The Cool Factor: Sailing Norway’s Coastal Express With Hurtigruten

MS Nordnorge sailing Norway’s fjords on the Hurtigruten Coastal Express—the most authentic way to experience a Norway fjord cruise.

Hurtigruten’s Classic Coastal Express is the definition of cool. Not trendy cool, but elemental cool.

The northbound route is a greatest-hits reel of Norway’s coastline:

• Bergen, historic and charming colorful wharf

• Ålesund, an Art Nouveau beauty

• Bodø, home of the world’s strongest tidal maelstrom

• Trondheim, juxtaposition of medieval and modern

• Tromsø, the Arctic capital

• Kirkenes, dramatic World War II history

Departing from Bergen, the gateway to Norway’s fjords and the starting point for the iconic Hurtigruten Coastal Express route.

Tromsø at golden hour—the Arctic capital and prime location for Northern Lights viewing on a winter Hurtigruten cruise.

The ship & staff

MS Nordnorge itself is quietly comfortable: an Arctic-inspired interior, an Explorer Lounge wrapped in windows, deck-top hot tubs, a sauna, and smart, cozy cabins that make great use of space.

The onboard Coastal Experience team brings depth and context to what you’re seeing, with short lectures, wildlife talks, ceremonies like the Article Circle crossing. It feels more like traveling with naturalists and historians than with cruise staff. There is no true industry term for this kind of travel because it’s singularly unique, but I describe it as “expedition light.”

Arctic-inspired cabin aboard MS Nordnorge—cozy, efficient, and designed for scenic viewing on a classic Norway fjord cruise.

Food

Food is a highlight, especially if you love seafood. Hurtigruten sources ingredients from the communities along the route, and you’ll taste the difference—cod, king crab, local cheeses, and cloudberry waffles that should honestly count as an edible excursion of their own.

Sea-to-table dining on Hurtigruten’s Coastal Kitchen—local seafood and Arctic ingredients that set Norway coastal cruises apart.

Accessibility

Accessibility is another win. The ship offers dedicated accessible cabins on Deck 3 with wider entryways, roll-in showers, and even a medical bed with a safety rail—rare for a vessel of this size.

It’s clear Hurtigruten designed the space to make the journey genuinely comfortable, not just theoretically accessible.

Fully accessible cabin on Deck 3 of MS Nordnorge, featuring widened entryways, a roll-in shower, and a medical bed with safety rails for travelers who need added support.

Who should take this trip?

Travelers who prefer landscapes over luxury, culture over crowds, and texture over tourism. If you want to experience the real Norway, this journey delivers.

Sami reindeer excursion in Northern Norway, where you can meet a local herder and learn about the Indigenous culture that has shaped this region for centuries.

• A mix of self-exploration and 1–2 excursions gives you the best balance (on a 7-day journey).

• Pack layers no matter the season—Norwegian weather does what it wants.

• Northbound vs. southbound matters—light conditions, port timing, and overall vibe.

• The “best” cabin depends on how you spend time on the ship, not just budget. (Ask me!)

• Winter sailings are ideal for northern lights. Summer is for midnight sun.

• Extend your voyage with a rail journey, a whale-watching trip, and just the right hotels if you want the total Norway experience.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Norway page.