Hurtigruten Unveils More than 60 New Excursions
by Dori Saltzman /Snowmobiling to the North Cape. Photo: Hurtigruten Norway
Ahead of the official launch of the Svalbard Express and North Cape Express itineraries in 2023, Hurtigruten Norway is unveiling new excursions. The options comprise half- and full-day port tours, a first in the company’s nearly 130-year history. Travel advisors will receive a 5% commission when booking any of the excursions for their clients.
“Extended port visits will allow travelers to spend more time exploring both land and sea,” said Hedda Felin, Hurtigruten Norway’s CEO. “While the refurbished MS Trollfjord will service as a comfortable home base for guests with plenty to offer while onboard, these authentic, local excursions will allow guests to curate their own experience and develop an intimate connection with the destination.”
Svalbard Express (Summer)
The Svalbard Express is a revival of the line’s iconic Coastal Express, which ended more than 50 years ago. On average, guests will have six hours to explore 14 handpicked areas along Norway’s coast and Svalbard. In addition to optional excursions, the one-way journey (with both Northbound and Southbound options) includes two nights in Longyearbyen and two excursions: a wilderness evening at Camp Barentz and a day-cruise on the hybrid-electric catamaran MS Bard.
Highlights of the optional excursions include: fishing in Lofoten, hiking and birdwatching in Gjesvaerstapppan Nature Reserve, kayaking in Lofoten, sightseeing in Torghatten, a culture walk in Traena, and an arctic dip that invites participants to enjoy a sauna before jumping into the Norwegian Sea.
North Cape Express (Winter)
For the first time in its history, Hurtigruten will sail from Oslo with the North Cape Express. Sailings will take place during the Northern Lights season and explore nearly the entire length of Norway’s coastline.
On average guests will have an average of six hours in each of the 16 selected ports, fjords and islands.
Highlights of the optional excursions include: North Cape and king crab experience, dog sledding in Alta, whale watching, Arctic ice fishing, and snowmobiling to the North Cape.
