Hurtigruten

A modern, sleek expedition cruise ship with innovative design, featuring multiple decks, solar panels, and distinctive vertical sail-like structures. The vessel is designed for sustainable maritime travel with a futuristic aesthetic.
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The World’s Original Expedition Cruise Line – Over 130 Years of Polar Exploration Heritage

Founded in 1893, Hurtigruten is the pioneer of expedition cruising. A Norwegian heritage line born from the rugged beauty of the Arctic coastline, what began as a vital postal and passenger route along Norway’s dramatic coast has evolved into one of the world’s most respected names in expedition travel. Hurtigruten’s purpose-built expedition ships are designed to navigate the planet’s most remote and breathtaking waters – from the frozen wilderness of Antarctica and the Arctic to the ancient Galápagos Islands and the wild coastlines of Alaska and Patagonia. With an intimate fleet of small expedition vessels, Hurtigruten delivers immersive, science-driven adventures that bring you face-to-face with nature in its most untouched form.

What truly sets Hurtigruten apart is the onboard Expedition Team – a handpicked group of scientists, historians, biologists, photographers, and polar experts who transform every voyage into a living classroom. These passionate professionals lead Zodiac landings, guided hikes across glacial terrain, and immersive lectures that illuminate the ecosystems, cultures, and geology of the regions you explore. Whether you’re observing a colony of penguins in Antarctica, watching the Northern Lights dance across the Arctic sky, or exploring volcanic landscapes in the Galápagos, the Expedition Team ensures that every encounter is deeply meaningful and scientifically enriching.

A Hurtigruten cruise ship navigating through a scenic Norwegian fjord landscape with snow-capped mountains in the background under a dramatic cloudy sky.
A striking image of the MS Nordnorge, a Norwegian coastal cruise ship, anchored in pristine Arctic waters with snow-capped mountains rising dramatically in the background. The vessel's distinctive red and black hull contrasts beautifully against the blue sea and sky, with scattered islands and towering peaks characteristic of Norway's northern regions.
The Trollfjord, a Hurtigruten cruise ship, navigates through a dramatic Norwegian fjord surrounded by snow-capped mountains, steep cliff faces, and cascading waterfalls. The modern expedition vessel with its distinctive red, white, and black hull is dwarfed by the towering landscape, showcasing the spectacular scenery of Norway's fjord region.
A modern expedition cruise ship anchors in a pristine Norwegian fjord surrounded by snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and mirror-like waters reflecting the dramatic Alpine landscape under clear blue skies.

Nordic-Inspired Dining and Sustainability as a Way of Life

Hurtigruten’s culinary philosophy is rooted in the Norwegian tradition of honest, locally sourced ingredients prepared with artful simplicity. Onboard dining celebrates the flavors of the regions you explore, with menus that shift according to season and destination. The main restaurant, Aune, offers refined Scandinavian-inspired cuisine, while the more casual Fredheim provides buffet-style meals with an emphasis on fresh seafood, artisan breads, and Nordic specialties. On select ships, the intimate Lindstrøm fine dining restaurant elevates the experience further with multi-course tasting menus paired with carefully selected wines. From freshly caught Arctic cod to locally foraged berries, every meal aboard Hurtigruten tells the story of the landscape beyond your window.

Sustainability isn’t just a talking point for Hurtigruten – it’s woven into how the line operates. Hurtigruten was the first major cruise line to ban single-use plastics across its fleet, and their hybrid-powered expedition ships, MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, represent a landmark in green maritime technology. Powered by a combination of battery packs and marine gas oil, these vessels significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions while sailing through the world’s most pristine environments. The Hurtigruten Foundation channels resources directly into conservation projects and local communities in the destinations they visit, ensuring that the places you explore today remain extraordinary for generations to come.

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Destinations That Define Adventure

Hurtigruten sails to some of the most remote and awe-inspiring destinations on Earth. Their iconic Norwegian Coastal Voyage – the journey that started it all – threads along Norway’s spectacular coastline, calling at over 30 ports between Bergen and Kirkenes, including stops above the Arctic Circle where the midnight sun and Northern Lights await. Beyond Norway, Hurtigruten’s expedition fleet ventures deep into Antarctica, crossing the Drake Passage to deliver you to the white continent’s towering icebergs and thriving penguin colonies. In the Arctic, voyages explore Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland, and the legendary Northwest Passage. Further afield, Hurtigruten charts courses through the Galápagos, the British Isles, the Caribbean, Alaska’s Inside Passage, South America, and beyond – always seeking the extraordinary places most travelers will never see.

Or call us directly at (352) 432-8131 to speak with a dedicated advisor.

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What’s Included In Your Expedition Cruise Package?

Your extraordinary expedition adventure comes with many included amenities from the cruise line. In addition, Extraordinary Adventures offers our clients extra complimentary benefits as well as popular upgrades to create a seamless door-to-door experience.

Included in Every Hurtigruten Expedition

  • Expedition Team-led landings and activities
  • Science Center lectures and workshops
  • Full board dining in all onboard restaurants
  • Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
  • Loan of expedition boots and equipment
  • Complimentary tea, coffee, and water
  • Wi-Fi onboard
  • Gratuities* (included on expedition voyages; may vary by fare type)
  • Zodiac excursions and landings
  • On-deck hot tubs and fitness facilities

Your Extraordinary Adventures Cruise Also Includes

  • Expert guidance from certified Hurtigruten specialists choosing your itinerary, ship, and stateroom
  • Recommendations on shore excursions
  • Advice on cruise and travel policies and procedures
  • Emergency assistance while on your trip
  • Recommendations on travel insurance

Add Extraordinary Adventures White Glove Service to Receive

  • We arrange car service and transfers
  • We book flights*
  • We reserve hotel stays
  • We coordinate pre-cruise and post-cruise travel planning

$250 Planning Fee per stateroom

Complimentary for guests who book this cruise line
*Terms and conditions apply

Frequently Asked Questions About Hurtigruten

Hurtigruten is the world’s original expedition cruise line, founded in 1893 along the Norwegian coast. The experience is defined by immersive, science-driven exploration aboard intimate, purpose-built expedition ships. Rather than focusing on onboard entertainment and luxury amenities, Hurtigruten prioritizes meaningful encounters with nature, wildlife, and local cultures – guided by an expert Expedition Team of scientists, historians, and naturalists. It’s expedition cruising in its most authentic form.

Every Hurtigruten expedition voyage features a dedicated Expedition Team – typically composed of biologists, geologists, historians, photographers, and adventure guides. They lead Zodiac excursions, guided hikes, and kayaking expeditions. They deliver daily lectures in the onboard Science Center and are available throughout the voyage to share their expertise. On expedition landings, they serve as your guides, safety team, and naturalist interpreters, ensuring every encounter with wildlife and wilderness is safe, respectful, and deeply enriching.

Hurtigruten expedition fares typically include full board dining in all onboard restaurants, Expedition Team-led landings and activities, a complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket to keep, loan of boots and expedition equipment, access to the onboard Science Center, Wi-Fi, tea, coffee, and water throughout the voyage, and use of onboard fitness facilities and hot tubs. Inclusions may vary by voyage and fare type – contact your Extraordinary Adventures advisor for full details on your specific sailing.

Hurtigruten’s expedition ships offer a range of cabin categories designed with warm Scandinavian style. Options range from Polar Inside cabins to Polar Outside cabins with windows, Arctic Superior cabins with private balconies, and premium suite categories including Expedition Suites and Owner’s Suites on select ships. All cabins feature comfortable Scandinavian-designed furnishings, ample storage for expedition gear, and thoughtful details that reflect Hurtigruten’s Norwegian heritage.

Hurtigruten operates a fleet of purpose-built expedition ships. The flagship hybrid-powered vessels MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen are the world’s first battery-hybrid expedition cruise ships, carrying approximately 530 guests each. MS Santa Cruz II operates intimate Galápagos voyages for approximately 90 guests. The coastal fleet includes vessels like MS Nordnorge and MS Nordkapp, which sail the iconic Norwegian Coastal Voyage route. Each ship is designed for exploration, equipped with Zodiac fleets, Science Centers, and advanced navigation systems for remote waters.

Hurtigruten sails to some of the most remote and extraordinary destinations on the planet. The iconic Norwegian Coastal Voyage travels between Bergen and Kirkenes, calling at over 30 ports along Norway’s spectacular coastline. Expedition voyages venture to Antarctica, the Arctic (including Svalbard, Greenland, and the Northwest Passage), Iceland, Alaska, the Galápagos Islands, the British Isles, South America, the Caribbean, and more. Many of these destinations are accessible only by small expedition ship.

Hurtigruten’s dining program celebrates Nordic culinary traditions with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The main restaurant Aune offers refined Scandinavian cuisine, while Fredheim provides casual buffet-style meals emphasizing fresh seafood and regional specialties. On the hybrid expedition ships, the intimate Lindstrøm restaurant offers multi-course fine dining experiences with wine pairings. All main dining is included in the fare, with Lindstrøm available as an optional upgrade on select ships.

Hurtigruten maintains a relaxed, expedition-appropriate dress code that reflects the adventurous nature of the voyages. There are no formal nights. Smart casual attire is welcome for dinner, and practical outdoor clothing and layering are encouraged for landings and excursions. Hurtigruten provides a complimentary expedition jacket, and boots and other equipment are available for loan, so you can focus on packing for comfort rather than formality.

Absolutely. Hurtigruten is an exceptional choice for first-time expedition travelers. The Expedition Team provides thorough safety briefings and guidance before every landing, and activities are designed to accommodate varying fitness levels. The onboard Science Center offers enriching context for every destination, and the intimate ship size means the crew and team can provide personalized attention. Whether you’ve never stepped on a Zodiac or you’re a seasoned polar traveler, Hurtigruten creates a welcoming and well-supported expedition experience.

Hurtigruten is recognized as a pioneer in sustainable expedition cruising. They were the first major cruise line to ban single-use plastics, and their hybrid-powered ships MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The Hurtigruten Foundation directs resources to conservation projects and local communities in the destinations they visit. Their commitment extends to responsible wildlife viewing protocols, strict environmental guidelines for landings, and ongoing investment in green maritime technology.

For the most sought-after voyages – Antarctica, Svalbard in summer, and the Norwegian Coastal Voyage during Northern Lights season – we recommend booking 9 to 12 months in advance. Hurtigruten’s expedition ships carry far fewer guests than conventional cruise ships, and preferred cabin categories fill quickly. Even for other destinations, booking 6 months ahead gives you the widest selection of cabins and access to early booking promotions. As your Extraordinary Adventures advisor, we monitor upcoming releases and can alert you to new itineraries and exclusive fares before they’re widely available.

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What Our Clients Say

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“These two definitely know their ships, and if they don’t, they know where to find answers. We had never booked with an agent before, but after our first experience with Extraordinary Adventures, we were so pleased that we quickly booked our second cruise shortly after. Their response times are rapid, and their suggestions are immeasurable.”

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“I gave them a budget, what I wanted, and potential dates. They did the rest! Gave me checklists for what to pack, suggestions of things to do, and the best plans for the biggest bang for our buck. They even checked on us when we returned to be sure we had an enjoyable experience.”

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“We have tried different venues to purchase cruises and definitely prefer working with Scott and Laura. They have always put our best interest at the forefront. They are professional and easy to contact and take the worry out of our travel plans.”

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“Scott and Laura are super knowledgeable and incredibly fast to respond to questions. They helped make our last cruise worry- and stress-free. I have referred two of my friends who used their services and were very happy. They will go out of their way to help. Super friendly!”

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The World’s Wildest Places Are Waiting – Let’s Get You There

Expedition cruising takes you beyond the beaten track – to Antarctica’s frozen shores, the Amazon’s hidden waterways, and remote archipelagos few ever reach. Planning these life-defining voyages takes specialist knowledge. Our expedition cruise experts are here to guide you to the right line, the right ship, and the right moment to go.