The Coastal Express (North)

Surrounded by seven mountains and opening onto a network of fjords, Bergen has been a meeting place for seafarers, traders and explorers for centuries. Founded in 1070 CE, Norway's second-largest city combines a rich maritime heritage with a vibrant contemporary culture, making it one of Scandinavia's most fascinating destinations. It's also the perfect place from which to begin your voyage.

If time allows, take the opportunity to explore the historic Bryggen district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Bergen's most recognisable landmarks. Its colourful wooden wharves date back to the Hanseatic era, when merchants from across northern Europe helped shape the city's fortunes. Today, narrow alleyways and crooked passageways packed with old wooden buildings stow away independent galleries, artisan workshops and cosy cafés.

Just a short walk away is Bergen's famous Fish Market, or Fisketorget, where generations of locals have gathered to buy and sell the freshest seafood from Norway's coast. Here you can sample everything from shrimp and salmon to local delicacies while watching daily life unfold along the harbour.

For a different perspective, ride the Fløibanen funicular to the summit of Mount Fløyen. From the top, panoramic views stretch across the city, surrounding islands and the waterways that have connected coastal communities for generations. On a clear day, you'll gain a sense of the intricate coastline that lies ahead.

Before boarding, you might wish to spend some relaxation time in our comfortable Hurtigruten Guest Lounge at Jektevik Terminal. With complimentary snacks and drinks, you'll also find free Wi-Fi as well as charger sockets. Luggage lockers are also available here, if you want to do some exploring during the day.

As evening falls, we depart Bergen and sail north through the Hjeltefjord, the historic sea route once travelled by Viking longships heading towards the North Atlantic.

Beyond the city, the landscape quickly changes. The coast becomes a maze of islands, skerries and sheltered waterways, and it's well worth spending time out on deck, watching fishing villages, lighthouses and rocky shorelines drift by.

During the night, we call briefly at Florø and Måløy before a short stop at Torvik in the early morning. As the day unfolds, you'll find yourself gazing at some of the most picturesque coastal scenery in Norway. Leaving Nordfjord behind, we sail past the rugged headland of West Cape for our approach to Alesund . 

Alesund  

By mid-morning, we arrive in Alesund, one of Norway's most distinctive towns. Rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style after a devastating fire in 1904, the town is renowned for its elegant architecture, colourful façades and decorative towers. Stretching across a series of islands, Alesund has long been an important fishing port and remains deeply connected to the sea. 

Please note that, outside of the winter season, we stop at Alesund twice today: a short visit on arrival, then a return call in the evening. In spring, summer and autumn, in between these stops we sail into the fjords (see below). From October through April, when the fjords are not visited, you will instead have the whole day in Alesund to explore at your own pace. 

If you're looking for a panoramic view, consider climbing the steps to Mount Aksla, where you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas across the town, surrounding islands and distant mountains. Nature enthusiasts may also enjoy a visit to Atlanterhavsparken, one of Northern Europe's largest saltwater aquariums, showcasing marine life from the Norwegian coast. 

Into the fjords  

In May and September, we venture into the magnificent Hjørundfjord , a secluded fjord in the dramatic Sunnmøre Alps. Free from the crowds found elsewhere, this peaceful waterway is lined with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls and tiny farms clinging to the hillsides. We also pay a visit to the picturesque village of Urke, where a handful of historic houses and spectacular scenery combine to create one of the most atmospheric stops on the voyage. 

In summer, we continue into the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord * †, often considered one of the most beautiful fjords in the world. As we navigate deep into this narrow waterway, sheer cliffs rise dramatically from the water while waterfalls tumble from great heights. Keep watch for the famous Seven Sisters waterfall, whose seven streams cascade gracefully down the mountainside. 

Old, heritage farms cling improbably to steep slopes, reminders of the generations who once thrived in these remote areas. Viewed from the water, the fjord reveals its full scale and grandeur. 

For those wishing to explore further, the optional excursion to the Trollstigen mountain road combines spectacular viewpoints, dramatic engineering and some of the most celebrated scenery in the Norwegian fjords. 

*Please note that your ship does not dock at the cruise terminal pier in Geiranger. Instead, guests who are either disembarking or joining the excursion will be transported with tender boats by Geiranger Fjordservice from the ship to shore, or vice versa. Please arrive before 13:45 for the tender boat.  

† MS Vesterålen does not visit Geirangerfjord but does visit Hjøjundfjord.  

Alesund and Molde  

We then continue north towards Molde . Known as the City of Roses, Molde occupies a beautiful setting overlooking the Romsdalsfjord, with the famous Molde Panorama visible across the water. On a clear evening, you may glimpse the outline of more than 200 mountain peaks, creating one of Norway's most celebrated views. 

During the night, we call briefly at Kristiansund before continuing north into Trøndelag, a region often described as the historic heart of Norway. Here, the coastline softens into rolling farmland, wooded hills and sheltered fjords. For centuries, this fertile landscape has supported farming communities and trading centres, and is a place rich in history. 

Trondheim  

Founded in 997 by Viking king Olav Tryggvason, Trondheim was Norway's first capital and remains one of the country's most significant historic cities. Today, medieval heritage sits comfortably alongside a vibrant student population, creating a city that feels somehow both ancient and youthful. 

With three hours ashore, there are plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace. Dominating the city skyline is the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, traditionally the coronation church of Norwegian monarchs, and sometimes called “Norway's Notre-Dame”. Built over the burial site of St Olav, the country's patron saint, it has drawn pilgrims from across northern Europe for centuries. Its richly decorated Gothic façade and remarkable interior make it one of Scandinavia's most impressive religious buildings. 

Beside the cathedral stands the historic Archbishop's Palace, where you can learn more about Norway's medieval past and view the country's crown regalia. 

A short walk away, the elegant Gamle Bybro spans the Nid River and leads into Bakklandet, one of Trondheim's most charming neighbourhoods. Colourful wooden warehouses line the riverbanks, while cobbled streets are home to independent cafés, shops and galleries. For panoramic views of the city and fjord, the climb to Kristiansten Fort is well worth the effort. 

Along the Trøndelag coast 

Back on board, we continue northwest through the broad Trondheimsfjord before returning to the open coast. Later, we pass the distinctive ochre-red Kjeungskjær Lighthouse , standing alone among reefs and skerries. Built in 1880, it remains one of Norway's most photographed lighthouses. 

It's around here that we begin to see a dramatic change in the way the coast looks. The gentle landscapes of the south now start to be replaced by rockier, wilder scenery. For many, this feels like an inflection point in the voyage, as if we are transitioning from one Norway to another. 

As evening approaches, we arrive at Rørvik , a lively coastal town at the centre of the Vikna archipelago. Surrounded by thousands of islands and skerries, this region has long been closely connected to the sea. The brief call offers a glimpse of everyday coastal life before we continue on our journey north, with plenty of time to enjoy the passing scenery from the deck. 

In the small hours of the night, we call briefly at Brønnøysund , Sandnessjøen and Nesna as we continue north through Helgeland, a region known for its islands, rugged peaks and coastal legends. Keep an eye on the horizon during the early morning hours and you may spot the distinctive outline of the Seven Sisters mountain range, one of the most recognisable landmarks on the Norwegian coast. 

Crossing the Arctic Circle 

Early today, we cross the Arctic Circle. This milestone has long captured the imagination of travellers, explorers and seafarers. We celebrate the occasion out on deck with a traditional, and slightly silly, Arctic Circle ceremony. 

Beyond this point, the character of the landscape begins to change as we head further into the Arctic. 

Ørnes and Svartisen 

By mid-morning, we arrive in Ørnes , a small coastal community closely connected to the sea and nearby Svartisen , Norway's second-largest glacier. The approach to Ørnes is one of the most picturesque sailings along the coast and it's well worth heading out on deck to view the scenery.  

Bodø  

In the early afternoon we reach Bodø , northern Norway's second-largest city. Sitting beneath the Børvasstindan mountain range, Bodø has long served as an important gateway to the north. 

Nature lovers may wish to join an excursion to Saltstraumen , the world's most powerful tidal current, where enormous volumes of water surge through a narrow strait to create powerful whirlpools and currents.  

Another excursion on offer (from November to May) is a visit to a Sámi family at their camp in Saltfjellet. Here, you'll be treated to their hospitality in a lavvu tent and will hear traditional joik songs and can meet their resident reindeer.  

Alternatively, stay in town and explore this very walkable city independently. Bodø was in 2024 named a European Capital of Culture, and it's well worth wandering around at leisure to discover why.  

The Lofoten Islands 

Later in the afternoon, one of Norway's most celebrated landscapes comes into view. Rising dramatically from the sea, the mountains of the Lofoten archipelago form the famous Lofoten Wall , a seemingly unbroken chain of peaks stretching along the horizon. For many travellers, this first sight of Lofoten is among the most memorable moments of the voyage. 

Our first call is Stamsund , a traditional fishing community whose fortunes have long been tied to the annual arrival of Arctic cod, known locally as skrei . During the fishing season, the harbour becomes one of the busiest in the islands. Optional overland excursions here offer opportunities to delve deeper into local culture, whether through Viking history, traditional farming, or simply seeing the landscapes that continue to inspire artists and photographers. 

Svolvær 

In the evening, we arrive in Svolvær , the vibrant heart of the Lofoten Islands . Surrounded by steep mountains and sheltered waters, the town blends modern life with centuries of fishing heritage. Traditional red and ochre-coloured rorbuer line the waterfront, while fishing boats come and go in the harbour. 

As we depart the Lofoten Islands, the peaks remain silhouetted against the sky as we continue north overnight. If conditions allow us to, the Captain may choose to sail into the Trollfjord during the seasons where it is light in the evening.  

Night owls will witness our short stops at Stokmarknes , Sortland and Risøyhamn as we continue into the Vesterålen archipelago. As the morning light grows stronger, it reveals a panorama of islands, sounds and mountain peaks. 

Harstad and Finnsnes 

We arrive in Harstad at around breakfast time. Situated on Norway's largest island, Hinnøya, Harstad occupies a strategic position between the islands of Vesterålen and the fjords of Troms. If you're up early, enjoy a quick stroll along the waterfront and watch local life unfold as fishing vessels and ferries move through the harbour. 

After this short stop, we call at Finnsnes , a lively coastal town connected to the island of Senja by the impressive Gisund Bridge. Senja is often described as "Norway in miniature" thanks to its variety of landscapes, from jagged peaks and white-sand beaches to forests and sheltered fishing villages. Keep watch for seabirds as we sail through these waters, including gulls, cormorants and, at certain times of year, puffins. 

Tromsø 

By afternoon, we arrive in Tromsø . For centuries, this vibrant small city served as the starting point for polar expeditions, and many of the world's most famous Arctic explorers passed through here before heading north into the unknown. 

Today, Tromsø combines this rich polar heritage with a lively cultural scene, a thriving university and a distinctly cosmopolitan atmosphere. With four hours ashore, there's plenty of time to explore independently or join one of our optional excursions. 

Along the waterfront, you'll find Polaria, where interactive exhibits and aquariums reveal life in the Arctic. History enthusiasts may enjoy learning more about the city's pioneering explorers, while those interested in the local culture can browse independent shops, galleries and cafés in the compact city centre.  

Across the water stands the striking Arctic Cathedral, one of northern Norway's most recognisable landmarks. Its dramatic triangular design and beautiful stained-glass window have made it a symbol of the city. Meanwhile, the historic Mack Brewery and the famous Ølhallen pub offer a taste of Tromsø's social history, while local cafés serve everything from fresh pastries to expertly crafted coffee.  

The Lyngen Alps 

As we depart Tromsø in the early evening, the city gradually fades behind us. Ahead lie the magnificent Lyngen Alps, one of Norway's most dramatic mountain ranges. Their jagged peaks seem to rise directly from the sea, creating a spectacular backdrop as we continue north.  

Later in the evening, we arrive at the historic trading settlement of Skjervøy , founded in 1622. Surrounded by islands and sheltered waters, this small community has long depended on fishing and maritime trade.  

Moving ever further north during the night, we call briefly at Øksfjord before arriving in Hammerfest in the early morning. Often described as one of the world's northernmost towns, Hammerfest has been shaped by life at the edge of the Barents Sea. The town sits on Kvaløya, an island where herds of reindeer roam, moving across landscapes that have supported Sámi communities for generations. 

Along the Arctic coast 

As we continue eastwards, the coastline becomes increasingly open and dramatic. Islands appear scattered across the sea, while exposed headlands face the Arctic Ocean. Sailing towards Havøysund, the coastline feels increasingly wild and remote. Low islands, rocky outcrops and wide skies reveal a landscape that is little changed since the last Ice Age. 

Honningsvåg and the North Cape 

By late morning, we arrive in Honningsvåg , gateway to one of Norway's most iconic landmarks. With almost four hours ashore, this is your opportunity to experience the northernmost reaches of mainland Europe. 

Here, you can choose to join the optional excursion to the North Cape , where a globe monument stands high above the Arctic Ocean. The journey across Magerøya offers a chance to appreciate the vast, treeless landscapes of Finnmark. Standing atop the cliffs, with nothing but the Arctic Ocean stretching northwards, it's easy to understand why this place captures the imagination of travellers. 

For nature enthusiasts, optional excursions also explore nearby fishing communities and reveal the rich birdlife of the region, including colonies of seabirds that thrive along these remote northern shores. 

Sámi heartlands 

During the afternoon, we call at Kjøllefjord , a small fishing community set amid rugged coastal scenery. As we approach, keep watch for Finnkirka , an unusual rock formation that resembles a man-made structure rising from the landscape. This distinctive landmark was once an important site of spiritual significance for the indigenous Sámi people. 

If you'd like to gain deeper insight into northern Norway's cultural heritage, during the summer and autumn you can join an optional excursion focused on Sámi traditions, where stories of reindeer herding, traditional livelihoods and the hauntingly beautiful sounds of joik offer a window into one of Europe's oldest living cultures. 

When there's enough snow on the ground, an alternative optional excursion is a snowmobile tour across the Nordkyn peninsula, driving through snowy valleys and below icy mountains while your guides tell you about the local people and their traditions.  

Towards the Barents Sea 

Further east lies Mehamn , our northernmost port of call. This resilient fishing community has long depended on the rich waters of the Barents Sea, and the fishing industry remains central to life here. 

In the evening, we reach Berlevåg , a remote settlement perched on the edge of the sea. En route, we pass Slettnes Lighthouse, which at a latitude of 70° 45' is the northernmost mainland lighthouse in the world.  

During the night, we call at Båtsfjord and Vardø, two communities whose fortunes have long been tied to the natural wealth of the Barents Sea. As morning approaches, we continue along the Varanger Peninsula, one of the most distinctive stretches of coastline in Norway.

Vadsø and the Varanger Coast

We arrive in Vadsø early in the morning. This region is renowned among birdwatchers, lying directly beneath one of the Arctic's most important migration routes. Throughout the year, a remarkable variety of species pass through these waters and coastal wetlands.

The landscape here feels noticeably different from the fjords and mountains further south. Wide horizons, open tundra and sweeping coastal views create the sense of space that is characteristic of Finnmark.

Kirkenes

By mid-morning, we arrive in Kirkenes, a frontier town located close to the border. Positioned at the crossroads of Norwegian, Sámi, Finnish and Russian influences, Kirkenes has a fascinating history shaped by trade, diplomacy and life in the far north.

Sadly, this is the final port of call for all guests travelling northbound, meaning it's time to disembark the ship. Nevertheless, if you are staying in the area for longer, or if your connecting flight allows for it, there are several excursions available to you. The surrounding landscapes offer opportunities to visit forests, lakes and Arctic wilderness, while local museums provide insight into the region's wartime history and multicultural heritage.

We hope you have enjoyed your time travelling with us on the Original Coastal Express, and we look forward to seeing you again one day.