To main content
Covid-19: Updated information
Hurtigruten Coastal Logo Hurtigruten Coastal Logo Norwegian Coastal Express
Go to Hurtigruten Expeditions

Norwegian Coastal Express

Go to Hurtigruten Expeditions
Go to Hurtigruten Group
  • Voyages
  • Offer
  • Ships
  • Ports
  • Get inspired
  • Brochure
  • Norway's Coastal Kitchen
  • Search

For travellers

  • See your booking details
  • Book excursions
  • Extend your voyages
  • Practical information
  • Health and safety on board

Norwegian Coastal Express

Go to Hurtigruten Expeditions
Go to Hurtigruten Group
Change
  • Small island and mountains near Stokmarknes
  • Winter light on Lofoten mountains
  • Sunset on mountains between Sortland and Stokmarknes
  • View of Lofoten mountains from deck

Lofotveggen (the Lofoten wall) and Vestfjorden

All voyagers sailing west past Vestfjorden eventually reach "The Wall”.

Out at sea, a massive wall rises steeply from the waters of Vestfjorden in northern Norway. Lofotveggen, the Lofoten Wall, is a collection of mountain peaks that from a distance, appear to form a straight line.

Distinctive land and seascapes

Lofotveggen consists of granite and volcanic rock formations that rose from the sea after the last ice age. Among its best-known peaks are Vågakallen on Austvågøy, which according to the Nordland Legend, chased the Seven Sisters and Lekamøja down the coast.

Vestfjorden itself is actually not a fjord at all. It is an enclosed area of the North Sea, extending from Værøy in the west for 155 kilometres to Barøy lighthouse at the entrance to Ofotfjord. The area has always been difficult for seafarers to navigate. It was once so feared that boats headed for Lofotveggen would wait together nearby for long periods, until the weather was good enough to sail out towards "the wall".

Seasonal cod fishery

Seabed variations in Vestfjorden limit the exchange of water between the fjord and the open sea. These conditions produce water temperatures that make the fjord a favoured spawning ground for cod during the period between January and April. Thousands of fishermen make their way here every year for the annual Lofoten fishery. The cod harvested during this period is a delicacy that graces dining tables around the world.

Hurtigruten crosses Vestfjorden between the ports of Bodø and Stamsund.

Sunset on mountains between Sortland and Stokmarknes Sunset on mountains between Sortland and Stokmarknes

Keep reading:

  • Introduction to the Lofoten and Vesterålen Islands
  • Your travel guide to Norway

Further reading

  • The Norwegian Fjords
  • North cape – visit Nordkapp and explore the amazing view

Receive $130 Onboard credit today

Sign up for our newsletter today to receive $130 Onboard Credit on Your First Cruise

Yes, sign me up!
When traveling along the Norwegian coast, you'll get several impressions every day. Even every hour or minute. Maybe it's your first time dog sledding...

When traveling along the Norwegian coast, you'll get several impressions every day. Even every hour or minute. Maybe it's your first time dog sledding...

Beautiful capture by @geiregilh_myphotos of MS Polarlys in the port of Brønnøysund - the charming coastal town in the middle of Norway! There are few ...

Beautiful capture by @geiregilh_myphotos of MS Polarlys in the port of Brønnøysund - the charming coastal town in the middle of Norway! There are few ...

There's a saying that nothing soothes the soul like a day by the water - and we couldn't agree more 🌊 The sea can be absolutely healing, and it certa...

There's a saying that nothing soothes the soul like a day by the water - and we couldn't agree more 🌊 The sea can be absolutely healing, and it certa...

Contact

  • Australia: 1300322062

    New Zealand: 0800 005 201

    Australian Agents: 1300 322 062

    • Mon - Fri: 8.00 AM - 8.00 PM
  • Contact us

About us

  • Hurtigruten Group
  • 1893 Ambassador Loyalty Programme
  • Sustainability
  • Careers
  • Press
  • Agent Portal

Support

  • Sailing plan
  • My Booking
  • Make a payment
  • FAQ
  • Terms and Conditions

Social media

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • YouTube

Privacy

  • Statement of privacy
  • Our cookie policy
  • Cookie Settings

Hurtigruten Expeditions

  • Expedition Cruises
  • Alaska Cruises
  • Antarctica Cruises
  • British Isles Cruises
  • Cape Verde Cruises
  • Caribbean Cruises
  • Central America Cruises
  • Europe Cruises
  • Galapagos Islands Cruises
  • Greenland Cruises
  • Iceland Cruises
  • North America Cruises
  • Norway Cruises
  • South America Cruises
  • Svalbard Cruises
  • Northwest Passage Cruises
  • Transoceanic Cruises

Norwegian Coastal Express

  • Norway Fjords Cruise
  • Northern Lights Cruise