The North Cape Express

Overview

Day 1 Bergen

Day 2 Bergen

Day 3 Molde

Day 4 Rørvik

Day 5 Lødingen

Day 6 Alta

Day 7 Honningsvåg

Day 8 Tromsø

Day 9 Stokmarkness et Svolvaer

Day Jour 10 Brønnøysund

Day 11 Ålesund

Day 12 Hardangerfjord et Haugesund

Day 13 Kristiansand

Day 14 Oslo

Highlights of the journey

• For the very first time, we sail to and from Oslo, the southernmost point to reach the northernmost point of Norway.
• When the longer nights reveal the beauty of the Northern Lights, take part in exclusive excursions during 16 incredible stops.
• Enjoy exceptional dining, personalized service, and exciting activities on board your recently renovated ship.

Itinerary

DAY 1 | BERGEN

WELCOME TO NORWAY

It seems only natural that your Norwegian adventure begins in Bergen, the cultural and artistic center of Norway. Your hotel is located in the heart of the city so you can enjoy the end of the day or evening exploring the second-largest city in Norway as you wish. Bergen resembles, in many ways, a living medieval museum. Founded by King Olaf III in 1070 AD, Bergen was the capital of Norway for a long time. Strolling through its cobbled streets and alleys, you will notice that this lively city has lost none of its heritage and historical charm. If you have time, take the funicular for a ride to the top of Mount Fløyen. The summit will offer you spectacular views of Bergen, the neighboring fjords, and the surrounding mountains. For dinner, why not head to the downtown fish market? There you will find various stalls where fresh fish is cooked right in front of you, filling the atmosphere with appetizing smells.

DAY 2| BERGEN

EXPLORE THE CULTURAL CENTER OF NORWAY

After breakfast at your hotel, you will take a city tour of Bergen. You will discover well-known sites such as the Nordnes Peninsula, the medieval Håkon’s Hall, the Renaissance-era Rosenkrantz Tower, and the 12th-century Saint Mary’s Church, called Mariakirken in Norwegian. This tour will take you past the UNESCO World Heritage-listed buildings in the Bryggen district. Once the haunt of 14th-century Hanseatic League merchants, these colorful wooden wharves now house craft shops and galleries, perfect for souvenir shopping. The tour will conclude at the pier where your ship, MS Trollfjord, awaits to depart in the mid-afternoon. Once welcomed aboard and settled into your cabin or suite, you will meet your Coastal Experience Team guides. Get to know each team member, who will provide lectures and organize activities on board throughout your journey. Grab a drink in the ship’s two-level panoramic lounge and meet your fellow cruisers. As the ship leaves Bergen to enter the Hjeltefjord, your picturesque adventure along the Norwegian coast will officially begin.

DAY 3 | MOLDE

IDYLLIC PANORAMAS

Molde is the capital and commercial center of Romsdalen, located on the south coast of the Romsdal Peninsula. We have previously stopped at this port many times on our coastal journey, but this time, the duration of the stop will be much longer, allowing you ample time to explore the city.

Organized by our Coastal Experience Team, optional activities allow you to have an even richer experience in Molde. Accessible nearby on an optional excursion, the Atlantic Road is an icon of the Norwegian coast and is often featured in Hollywood movies.

If weather and conditions permit, join us for an optional hike to the Varden viewpoint for the best panoramic views of the region. Take in the city from 402 meters above sea level and admire the 222 snow-capped peaks across the Moldefjord.

If you prefer to stay closer to the ground, you can visit the Romsdal Museum, one of Norway’s largest folk museums, approximately ten minutes from the city center.

Optional Excursions

The Atlantic Road – Bus panoramic tour from Molde

DAY 4 | RØRVIK

AN ANCIENT FISHING TOWN

The Vikna archipelago consists of a chain of approximately 6,000 islands, islets, and reefs. We will make a stop at Inner-Vikna, the largest of these islands. We plan to dock in the port town of Rørvik in the mid-morning and stay there for a significant part of the day.

The town and its surroundings have a rich history, including ancient burial mounds. The maritime heritage of the region is well-documented in Rørvik’s numerous museums, notably at the Norwegian Coastal Museum. Explore Rørvik’s past with an optional guided tour of three of the city’s key museums.

The SalmoNor center also welcomes visitors to discover modern salmon farming and the Norwegian aquaculture industry, which supplies the world with delicious Nordic salmon.

Cod is another important export product, and the town hosts a festival dedicated to it in March. This fish species is particularly abundant in the archipelago’s waters during the winter, providing the perfect opportunity to indulge in fresh cod dishes!

Optional Excursions

Journey through time in the coastal town of Rørvik

DAY 5 | LØDINGEN

VILLAGE LIFE AND FJORD NATURE

As the administrative center of a municipality with the same name, Lødingen is a village situated on the southwest coast of Hinnøya, inhabited by fewer than 2,000 residents. It is a port where our ships used to make stops during our early coastal routes. Returning here is a sort of homecoming for us.

We will dock around noon and use Lødingen as a base to explore Hinnøya Island, the largest Norwegian island south of Spitsbergen. Take a stroll through the streets near the port and admire the traditional red fishing cabins, or rorbu, lining the shoreline. As you walk, you will undoubtedly notice the calming atmosphere that village life brings.

The highlight of this visit will be discovering the incredible fjords and mountains that characterize the Norwegian coast. Jutting out from the Andfjord, the Gullesfjord cuts through the northern side of Hinnøya, bordered by pristine mountain ranges. The area is popular among campers who stay in campsites or cabins and fish for cod in the fjord during winter.

An optional excursion offers you the opportunity to get close to the fjord on a boat safari. Take on the challenge of a mountain hike and then savor the reward of the majestic panorama of the surrounding land and sea.

Optional Excursions

Sea outing with a local fisherman

Steamboat dock and Coastal Express history

Crafts, culinary specialties, and Sámi culture

DAY  6 | ALTA

THE CITY OF NORTHERN LIGHTS THE CITY OF NORTHERN LIGHTS

Alta is one of the largest coastal cities we visit, boasting a population of over 10,000 residents. The Alta River is one of Norway’s finest salmon rivers and, as such, a renowned attraction in the city. Large salmon are regularly caught here, some weighing up to 24 kilograms. You won’t regret tasting the freshly grilled salmon at one of the local restaurants.

At 70 degrees north, this city is still a considerable distance from the Arctic Circle. The region is known for providing excellent visibility of the Northern Lights, so be sure to have your camera ready. If the sky is clear and conditions are favorable during the winter season, you should be able to capture sensational photos of the lights dancing in the sky.

Learn more about this incredible display of natural light during a guided tour of the city. The Cathedral of the Northern Lights even features an exhibition showcasing how Alta became the epicenter of groundbreaking research on the Northern Lights between the 19th and 20th centuries.

The substantial snowfall in winter allows for truly authentic Arctic excursions. The snow and climate in Alta also create perfect conditions for building and maintaining the Igloo Hotel, located on the banks of the Alta River.

During winter, take the opportunity to visit the world’s northernmost ice hotel, constructed from snow and ice each winter and sculpted with different artistic themes by local sculptors. Head to the hotel’s ice bar, adorned with handmade ice sculptures, and order a drink in an ice glass. You won’t need ice cubes!

Optional Excursions

Discovery of the enchanting Igloo Hotel in Alta

Dog sledding on wheels in Alta

Dog sledding in Alta

UNESCO-listed rock art and Cathedral of the Northern Lights

DAY 7 | HONNINGSVÅG

THE NORTHERNMOST POINT

You are in for a full and exciting day in Honningsvåg. As the northernmost town on the continent, Honningsvåg offers a unique landscape where trees and shrubs are scarce. In this northern region, winters are long, and snowfall is substantial, so get ready to explore fantastic winter landscapes and activities.

Feel the snow crunch beneath your snowshoes as you hike through the plains. You might even try ice fishing, a cherished winter tradition in the Far North. Taste the king crab, a local specialty caught in the waters around Honningsvåg and served throughout the year. Admire local art at the Once Upon a Dream gallery, and don’t miss the Honningsvåg church, the oldest in the region dating back to 1885.

The highlight of any trip to Honningsvåg is a visit to the North Cape. It’s one of the northernmost points of continental Europe, and we’ll reach it by snowmobile during the snowy winter months. Being so close to Norway’s northern border and gazing at the Barents Sea under the polar night sky is a truly unique experience. Add to that the sublime Northern Lights dancing above, and you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

The cape is marked by a famous globe that deserves to be immortalized in one or two selfies… or more! Whenever you’re ready, head to the North Cape Hall to warm up and enjoy the short film and various exhibitions that will enlighten you about life in the High Arctic.

After reaching the northernmost point of our journey, we’ll depart from the port in the evening to turn back and start our descent southward.

Optional Excursions

Discovery of the king crab and North Cape – Winter

Quad excursion to the North Cape

Cultural walk, beer tasting, and local show at 71° North

Snowmobiling to the North Cape

Arctic ice fishing

DAY 8 | TROMSØ

THE GATEWAY TO THE ARCTIC

Today, you have the opportunity to explore the capital of the Arctic. Often referred to as the “gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø is the northernmost university city in Norway. It’s also the perfect destination for engaging in genuine winter activities such as dog sledding and snowshoeing.

Located approximately 350 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø experiences polar night for just over a month in winter, providing excellent chances to witness the Northern Lights.

This urban center is bustling with life, featuring trendy restaurants and cafes, craft shops, local product stores, and even high-end fashion. The MS Trollfjord will stay docked all day, allowing you ample time to participate in optional excursions and explore the city at your own pace.

A variety of thrilling activities await you to get a closer look at the nature and wildlife around Tromsø. Embark on a mini-polar expedition and traverse the snowy expanses of the Arctic on a dogsled. Or immerse yourself in the serenity of the Arctic while witnessing the unforgettable spectacle of orcas and humpback whales frolicking in their natural habitat.

For a cultural experience, learn the art of knitting from the locals and satisfy your curiosity about the daily lives of communities north of the Arctic Circle during an excursion to meet the people of Sommarøy.

Optional Excursions

Dog sledding in a wonderful winter landscape

Highlights – Dog sledding, ice domes, and reindeer

Whale watching in the silence of the Arctic

Meeting the people of Sommarøy

The northernmost brewery

Tromsø, the capital of the Arctic – Winter

DAY 9 | STOKMARKNES AND SVOLVÆR

LOFOTEN ISLANDS AND OUR HISTORICAL HOMETOWN

Today, we are exploring the Lofoten Islands, an astonishing group of islands emerging from the Norwegian Sea. As soon as you see the imposing peaks rising around you and the fishing villages clinging to their slopes, you will understand why this chain of islands is often considered one of the most stunning sites in Norway.

Leaving the region without stopping in Stokmarknes is unthinkable. This historic town is part of the Vesterålen Islands, an archipelago located just northeast of the Lofoten. And of all the places we visit, this one is particularly dear to us, as it is where the Norwegian Coastal Express was founded in 1893 by navigation pioneer Richard With.

The Coastal Express quickly became a vital link for the isolated coastal communities, and our heritage has been appropriately immortalized where it all began. On the waterfront, you will discover our 1956 ship, the MS Finnmarken, sheltered in a glass enclosure like a ship in a bottle.

This is the Hurtigrutemuseet, the museum that traces our history as the first expedition cruise company along the Norwegian coast from its beginnings to the present day. A guided tour will allow you to explore this old ship and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a bygone era.

We will dock in the town of Svolvær in the afternoon. Located on the island of Austvågøya, in the southern part of the Lofoten, Svolvær is the largest town in the archipelago. It boasts numerous restaurants, shops, galleries, and cafes. You can also admire the panoramic view offered by Svolvær’s Goat, a nearby mountain named for its resemblance to a horned goat.

Various optional excursions are offered from Svolvær, including snowshoeing, panoramic bus tours through the most iconic sites of the Lofoten, or even a winter kayaking outing.

Optional Excursions:

The Best of Vesterålen in Winter – History, Art, and Culture

Coastal Express Heritage

Kayaking in the Lofoten Islands – Winter

Winter in the Lofoten Islands – Art, History, and Henningsvær

DAY 10 | BRØNNØYSUND

NORDIC NATURE UNIQUENESS

Surrounded by islands and water, Brønnøysund is located on a narrow peninsula that extends into the mainland. Approximately 5,000 people live in this small town, most in colorful houses against the backdrop of gentle slopes and spectacular mountain peaks.

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the harbor and stroll along Havnegata. Take a break in one of the pubs for a quick bite, or treat yourself to a proper meal in a local restaurant. Wander through the visitor’s marina or explore a neo-Gothic stone church from 1870.

During the cruise, observe the Vega archipelago, which comprises around 6,500 islands, islets, and reefs. The island of Gardsøy is home to a UNESCO World Heritage site where the secrets of harvesting the precious eiderdown are explained through the installation of small cabins where local ducks nest.

On an island south of Brønnøysund, you will find the Torghatten mountain, recognizable by the natural tunnel that traverses its center. According to local legend, the hole is the result of an arrow shot by a troll at a young woman who rejected his advances. As the troll king threw his hat to protect her, the sun rose, turning the hat into stone with a hole in the middle from the arrow.

By participating in an optional excursion, you can reach the hole in the mountain in an hour on foot. Look through the tunnel and enjoy the view of the surrounding islands.

Optional Excursions:

Legends of Torghatten and Brønnøysund by bus – Winter

Winter Walk and Mini-Concert in Brønnøysund

DAY 11 | ÅLESUND

A PICTURESQUE CITY

After a hearty breakfast on board, we will dock in Ålesund in the late morning, a city that stretches across a string of islands.

Approaching the shore, you will first notice the distinctive style of its architecture. Every detail of the buildings, from vibrant colors to rounded spires, draws inspiration from the Art Nouveau style popular in the early 1900s. Almost the entire city was renovated in this style when it was rebuilt after a major fire in 1904.

Leaving the docks, you will enter a fairytale-like city, wandering through narrow streets lined with distinctive houses. Opt for a guided walk of Ålesund, exploring its unique Art Nouveau architecture, before tasting the best beers from the local microbrewery. Venture outside the city on a panoramic bus excursion to Alnes, discovering the Saga Islands, the local lighthouse, and countless tales from the Viking era.

If there’s still enough storage space on your camera’s memory card after that, you can capture impressive shots of the archipelago from the viewpoint of Mount Aksla. The 418 steps leading up may seem daunting, but the view at the top is well worth it.

Optional Excursions:

Architecture and Breweries – Ålesund on Foot

Bus Excursion to Alnes – Winter

DAY 12 | HARDANGERFJORD AND HAUGESUND

VIKING HISTORY

As we sail along the west coast of Norway towards the south, we pass by some of the most famous Norwegian fjords, including the Hardangerfjord.

This fjord, stretching 179 kilometers, is the second-longest fjord in the country and the fifth in the world. This stunning waterway is one of Norway’s most beautiful. Let yourself be captivated by the surrounding mountain landscape, while the white peaks towering over the fjord reflect in the shimmering water below.

The region is renowned for its apple products: jams, juices, and award-winning cider, described by a gastronomic critic as “Nordic champagne.”

In the afternoon, we will reach Haugesund, the “House of the Viking Kings.” This nickname is inspired by sites such as the St Olav Church, built in 1250 by King Håkon Hå. You will also discover Haraldshaugen, a national monument reputed to be the burial site of the first king.

Step back into Viking times with a visit to the fascinating exhibitions at the Nordvegen History Centre, or take a stroll with a local artist to deepen your knowledge of glassblowing, regional architecture, and Marilyn Monroe! For an adventurous and unique perspective on Viking history in Norway, why not sail in a semi-rigid boat along the stunning and narrow Norway Strait?

Optional Excursions:

Discover Viking Culture by Bus in Haugesund

Explore the Haugesund Coast on an Electric Bike

Art-themed Walk in Haugesund with a Local Artist

Explore Viking Lands in a Semi-Rigid Boat

DAY 13 | KRISTIANSAND

THE CITY OF LIGHTHOUSES

Located at the southern tip of the country, Kristiansand is the fifth-largest city in Norway. We are scheduled to stay at the dock from morning until late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to explore.

As you stroll through Kristiansand, you may notice that the city is built on a uniform grid plan, with several straight roads leading from the port and crossing the entire city. These roads are lined with architecture from different eras, bearing witness to the significant reconstructions the city had to undergo after the major fires of the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as after an attack during World War II.

Kristiansand aspires to become the most environmentally friendly port in Europe. Learn all about this admirable quest on an optional excursion, including a visit to Odderøya Island. Here, you can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and the city, and explore 18th-century military barracks transformed into artist studios leading several sustainable initiatives.

An optional excursion to the Vara Battery focuses on Kristiansand’s 20th-century military history. Originally built as a German fort during World War II, it houses the second-largest cannon ever mounted on land.

On another optional excursion, you will visit the Lindesnes Lighthouse, marking the southernmost point of Norway. Discovering this landmark that has guided sailors to safety in dark nights since the early 20th century, you’ll learn the long history of the site dating back to 1656.

Back on the ship, we will conclude our journey with a farewell dinner. Take the opportunity to share your photos and experiences one last time with your fellow travelers.

Optional Excursions:

Wonders of the South Coast and Cape South

Historical Guided Tour: Kristiansand during World War II

Norwegian Christmas at Skraastad Farm

DAY 14 | OSLO

DISCOVERY OF THE NORWEGIAN CAPITAL

From south to north, then back south, reflect on the journey as we approach Oslo, the final stop in the early morning. Bid farewell to the crew and disembark in the capital at the end of this voyage with us.

You have just completed the journey of the North Cape Express, exploring the coastal cities and villages of Norway and navigating all the way to the top of the European continent. During this cruise, you have experienced Norway’s varied climate, seen majestic mountains and fjords, and perhaps marveled at the Northern Lights one or more times.

We hope you will cherish each of these memories from the North Cape Express. Come back soon to sail with us again. We look forward to welcoming you for another iconic journey along the beautiful Norwegian coast.

In Norway, the four seasons are very distinct from each other. Onboard activities, restaurant menus, and onshore excursions vary depending on the time of year and the waters we navigate. Each season brings new opportunities to experience a Hurtigruten journey with a completely different light.