Oslo - Bergen - Kirkenes - Bergen

Complete Norway | Arctic Winter & Northern Lights

Price from $4,478

$4,062

Full board

Departure Dates

135 departures between Mar 2024 and Mar 2025

Duration

16 days

Ships

Up to $750 off
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Complete Norway | Arctic Winter & Northern Lights

Price from $4,478

$4,062

Voyage overview

Combine an exciting winter Arctic adventure on our coastal round trip voyage with a land, rail and sea tour exploring the stunning mountain and fjord scenery between Oslo and Bergen.

  • Discover our entire original coastal route with 34 ports of call, sailing past more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains

  • Start off in Oslo and travel along the famous Norway in a Nutshell route to Bergen via Flam and Voss. Includes a ride on one of the worlds most scenic railway trips, The Flam Railway

  • Cross the Arctic Circle and hunt the Northern Lights

  • Wide choice of optional excursions and onboard Hurtigruten Guides who lead included activities and interpret the cultural and natural treasures on your voyage

Itinerary

The day-by-day programme will give you some ideas about what you can see during your voyage, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary.

The Holmenkollen ski jump in the snow Oslo, Norway.

Day 1

Arrive In Oslo

Oslo

Arrive In Oslo

Oslo

Arrive in Oslo and spend the day exploring the historical and beautiful Norwegian capital.

Its compact size makes it ideal to discover and experience the best, the city has to offer. For the cultural lovers, the Bydgdøy peninsula is home to several museums like the outdoor museum, Folkemuseet and the Viking ship museum. Downtown Oslo, is bustling with trendy restaurants, bars, cafes and open spaces such as the Vigeland Sculpture Park and Ekeberg Park.

At the heart of the city is the Royal Palace, home to the Norwegian Royal family since work began in 1814.

A group of people sitting at a train station

Day 2

Oslo - Myrdal - Flåm

Flåm

Oslo - Myrdal - Flåm

Flåm

After breakfast, make your own way to Oslo Central Railway Station to commence your ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ adventure by boarding the train to Myrdal. Enjoy one of the world's most scenic rail journeys as you travel from Oslo through farmland, past snow-covered forests and glacial peaks.

At Myrdal join the famous Flåm Railway - a marvel of railway engineering, descending more than 900 metres to the town of Flåm. Take time to explore at your the town and even a visit to the local brewery or the Flåm railway museum.

On board the Flåm Railway in the snow. Norway

Day 3

Flåm - Gudvangen - Voss

Voss

Flåm - Gudvangen - Voss

Voss

After breakfast, board the ferry from Flåm to Gudvangen, enjoying the spectacular views as you pass through the narrow Nærøyfjord. Known for its snow-capped mountain peaks, deep valleys, fast-flowing rivers and thunderous waterfalls, the journey along the valley from Gudvangen to Voss is as beautiful as it sounds. 

For those wanting a view to remember, take the Voss Gondola to the summit of Mount Hanguren (820 metres above sea level). The panoramic views of the snow covered valley and surrounding areas are more than worth the journey.

A castle with water in front of a mountain

Day 4

Voss - Bergen

Bergen – gateway to the fjords

Voss - Bergen

Bergen – gateway to the fjords

Spend the morning exploring Voss, before taking the train for the last bit of your journey to Bergen.  Once you arrive in Bergen, take the afternoon to explore this colourful gateway to the fjords. Bergen was founded in 1070 AD, and retains a great deal of its character, charm and history. Visit the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district with colourful wharfs dating back to the 14th century.

You may enjoy a stroll in the cobblestone alleyways, a bite at an outdoor café or restaurant, a trip on the Fløibanen funicular or a visit to the famous fish market.

A flock of seagulls standing next to a body of water

Day 5

Gateway to the Fjords

Bergen – gateway to the fjords

Gateway to the Fjords

Bergen – gateway to the fjords

Following breakfast and another chance to explore this picturesque city, join the ship at the port to begin your voyage towards the Arctic circle and the Northern Lights.

After we depart, enjoy a tasty dinner buffet made from fresh coastal produce. We sail north from Bergen along the Viking route of Hjeltefjord. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing as you admire the spectacular landscapes from the deck or in our panorama lounge. 

Seven of our ships along the Norwegian Coast have Hurtigruten Guides. You are welcome to join them on hikes during many of our port stays or enjoy onboard lectures and activities. 

Time in port:

MS Otto Sverdrup anchored against a winter backdrop of Ålesund, Norway

Day 6

Architectural and Natural Masterpieces

Ålesund

Architectural and Natural Masterpieces

Ålesund

Enjoy the early morning in the breathtaking Nordfjord, followed by a delicious breakfast. We then sail past West Cape for our approach to Ålesund.

Art Nouveau city

Ålesund is renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and famed Atlanterhavsparken aquarium. Our tour to the aquarium includes a visit to see resident penguins before we continue to nearby Mount Aksla for an amazing view. 

Mountains and roses

Molde is known as the ‘City of Roses’ because of its lovely municipal gardens. This attractive coastal town has an amazing view of 222 mountain peaks across the fjord, called ‘the Molde Panorama’.

Time in port:

*Ålesund winter and spring: 09.45 – 13.30

**Molde winter and Spring: 16.15 – 19.00

The river Nid in front of the Nidaros Cathedral, Trondheim, Norway on a nice winter day.

Day 7

History and Charm

Trondheim – Norway’s capital of technology

History and Charm

Trondheim – Norway’s capital of technology

Charming Trondheim is home to great history and a rich cultural life.

Magical, medieval and modern

Founded by Viking king Olav Tryggvason in 997, Trondheim today is a unique mix of the ancient and modern. Join our optional excursion to the soaring Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s only gothic cathedral and the burial place of St. Olav (Tryggvason). Marvel at the cathedral’s exquisite works of art, architectural details and medieval statues.

Excursions for every taste

From September to May, experience Trondheim with a unique carriage tour on the world’s northernmost tram line. You can also explore Trondheim by kayak on the River Nid or experience the city by bicycle. You can also join the Hurtigruten Guides for a hike to discover more of the area.

Back on board

In the afternoon, the ship sails northwest, passing the Kjeungskjær lighthouse, islets and rocky reefs. After sailing through the narrow channel of Stokksund, we head towards charming Rørvik.

Time in port:

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Day 8

Welcome to the Arctic!

Bodø

Welcome to the Arctic!

Bodø

Today we cross the Arctic Circle, marking your best chance to see the Northern Lights. We mark the occasion with a fun Arctic Circle ceremony on deck. 

Forces of nature

Ørnes is the site of Norway’s second-largest glacier, Svartisen

We then sail along the beautiful coast of Helgeland to Bodø, where you can experience Saltstraumen, the world’s most powerful maelstrom, by small boat. 

Majestic Lofoten

That afternoon, the 1,000 metre-high Lofoten Wall looms on the horizon, ushering us towards majestic granite cliffs and white sandy beaches.

Meet the Vikings

At Stamsund, visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, where you are welcomed into the chieftain’s house for a real Viking feast. 

Going organic

Between Stamsund and Svolvær, you can experience life on an organic herb and cheese farm, or visit the Lofoten’s only craft brewery, in Svolvær.

As we sail through the narrow Raftsund, we stop at the entrance to Trollfjord, a dramatic natural wonder that should not be missed.

Time in port:

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Day 9

In the Footsteps of Polar Heroes

Tromsø – gateway to the Arctic

In the Footsteps of Polar Heroes

Tromsø – gateway to the Arctic

We briefly dock at Risøyhamn, Harstad and Finnsnes in the morning.

Polar history and beer

We then sail to the Arctic exploration capital of Tromsø for a prolonged stay. Join our `Polar History Walk´ in winter to learn more about explorers and Arctic hunters, and taste beer from the world’s northernmost brewery. 

Beyond your imagination

Throughout the winter, complete your stay in Tromsø with a thrilling dog-sledding ride, as huskies pull you over the frozen landscape past stunning views of the snowy plateaus. The only light during the polar night comes from headlamps, the starry sky, and, if we’re lucky, the magical Northern Lights.

Why not have some winter fun by joining a cross-country skiing or snowshoeing adventure, or go deep-sea fishing on an Arctic fjord? All year, you can join the Hurtigruten Guides for hikes and discover more of the Tromsø area. 

Sailing from Tromsø, we continue to search for the Northern Lights.

Time in port:

The plateau rises 307 meters above the Arctic Ocean, and marks the end point of the European mainland

Day 10

Top of the World - North Cape

Honningsvåg – gateway to the North Cape

Top of the World - North Cape

Honningsvåg – gateway to the North Cape

Experience the North Cape

After a brief stop in Hammerfest, we arrive in Havøysund the world’s northernmost fishing village. One of the most popular excursions is a visit to the North Cape, one of the northernmost points on the European continent marked by the photogenic globe monument.

Sailing north and Northern Lights

The ship continues north into the heartland of the Sámi people. Visit Kjøllefjord, where you can learn about the Sámi way of life and hear traditional joiking (song).

In winter, you can join an unforgettable snowmobile trip across snowy plains and perhaps spot the Northern Lights in the starry sky.

Time in port:

View of the northern town of Kirkenes in the snow.

Day 11

Russian Border and Turning Point

Kirkenes – right on the border

Russian Border and Turning Point

Kirkenes – right on the border

We arrive early into Vadsø before docking in Kirkenes - the ship’s turning point for the return journey.

Streets with Russian names

The Russian border is a just few kilometres from Kirkenes and you’ll notice local road signs in both Norwegian and Russian. There are many ways to visit the Russian frontier: canoeing, hiking or bus. 

Winter wonder

Kirkenes offers a wide range of classic winter activities, like dog-sledging, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and visiting an Arctic Ice Dome.

Southbound and down

As the ship starts its voyage south, remember that you’ve seen only half of what Norway’s coastline offers. The ports we visited by night going north are now seen by day.

Ice dipping

Docking again at Vardø, we may invite you to swim in the icy Arctic Ocean in winter. We then cruise along Varanger peninsula to Båtsfjord and Berlevåg, home to a famous male choir of local fishermen.

Time in port:

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Day 12

Unmatched Arctic Scenery

Hammerfest

Unmatched Arctic Scenery

Hammerfest

Around midnight we dock at Mehamn with the option to join in winter a snowmobile trip to hunt the aurora.

Meridian Column

Following a stop at Honningsvåg, the ship continues then to Hammerfest, where you can see the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column. You can also join a mini-mountain expedition and learn about local polar hero Adolf Lindstrøm.

Old Skjervøy

With a brief stop at the old trading post of Skjervøy, we return to Tromsø, just in time to enjoy a midnight concert at the Arctic Cathedral. You may want to drop by Ølhallen, a classic pub for a friendly beer.

Time in port:

Visiting the snow-covered Trollfjord in winter, Norway

Day 13

Lofoten, Where Nature Amazes

Svolvær – at the heart of Lofoten

Lofoten, Where Nature Amazes

Svolvær – at the heart of Lofoten

We arrive in Harstad, where you can join the excursion A Taste of Vesterålen.

Amazing scenery

The island groups of Lofoten and Vesterålen offer some of the most stunning natural scenery of the entire voyage. Lofoten is renowned for its steep mountains, sandy beaches, wild nature and picturesque fishing villages.

Hurtigruten’s birthplace

We make a short stop at Risøyhamn, to deliver passengers, groceries and mail, and then continue to Stokmarknes, where Hurtigruten was founded in 1893.

Go ashore and visit the Hurtigruten Museum. Continuing south, we slip through a passage into the narrow Raftsund, past peaks rising 1,000 metres from the sea.

Spectacular Trollfjord

We now reach spectacular Trollfjord, only 2 km long, 100 m wide and surrounded by majestic mountains. If possible, we sail inside, where the dramatic landscape inspires images of fairy tales and trolls. Just north, you can opt to see sea eagles up close by boat.

Heart of Lofoten

At Svolvær, you can select several excursion options. We then proceed to Stamsund along the massive Lofoten wall.

Time in port:

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Day 14

Across the Arctic Circle

Brønnøysund – coastal charm right in the middle of Norway

Across the Arctic Circle

Brønnøysund – coastal charm right in the middle of Norway

Celebrate crossing the Arctic Circle with a 'taste' of Arctic tradition – a fun ceremony highlighted by a spoonful of cod liver oil.

Mountain with a hole

As we sail along the Helgeland coast, you’ll see the strange mountain Torghatten, famous for its distinctive hole in the centre. The opening is 160 m long, 35 m high and 20 m wide, and was created during the ice age. If the weather allows, join a hike with your guides up the mountain.

Myths and legends

We also sail past the Seven Sisters mountain range – with peaks up to 1,100 m high. The story goes that seven beautiful troll sisters got caught out at sunrise and turned to stone, thus the seven beautiful peaks.

UNESCO heritage

We next make a short stop at Nesna, before moving on to Sandnessjøen

Charming coastal town

Brønnøysund is a pretty little town that offers a charming high street and marina. You can join an excursion to the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre for an interesting tour and taste of fresh salmon.

TIME IN PORT:

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Day 15

Rich History and Living Culture

Trondheim – Norway’s capital of technology

Rich History and Living Culture

Trondheim – Norway’s capital of technology

We revisit Trondheim to further explore it´s colourful history! Be sure to join our excursion Trondheim with Nidaros Cathedral to learn more about one of the most sacred buildings in all of Norway.

Fishing, scenery and excursions

From there we call at Kristiansund, a city spread across four islands with an excellent harbour that has been active since the Stone Age. Today, it is Norway’s ‘cured cod capital’ because of its centuries-old export of dried fish. Be sure to join an excursion to Bergtatt marble mine, which includes going inside a mountain and sailing across an illuminated subterranean lake, before enjoying a meal in the mine´s ‘Grand Hall’. 

Norwegian Alps

Those choosing to stay on board at Kristiansund will cross the open sea to Molde, known as Norway's ‘City of Roses’. Along the way, you will take in the steep peaks of the Romsdal Alps on the horizon.

Time in port:

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Day 16

A Fjord Farewell

Bergen – gateway to the fjords

A Fjord Farewell

Bergen – gateway to the fjords

During the night, the ship calls at Ålesund, Torvik and Måløy, but before we dock in Bergen, there is some fascinating scenery ahead of us.

Glaciers and lush farmland

We sail through picturesque Nordfjord beneath Jostedal Glacier. This rugged coastal region features farms with fruit orchards and glacial fingers that stretch towards glistening lakes. In the morning, we call at Florø.

Back to Bergen

We navigate the mouth of the mighty Sognefjord and enjoy superb views of the island-studded coastline before you disembark in Bergen.

We hope you will take home memories of stunning nature, wildlife and fascinating culture, and we hope to see you onboard again in the near future!

Enjoy even more of Norway

To see more of Norway, we highly recommend our excursion Bergen City Sightseeing (only sold on board) or join one of our Post-programmes to experience more Norwegian cuisine, culture and scenery. 

Time in port:

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About your trip

What's included

  • 4 nights’ accommodation including breakfast in 4 star hotels

  • Norway in a Nutshell combination ticket including seat reservations if required (train/bus/ferry Bergen-Myrdal-Flam-Gudvangen-Voss-Bergen)

  • Hurtigruten shuttle from Bergen railway station to hotel

  • Hurtigruten shuttle from Bergen hotel to ship

  • Hurtigruten Classic Round Trip voyage in cabin grade of your choice

Everything you need for an adventure (on board the ship only):

  • 12-day voyage in cabin category of your choice

  • Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) from Norway's Coastal Kitchen

  • English-speaking Tour Leader on board

  • Engaging onboard activities and lectures:

  • Onboard lectures and presentations on history, biology, geography, geology and culture that provide context to your voyage and help you understand the destinations you will experience  

  • Introductory photo presentations, camera adjustment and tips & tricks, photo and film footage from the voyage

  • Opportunities to casually engage with the guides and other guests, including a welcome event, daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come

  • Port presentations providing destination insight

  • Presentation of excursion programmes

  • Point of interest presentations out on deck

  • Loan of trekking poles, snow shoes, head lamps, ice-spikes needed for optional hikes depending on season and conditions

  • Captain’s dinner and a farewell event

What's Not Included

  • International flights  

  • Optional excursions

  • Travel insurance

  • Luggage handling  

  • Hikes with Hurtigruten guides

  • Transfers other than those specified

Notes

  • During the land tour prior to the voyage only breakfast is included, once on board the ship all meals are included

  • The Oslo to Bergen (Norway in a Nutshell) sector of the trip is self-guided and does not have a tour escort. Once on board the ship you have access to our Tour Leaders.

  • Prices are in AUD per person based on two people travelling together sharing a twin cabin

  • Not all cabin categories are available for all departures

  • Single cabin pricing available on request

  • Hurtigruten has a flexible pricing system and all prices are capacity controlled and subject to availability.

Know before you go

Optional Excursions

Explore your destination even further with our wide range of exciting excursions. The excursion programme presented is an indication of some of the excursions that may be available during your voyage.