Hurtigruten Fleet

The Hurtigruten fleet is no stranger to coastlines worldwide. Most can be found operating the Norwegian Coastal Voyage throughout the seasons, whilst several explore more distant shores at different times of the year. The following pages give an overview of the ships and life on board.

 

MS Fram

The newest ship in the Hurtigruten fleet, built in 2007. This vessel has been built especially to get guests closer to nature, wildlife and extra-ordinary experiences. MS Fram is designed for sailing in polar waters and holds the highest safety standards, it is the perfect size for optimum nautical manoeuvrability and guests' comfort. It offers numerous lounges in which to relax and for the more energetic, a well-equipped gym. On deck, the Jacuzzis guarantee you surreal memories when passing the towering icebergs of Antarctica or Greenland.

MS Finnmarken • MS Midnatsol • MS Trollfjord

Some of the newer ships in the Hurtigruten fleet, these vessels came into service in 2002 and 2003. Each vessel has its own distinct style and character, and the ships offer the latest in cabin comforts, with increased capacity and improved facilities, and a cabin range that includes several suites. There are spacious and comfortable panorama lounges, and facilities include saunas and Jacuzzis.

In August 2019 it was announced that Hurtigruten ships MS Midnatsol, MS Trollfjord and MS Finnmarken will be transformed into premium, hybrid-powered cruise ships from 2021, sailing year-round along the Norwegian coast.

This means that Hurtigruten will be adding an additional 3 hybrid-powered ships to what is already considered the greenest fleet of cruise ships in the world. All three ships will also be equipped for shore power, to cut emissions to zero when docked in ports.

As they are transformed into fully-fledged premium expedition cruise ships, the current MS Trollfjord, MS Finnmarken and MS Midnatsol will be renamed MS Maud, MS Otto Sverdrup and MS Eirik Raude.

MS Nordnorge • MS Polarlys • MS Nordkapp • MS Nordlys • MS Richard With • MS Kong Harald

These ships were built between 1993 and 1997 and combine the small ship atmosphere with space, style and comfort. Each has its own design and displays of works of art by Norwegian artists. In the beautifully appointed public areas you'll be able to enjoy the passing scenery whatever the weather. MS Nordkapp, MS Polarlys, MS Kong Harald and MS Nordnorge were all refurbished in 2016.

MS Vesterålen

Dating from the 1980s, this fine vessel offered larger cabins and bigger hold space than the traditional ships that had previously operated Hurtigruten. It has a restaurant, coffee shop, panorama lounge and ample deck space. This ship is a favourite of travellers who enjoy the real 'working ship' experience, along the Norwegian Coastline. MS Vesterålen was upgraded in 1988 and 1995.

MS Lofoten

The only remaining traditional ship still in service sails during the winter months when other ships operate the sailings beyond the coast of Norway. This small and elegant member of the Hurtigruten fleet - steeped with heritage and character - is a firm favourite for many repeat travellers. MS Lofoten was refurbished in 2003.

Welcome on Board

On board the ships, large comfortable lounges give unequalled views as you glide silently and slowly through some of the world's most beautiful and untouched scenery.

High Standards

As you would expect from Hurtigruten, the highest standards of design, complemented by works of art inspired by the land and seascapes through which you sail, have been employed to ensure that relaxation is the order of the day.

Informality

No dressing up for dinner - no fuss, no frenzy - our aim is to sail calmly through the crisp clean air, close to the ever-changing environment. Open seating for the buffets at breakfast and lunchtime creates a relaxed atmosphere in which to contemplate the sights already seen and anticipate those still to come.

Cuisine

Hurtigruten menus are planned around fresh, seasonal ingredients and take advantage of local produce to satisfy appetites stimulated by the fresh sea air. The restaurants are fully licensed and the set dinner an occasion to exchange the experiences of the day before enjoying coffee in one of the lounges or perhaps something stronger in one of the bars.

Crew

A multilingual Tour Manager is on board the Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Voyage to assist with the shore excursions, help you book if you have not pre-booked your trips ashore, provide information on the highlights of the day and ensure that you will never forget your crossing of the Arctic Circle. Additionally, there is a Reception Desk open 24 hours a day.

Simplicity

Occasionally there may be a local choir or band in one of the lounges for an evening or two but there is no organised entertainment programme to detract from the gentle flow of your voyage.

Space

Lecture theatres and meeting rooms are available on most ships, creating an ideal environment in which to listen to a guest lecturer on one of the Theme Voyages.

If you are travelling on one of the Hurtigruten MS Fram Explorer voyages a team of tour guides and/or lecturers will be on hand to give briefings and lectures and answer any questions you may have.

Comfort

All of the Hurtigruten ships, except for the older, smaller, vessels have a lift, a library to really 'get away from it all', and a café serving snacks 24 hours a day (Norwegian Coastal Voyage only). The newer additions to the fleet have Jacuzzis and a fitness rooms.