Things to do on a Hurtigruten cruise in Norway
A classic Hurtigruten cruise has 34 ports of call on its route between Bergen and Kirkenes, so you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained during the daytime before prime northern lights viewing hours at night. With a cruise holiday along the fjord-studded Norwegian coast you can choose from numerous guided shore excursions, such as short husky safaris and fishing village tours.
You can also explore charming coastal cities like Ålesund on your own during port calls or simply relax and enjoy the comfortable amenities on board your Hurtigruten cruise ship.
Want to experience more fjords on your northern lights cruise in Norway? We recommend taking a Norway in a Nutshell train journey from Oslo to the colourful city of Bergen, Hurtigruten’s southernmost port. This journey includes a ride on a famous Flåm Railway, with breathtaking mountain and fjord views on the way to the west coast.
Want to stay in an ice hotel during your Norway cruise holiday? Nordic Visitor can tailor your Norway cruise itinerary to include a stay at the Snow Hotel in Kirkenes, Hurtigruten’s northern hub.
When to see the northern lights in Norway
The winter season in Norway is the best time to view the northern lights. Because nighttime darkness is required for seeing this dazzling natural light show, you should visit Norway between October and March for optimal chances of aurora borealis sightings. Coincidentally, travelling outside of the busy summer season may also result in better cruise deals!
Where to see the northern lights in Norway
The further north you go in the northern hemisphere, the better for seeing the northern lights. Because the aurora borealis are magnetically drawn towards the north pole, the areas north of the Arctic Circle are best for northern lights viewing.
Some of the Hurtigruten ports of call in Norway’s arctic region include the Lofoten Islands, Tromsø and North Cape (Nordkapp) -- all places that are located within the so-called “northern lights belt”, an area known to have more auroral frequency and intensity.
If you wish to experience snow activities, such as dog sledding, it’s best to plan your winter northern lights break in Norway between December to April. Nordic Visitor can assist in your trip planning and tailor a tour package to your interests.
— NORWAY CRUISE FACTS
Quick facts about Hurtigruten
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Hurtigruten was founded in 1893 to transport cargo, mail and passengers between coastal towns
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In the old days, Norway’s fjords made road travel difficult and sometimes dangerous
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Hurtigruten means “fast route” in Norwegian
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Today the cruise line is considered a leader in the “slow travel” movement