Norway with Hurtigruten

Cruising Norway’s Coastline: From Oslo to Kirkenes

My Hurtigruten Signature Voyage Experience

This spring I had the pleasure of sailing with Hurtigruten on a memorable journey up Norway’s spectacular coast that left me with a deeper appreciation for the country’s natural beauty, culture, and coastal communities. My first sailing took me from southern Norway all the way to the Arctic Circle, with fascinating stops along the way.

Life On Board

From the moment I stepped onto the ship, I could tell this wasn’t a typical cruise experience. Hurtigruten’s Signature Voyages focus on small-ship comfort, local immersion, and sustainability. The ship itself had a cozy, Scandinavian feel—inviting lounges, large panoramic windows, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

The onboard team included naturalists and guides who gave insightful talks about Norwegian history, wildlife, and geography. I especially enjoyed their deeper dives into topics like the Midnight Sun, fjord ecosystems, and Arctic exploration.

The dining experience was another highlight. Meals were fresh, regionally inspired, and beautifully presented. I tasted everything from locally caught seafood to wild reindeer and delicious Norwegian pastries. The emphasis on local sourcing really brought the destination to life in a culinary way.

Highlights from the Ports of Call

One of the biggest advantages of this voyage was the chance to visit smaller, less touristy ports that are hard to reach by land. Each stop offered a unique glimpse into Norway’s coastal life and culture:

• Kristiansand – A charming southern town with colorful wooden buildings and a vibrant harbor front. I spent the morning strolling along the cobblestone streets and learning about the town’s maritime history.

• Haugesund – Known as the “home of the Viking kings,” this port had a strong historical flavor. I enjoyed exploring the town and getting a sense of how the Vikings shaped the region.

• Ålesund – This was one of the most picturesque towns on the route, famous for its Art Nouveau architecture. I didn’t climb the steps to the Aksla viewpoint for panoramic views of the town, islands, and surrounding fjords—but you should, it is well worth the effort.

• Brønnøysund – A lesser-known gem halfway up the coast. Here I got to see the famous Torghatten mountain, known for its unusual hole running straight through the middle. 

• Svolvær – Located in the Lofoten Islands, this fishing town offered rugged mountain scenery and a dramatic coastal backdrop. I took in the views, visited local galleries, and learned about cod fishing, which remains vital to the local economy.

• Stokmarknes – This port is home to the Hurtigruten Museum, and visiting it added real depth to the journey. It was fascinating to see how the company evolved over the last century and to learn about the role it plays in connecting remote communities.

• Tromsø – This part of my voyage ended in this lively Arctic city. Known for its Northern Lights and midnight sun, Tromsø combines Arctic adventure with urban charm. I took the time to join a local walking tour, wander the waterfront, and enjoy life like a local. It turned about to be one of my favorite stops.

Continuing North: My Hurtigruten Coastal Express Voyage to the North Cape and Kirkenes

After disembarking from Hurtigruten’s Signature Voyage in Tromsø, my adventure wasn’t over—I transferred to one of Hurtigruten’s classic Coastal Express ships for the next leg of the journey—heading farther north to the North Cape and Kirkenes.

This part of the voyage offered a deeper dive into Arctic Norway, with a more traditional style of travel that’s been connecting coastal communities for over 130 years. The atmosphere onboard was warm and relaxed, with a mix of locals using the ship as transportation and visitors like me soaking in the incredible scenery.

Sailing past rugged cliffs, fjords, and tiny fishing villages, we stopped at ports both day and night. One of the highlights was visiting Honningsvåg, gateway to the North Cape, where I stood at the edge of mainland Europe, gazing out at the Barents Sea. It felt like the top of the world.

The voyage ended in Kirkenes, just a few miles from the Russian border, where Arctic landscapes and Sámi culture come together. It was the perfect finale to a journey that showed me Norway’s coast from south to far north, with every stop revealing something new.

Whether you're combining it with a longer itinerary or taking just the Coastal Express portion, this route is a beautiful, peaceful way to experience Arctic Norway in motion.

Final Thoughts

This voyage was unlike any other I’ve taken. It wasn’t about flashy entertainment or packed port cities—it was about slowing down, connecting with the landscape, and experiencing Norway in an authentic, meaningful way.

For anyone looking to explore the Norwegian coast in comfort—with plenty of opportunities to learn, relax, and engage with local culture—I highly recommend traveling with Hurtigruten. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler to Norway, it offers a fresh and unforgettable perspective on one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines.

If you're considering visiting Norway, let me know. I’d be happy to share more insights and help plan the perfect journey for you.