NORDIC CRUISES

UNFURLING to reveal majestic fjords, Hanseatic trading towns and art nouveau architecture in unspoilt cities, Norway’s coastline – the secondlongest in the world – can be described as nothing less than spectacular.

For decades, ships were the only lifeline connecting the remote communities scattered along the country’s rugged shores, delivering everything from post and supplies to cultural ideas and news. This year, Hurtigruten celebrates 130 years plying the coastal waters. And to celebrate, Hurtigruten has created two new signature routes, to explore the best of the country’s dazzling natural beauty.

Revived after more than 40 years, the Svalbard Express follows a historic passage, setting sail from Bergen for a summer voyage deep into the Arctic Circle and on to the Svalbard archipelago.

The North Cape Express, however, is a completely new route, beginning in Oslo for the first time and taking in both the southernmost and northernmost coastal points of the country, alongside the opportunity to capture the magnificent Northern Lights.

For both journeys, you’ll set sail aboard MS Trollfjord, a ship offering an intimate sailing experience and welcoming around 500 guests. With bookings for 2024 open, and an added £500pp on-board spend* if you book before August 31, 2023, now is the perfect opportunity to explore the raw beauty of the Norwegian coast.

THE SVALBARD EXPRESS

What began as an express route between Bergen and Tromsø, later venturing further north, the Svalbard Express route was eventually discontinued in 1982.

Today’s journey will follow in the wake of that original route, calling in at fascinating ports of call to offer unique experiences as it sails up to the very edge of the world – heading to the Svalbard archipelago in the High Arctic.

You can choose from a 16-day round trip from Bergen to Longyearbyen, or pick shorter southbound or northbound journeys to experience the Arctic coast on a seven- to 10-day adventure.

Flying under the Norwegian flag and the small size of the ship, you’ll access destinations other cruise lines cannot reach. Explore Norway’s oldest fishing community in Traena, Bjørnøya (Bear

Island) in the middle of the Barents Sea, the picturesque Lofoten archipelago and the elegant town of Ålesund, surrounded by water. With an average six hours in each port, you’ll have plenty of time to explore every destination, and can choose from more than 30 organised excursions, to soak up pristine scenery and immerse yourself in the unique cultures and communities of the region. Try stand-up paddleboarding in Åndalsnes, brave an Arctic dip followed by a warming sauna in Traena’s oldest house, discover the historic lands of Tromsø, or join a cycle ride or hike to experience the untouched nature of the North Cape.

You’ll spot majestic seabirds and playful seals, you can go kayaking and learn traditional fishing techniques. Take your pick from the wonderful choice of excursions available.**

THE NORTH CAPE EXPRESS

For a winter wonderland voyage, the North Cape Express takes in the whole Norwegian coast. It departs between December and April, and you will enjoy a 14-day sailing that takes you from Oslo to Honningsvåg, returning to finish in Bergen, or the same route in reverse. Stopping at 16 carefully selected destinations, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in local histories, traditional cuisine, and distinctive architectures. Learn about Norway’s World War Two history at Kristiansand and marvel as you sail Hardangerfjord and sip the award-winning cider from the region. In the town of Alta, set on one of Norway’s best salmon rivers, you can dine on the freshest fish, while a kayaking excursion is the perfect way to explore the silent beauty of Lofoten. Near Tromsø, the gateway to the Arctic, you can go dog sledding or spot humpback whales. Or from Honningsvåg, you can quad bike to the North Cape.**

This magical voyage allows you to experience the Northern Lights. But if you don’t happen to glimpse their colourful dance, Hurtigruten’s Northern Lights Promise means you’ll enjoy a second opportunity with a free six- or seven-day cruise***.

LIFE ON BOARD

Crafted with locally sourced materials and furnished to provide comfortable, elegant surroundings that showcase the magnificent vistas slipping past the picture windows, MS Trollfjord is your home away from home.

When you’re not relaxing in the double-storey observation lounge or out on the deck, you can join activities and lectures, dine on incredible cuisine, or retreat to the panoramic sauna.

The Coastal Experience Team offers activities and informative lectures to make the most of every destination. From learning new skills to culinary demonstrations and tastings, they will bring your surroundings to life. Hurtigruten’s ‘Norway’s Coastal Kitchen’ concept celebrates the incredible fresh produce of the Norwegian coast.

With most of the ingredients being sustainability sourced from farms, bakeries and producers along the coastline, you’re going to be enjoying tender cod and juicy scallops with local butter, wild herbs, vegan caviar made from Lofoten seaweed and the creamiest cheeses. And each delicious meals can be enjoyed with locally brewed beers or perhaps a crisp Norwegian spirit.

Whether you choose the Svalbard Express or the North Cape Express, these two new signature Hurtigruten itineraries invite you to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Norwegian coast.