Norwegian Coastal Christmas Cruise
$6287.00
11 nights in Europe
What to expect
MS Nordnorge
Sail in comfort on the MS Nordnorge, featuring three inviting restaurants, cozy lounges, a fitness room, and a Nordic-style sauna—perfect for unwinding as you watch the Arctic landscape drift by.
Unique Experiences
Chase the magical Northern Lights across Norway’s winter skies. From crossing the Arctic Circle to festive onboard traditions, every day offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Picturesque Towns
Step ashore in postcard-perfect towns like Tromsø, Ålesund, and Bergen. Each port blends natural beauty with history, from vibrant city squares to colorful wooden wharfs.
UNESCO-listed Sites
Marvel at UNESCO-listed gems like Bryggen’s medieval waterfront and the Struve Geodetic Arc—landmarks that reveal Norway’s role in both global heritage and scientific discovery.
About this trip...
The Coastal Express Bergen – Kirkenes – Bergen
Step aboard the original Norwegian coastal voyage, a journey that has been weaving together fjords, towns, and people since 1893. For over a century, this legendary route has been hailed as “The World’s Most Beautiful Voyage”—and it’s easy to see why.
Over 12 unforgettable days, you’ll sail 2,500 nautical miles along Norway’s dramatic coastline, calling at 34 ports both northbound and southbound. From snow-dusted fishing villages to vibrant Arctic cities, every stop reveals a new piece of Norway’s soul.
This winter sailing promises something truly magical: celebrate Christmas beneath the Northern Lights, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, glassy fjords, and the timeless wonder of the Arctic.
A voyage like this isn’t just a holiday—it’s a bucket-list adventure, a story you’ll tell for years to come. Secure your place today and experience Norway at its most enchanting.
What's included?
Polar Outside Private Cabin 
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily
Tour Leader included with a group of 10
Fully Financially Protected
What’s Extra:
- Cabin upgrades: Prices available on request
- Shore excursions can be prebooked: Visit https://www.hurtigruten.com/en-gb/extras/excursions to see what's on offer
Itinerary
- Bergen, Norway
- Ålesund
- Trondheim
- Bodø
- Tromsø
- Honningsvåg
- Kirkenes
- Hammerfest
- Svolvær
- Brønnøysund
- Trondheim
- Bergen, Norway
What you will be doing...
Day 1: Arrival Day - Bergen
Our voyage starts in Bergen, the second-largest city in Norway and gateway to the fjords. Founded in 1070 AD, Bergen boasts architecture influenced by prosperous 14th-century German trading organisation, the Hanseatic League.
If we have time before our ship departs, visit the UNESCO-listed wharfs of the colourful Bryggen district, now an artisan quarter complete with cobblestone streets. Just across the street is the famous Fish Market which serves delicious seafood. There’s also the Fløibanen funicular which takes you up to the top of Mount Fløyen for views of the city.
- Dinner included
Day 2: Iconic Architecture and Fantastic Fjords
Enjoy early morning in the Nordfjord near Torvik, before sailing past West Cape for our approach to Ålesund.
Art Nouveau City
Ålesund is renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and Atlanterhavsparken, one of Northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums. We'll have most of the day to explore this picturesque town.
- Full Board
Day 3: Trondheim – City of Kings and Palaces
- Full Board
Day 4: Bodø – Into the Arctic - Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas
Today we cross the Arctic Circle early in the morning, beginning our Arctic tour of Norway. We mark the moment with a traditional ceremony that’s sure to wake you up.
Above the Arctic Circle, we can see the sun 24 hours a day in summer, but as we're travelling in winter - our chances of seeing the Northern Lights greatly improve.
Forces of nature - At 10:00, we call into Ørnes, near to Norway’s second-largest glacier, Svartisen.
Usually, there is a special lecture about Xmas traditions in Norway, the crew may create ornaments with the guests, decorate the Xmas tree, have a special dinner, show Xmas movies etc. Guests often also form a choir etc. We may be able to visit a local church service.
We then sail to Bodø, the second largest city in Northern Norway, overlooked by the Børvass peaks. Admire fabulous street art or join an optional boat excursion to Saltstraumen, the world’s most powerful maelstrom.
Welcome to Lofoten - This afternoon, the ship enters the Lofoten archipelago. The 1,000 metre-high Lofoten Wall is a stunning sight on the horizon, as if there to welcome us.
Stamsund is home to one of the largest fishing fleets in the islands and busiest between January and April when Arctic cod, known locally as skrei, swim from the Barents Sea in the north down to Vestfjord to spawn.
Come evening, when we see rows of traditional fisherman’s huts on stilts, known as rorbuer, we’ve arrived in the pretty harbour of Svolvær, the main town of the Lofoten Islands.
- Full Board
Day 5: Tromsø - Capital of the Arctic
We dock into Harstad just after 07:00, with the chance to go for a peaceful early morning stroll around town.
The ship will then continue to Finnsnes which connects the beautiful island of Senja via the impressive Gisund Bridge. Keep on the lookout for a variety of seabirds with several colonies nearby, including puffins.
Gateway to the Arctic
We then sail to the historic Arctic exploration capital of Tromsø where you’ll have four hours to explore the city or join an optional excursion.
Along the waterfront we’ll find Polaria, a centre exhibiting environmental research in the Arctic with a small aquarium. Take your pick from the many shops and restaurants in the city centre, including Mack Brewery and favourite local watering hole Ølhallen pub. There are also cafés offering delicious cinnamon buns where baristas create innovative coffee art. Across the fjord from where the ship docks, we should be able to see the iconic Arctic Cathedral with its beautiful stained-glass mosaic.
Leaving Tromsø in the early evening, we head north for the trading post of Skjervøy, founded in 1622. On our way, we’ll pass the Lyngen Alps which rise majestically from the sea. Norway’s Northern Frontier!
- Full Board
Day 6: Honningsvåg – Norway’s Northern Frontier
The ship reaches the town of Hammerfest on the island of Kvaløya early in the morning.
You’ll know we’ve reached Havøysund when you see the wind turbines of the landmark Havøyglaven wind farm which produces enough electricity to power 6,000 local homes.
At the Top of Europe
We arrive at Honningsvåg mid-morning, portal to the North Cape where a globe monument marks the top of continental Europe. An optional excursion will take you to North Cape from Honningsvåg by bus.
Sámi heartlands - Near the entrance of Kjøllefjord village, look out for the striking, building-like rock formation Finnkirka, an ancient sacrificial site once used by the indigenous Sámi.
We reach our northernmost port of call, Mehamn, in the evening. The ship then sets off for Berlevåg. On the way, we pass the tall Slettnes Lighthouse, the northernmost mainland lighthouse on Earth.
- Full Board
Day 7: Kirkenes – Norway’s Eastern Edge
We call at Båtsfjord and Vardø in the night, before docking at Vadsø early in the morning.
The area around Vadsø is one of the most scenic and popular birdwatching spots in the Arctic, lying directly under the migration path of birds flying from east to west. Watch for hooded crows and sea eagles.
By the time we reach Kirkenes after breakfast, we’ll have travelled further east than St. Petersburg and Istanbul. We’ll have a choice of optional excursions to explore the area.
Journey’s Turning Point
Kirkenes is where your Norwegian coastal cruise changes direction and the ship heads south. Several of the places we sailed to during the night we’ll now see during the day.
Back in Vardø, we can visit the solemn Witches’ Monument and the star-shaped Vardøhus Fortress, built in 1737. The northernmost fortification of any kind, it remains a part of the military to this day.
We return to the small, bustling port of Båtsfjord and then make for Berlevåg for late evening, crossing paths with the northbound ship.
- Full Board
Day 8: Hammerfest - From The Top of the World
We make stops at Mehamn and Kjøllefjord during the night before early morning visits to Honningsvåg and Havøysund.
The Northernmost City
In the early afternoon, you’ll spend time in Hammerfest, which has the largest population on a list of the world’s northernmost settlements. See the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, shop for souvenirs at the Polar Bear Society, or take the path behind the town to the viewpoint atop Mount Salen.
Mountains and Marine Mammals
We continue cruising Norway’s coastline south to Øksfjord and then to Skjervøy, surrounded by mountain peaks.
We might spot orcas and humpback whales that gather here to feed on herring.
As we make our way to Tromsø, we might also glimpse views of the Lyngen Alps which boast some of the highest peaks in all of Norway.
Midnight Magic
We dock at Tromsø just before midnight.
- Full Board
Day 9: Svolvær - High Peaks and Idyllic Islands
Today, we will be exploring the archipelagos of Lofoten and Vesterålen, the real highlights of our Norway scenic route. After Finnsnes early in the morning, the ship calls at Harstad where the white-washed Trondenes Church, the world’s northernmost medieval stone church, sits on the peninsula.
Next is our smallest port of call Risøyhamn and then Sortland where the landscape slowly transforms from hills to enormous mountains.
Our Birthplace
Stokmarknes is where Captain Richard With began The Coastal Express in 1893. Visit Hurtigrutemuseet, a ship-in-a-bottle building that chronicles our legacy, centred around retired ship MS Finnmarken from 1956.
A ship-sized Fjord
Sailing along Raftsund, the Captain may choose to take the ship into tiny Trollfjord if weather permits. The mountain walls will look so close you’ll think you can reach out and brush them! To exit the fjord, the ship will rotate 180 degrees on the spot, then sail back out. Remember to look out for sea eagles here too.
Leaving Lofoten
We reach Svolvær in the evening. The huge mountain that sits above the town is named the Svolvær Goat due to its supposed resemblance. See if you agree!
The ship then sails for Stamsund, eventually passing the giant granite cliffs of the Lofoten Wall.
Day 10: Brønnøysund - The heart of the Helgeland coast
Celebrate 2026 - Happy New Year !!!!
The ship calls at Bodø in the small hours of the morning and then Ørnes at 7am. We then cross over the Arctic Circle just after breakfast. Commemorate the moment with a tradition of tasting a spoonful of Norwegian cod liver oil!
We make a short stop at Nesna before sailing on to Sandnessjøen, gateway to the magnificent Helgeland Coast.
Legend has it…
Admire the stunning landscape of the Seven Sisters mountain range, with peaks up to 3600 feet high. The tale goes that seven beautiful troll princesses, fleeing from an unwanted suitor, got caught out as the sun rose, turning them into the seven beautiful mountains you see today.
You’ll also not want to miss views of Torghatten Mountain, with the distinctive hole in it. There is a local legend as to why and how this mountain came to have such a hole.
We reach Brønnøysund mid-afternoon. Explore the bustling marina on a walk along Havnegata. In the centre of town is Brønnøy Church: a stone church in the Neo-Gothic style dating back to 1870.
Our last stop of the day is the cosy fishing port of Rørvik in the picturesque Vikna archipelago.
- Full Board
Day 11: Trondheim - Coastal Communities and Klippfisk
We spend the morning in Trondheim, then sail past beautiful island scenery and some of Norway’s smallest communities before exploring Kristiansund and Molde.
Capital of the Viking Age
Stroll around Trondheim in the early morning as the city wakes. Visit the sacred Nidaros Cathedral, resting place of St. Olav. Then, walk to Gamle Bybro bridge for a photo opportunity over Nid River. Treat yourself to quality coffee and a Nordic patisserie in one of the Bakklandet district’s many chic cafés then walk up to Kristiansten Fort for great views of Norway’s third largest city.
- Full Board
Day 12: Bergen
Our Norwegian coastal cruise will reach its end later today. During the previous night, we called at Ålesund and Torvik. On our approach to Måløy, you might catch a glimpse of the northbound Coastal Express if you’re up early enough.
Morning highlights
You’ll have a chance to glimpse Nordfjord, under the enormous Jostedal Glacier, mainland Europe’s largest. The ship then docks at Florø in the morning where you can take in the harbour and marina.
The Home Stretch
Leaving Florø, we’ll spot Stabben Lighthouse, a favourite subject for photographers. There’s also stunning views to enjoy as we cross the mouth of Sognefjord, the longest and widest fjord in the whole of Norway.
As we reach our final port in the afternoon, the ship will navigate through the last islands and skerries of our Norway scenic route, and sail down Hjeltefjord to arrive into Bergen.
As we reach Bergen at approximately 14.45, sadly, it’s time to say farewell to the Captain, crew, and fellow guests before transferring to Bergen Airport, Norway, taking with us some amazing memories.
- Breakfast & lunch included
Accommodations
MS Nordnorge
MS Nordnorge is aptly named for northern Norway, most of which lies above the Arctic Circle. MS Nordnorge (literally: Northern Norway) was completed in 1997 by Kværner Kleven in Ulsteinvik, Norway, as a sister ship to MS Polarlys and MS Nordkapp. The Nordnorge has a gross tonnage of 11,386, a crew of 57 and can carry up to 691 passengers.
Facilities Include
MS Nordnorge has a modern, Arctic-inspired interior. On board are three different restaurants, the Multe bakery and ice-cream bar, a sauna and a fitness room. Out on deck you can enjoy the view from one of the two hot tubs. There is a comfortable bar at the front of the ship where you can enjoy a nice traditional drink. The vessel also has a large compass area where you find the reception, a tour guide, conference room and shop.
Cabins Include
MS Nordnorge is home to 214 cabins and welcomes up to 590 guests, offering a wide range of accommodation tailored to life along Norway’s remarkable coastal route.
Every cabin includes a private bathroom and thoughtfully arranged furnishings, while many also feature flat-screen TVs, cosy seating, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
From compact and practical to spacious and indulgent, cabins aboard MS Nordnorge offer a warm and welcoming place to rest as the ever-changing Norwegian scenery drifts by.
Dates & Prices
Essential Information
Hurtigruten ships have a designated Expedition Team that serves as hosts on board and on land, providing lectures, enhancing the voyage with insights into nature, wildlife, and culture, and offering handpicked excursions to enrich the passenger experience. This team has deep knowledge of the areas they sail, particularly the Norwegian coast, and are available to share their expertise with guests.
What the Expedition Team offers:
Expert-led lectures: They deliver talks on various topics, including the Northern Lights, local history, wildlife, and Norwegian culture.
Guided excursions: The team leads handpicked hikes and other excursions, offering an intimate and personal perspective on the journey.
Enhanced onboard experience: They are on hand to make your voyage more engaging and informative, both at sea and on shore.
Norwegian Kroner (NOK) is the onboard currency. Most major currencies may be exchanged on board. Visa and MasterCard are accepted.
A cruise card can be obtained and used for payment for extras and settled at the end of your voyage.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, American Express, UnionPay, and JCB. Please Note: Some card providers may charge a foreign transaction fee for cards issued outside the EU, UK, and US when processing the payment, please check with your bank regarding these fees. Hurtigruten is not responsible for this fee and does not receive any portion or benefit from these fees. Unfortunately, we don’t accept payment via cheque.
The main restaurant, Torget, is open for three meals a day and offers a varied selection of dishes. Breakfast is served from 7am, with a range of hot options and a buffet of fresh bread, fruit, yoghurts, eggs, pancakes, smoothies, and juices. From 12pm, you can tuck into a menu of à la carte options based on the season’s best ingredients, while a three-course à la carte dinner is served from 6pm. Guests will find a variety of plant-based options on the menu for lunch and dinner.
For a more relaxed meal, guests can head to Brygga, the onboard bistro, which offers a delicious menu of salads, sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas.
You can also enjoy a taste of Arctic fine dining at Kysten, where the menu has been carefully curated by our Culinary Ambassadors.
Those with a sweet tooth will want to pay a visit to Multe, the onboard bakery, where guests can tuck into waffles loaded with generous dollops of whipped cream or ice cream.
We offer a wide range of plant-based options for lunch and dinner, suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Our chefs can also cater for special diets and some food allergies if you let us know ahead of time. It is very important that, at the time of booking, you make a point to tell us clearly about any food allergies you have.
The official languages spoken on board are Norwegian and English. Some crew members also speak German and French, and other languages may be present based on the nationalities of the guests.
It is not common practice to tip on our ships, but if you feel that crew members should be rewarded for providing exceptional service, tip boxes are placed in the restaurant together with envelopes.
We offer complimentary Wi-Fi on board our ships. Guests on a Basic fare will first need to register on our 1893 Ambassador loyalty programme to access the Wi-Fi. It’s free to sign up and you’ll also have access to discounts and a range of other benefits.
Please note that the Wi-Fi signal varies depending on different locations on the ship. As the ship sails in remote regions of Norway, speeds may also be slower and not suitable for streaming services.
We Norwegians are down-to-earth people. We don’t believe in dress codes on board. Wear your hiking shoes to dinner or your slippers to breakfast. It’s up to you.
Laundry rooms with washing machines, dryers and irons are available on all ships. Tokens can be purchased at reception.
The sockets used on board are the 220v AC, two-pin Continental type. Please bring your own adapters with you if needed.
There is no doctor or pharmacy on board. However, officers are trained in first aid and can provide emergency medical assistance. The ships are also close to land should urgent medical assistance be required.
While on board, all guests are asked to maintain good hand hygiene, and to wash hands regularly. You are required to wash or sanitize your hands before all meals. Hand sanitizer is available all over the ship.
We use air-conditioning systems that provides constant air supply - the air is not recycled.
All guests must have personal travel/health insurance. If you depend on medication, please remember to bring sufficient supplies to last through any unforeseen delays. Such delays, while rare, can and do happen. We also recommend that you keep your medication in your hand luggage, properly labelled, and with clear instructions for its use.
If you need to bring a prescription, Norwegian pharmacies require this in paper format with a doctors' signature. Mobile, email or app prescriptions will not be accepted.
We keep to a strict sailing timetable and cannot wait for late passengers, so please ensure that you are back on board in time. If you miss your ship, you will need to arrange transport by yourself and at your own expense to the next port on the schedule.
The number of passengers depends on the ship's certification and the type of voyage. Our vessels are smaller compared with regular cruise liners, with capacity typically ranging between 500 and 650 passengers, depending on whether it’s a Signature or Original voyage.
It is a safety requirement that all passengers attend a compulsory safety briefing in Bergen and Kirkenes before the ship leaves port. After embarkation, the crew will greet you and conduct the mandatory safety brief at intervals. The briefing lasts between 10-15 minutes and is mandatory for all guests, including those who have travelled with us before.
The briefing will include a demonstration of how to put on a life jacket and the instructions to be followed in the unlikely event of an evacuation or other emergency during the voyage. There will be an opportunity to ask questions if you have any concerns.
Please familiarise yourself with the emergency procedures as shown in the cabins (there is a diagram on the cabin door and in public areas), and ask at reception if in doubt.
In many ports, there may be a good deal of activity on the quay with cars joining/leaving the ships and/or goods being loaded or unloaded. Please be alert to such traffic when embarking and disembarking.
All ships are equipped with a dedicated Expedition Team, ready to enhance your voyage with an array of enriching activities. From engaging lectures and captivating presentations to photography workshops and exciting offshore hikes and excursions, our expert team is here to make your journey unforgettable.
Dangerous goods such as weapons, explosives, and illegal drugs are prohibited. Additionally, there are restrictions on certain liquids and food items to comply with international regulations. You can see the full list of prohibited items here.
