This March, I travelled on a Hurtigruten Signature Voyage. The ship I spent six nights on board was the Ms Trollfjord and sailed across the North Cape Line.
Since 1893, Hurtigruten offer authentic voyages along the Norwegian coast! Their signature voyages are slower paced, with all-inclusive food and drinks, twice the expedition staff and only one or two stops a day.
They are also focused on eco-friendly and sustainability initiatives, by converting four of their ships into hybrid electric power. They are planning on debuting a zero-emission ship by 2030.
They support Norway’s ambition to become the worlds most sustainable destination and have been awarded the official “Made in Norway” certificate.
All of this made me look forward to this uniquely Norwegian experience Hurtigruten are known for delivering.
Day 1 - Arrival
I arrived on board in Tromso around mid-afternoon and was able to go straight to my Artic Superior cabin. The bed was really comfortable, the bathroom floor had heating, and included a minibar, desk chair, and television. Plenty of storage was also provided.
I had a late lunch in the Brasserie Arran, which its name takes inspiration from Norway’s Sámi people and specialises in serving traditional cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
I attended the safety briefing in the lecture theatre and then stayed after for the daily gathering. This occurs every day, where the expedition team go through the schedule of destinations and shares helpful information.
After this there was time to go on deck to watch as the ship left Tromso, the gateway to the Artic surrounded by spectacular nature, fjords, islands and mountains.
I had dinner in the evening in Flora which is an à la carte restaurant in the evening. A three course meal is served and can also choose from 30 different wines!
Later in the evening I was thrilled when an announcement came over the loudspeaker to say that the Northern Lights had been spotted, so I quickly joined the other guests on the observation deck. On returning to my cabin later in the evening, there was another announcement about the lights, so I again went out on deck. You will never miss the lights if they are out on a Hurtigruten voyage.
So, a very packed first day!
Day 2 - Honningsvag and The North Cape
I was booked onto the North cape excursion. The coach was waiting outside the ship. We drove through dramatic snowy scenery, before arriving at Nordkapp 72o, the northernmost point of mainland Europe. There was more to see than I expected. As well as the obligatory photo by the globe, there is a museum, a panorama film, bar and several monuments.
On returning to the ship, there was time for a buffet lunch before heading out to explore around town, and then we docked in Honningsvag. I took the helpful map provided from the excursion desk and followed the 2.5k recommended walk. It took me past the harbour and I had many scenic views.
Day 3 - The Magical Igloo Hotel from Alta
A later excursion today, as I didn’t have to leave until 11:30. I sat in the 1893 panorama bar on deck 8 and 9, taking in the snowy views on all sides. There is plenty of time to take in the scenery and to help yourself to tea, coffee or hot chocolate. The bar is also open from lunchtime until midnight, and offers a wide selection of international and local drinks.
The Igloo hotel excursion was well worth doing. Each year, artists build a new and unique hotel with a special theme; this year was Greek Mythology. I saw ice sculptures, was able to tour the accommodation and had a drink at the ice bar.
During the afternoon, I took part in a painting workshop and then watched one of the ships chefs cook a tasty reindeer recipe out on the open deck.
We sailed early at 5pm, so were able to again take in the amazing views on all sides.
I watched the daily gathering in my cabin as it was live streamed. All daily lectures can also be viewed on the cabin’s television live as they are recorded. Topics included: The Sámi people, Norwegian houses, maritime history, ecosystems, photography and Hurtigruten’s history.
Day 4 – Lodingen
Following a morning of scenic sailing, the Trollfjord arrived in Lodingen.
I had an excursion to the historic wharf which involved a walk into town. We were met by local resident, Lisbet Kristine Hansen, who enthusiastically told us the history of the area and the restoration of the wharf, now a Norwegian Cultural monument. She was involved in the restoration and explained that original walls, roof and flooring were used so it looks the same as it did when it opened back in 1901. We went inside the warehouse where photos of Hurtigruten’s old steam ships are displayed as well as an old Nordlands boat with sails. The warehouse is now a museum, a café and meeting house. You could really tell how it is the centre of the town, and how proud the locals are of their history and traditions.
This evening, I dined in Rost, the fine dining restaurant located on deck 8. I enjoyed a five course dinner, serving seasonal Norwegian dishes each paired with a mocktail or wine, including Havets Bobler - the sea aged sparkling wine created exclusively to serve on Hurtigruten ships.
For suite guests dining in Rost is included for all three meals. Other guests are able to pay a supplement to dine here. Hurtigruten support 50 local farms, bakeries and producers from across Norway. I loved this about this voyage, you really are eating local and seasonal.
Day 4 – Rorvik
During the night we crossed the Artic Circle, no ceremony southwards and surprisingly only three other guests were up on deck at 2.20am to witness this!
Our port today was the ancient fishing town of Rorvik. It was just a short stop, walk into town to look around the museum and church, so it was a very relaxed day.
I had time in the morning for a ship tour, looking through a few different cabin types. I also learnt about the different Hurtigruten voyages. I think I would also like to experience the Original coastal voyage, travel like a local with Norwegians and see the hustle and bustle of the many stops on these voyages that have been operating and connecting communities since 1893. A spring or summer Norwegian trip would also be different and open up many more hiking and exploring opportunities.
Day 5 - Molde Hike
In Molde, I put my hiking boots on and headed up the green corridor which was easy to find. If you prefer to do a guided walk Hurtigruten also organise these in many ports. I was rewarded with a view of the town and surrounding mountains.
More scenic sailing during the afternoon, it was so relaxing to watch the ever changing beautiful fjordland scenery.
The farewell dinner was a five course event with wine pairing included. Staff were all around in the evening as well to say goodbye. Discussion this evening was which Hurtigruten voyage to try next and what time of year to go.
I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Norway through Hurtigruten’s eyes, they really do show off the very best of Norway and its rich culture, history and scenery. After all, they do have 130 years of experience.
Any more information you would like, please feel free to contact me in Bath.
