the active type, you’ll find a gym, sauna, and hot tubs on board. For those who want to relax, there are plenty of peaceful lounges to enjoy the view. And if you want to get involved with the local landscape beyond the ship, you can sign up for excursions in port, like horseback riding, concerts, or guided hikes.
The Hurtigruten Experience: More Than Just a Ferry
Hurtigruten is more than a cruise. The ship still operates as a working ferry, delivering cargo and supplies to coastal towns, and the stops aren't about extended layovers or shopping excursions. But that’s the beauty of it. This isn’t about ticking off a list of tourist hotspots; it’s about seeing and experiencing the real Norway.
While larger cruise ships can overwhelm the towns they dock at, Hurtigruten brings only a few hundred passengers at a time, making it a more sustainable way to travel. It allows you to support these coastal communities without adding to overtourism.
When you travel with Collette, it isn't just about sitting back and relaxing (although there’s plenty of that too). It's about immersing yourself in a journey that is deeply connected to the culture, nature, history, and the people of your destination. Whether you're exploring cozy port towns or gliding past glaciers, this authentic Norwegian experience will stay with you long after you've returned home.
Are you ready to sail into the heart of Norway? We are too! That’s why our expert tour designers have been hard at work creating Exploring Scandinavia by Land & Sea, a unique tour featuring the colorful harbor cities of Sweden’s Stockholm and Luleå as well as — you guessed it — a cruise on Hurtigruten’s Coastal Express!
