Norway’s Original Coastal Express: Bergen to Kirkenes Roundtrip

Day 1: Bergen - Setting Course for the Coast

Surrounded by seven mountains and opening onto a network of fjords, Bergen is a charming coastal city with a rich maritime history and vibrant local culture. Before your voyage, take time to explore the colorful wooden wharves of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where narrow alleyways hide independent galleries, artisan workshops and cozy cafés. You can also visit the lively Fish Market to sample fresh seafood or ride the Fløibanen funicular to Mount Fløyen for sweeping views of the city, surrounding islands and waterways.

Before boarding, you can relax at the comfortable Hurtigruten Guest Lounge at Jektevik Terminal, with complimentary snacks, drinks and Wi-Fi.

As evening falls, we depart Bergen and sail north through the Hjeltefjord, a historic route once traveled by Viking longships. Beyond the city, the coastline becomes a maze of islands, sheltered waterways and rocky shores. Spend some time out on deck watching fishing villages and lighthouses pass by as your Norwegian coastal adventure begins.

Embarkation: Jektevik Terminal
Check-in: from 3:30 PM
Departure: 8:30 PM

Day 2: Ålesund - Among Fjords and Islands

During the night, we call briefly at Florø and Måløy before a short stop at Torvik in the early morning. As the day unfolds, you'll find yourself gazing at some of the most picturesque coastal scenery in Norway. Leaving Nordfjord behind, we sail past the rugged headland of West Cape for our approach to Ålesund.

By mid-morning, we arrive in Ålesund, one of Norway's most distinctive towns. Rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style after a devastating fire in 1904, the town is renowned for its elegant architecture, colorful façades and decorative towers. Stretching across a series of islands, Ålesund has long been an important fishing port and remains deeply connected to the sea.

Into the fjords

In May and September, we venture into the magnificent Hjørundfjord, a secluded fjord in the dramatic Sunnmøre Alps. Free from the crowds found elsewhere, this peaceful waterway is lined with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls and tiny farms clinging to the hillsides. We also pay a visit to the picturesque village of Urke, where a handful of historic houses and spectacular scenery combine to create one of the most atmospheric stops on the voyage.

In summer, we continue into the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord*, often considered one of the most beautiful fjords in the world. As we navigate deep into this narrow waterway, sheer cliffs rise dramatically from the water while waterfalls tumble from great heights. Keep watch for the famous Seven Sisters waterfall, whose seven streams cascade gracefully down the mountainside.

Old, heritage farms cling improbably to steep slopes, reminders of the generations who once thrived in these remote areas. Viewed from the water, the fjord reveals its full scale and grandeur.

Ålesund and Molde

We then continue north towards Molde. Known as the City of Roses, Molde occupies a beautiful setting overlooking the Romsdalsfjord, with the famous Molde Panorama visible across the water. On a clear evening, you may glimpse the outline of more than 200 mountain peaks, creating one of Norway's most celebrated views.

Day 3: Trondheim - The City of Kings

During the night, we call briefly at Kristiansund before continuing into Trøndelag, Norway’s historic heartland, where rolling farmland, wooded hills and sheltered fjords reflect centuries of farming and trading traditions.

Trondheim

Founded in 997 by Viking king Olav Tryggvason, Trondheim was Norway’s first capital. Today, its rich medieval heritage blends with a lively student culture. With three hours ashore, you can explore at your own pace, from magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s traditional coronation church, to the historic Archbishop’s Palace and its collection of royal regalia.

Stroll across the elegant Gamle Bybro into Bakklandet, a charming neighborhood of colorful wooden buildings, cobbled streets, cafés and independent shops. For sweeping views of the city and fjord, head up to Kristiansten Fort.

Along the Trøndelag Coast

Back on board, we sail through the broad Trondheimsfjord before returning to the open coast. Look out for Kjeungskjær Lighthouse, a striking ochre-red landmark standing among reefs and skerries. Here, the scenery grows increasingly rugged, marking the transition from southern Norway’s gentler landscapes to a wilder northern coastline.

Later, we make a brief call at Rørvik, a lively coastal town surrounded by the islands and skerries of the Vikna archipelago. With its deep connection to the sea, Rørvik offers a glimpse of everyday coastal life before we continue north, with more beautiful scenery to enjoy from the deck.

Day 4: Bodø - Into de Arctic

Helgeland & Crossing the Arctic Circle

During the night, we sail through Helgeland, a region of rugged peaks, islands, and coastal legends. Early in the morning, we cross the Arctic Circle, celebrated with a traditional onboard ceremony.

Ørnes & Bodø

Enjoy scenic views of Svartisen glacier before arriving in Bodø, northern Norway’s second-largest city. Explore independently or join an excursion to Saltstraumen, the world’s strongest tidal current, or visit a Sámi family to learn about their traditions and meet their reindeer.

The Lofoten Islands

In the afternoon, the dramatic peaks of the Lofoten Islands rise from the sea. We call at Stamsund, a traditional fishing village, before continuing to Svolvær, where colorful fishing cabins and a lively harbor reflect the islands’ rich maritime heritage. Weather and daylight permitting, the Captain may also sail into the spectacular Trollfjord.

Day 5: Tromsø - The Arctic Capital

Vesterålen & Harstad

As we sail through the Vesterålen archipelago, enjoy views of islands, sounds, and mountain peaks. We make a brief stop in Harstad before continuing to Finnsnes, the gateway to Senja, known for its dramatic mountains, white-sand beaches, and charming fishing villages.

Tromsø

Arriving in Tromsø in the afternoon, you’ll have around four hours to explore this vibrant Arctic city. Discover its polar history, browse local shops and cafés, or visit the striking Arctic Cathedral. Optional excursions are also available.

The Lyngen Alps & Skjervøy

As we leave Tromsø, admire the jagged peaks of the Lyngen Alps rising dramatically from the sea. Later in the evening, we call at Skjervøy, a historic coastal settlement with a long tradition of fishing and maritime trade.

Day 6: Honningsvåg - Into de Far North

Hammerfest & The Arctic Coast

We sail north to Hammerfest, one of the world’s northernmost towns, where Arctic landscapes and Sámi traditions shape local life. Continuing east, enjoy views of rugged headlands, scattered islands, and the remote Arctic coastline.

Honningsvåg & The North Cape

With almost four hours ashore in Honningsvåg, you can join an optional excursion to the North Cape, where dramatic cliffs overlook the Arctic Ocean, or explore local fishing communities and seabird habitats.

Sámi Heartlands

We call at Kjøllefjord, known for its rugged scenery and the striking Finnkirka rock formation, a site of spiritual significance to the Sámi people. Seasonal excursions offer insight into Sámi traditions, while winter brings opportunities for snowmobile adventures across the Nordkyn Peninsula.

Towards the Barents Sea

We continue to Mehamn, a remote fishing community, before reaching Berlevåg in the evening. Along the way, look out for Slettnes Lighthouse, the world’s northernmost mainland lighthouse.

Day 7: Kirkenes - The Barents Coast

During the night, we call at Båtsfjord and Vardø, two fishing communities shaped by the rich waters of the Barents Sea. By morning, we continue along the Varanger Peninsula, where open tundra, rugged coastlines, and wide horizons offer a different perspective on Norway’s northern landscapes.

We arrive in Vadsø, a renowned destination for birdwatching thanks to its location along an important Arctic migration route. Keep an eye out for birdlife as we explore this peaceful stretch of coastline.

Kirkenes

By mid-morning, we reach Kirkenes, a fascinating frontier town near the Russian border, where Norwegian, Sámi, Finnish, and Russian influences meet. Enjoy time to explore independently or join an optional excursion into the surrounding Arctic wilderness. Local museums also offer insight into the region’s multicultural heritage and its significant role during the Second World War.

Kirkenes marks the turning point of our voyage before we begin sailing south. In the afternoon, we follow the Varanger coast, passing small fishing villages and dramatic shorelines. Watch for seabirds around Hornøya, where puffins, guillemots, and other species may be spotted depending on the season, along with sea eagles soaring above the cliffs.

Sailing the Barents Sea

Later, we call again at Båtsfjord, where fishing remains central to local life, before continuing toward Berlevåg.

Day 8: Hammerfest - The Magic of Coastal Finnmark

Before breakfast, we call at the fishing communities of Mehamn and Kjøllefjord before arriving in Honningsvåg, where you can visit the iconic North Cape if you haven’t already done so on the northbound journey. We then continue to Havøysund, passing open tundra and rugged coastlines. Keep an eye out for seabirds and, in warmer months, reindeer grazing along the shore.

Hammerfest and Its Arctic Heritage

By late morning, we reach Hammerfest, a town shaped by Arctic exploration, fishing, and its modern energy industry. Enjoy time to explore independently, visit the UNESCO-recognized Meridian Column, or take a walk up Mount Salen for sweeping coastal views, weather permitting.

Mountains, Fjords, and Wildlife

In the afternoon, we sail past the dramatic mountain scenery around Øksfjord before reaching Skjervøy, a fishing community known for its rich marine life. During autumn and winter, herring attract orcas and humpback whales to these waters, so keep watch as we continue south.

Evening in Tromsø

As evening falls, we sail past the striking peaks of the Lyngen Alps before arriving in Tromsø late in the evening, where city lights meet the dramatic mountain backdrop.

Day 9: Svolvær - High Peaks and Idyllic Islands

Today, we sail through the spectacular archipelagos of Vesterålen and Lofoten, where charming coastal communities meet dramatic mountain scenery.

After calling at Finnsnes, we arrive in Harstad, home to Trondenes Church, the world’s northernmost medieval stone church. We continue through Vesterålen, stopping in Risøyhamn and Sortland, known as the “Blue City,” before reaching Stokmarknes, the birthplace of Hurtigruten’s Coastal Express. Here, you can visit the Hurtigruten Museum to discover the history of coastal travel in Norway.

Dramatic Fjords and Lofoten Landscapes

As we sail through the narrow Raftsund strait, the Captain may take us into spectacular Trollfjord, weather and conditions permitting. Towering cliffs surround this narrow waterway, and sea eagles are often spotted soaring overhead.

By evening, we reach Svolvær, the lively heart of the Lofoten Islands, framed by steep peaks and sheltered harbors. We continue to Stamsund, passing traditional fishing villages and red-painted fishermen’s cabins beneath the striking mountain range known as the Lofoten Wall.

Day 10: Brønnøysund - Mountains and Myths of the Sea

During the early hours, we call at Bodø and Ørnes before crossing the Arctic Circle, marking our return toward southern Norway. As we sail along the beautiful Helgeland Coast, thousands of islands, sheltered waterways, and rocky islets create a remarkable coastal landscape.

Mountains, Legends, and Coastal Villages

After a stop in Nesna, we arrive in Sandnessjøen, gateway to the famous Seven Sisters mountain range. These dramatic peaks are steeped in local folklore, with legends telling of seven troll princesses turned to stone by the rising sun.

By mid-afternoon, we reach Brønnøysund, a charming coastal town where you can stroll along the waterfront, visit the historic Brønnøy Church, or enjoy a café and explore the local shops.

Torghatten and the Vikna Islands

Later, we pass Torghatten, a distinctive mountain with a natural hole running straight through its center. Admire this unusual landmark from the ship and ask the Expedition Team to share the local legend behind its formation.

In the evening, we continue to Rørvik, sailing through the Vikna archipelago, where countless islands and sheltered channels have guided coastal travelers for generations.

Day 11: Trondheim - Coastal Communities and Klippfisk

This morning, enjoy several hours in Trondheim, Norway’s former Viking capital. Visit the impressive Nidaros Cathedral, stroll across the historic Gamle Bybro bridge, or explore Bakklandet, a charming neighborhood of colorful wooden houses and cozy cafés. If you’ve visited before, enjoy a leisurely coffee, browse local shops, or walk up to Kristiansten Fort for panoramic city views.

Along the Norwegian Coast

Back on board, we sail through Trondheimsfjord and along a coastline dotted with islands, farmland, and small fishing communities, offering a glimpse into traditional coastal life.

Kristiansund and Molde

By late afternoon, we reach Kristiansund, a lively harbor town spread across four islands and known for its traditional salted cod, klippfisk. Take a stroll along the waterfront and discover the town’s long connection to the fishing trade.

In the evening, we arrive in Molde, known as the “City of Roses.” Set along Romsdalsfjord, the town offers beautiful views of the Molde Panorama, a striking chain of more than 200 mountain peaks across the water.

Day 12: Back to Bergen

During the night, we call at Ålesund and Torvik before continuing south through the island-dotted waters of western Norway. Early in the morning, we reach Måløy, a fishing town surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery. Keep an eye out for views toward Nordfjord and the distant Jostedalsbreen Glacier, whose ancient ice helped shape this remarkable landscape.

Later, we stop in Florø, Norway’s westernmost town, before passing Stabben Lighthouse, perched on a tiny rocky outcrop, and crossing the mouth of Sognefjord, the country’s longest and deepest fjord.

Returning to Bergen

In the afternoon, we make our final approach to Bergen, sailing through Hjeltefjord and past the islands and colorful coastal communities along the way.

As our voyage comes to an end, reflect on the incredible variety of Norway’s coastline, from remote fishing villages and Arctic landscapes to deep fjords and lively harbor towns. After saying farewell to the crew and fellow travelers, you can continue exploring Bergen or venture farther into the fjords. Wherever your travels take you next, we hope the memories of Norway stay with you long after you step ashore.

Disembarkation: 2:45 PM

Please inquire about optional shore excursions, as activities vary by sailing season and are subject to availability. Optional activities are available on the following days:

Day 2: Ålesund and Hjørundfjorden

Day 3: Trondheim

Day 4: Bodø

Day 5: Tromsø

Day 6: Honningsvåg

Day 7: Kirkenes

Day 8: Hammerfest

Day 9: Svolvær

Day 10: Brønnøysund

Day 11: Trondheim and Kristiansund