Hurtigruten Coastal Express | 6-Day Southbound Norwegian Fjords Cruise (Kirkenes–Bergen)

Itinerary details

Welcome to Kirkenes, where our southbound voyage begins. Kirkenes is a remote town near the border, where Norwegian, Sámi, Finnish and Russian cultures meet. As a result, its fascinating history has been shaped by trade, diplomacy and life in the far north. If you have time before departure, take the opportunity to explore this unique town. The local museums reveal the region’s wartime history and multicultural heritage. During World War II, Kirkenes was one of the most heavily bombed places in Europe, and traces of this history are still clearly visible today. Sailing across the Barents Sea In the afternoon, we sail northeast along the Varanger coast. This region offers spectacular scenery: rugged coastlines, fishing villages and vast, open skies. This is a birdwatcher’s paradise, so have your binoculars ready as we pass Hornøya, the bird island. Depending on the season, it’s a great place to spot puffins, gannets, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes and Arctic terns. White-tailed eagles can be seen soaring above the cliffs all year round. We then call again at Båtsfjord, where the fishing fleet and related industries reflect the enduring importance of the seafood sector in northern Norway. People here remain closely connected to the sea, just as they have for generations. After leaving Båtsfjord, we continue our journey to our next stop, Berlevåg.

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Polar Inside Cabin

Attraction details

Kirkenes

Kirkenes

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Kirkenes is a port town in northeastern Norway. Situated on the Pasvik River by Bøkfjord, the village lies near the Russian border. It is the terminus for Norway’s coastal express ships and a beautiful seaside town. It grew following the development of the mining industry in 1910. Despite its high-latitude location, the climate is relatively mild due to the influence of warm ocean currents. It is an important iron-ore district. The town has a seaplane base and an airport, and is the terminus for air and sea connections from Bergen and road transport to the north.

Itinerary details

Before breakfast, we’ll call at Mehamn and Kjøllefjord, two fishing villages on the shores of the Barents Sea. In the early morning, we’ll arrive in Honningsvåg. If you haven’t visited the North Cape during the northern leg of your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to go there. Afterwards, we’ll continue to Havøysund, passing through a dramatic landscape where a vast tundra plateau meets a rugged coastline. The Finnmark Coast This stretch of coastline reveals the captivating character of northern Norway. For centuries, fishing has been at the heart of many communities. As we sail south, look out for seabirds circling overhead. In the warmer months, you may also spot reindeer grazing peacefully in the open areas along the coast. Hammerfest Around midday, we’ll arrive in Hammerfest. Long associated with Arctic exploration, hunting and fishing, Hammerfest holds an important place in the history of the far north. Today, it is also a major hub for Norway’s energy industry, with a thriving, modern port. You’ll have time to explore at your own pace and discover some of the town’s highlights. The Meridian Column, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was erected to commemorate the Struve Geodetic Arc, an ambitious scientific project that helped measure the size and shape of the Earth. Nearby, the Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society showcases the town’s Arctic heritage and offers the chance to browse local handicrafts. For those who would like to get some exercise, conditions permitting, a climb up Mount Salen rewards you with magnificent views of the town, the surrounding islands and coastal waters. Through Mountain and Fjord Landscapes In the afternoon, we’ll continue to Øksfjord, a small town surrounded by magnificent mountains. As we leave the open landscapes of Finnmark behind and enter a region where steep peaks once again rise above the horizon, the scenery gradually changes. We’ll then arrive at the island of Skjervøy, a community with a long and proud fishing tradition. As the waters cool in autumn and winter, herring gather around Skjervøy, attracting orcas and humpback whales in search of food. These nutrient-rich waters support abundant marine life all year round. On to Tromsø As night falls, we’ll continue south, taking in some of northern Norway’s most spectacular coastal scenery. To the east, the jagged peaks of the Lyngen Alps rise majestically above the fjords. In the evening, we’ll arrive in Tromsø. Set against a backdrop of mountains, the city’s twinkling lights create one of the most atmospheric scenes of the journey. ⚪️ Optional excursions available today are listed below. Locations, prices and other details are subject to reconfirmation; the final booking details will apply! Spring (April–May) Summer (June–August) Autumn (September–October) Winter (November–March) (1) Hammerfest: The World’s Northernmost Town 1h45m from €129/person (bus included, max. 88 people) Available year-round HR-HFT8B【Easy】 Departing from the port by bus, your first stop in Hammerfest will be the Museum of Reconstruction for Finnmark and Northern Troms. Here, you’ll learn about the tremendous efforts made to rebuild northern Norway after the Second World War. Next, you’ll visit Hammerfest’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Meridian Column. This monument marks the northernmost measurement point of the Struve Geodetic Arc, a series of triangulation points used to determine the Earth’s precise size and shape. The final stop on your tour is Mount Salen. As you make your way up, your knowledgeable guide will tell you about Hammerfest’s unique history. At the summit, you can enjoy sweeping views of the town below. (2) Hammerfest: Mountain Hike in Hammerfest 1h30m from €99/person (walking tour only, max. 30 people) Available year-round HR-HFT8G【Challenging】 Departing from the quay, you’ll first take a quick tour of Hammerfest’s landmarks before setting off on your hike. These include its distinctive parish church, the Napoleonic Wars memorial and the Ole Olsen House, built in honour of the celebrated composer who was born here. Your guide will then lead you out of town and up Mount Salen along a zigzagging trail. Reaching the summit requires a reasonable level of fitness, but the spectacular views make the effort worthwhile. On a clear day, you can enjoy beautiful views of Melkøya, Sørøya and Seiland below. After taking in the scenery, your guide will lead you back along the trail to the town centre, with a quick visit to the Arctic Culture Centre along the way, before returning to the ship. (3) Tromsø: Midnight Concert in the Wooden Cathedral 1h45m from €52/person (walking tour only, max. 400 people) Available year-round HR-TOS8C【Easy】 You’ll be met after disembarking and escorted to the magnificent Tromsø Cathedral. Built in 1861, this impressive Neo-Gothic structure is made from fine timber sourced from the Målselv region. Its long, narrow cruciform layout creates gentle acoustics, making it an ideal setting for an enchanting evening of music. Upon arrival, you’ll receive an evening playlist with practical tips to help you make the most of your experience. Get ready to be captivated by three talented musicians as they take you on a journey through Norway’s musical heritage. Although the programme changes each season, it always brings together a thoughtful mix of Nordic classical favourites, familiar melodies and folk songs. All in all, it’s a moving and memorable way to end the day. (4) Honningsvåg: North Cape Breakfast 6h from €235/person (incl. bus Max.252p) Available in spring, summer and autumn HR-HVG8A【Easy】 The North Cape rises 307 metres (1,000 feet) above the Arctic Ocean. Unlike travellers of the past, who had to climb the cliffs, you’ll take a bus straight from Honningsvåg to the summit. Once there, you’ll have time to explore the plateau and take photos by the iconic globe monument. A generous buffet awaits you in the North Cape Hall, where you can enjoy breakfast while taking in the magnificent views of the Barents Sea. Afterwards, watch a panoramic film showcasing the North Cape through the seasons, visit the chapel and small museum, or browse the souvenir shop. On the way back, the bus will travel through the undersea tunnel connecting Magerøya Island to the mainland. It will then continue south along the spectacular Porsangerfjord before returning to the coast and arriving in Hammerfest, one of the northernmost towns in the world, where you’ll rejoin your ship.

Meals

Includes all three meals

Accommodation

Polar Inside Cabin

Attraction details

Hammerfest

Hammerfest

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Hammerfest lies northeast of Tromsø, on the western coast of the island of Kvaløya in Finnmark County, northern Norway, at 70°40′ north. It has a population of about 7,000. Hammerfest is an ice-free port year-round. Seafood exports and fishing are important industries, with products including cod-liver oil and salted fish. Tourism is also popular in summer.

Itinerary details

Today’s voyage takes us through the magnificent Vesterålen and Lofoten archipelagos. Harstad and Northern Heritage After a brief stop in Finnsnes, we continue to Harstad, on Hinnøya, Norway’s largest island. Nearby stands Trondenes Church, the world’s northernmost medieval stone church. Founded in the 13th century, it bears witness to the region’s long history as a center of trade, religion and coastal life. Continuing west, we make a brief stop at Risøyhamn, the smallest port on this route, before arriving in Sortland, sometimes called the “Blue City” for its distinctive blue tones. As we continue through the Vesterålen archipelago, the scenery begins to change. Rolling hills give way to steep peaks, and the mountain scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as we approach the Lofoten Islands. Stokmarknes: Where It All Began In the afternoon, we arrive in Stokmarknes, birthplace of the Hurtigruten coastal express. It was here in 1893 that Captain Richard With launched the service, transforming travel and communications along Norway’s coast. You’ll have time to visit the remarkable Hurtigruten Museum, where exhibits, stories and the preserved MS Finnmarken, built in 1956, bring Hurtigruten’s history to life. Housed in a striking glass structure shaped like a ship in a bottle, the museum offers insight into how coastal communities have relied on these voyages for more than a century. Entering Trollfjord After leaving Stokmarknes, we sail through the narrow Raftsundet strait. If weather, water conditions and the season permit, the captain may choose to enter spectacular Trollfjord, one of Norway’s most captivating waterways. Trollfjord is only two kilometers long, less than 100 meters wide at its entrance, and surrounded by towering peaks that rise almost vertically from the water. Standing on deck, you’ll feel as though you could reach out and touch the cliffs. As we leave the fjord, the ship makes an astonishing turn before heading back into the Raftsundet Strait. Keep an eye on the skies above the area, where sea eagles can often be seen gliding between the peaks and searching the waters below. Svolvær and the Lofoten Islands In the evening, we arrive in Svolvær, the largest town in the Lofoten Islands. Surrounded by steep mountains and a natural harbor, the town has long been a center for fishing, trade, and maritime culture. Look out for the distinctive twin-peaked mountain known as the “Svolvær Goat,” one of the region’s most famous landmarks. We continue to Stamsund, passing traditional fishing villages and red-painted fishermen’s cabins along the way. In the distance, the majestic Lofoten Wall rises dramatically—a seemingly endless chain of granite peaks stretching to the horizon. ⚪️The following optional excursions are available today. Please reconfirm details such as location and price; final details are as shown in your booking. Spring (April–May) Summer (June–August) Autumn (September–October) Winter (November–March) (1) Harstad: Taste of Vesterålen 4h15m from €149/person (bus included, Max. 129p) Available year-round HR-HRD9A [Easy] Your journey begins with a short drive through Harstad, the third-largest municipality in Northern Norway, whose history is rooted in herring fishing, the military, and, more recently, offshore oil extraction. On a clear day, you should be able to see the Trondenes Peninsula north of town. There, you’ll visit a white medieval stone church built in the 13th century, the northernmost of its kind in the world. You’ll also have time to explore the Trondenes Historical Centre, home to artifacts from the Early Stone Age through the Viking Age, the Middle Ages, and modern times. The museum also features a reconstruction of a farmhouse dating to around 1200, complete with a granary, a blacksmith’s workshop, and a stave church. From Trondenes, enjoy a scenic drive across the island of Hinnøya to Gullesfjord. There, you’ll board a ferry and relax with a hot drink, freshly baked waffles, and Norwegian lefse. After disembarking, you’ll travel by bus along Sigerfjord to Sortland, where you’ll rejoin the ship. (2) Stokmarknes: Sea Eagle Safari 2h from €199/person (small boat included, Max. 48p) Available spring, summer, and autumn HR-SKN9C [Moderate] Board a small boat from the ship for a spectacular fjord cruise through the Lofoten Islands, passing islands and steep mountains before reaching the famous Trollfjord. Along the way, watch for sea eagles soaring overhead, whales breaching the surface, and seals resting on the shore. Trollfjord is only 2.5 kilometers long, yet its sides are flanked by imposing, steep-sided mountains. Your Coastal Express ship will enter the fjord through its 100-meter-wide entrance, then make its signature 180-degree turn inside. From the small boat, you’ll have an excellent close-up view for photographing and filming this breathtaking maneuver. As we approach Trollfjord, we begin attracting the birds around us with fish. Gulls may swoop down and snatch food straight from your hand, while sea eagles circle the boat before plunging into the water to seize their prey—an unforgettable chance to capture the largest birds of prey in Northern Europe in action. Afterward, your boat continues to Svolvær, where you’ll rejoin your ship. Note: All eagle-feeding activities take place outside Trollfjord and stop at the fjord entrance to protect the tranquility of this unique landscape. (3) Svolvær: The Lofoten Islands 3h30m from €139/person (bus included, Max. 252p) Available spring and summer HR-SVJ9B [Easy] This scenic bus tour from Svolvær takes you to some of the Lofoten Islands’ most beautiful sights—secluded coves, white-sand beaches, and vast green fields—all bathed in extraordinary light that has attracted artists from across Norway and beyond for centuries. You’ll stop in Henningsvær, a charming fishing village of 500 residents that was once the most important fishing village in the archipelago. Protected since 2022, its beautiful harbor is now dotted with art and craft shops, while traditional fishing practices remain part of local life. You’ll visit the Lofoten Museum of Art, home to Norway’s largest collection of paintings from Northern Norway, including works from around the turn of the last century—a period widely regarded as the golden age of Northern Norwegian art. From Henningsvær, the bus continues to Stamsund, where you’ll rejoin the ship. (4) Svolvær: Lofotpils Brewery 40m from €49/person (walking tour only, Max. 30p) Available year-round HR-SVJ9H [Easy] In 2006, a local beer enthusiast transformed a former fish landing station built in 1937 in central Svolvær into the Lofoten Islands’ first and only craft brewery. On this tour, you’ll have the chance to meet the brewery’s owner, Thorvardur, and explore the building. He’ll tell you about the brewery’s history and how the Lofoten Islands’ special water conditions made this ambitious venture possible. After the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to sample some beers brewed on site using fresh water from the Lofoten mountains. This gives the beer a crisp, distinctive taste, bringing the beauty of the Lofoten mountains to every sip. Languages: English and Norwegian (5) Svolvær: RIB Adventure in the Lofoten Islands 1h30m From €179/person (RIB boat, max. 24 people) Available in summer and autumn HR-SVJ9E【Active】 Depart from Svolvær by RIB boat. Your experienced captain will first take you to a picturesque lagoon surrounded by white-sand beaches and rocky islands. Here, you’ll have a great chance of spotting the white-tailed eagle, Europe’s largest bird of prey. Then speed across Vestfjorden to Skrova Island. Decades ago, fishing and whaling brought the island’s population to several thousand, but today the village has fewer than 200 residents. Skrova has two nicknames: “the Photography Island,” because it hosts an outdoor photography exhibition every year, and “the Hawaii Island,” thanks to its sunny weather and picturesque scenery. You’ll stop here to learn about modern salmon fishing and the island’s history. Next, you’ll head to the village of Skjoldvær before returning across Vestfjorden to Svolvær. At the harbor entrance, you’ll pass the statue of “The Fisherman’s Wife” before reboarding the waiting boat. Please note: This excursion is not suitable for guests with back problems. Minimum age: 6 years, accompanied by an adult.

Meals

Includes all three meals

Accommodation

Polar Inside Cabin

Attraction details

Trondenes Church

Trondenes Church

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Trondenes Church is the northernmost stone church in the world and one of the most important medieval stone churches, dating back to the late Middle Ages (1250). The church is located in Trondenes, a 10-minute journey from the centre of Harstad. The area dates back to the Viking Age. After several years of restoration, the church reopened in 1950. Your first impression upon entering the church is of its exquisite religious artworks and spacious rooms with high ceilings, which give it a distinctive character. At the head of the church are three triptychs, representing an important part of its 700–800-year history. Some ancient remnants of preserved sails have also been found in the roof structure. The church holds many mysteries, making it a special experience for visitors!

Itinerary details

Early in the morning, we call at Bodø before continuing south to Ørnes. This morning, we cross the Arctic Circle, bidding farewell to the far north as we return to the southern part of Arctic Norway—another milestone to remember. The Helgeland Coast As we continue south, the scenery changes once again. Thousands of islands, skerries and hidden waterways make the Helgeland Coast distinctive. For centuries, this route through a complex coastal landscape has offered mariners a safe passage. After a brief stop in Nesna, we arrive in Sandnessjøen, the gateway to a region rich in natural beauty and folklore. The Seven Sisters The towering Seven Sisters are among Norway’s most famous mountain ranges. Local legend tells that these seven peaks were once troll princesses who fled from a suitor they did not want. As the rising sun shone on them, they turned to stone, watching over this coast forever. Whether or not the story is true, seeing these peaks rise above the islands and fjords is truly magical. The mountains create a magnificent scene where nature and mythology intertwine. Brunnen in the Jura In the afternoon, we arrive in Brønnøysund, a tranquil coastal town surrounded by islands, mountains and sheltered waterways. We have more than two hours ashore to explore at our leisure. Take a stroll along the pier and waterfront, where fishing boats and yachts are moored side by side. In the town centre, you’ll find Brønnøy Church, an elegant Neo-Gothic stone church built in 1870 and one of the area’s best-known landmarks. Cafés, local shops and quiet streets offer a glimpse of everyday life in this peaceful seaside town. Torghatten Later in the day, we pass one of Norway’s most unusual landmarks: Mount Torghatten. Rising from a small island, this mountain has a breathtaking hole right through its centre. The captain will manoeuvre the ship so we can admire the view through the opening. Geologists explain that this landscape was formed by thousands of years of erosion, but local folklore offers a more vivid account involving trolls, arrows and a thrilling chase across the land. Ask the Expedition Team about the legend, then decide for yourself which version you prefer. Through the Vikna Archipelago In the evening, we continue to Rørvik, nestled among the islands of the Vikna archipelago. For centuries, skilled sailors have navigated these sheltered waters, threading their way between islands that stretch as far as the eye can see. ⚪️ Optional excursions available today are listed below. Locations, prices and other details are subject to reconfirmation; the final booking details will apply! Spring (April–May) Summer (June–August) Autumn (September–October) Winter (November–March) (1) Brønnøysund: Hike to Mount Torghatten, 2h, from €149/person (bus included, max. 45 people). Available in summer and autumn. HR-BNN10D [Challenging] Travel by bus through the scenic town of Brønnøysund to the foot of Mount Torghatten. With its unique cave through the centre, the mountain is one of the most iconic sights along the Norwegian coast. According to local legend, it was once the hat of a troll king, who used it to stop an arrow aimed at a young maiden. A leisurely walk along the rugged trail takes about 30 minutes to reach the entrance to the cave. The route is clearly marked, with solid paths and Sherpa-built stone steps, and is part of the National Tourist Routes programme. The cave is 35 metres high and 160 metres long, and between 15 and 20 metres wide—large enough for our ship to pass through! At the foot of the mountain, you’ll enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the Helgeland Coast below. Follow the same trail back down, then round off your hike with a hot drink and a tasty snack. Note: We recommend bringing a backpack with a water bottle, extra clothing, a camera and sunglasses. Your guide will bring all the necessary safety equipment. (2) Sandnessjøen: UNESCO Vega Archipelago, 5h, from €299/person (boat included, max. 38 people). Available in summer and autumn. HR-SSJ10B [Easy] You’ll explore the islands, islets and skerries of the archipelago by boat while your guide shares fascinating insights into this coastal landscape and the culture of its people. After landing on Gardsøya, you’ll visit the Vega World Heritage Centre to learn about Vega’s unique 1,500-year-old traditions. The islanders care for the migratory eider ducks that nest here, building them small “houses.” Once the ducklings have left, people collect the precious eiderdown. Through the center’s exhibitions and short films, you’ll embark on a journey from Stone Age settlements to modern aquaculture. Afterwards, you can take in the island’s beautiful scenery while enjoying a hot drink and local snacks. You’ll sail back to Brønnøysund along the picturesque Helgeland coast, where you’ll rejoin the cruise ship. (3) Brønnøysund: Salmon Visit 2h30m from €139/person (bus included, Max.37p) Available year-round HR-BNN10C【Moderate】 First, you’ll take a bus tour of the beautiful town of Brønnøysund, then cross the magnificent bridge to the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre in Toft. Here, your guide will tell you about Norway’s vibrant salmon-fishing culture. The cool, clear waters off Norway’s coast provide ideal conditions for sustainable and responsible aquaculture. As a result, Norway is one of the world’s leading exporters of fish and seafood, and its products are enjoyed by around 37 million people worldwide. You can observe the salmon growing here up close, learn about their habits, and feed these beautiful creatures yourself. You’ll also discover the different techniques that help salmon grow from eggs into adults, and even have the chance to use an underwater camera to get a closer look at the fish. Finally, you can sample internationally acclaimed delicious salmon, bringing your visit to a perfect close.

Meals

Includes all three meals

Accommodation

Polar Inside Cabin

Attraction details

Bodø

Bodø

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Bodø is the capital and largest city of Nordland County, Norway, as well as an important port city in northern Norway with a thriving fishing industry. It is located on a peninsula in the Norwegian Sea, at the mouth of Saltfjorden, north of the Arctic Circle. It has a population of about 44,000 and is a fishing center and a port for copper shipments. The city has shipyards, a brewery, and a seaplane base. The midnight sun occurs here from early June to early July.

Itinerary details

This morning, we’ll spend a few hours exploring Trondheim, one of Norway’s most historic and distinctive cities. If you missed Trondheim on the northbound voyage, this is a perfect opportunity to explore Norway’s former Viking capital. We highly recommend seeing the exterior of Nidaros Cathedral. Built over the burial site of Norway’s patron saint, St. Olav, it remains the country’s most important medieval building. Nearby, the elegant Gamle Bybro bridge leads to the charming Bakklandet district, where colorful wooden houses line the river and welcoming cafés begin to greet the first visitors of the morning. If this is your second visit, why not experience another side of the city? Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or coffee in Bakklandet, browse the independent shops before they get busy, or stroll up to Kristiansten Fortress for panoramic views of the city and Trondheimsfjord. The nearby riverside path is also a lovely place to start the day, with peaceful views as Trondheim gradually wakes up. An archipelago of islands Back on board, we continue west across the broad Trondheimsfjord before returning to the open coastline. Throughout the day, the scenery shifts between fertile farmland, low-lying islands, and coastal towns. Fishing, farming, and maritime trade have shaped daily life in this region for generations. Many of the villages visible from the ship can only truly be appreciated from the water, an experience unavailable to those traveling by land. Kristiansund and the klippfisk trade In the evening, we arrive in Kristiansund, one of Norway’s most important fishing ports and a town spread across four islands connected by bridges and ferries. Kristiansund is famous for klippfisk, salted cod traditionally dried on exposed coastal rocks. For centuries, this preserved fish was exported across Europe and became especially important in Portugal and Spain, where it is known as bacalao. It remains a key ingredient in many traditional dishes. Stroll through the harbor district, where colorful waterfront buildings reflect the town’s long relationship with the sea. Look out for the statues of the “Herring Woman” and the “Herring Boy,” honoring the women and children whose hard work in the local fishing industry helped build the city we see today. Molde, the City of Roses In the evening, we arrive in scenic Molde, set on the shores of Romsdalsfjord. Known as the “City of Roses,” Molde has a mild climate that is ideal for roses, and thousands of varieties bloom throughout the city for much of the year. Across the fjord stands the famous Molde Panorama, a spectacular range of more than 200 mountain peaks and one of Norway’s most celebrated views. On clear evenings, the mountains seem to stretch endlessly, forming a magnificent backdrop along the horizon as the ship continues south along the coast. ⚪️The following optional excursions are available today. Please reconfirm details such as location and price; final details are as shown in your booking. Spring (April–May) Summer (June–August) Autumn (September–October) Winter (November–March) (1) Trondheim: Trondheim and Nidaros Cathedral, 2h, from €119/person (bus included, max. 294 passengers), available in autumn and winter, HR-TRD3B [Easy] Board the bus for a quick tour of Trondheim’s highlights. Founded in 997 AD, Trondheim was Norway’s first Viking capital. The city gracefully embodies a thousand years of history while also earning a reputation as one of Norway’s leading centers of knowledge and innovation. Our bus tour passes the city’s iconic red bridge and the 18th-century wooden wharf buildings lining both banks of the Nidelva River in Bakklandet. We then stop at the Utsikten viewpoint to enjoy panoramic views of the city, including Kristiansten Fortress and Munkholmen Island in the fjord. Our final stop is Norway’s national sanctuary, Nidaros Cathedral. Built in 1070 above the burial site of Saint Olav, this Gothic architectural masterpiece features exquisite stone carvings and soaring architecture. After the guided tour, you’ll receive a beautifully illustrated book about the cathedral before we return by bus to the ship. Please note: On Sundays and public holidays, services are held in the church, so the tour will take place outside the cathedral and inside the museum. Photography is not permitted inside Nidaros Cathedral. (2) Kristiansund: The Atlantic Road, 4h30m, from €179/person (bus included, max. 90 passengers), available in spring, summer and autumn, HR-KSU11C [Easy] Your guided bus tour begins with a short drive through picturesque Kristiansund before continuing to the island of Averøy. This is the gateway to the Atlantic Road, hailed as one of the world’s best road-trip routes. Stretching for more than 8 km along a spectacular coastline, this road winds across a series of bridges connecting small islands and skerries—a remarkable blend of engineering and natural beauty. You’ll stop at Kvernes Stave Church to admire the spectacular fjord views and take a glimpse inside its well-preserved Baroque interior. Then, enjoy a bowl of cod stew in a cozy tavern. This hearty dish is made with klippfisk, the region’s famous salted and dried cod, and blends Mediterranean flavors—a legacy of extensive trade with Southern Europe in the 19th century. Your journey ends with a leisurely drive through Molde, the City of Roses, where you’ll reboard the ship. (3) Kristiansund: Bergtatt – The Magnificent Marble Mine, 4h30m, from €189/person (bus included, max. 45 passengers), available in spring, autumn and winter, HR-KSU11E [Moderate] From Kristiansund, you’ll travel to Bergtatt, where your guide will provide the necessary equipment and a safety briefing before leading you into the fascinating marble caves. Mining began here in 1938 and continues today in other parts of the mountain. Venture deep into the mountain and board a raft to glide across a crystal-clear lake illuminated by lights. As you drift across the calm water, you’ll stop to taste pure spring water flowing from the rock walls. The journey continues to a hall where you’ll experience an underground dining atmosphere lit by flickering candles. Enjoy a warming meat stew made with local ingredients while watching a fascinating film about the history of the marble mine. Back above ground and in the sunshine, you’ll board the bus for a short sightseeing tour of Molde before returning to the ship.

Meals

Includes all three meals

Accommodation

Polar Inside Cabin

Attraction details

Molde

Molde

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A town on Norway’s west coast, home every July to one of the world’s largest, oldest and most important international jazz festivals.

Kristiansund

Kristiansund

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Kristiansund is a municipality in Møre og Romsdal County, Norway. Its administrative center, the town of Kristiansund, was founded in 1742 and is the main town of the Nordmøre region. According to 2020 data, Kristiansund ranked 51st among Norway’s municipalities by population, with 24,179 residents. Its population density is 280.6 residents per square kilometer, and its population grew by 4% over the past decade.

Itinerary details

At night, we stop in Ålesund and Torvik before continuing south through the island-dotted waters of western Norway. For night owls, there’s just enough time for a quick stroll near Ålesund harbor. Fjords and islands at daybreak At dawn, we arrive in Måløy, one of Norway’s most important fishing ports. From here, the voyage continues through magnificent scenery shaped by glaciers, mountains, and the sea. Look out for the scenery of Nordfjord, one of Norway’s longest and most beautiful fjords. It reaches deep inland, winding beneath towering mountains before leading to the vast Jostedalsbreen glacier, the largest glacier on mainland Europe. Although the glacier itself lies far inland, its influence is visible throughout the surrounding landscape, which has been sculpted by ice over thousands of years. Late in the morning, we make a brief stop in Florø, Norway’s westernmost town. Built on islands facing the open sea, Florø remains closely connected to fishing, shipping, and offshore industries. Before continuing south, we visit the harbor and quays for another glimpse into the everyday life of local coastal communities. Along the west coast Leaving Florø behind, we pass the picturesque Stabben Lighthouse, perched on a small rocky outcrop by the sea. One of Norway’s most distinctive lighthouses, it has guided sailors safely through these waters for more than a century. Shortly afterward, we passed the entrance to Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. This immense waterway stretches more than 200 km inland, cutting deep into Norway’s landscape. As time went on, the scenery gradually softened, and signs of human habitation became more frequent. Islands, reefs and sheltered channels accompanied us south, reminding us why this journey is sometimes called “the world’s most beautiful voyage.” Welcome to Bergen In the afternoon, the ship sailed through Hjeltefjord toward Bergen harbor. As we passed the last few islands on our route, colorful houses began to appear along the coast. Whether you experienced the entire Coastal Express or joined for just one part of the journey, you’ll have seen some of Norway’s most breathtaking scenery, islands and communities. Along the way, the coastline revealed its many faces: vibrant cities and remote fishing villages, deep fjords and vast ocean, Arctic landscapes and fertile farmland. On arrival in Bergen, it’s time to say goodbye to the ship, crew and fellow travelers. But the journey doesn’t end here. Whether you choose to spend more time exploring Bergen, venture deeper into the fjords or start planning your next coastal voyage, we hope the wonderful memories of Norway’s coast stay with you for a long time. Until next time.

Important notes

Note: All times shown on this webpage are for reference only. Actual arrival times may be delayed due to circumstances beyond our control, such as weather, traffic congestion, traffic accidents, festivals or sporting events, civil unrest, or strikes. We appreciate your understanding. If you have onward travel plans involving other transportation to another city, we strongly recommend allowing at least 3 hours of extra time to avoid inconvenience caused by delays. Our company accepts no responsibility for losses arising from travel arrangements you make yourself without allowing sufficient extra time. Thank you for your understanding.

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Attraction details

Bergen

Bergen

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Norway's second-largest city and one of the largest and most beautiful port cities on the west coast, Bergen is situated along the rugged fjord coastline. Nestled between a harbor and seven mountains, the city center borders Byfjord and opens directly onto the Atlantic, making it a scenic harbor city. Warm winds brought by the influence of the Gulf Stream make Bergen a rainy region. In 2000, Bergen was named one of nine European Cities of Culture. Its cultural appeal is showcased in its theater, dance, music, art, food, and exhibitions. Bergen's main sightseeing area is near the harbor. Many old buildings dating from the medieval Hanseatic League era remain in the north, while the south is home to modern shopping streets.