Throughout the year you have the opportunity to discover places in mainland, in an attractive mix of inflight entertainment and optional excursions, accompanied by expert guides with a deep knowledge of the country.
The Hurtigruten offers the possibility of travel the Norwegian coast both from Bergen to Kirkenes, on a six-day trip, like from Kirkenes to Bergen or take the tour of 12 days round trip.
For now I'm going to detail the cruise heading north, from Bergen to Kirkenes, and in another content I'll tell you what the one from Kirkenes to Bergen is like.
This cruise of 6 days will allow you to perform activities in the nature, how to enjoy the spectacular views of the geiranger fjord and at the same time nourish yourself with the crop of the area, going to the Gothic Nidaros Cathedral or Ringve Museum of music, where a sample of several pieces performed by the conservatory students will be prepared.
A historical tour of Stamsund to Svolvaer to visit and dine in an old Viking house, with typical songs and dances. In Tromsø it is possible to go to Polaria Arctic Center and Arctic Cathedral or discover in kayak its landscape and marine fauna. After docking in Honningsvag, a coach will take you to the spectacular Arctic landscapes of the island Mageroya to the North Cape.
What's included and what you can expect on the northbound route
The northbound itinerary is an immersive journey along the wildest coastline in Europe, where the imposing fjords, fishing villages and cities with a university spirit. On board you can enjoy a local crew, gastronomy with products from kilometer zero and talks that contextualize Arctic history, geography, and life. If you're looking to broaden your horizons, Northern Europe also offers routes across the seas. Scandinavian, Baltic y Arctic, connecting with the British Isles, Scandinavian coasts and Baltic countries; even so, the focus here it is on the Norwegian coast.
Typical itinerary and featured ports Bergen–Kirkenes
Heading north, the ship sails along a chain of historic ports and natural sites. These are some of the most representative of the entire route (the scale may vary by season and conditions):
- Bergen, Florø, Måløy, Torvik, Ålesund, Molde, Kristiansund, Trondheim.
- Rørvik, Bronnoysund, Sandnessjøen, Nose (step of the Arctic Circle), Eagles, Bodø.
- stamsund, Svolvaer (Lofoten Islands), Stockmarknes, Sortland, Risøyhamn, Harstad, Finnsnes, Tromsø, Skjervoy, Øksfjord.
- Hammerfest, Havøysund, Honningsvag (excursion to North Cape), Kjøllefjord, Mehamn, Berlevåg, Båtsfjord, Vardø, Vadso, Kirkenes.
Among the natural jewels, in addition to the Geirangerfjord and the Naeroyfjord (Heritage of the UNESCO), the sharp beaks of Lofoten and the archipelagos of Vesterålen. Further north still, the wild Svalbard Islands They inspire adventurous spirits, although they belong to specific Arctic routes.
Unmissable excursions and experiences
For cultural travelers, the highlights are Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, the Ringve Museum and the historical ones briggen from Bergen. Those looking for action will find outlets in kayak, glacier walks and sailing in RIB through quiet fjords, with mountains reflected in crystalline waters.
En Tromsø, the visit to the scientific center Polaria and the Arctic Cathedral explains human adaptation to the polar climate. In Lofoten, dinner at Viking house Between local songs and dances, it is an immersion in Nordic identities that still survive.
The stretch of Honningsvag al North Cape crosses the island of Mageroya through lunar landscapes and endless cliffs. It is one of the northernmost points in Europe accessible by road, perfect for understanding Norway's relationship with the Barents Sea.
When to travel: midnight sun and auroras
In the months of summer, the midnight Sun It provides almost constant light at high latitudes, ideal for late-day excursions and photography. winter, dark skies open the door to observing Aurora borealis, especially in the area between Tromsø y KirkenesThe route operates year-round, with each season offering a distinct character.
International cruises and ferries: how to get there and combine
It is also possible to come to Norway with others international operators that depart from European ports and connect with the British Isles, Scandinavian coasts or Baltic countries. If you want a entirely Norwegian experienceStarting from a local port allows you to spend more days exploring the country in depth.
Please note that not all UNESCO World Heritage fjords Large ships are allowed due to environmental measures reduce emissionsEmbarking in Norway maximizes authentic port calls and access to small and medium-sized coastal ports.
As for the international ferries, several companies move cars daily from Denmark, Sweden y Germany, to various Norwegian ports. They offer packages for vehicles, discounts for mayores, students y children; some ships prioritize transport and others approach the format cruise, with cabins, entertainment, a spa, and several restaurants. It's even possible to book a ferry to Oslo from Copenhagen y Frederikshavn.
Nordic capitals and cities to inspire you
Combine the north heading with capitals of Northern Europe allows to contrast historical vestiges y contemporary architecture: the vitality of Copenhagen, Tallin o Hamburg, or the charm of Stockholm. In Oslo, surprise the Akershus Fortress, the Frogner Park and the spectacular OperaIn Copenhagen, the Little mermaid It is a photographic icon, and in Stockholm it shines Drottningholm Palace (UNESCO). Bergen, surrounded by the Sognefjord, vibrates between historic docks and mountains.
Practical tips for choosing your Norway cruise heading north
- Choose a cabin according to the coast you prefer to see: in many sections, the bow and exterior covers offer better views of fjords and wildlife.
- Book key excursions in advance (North Cape, kayak, cultural visits), are sold out in high season.
- Pack in layers: even in summer, the arctic wind cools the covers; in winter, add thermal accessories.
- If you are looking to expand the adventure, there are extensions to the Arctic insular (as Svalbard) in specific programs.
Norway alternates mountains, rivers, forests and jagged coastlines dotted with fishing villages and wooden churches. This diversity, combined with the wealth of ports between Bergen and Kirkenes, makes the northern route one of the most complete ways to experience the country: unique landscapes, living culture and the magnetism of the Great North in a single journey.
