The Spitsbergen Express

Overview

Day 1 Bergen

Day 2 Bergen

Day 3 Åndalsnes

Day 4 Træna

Day 5 Stokmarknes

Day 6 Tromsø

Day 7 Honningsvåg

Day 8 At sea around Bjørnøya

Day 9 Longyearbyen

Day 10 Ny-Ålesund

Day 11 At sea

Day 12 Tromsø and Senja

Day 13 Svolvær

Day 14 Brønnøysund

Day 15 Ålesund and Hjørundfjord

Day 16 Bergen

Highlights of the journey:

• Experience the Midnight Sun heading towards the Far North with a unique itinerary to Spitsbergen.
• Take the time to deepen your knowledge of the Norwegian coast and culture with exclusive excursions during 16 carefully selected stops.
• Enjoy exceptional dining, personalized service, and exciting activities on board your recently renovated ship.

Itinerary

DAY 1 | BERGEN

ON THE WAY TO NORWAY

Welcome to Norway! You will arrive in Bergen, a magnificent city on the west coast of Norway. Admire the legendary and majestic peaks that surround the city, giving Bergen its nickname, the ‘City of Seven Mountains.’ The small village founded in 1070 by King Olav Kyrre is now the second-largest city in Norway. Nestled in its center is the Vågen Bay, the historical heart of the city, housing the Bryggen district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through charming cobblestone streets and explore local shops. Facing Bryggen, don’t miss the fish market, where you can find fresh fish and seafood dishes to enjoy on the spot. During the long summer days, you’ll have time to leisurely explore this historic city. Mount Fløyen is one of Bergen’s seven mountains, accessible by the Fløibanen funicular or on foot. At the top, you can enjoy spectacular views of the city and the surrounding peaks. Quench your thirst with a local beer, 7 Fjell, before resting at the hotel and boarding the Spitzbergen Express for your journey the next day!

DAY 2 | BERGEN

ONBOARD THE SPITSBERGEN EXPRESS

After your night at the hotel, you may have some time in the early morning to explore Bergen more thoroughly before your hotel transfer to the comfortable passenger lounge at the Bergen Terminal. There, you can enjoy some snacks inspired by our concept, Norway’s Coastal Kitchen, the Norwegian culinary experience, or reserve a spot on our optional excursions with our staff, subject to availability. Once on board, you will meet the Coastal Experience Team, your ship’s guides. They will be your hosts and guides along the Norwegian coast and to Spitsbergen. Meet your fellow travelers and take the time to settle in comfortably on the ship. Enjoy your first meal on board and watch as the colorful waterfront buildings fade away, marking the beginning of the voyage across the Norwegian Sea.

DAY 3 | ANDALSNES

ALPINE VILLAGE ALONG THE FJORD

Located on the banks of Isfjord, at the end of Romsdalsfjord, Åndalsnes is our first port of call. After docking in the city center in the morning, you will have the opportunity to explore this picturesque coastal town, home to approximately 2,000 people. From 1838 to 1964, Åndalsnes served as the administrative center of the former municipality of Grytten, during which the town was completely rebuilt after an attack during World War II. Today, Åndalsnes is a modern city with its own local newspaper, set in one of Norway’s most stunning natural settings. Åndalsnes is surrounded by magnificent mountains that tower over the town. Experience the Norwegian concept of friluftsliv, based on a love for outdoor activities, through various activities, including a hike to the viewpoint of Rampestreken. To admire the scenery in a more relaxed manner, settle comfortably aboard the Romsdal cable car or take the winding Troll’s Road by bus. Whichever activity you choose, this day will be an opportunity to enjoy the most beautiful views of Isfjord, Romsdalsfjord, and the surrounding peaks.

Optional Excursions

Hairpin turns and dizzying mountains – Panoramic bus tour on Troll’s Road

Stand Up Paddle in Åndalsnes

DAY 4 | TRAENA

THE OLDEST FISHING COMMUNITY IN NORWAY

In the morning, we will cruise along the Helgeland coast. When you see islands emerging from the water on the horizon, you’ll know that your next destination is not far away. Træna is an archipelago located on the edge of the Arctic Circle, 33 nautical miles northwest off the mainland. With approximately 500 islands, islets, and reefs, of which only four are inhabited year-round, Træna is a peaceful municipality, home to a flourishing birdlife on its mostly uninhabited islands. Although small, this archipelago has a long history, and archaeological excavations have revealed that these islands have been inhabited since the Stone Age. Some of these ancient relics have been discovered in a cave on the island of Sanna, now used for an annual music festival. Spend the afternoon in one of Norway’s oldest fishing communities. If weather conditions permit, you may have the opportunity to participate in various activities: hiking, biking, and even an island-hopping excursion. Inhabited by a vast population of sea eagles, the region is particularly suitable for birdwatching. For a truly authentic experience, indulge in an ancient Norwegian activity and go fishing under the summer sun. In the evening, as we leave the area, take time to rest and relax on board. Continuing our journey northward, we will cross the Arctic Circle and celebrate this moment with a small Norwegian ceremony.

Optional Excursions

Træna, island-hopping

Cultural walk in Træna – Poetry, art, and heritage

Arctic bathing – Sauna and cold bath

DAY 5 | STOKMARKNES

THE BIRTHPLACE OF NORWAY’S COASTAL EXPRESS

Spend a full day in the Vesterålen, an archipelago located northeast of the Lofoten Islands. This string of islands gave its name to our very first Coastal Express ship that sailed along Norway’s rugged coastline in 1893. We will dock in the historic town of Stokmarknes. This town holds a special place in our hearts as the birthplace of Norway’s Coastal Express by Hurtigruten. Today, we return to the source, where it all began. In 1893, Richard With, a navigation pioneer, founded the authentic Coastal Express line right here, revolutionizing passenger travel along the Norwegian coast and navigation in Norway. It didn’t take long for Hurtigruten to become a vital link for Spitsbergen and other remote communities in Norway, boosting their economy through the transport of goods between ports. There was no better place than Stokmarknes to open a museum immortalizing our inspiring heritage. The Hurtigrutemuseet is located on the waterfront, where our decommissioned 1956 ship, the MS Finnmarken, stands in its glass enclosure. Explore archives, photos, and artifacts presented in various interactive exhibitions. A guided tour will immerse you in the atmosphere of a bygone era as you explore this old vessel. In addition to visiting the museum, perhaps you will join hikes or other activities in the islands. Take a rigid inflatable boat excursion through the Raftsundet, or go on an eagle safari in the fjord from which your ship, the MS Trollfjord, gets its name.

Optional Excursions

The Coastal Express Heritage

The Best of Vesterålen in Summer – Panoramic bus tour

Sea Eagle Safari by Rigid Inflatable Boat

DAY 6 |TROMSØ

THE GATEWAY OF THE ARCTIC

Tromsø is the Arctic urban center of Northern Norway, home to impressive architecture, trendy restaurants, and the world’s northernmost university. Anchored in a rich polar history, it serves as the natural stopover before continuing our adventure northward into the High Arctic. The heritage of this modern city dates back to the Ice Age, as evidenced by objects unearthed in the region. The city asserted its importance in 1794 when it was declared a ‘kjøpstad’ or ‘trading town,’ even though it had only 80 inhabitants. It became the center of Arctic hunting in the mid-19th century, and by the end of the century, Tromsø had established itself as a trading hub in the Arctic. We will dock in the morning, allowing you a full day to explore this Arctic city and its surroundings. Choose from several optional excursions. Familiarize yourself with Tromsø’s polar culture and history on a city walk. Alternatively, discover the graceful seals at Polaria, one of the northernmost aquariums in the world, where you can observe numerous Arctic marine species up close. Perhaps you’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Arctic Cathedral, impressing you with its massive multicolored stained glass window. Or take the Fjellheisen funicular to the top of Mount Storsteinen, overlooking Tromsø and offering a splendid panorama of the city, mountains, and fjords.

Optional Excursions

Hiking with the Vikings

Tromsø, the Capital of the Arctic – Summer

Tromsø on Foot – The City and Its Polar History

The Northernmost Brewery

DAY 7 | HONNINGSVÅG

ON THE ROOFTOP OF EUROPE

In the mid-morning, we arrive in Honningsvåg, the northernmost town on the Norwegian mainland. Honningsvåg is a relatively young town, having held its status since 1996, and remains one of Norway’s smallest towns.

Choose from several optional excursions here. Go crab fishing, meet an indigenous Sámi family, birdwatch, or join a guided tour to discover daily life at 71°N.

Honningsvåg is also the gateway to the North Cape, the famous ‘Northernmost Point of Europe.’ The plateau rises 307 meters above sea level, just 1,600 kilometers south of the geographical North Pole. Take the time to gaze at the sea from the top of these towering cliffs and watch the waves crash against the rocks below.

Proudly perched atop one of these cliffs, the iconic Globe monument invites visitors to take a souvenir photo. After the inevitable selfie, don’t miss a visit to the North Cape Hall, where various exhibitions and a short film recount the history of the cape.

As we depart Honningsvåg, we will enjoy spectacular views of the plateau from the ship. The ship will then set course for the Barents Sea, leaving the coast of mainland Norway behind.

Optional Excursions

Discover the King Crab and North Cape – Summer

Quad Safari to the North Cape

DAY 8 | AT SEA AROUND BJØRNØYA

FROM NORWAY TO SPITSBERGEN

The southernmost island of the Svalbard archipelago, Bjørnøya, lies halfway between mainland Norway and Spitsbergen. We will see this inaccessible land from the ship in the afternoon, serving as a prologue to your adventure in Spitsbergen.

As the island comes into view, you may be struck by the absence of trees and even bushes. Vegetation is scarce here, and part of the land is simply covered in a carpet of moss and lichen. The only plants that grow here are fertilized by the abundant birdlife nesting on the cliffs. Prepare your camera to capture seabirds like puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes, and northern fulmars soaring over spectacular cliffs and steep slopes.

Contrary to its name, which means ‘Bear Island,’ the only indigenous mammal here is the Arctic fox. The island got its name from a polar bear spotted swimming in nearby waters, but such an event is highly unlikely in this more southerly region.

Onboard, you will become acquainted with the history of Bjørnøya through lectures on polar history. Perhaps you’ll learn more about the historical expeditions that led to its discovery and the different countries that claimed the territory afterward. Discover the strategic importance of this isolated sanctuary and the role Bjørnøya played during World War II.

As we continue our journey from Bjørnøya, you can continue to enjoy the various onboard facilities on MS Trollfjord to relax, including the sauna or fitness room. A photography workshop will also be offered today to adjust your camera settings in preparation for the wildlife and wilderness awaiting us in Spitsbergen.

DAY 9 | LONGYEARBYEN

WELCOME TO THE END OF THE WORLD

Today, we arrive in the Svalbard archipelago and continue north to Spitsbergen, the largest of the three main islands. Beautiful brown and green mountains rise, and the High Arctic tundra ripples, while rivers of meltwater cascade across the valley plains, shimmering under the summer sun.

Simply take the time to feel here, now, in Spitsbergen. You are at a latitude of over 78°N, 1,500 km south of the North Pole. The air in this Arctic desert is fresh and pure, while summer temperatures range from zero to eight degrees Celsius, thanks to a branch of the Gulf Stream that warms this northern region.

Longyearbyen appears, situated on the shores of an expansive fjord. It is the largest community in Spitsbergen, recognized as the world’s northernmost town with a population exceeding 1,000 individuals.

Originally a coal mining colony founded in 1906, the town is now home to around 2,000 residents from around the world. Today, the city attracts modern adventurers as well as scientists and engineers involved in local research projects, such as the famous Svalbard Global Seed Vault.

Take the time to stroll through the town and explore its galleries, pubs, restaurants, brewery, and the remarkable North Pole Expeditions Museum. You also have the choice of optional excursions to discover the fascinating landscapes around Longyearbyen. Have you ever tried dog sledding without snow? Now is your chance.

We will arrive in Svolvær in the evening. The massive mountain overlooking the city is called the Svolvær Goat due to its supposed resemblance. We’ll let you form your own opinion on that!

The ship will then head to Stamsund, passing by the giant granite cliffs of the Lofoten Wall.

Optional Excursions

Wheel-dog sledding excursion

Exploration of Spitsbergen’s wildlife and history

DAY 10 | NY-ÅLESUND

SCIENCE AT THE ARCTIC FRONTIER

As we leave Longyearbyen, wake up early to admire the impressive views of Kongsfjord, one of the largest fjords in the region. Its entrance is guarded by two colossal glaciers that regularly discharge ice into the fjord.

This stretch of coastline is also conducive to observing walruses basking on the shore and numerous species of migratory birds, including puffins, common eiders, barnacle geese, and guillemots.

You might catch a glimpse of the Arctic fox and Svalbard reindeer on land, while the beluga occasionally surfaces. If luck is on our side, we might even see a polar bear prowling the coast in search of bearded and ringed seals.

At the tip of the Brøgger Peninsula, on one of the shores of Kongsfjord, lies Ny-Ålesund. Like Longyearbyen, this former coal mine has housed scientific research stations since the mid-20th century. In summer, over a hundred researchers inhabit the town, distributed across 20 glaciological and climate institutes representing more than 10 countries.

Explore one of the northernmost communities in the world, visit the local museum and souvenir shop, or send a postcard to your loved ones from the small post office at the end of the world.

You can also take a guided tour of the Amundsen Monument, erected here in honor of the historic flight by the illustrious Norwegian explorer to reach the North Pole in 1926. Aboard the Norge, Amundsen took off from Ny-Ålesund and landed in Alaska three days later, successfully achieving this feat by flying over the North Pole.

DAY 11 | AT SEA

FAREWELL TO SPITSBERGEN

Unfortunately, it is time to leave the Svalbard archipelago and Spitsbergen to return to mainland Norway.

Take advantage of this day to relax on board the ship. If the sky is clear, enjoy the summer sun on the deck and keep an eye out for whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Or, if the air is a bit chilly, opt for the sauna and its soothing steam.

To sharpen your knowledge of local history and wildlife, attend one of the fascinating lectures by the Hurtigruten guide team. They may also offer photography workshops to help you capture the best shots in the coming days.

Savor quality meals and drinks on board with our Norway’s Coastal Kitchen concept, the Norwegian culinary experience that highlights the finest and most flavorful local products from Norway. Perhaps our experienced chefs in the open kitchen on board will surprise you with tastings of regional specialties or demonstrations.

You can also cozy up with a good book in the lounge or have a drink at the bar with your new friends, reminiscing about the experiences that have marked you the most so far.

DAY 12 | TROMSØ AND SENJA

DISCOVERING THE « LITTLE NORWAY »

Back in mainland Norway, we make our first stop of the day in Tromsø. The ship will unload its cargo from Spitsbergen and load up for the southern ports.

This return to Tromsø after our stay in Spitsbergen is steeped in history. Most explorers and navigators returning from their Arctic expeditions would stop in the city. Compared to the bleak frontier towns they were coming from, Tromsø seemed incredibly trendy and sophisticated, with its fashion boutiques and restaurants, earning the city the nickname ‘Paris of the North.’

The ship will then continue its journey south, heading towards Senja. This island, one of the largest in the country and a flagship destination in Northern Norway, is experiencing rapid development, which is not surprising since CNN has ranked it among the ten most beautiful islands in the world. Often described as a ‘Mini Norway’ by proud locals, Senja evokes a juxtaposition of landscapes inspired by different regions of the Norwegian coast.

To better explore this enchanting island, we recommend disembarking in Tromsø and participating in one of our optional excursions.

Optional excursions

Wildlife Safari on Senja

Panoramic Guided E-Bike Tour

DAY 13 | SVOLVAER

UNDER THE CHARM  OF THE LOFOTEN ISLANDS

Today, we embark on the exploration of the Lofoten archipelago. Facing the green, jagged cliffs that spectacularly rise from the ocean and pierce the sky like giant teeth, you’ll understand why the Lofoten Islands are among the most extraordinary places in Norway.

Charming and picturesque fishing villages come into view, clusters of houses with red roofs perched on stilts clinging to the edges of the mountainous islands. Here and there, isolated fisherman’s cabins, locally known as ‘rorbu,’ dot the islands, staining the sapphire sea and lush green mountain slopes with a touch of red.

In the Lofoten Islands, you’ll discover a tranquil atmosphere bathed in supreme calm. Time seems to stand still here, as if the pure beauty of the islands has halted its relentless march.

Our ship will be mainly docked in the town of Svolvær, the beating heart of the archipelago. Enjoy the local shops and restaurants, and you can spend hours exploring the town at your leisure.

To explore the mountains, islands, and villages around Svolvær, choose from our excellent excursions in the Lofoten Islands. Embark on an optional hike to one of the local white sandy beaches where you can participate in a beach cleanup before taking a dip. If you’re torn between hiking to the summits and kayaking, don’t worry. Thanks to the long summer days, you might be able to do both and enjoy both the sea and the mountains.

Optional excursions

Fishing in the Lofoten Islands – Summer

Kayaking in the Lofoten Islands – Summer

Reine and the Lofoten Islands

Landscapes of the Lofoten Islands and Henningsvær

DAY 14 | BRØNNØYSUND 

THE WONDERS OF THE HELGELAND COAST

The ship continues south to reach the midpoint of the Norwegian coast. This is the Helgeland coastline, renowned for its distinctive mountains that inspired local folklore and many fascinating myths.

During the journey, observe the Vega archipelago, comprising about 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 small huts where local ducks nest.

The ship will anchor in the town of Brønnøysund, characterized by a lovely marina and a neo-Gothic stone church dating back to 1870. Take the opportunity to explore the town or join optional excursions, including kayaking, cycling, or a boat trip.

As we sail away from Brønnøysund, the distinctive mountain Torghatten comes into view. When facing Torghatten, you’ll be first struck by the hole that pierces the mountain in its center. Legend has it that this hole was punched by the arrow of a bitter troll who aimed at his sweetheart, and that the Torghatten mountain itself is the petrified hat that a troll king threw to intercept the arrow.

At a leisurely pace, it takes about an hour to reach the hole in Torghatten on an optional excursion. The panoramic view of trees and islands unfolding before you is well worth the effort.

Optional excursions

Legends of Torghatten and Brønnøysund – Summer

Brønnøysund by bike

Mountain hike to Torghatten

Sea adventure by rigid inflatable boat

DAY 15 | ÅLESUND AND HJØYRUNDFJORD

THE SECRET OF THE SUNNMØRE ALPS

The ship will make a brief stop in the city of Ålesund, known for its Art Nouveau architecture and exceptional location on a peninsula dominated by Mount Aksla. We will unload any possible cargo and disembark passengers participating in on-site excursions.

Not far from Ålesund, the magnificent Hjørundfjord winds its way between the peaks of the Sunnmøre Alps, some of which rise to about 1,700 meters above sea level. Located in the sublime setting of the Sunnmøre Alps, it is the hidden treasure of the region and a secret that eludes many ships.

Travelers fortunate enough to discover Hjørundfjord hold it in high regard among their favorite Norwegian fjords. Its dark blue waters and lush green mountain slopes seem perfectly proportioned and aligned, as if consciously sculpted by the hand of nature.

Nestled on the shores of one of the arms of Hjørundfjord is the idyllic village of Sæbø. This is where the ship will pick up passengers who went on an excursion in Ålesund.

The last day of our journey is fast approaching. Despite growing nostalgia, what could be better than a cheerful farewell dinner on the last evening to celebrate our experience aboard the Spitsbergen Express? It will also be an opportunity to reminisce about the many highlights we shared during this journey.

Optional excursions

Architecture and Breweries – Ålesund on foot

Fjords and Mountain Peaks – Panoramic bus tour

DAY 16 | BERGEN

RETURN TO BERGEN

We will arrive in Bergen in the morning. It’s time to disembark, but not before saying farewell to your fellow travelers and the crew of the MS Trollfjord, without whom your journey aboard the Svalbard Express wouldn’t have been the same.

As part of this historic and iconic journey, you’ve explored corners of Norwegian coastal paradise that you won’t soon forget. If you participated in optional excursions, you likely have photos of yourself fishing, kayaking, hiking, or biking in some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

We know you leave with fond memories of the North Cape, Helgeland, the Lofoten Islands, Senja, Hjørundfjord, the Arctic Circle crossing, Tromsø, Bjørnøya, Longyearbyen, and Ny-Ålesund that will make your loved ones jealous.

This was the Svalbard Express. We hope to welcome you back soon on the Norwegian coast in our company.

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