Follow the Northern Lights – Finland to Norway - 2027/2028

Welcome to Helsinki, Finland’s compact and design-forward capital on the Baltic Sea. Broad boulevards, neoclassical architecture and a strong maritime influence shape the city’s character, offering a calm and comfortable introduction to your Nordic journey. From the airport, make your own way to your centrally located hotel and settle in. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore the city centre or stroll along the waterfront before meeting your fellow travellers. This evening, meet your guide and fellow travellers before enjoying a welcome dinner at the hotel. Overnight in Helsinki.

After breakfast, we’ll start our journey north with a transfer to the city’s railway station for your train journey into Lapland. As the train departs Helsinki, the landscape gradually shifts from lakes, farmland and small towns to Arctic forest and open fells, offering a changing view of Finland’s scenery. You’ll arrive in Rovaniemi in the late afternoon and transfer to your centrally located hotel. The town sits on the edge of the Arctic, where forested landscapes and northern light define the pace of life. This could be your first opportunity to spot the Northern Lights, so make sure to look skyward this evening.

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a relaxed morning at leisure before departing for one of today’s highlights – a husky safari in the forests of Finnish Lapland. This “Born to Run” experience includes a guided husky cart or sleigh ride, depending on the snow conditions. At the kennels, learn how the enthusiastic dogs are trained and conditioned to become the remarkable Arctic athletes they are. Gain insight into their care and preparation before setting out along the trail. For animal welfare reasons, husky carts are used when the snow conditions are unfavourable. When there is sufficient snow, the programme changes to a safari by sled. This is not a self-driving experience, allowing you to focus on the scenery and the energy of the dogs as they move through the landscape. A simple soup lunch is included, followed by time to mingle with the dogs. The remainder of the afternoon and evening are at leisure, with optional excursions available locally or time to relax at your hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and meet your long-distance coach for the journey north. A short drive brings you to the Santa Claus Village, located directly on the Arctic Circle. You’ll have time to explore this well-known landmark at your own pace – cross the Arctic Circle line, browse the shops or simply take in the atmosphere. Lunch is at your own arrangement. Continuing north towards Saariselkä, we pause in Sodankylä for a brief stop to view the town’s historic Old Church, a simple wooden structure reflecting Lapland’s rural heritage. By late afternoon, arrive at the Northern Lights Village on the outskirts of Saariselkä. Here, you’ll spend the night in a private Aurora Cabin or Glass Igloo, designed to offer uninterrupted views of the night sky away from light pollution. Dinner is served in the hotel restaurant. In the evening, enjoy a reindeer safari hosted by local Sámi guides. Visit the reindeer farm, learn about traditional herding culture and gather inside a wooden kota around the fire for hot berry juice and smoked reindeer meat. If the conditions are right, you can step outside to look for the Northern Lights overhead. Overnight in an Aurora Cabin or Glass Igloo.

Today we depart Saariselkä and continue north through Finnish Lapland. After around an hour, we arrive in the small township of Inari, where entrance is included to the SIIDA Museum, the national museum of the Sámi in Finland. Here, exhibitions present the spiritual and material culture of the Sámi people and explore the relationship between community, identity and the Arctic environment. Lunch is included during the visit. Later, we continue north, crossing the border into Norway before arriving in Kirkenes. At the Snowhotel Kirkenes, enjoy a short tour of the property, which is home to resident reindeer and a husky farm. Entrance and a drink are included. You may choose to join the included King Crab Experience, beginning with an expert presentation at the pier before enjoying a freshly prepared king crab tasting. Dinner is served in the farmhouse restaurant, Låven. You’ll overnight in a traditional Gamme Cabin, inspired by hunting and fishing huts typical of the Lapland wilderness. Optional Northern Lights excursions may be available in the evening.

After breakfast at the hotel, the morning is at leisure. Later, transfer by coach to the Hurtigruten pier in Kirkenes for check-in and embarkation procedures. Your voyage on board the Coastal Express begins here in Arctic Norway. Shortly after departure, we call at Vardø, home to the distinctive star-shaped Vardøhus Fortress, built in 1737 and still in military use today. Weather permitting, the hardy may even consider a brief dip in the icy Arctic Ocean. Continuing along Norway’s northern coastline, we arrive in Båtsfjord in the evening before sailing onward to Berlevåg. Along the way, you may glimpse Mount Tanahorn rising to the west or see Kjølnes Lighthouse blinking atop the cliffs above the Barents Sea. These remote fishing communities are also known for their celebrated male choir, formed by local fishermen. Dinner is served on board.

During the night, we call at Mehamn, where there is the option to join a snowmobile excursion into the Arctic wilderness. This guided adventure takes you across open snowy plains and through quiet valleys under the vast northern sky. With crisp winter air and minimal light pollution, it can be an excellent opportunity to search for the Northern Lights. As morning breaks, we continue along Norway’s far northern coastline, calling at ports including Honningsvåg and Hammerfest. In Hammerfest, you may wish to visit the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, erected in 1854 to commemorate the first precise measurement of the Earth’s meridian arc – a landmark in scientific history. Throughout the day, the ship threads between islands and exposed headlands, revealing the scale of this remote region. Late in the evening, we arrive in Tromsø. An optional Northern Lights concert may offer a memorable end to the day, combining Arctic atmosphere with local culture.

This morning, we arrive in Harstad. Here, you may choose to join the optional excursion A Taste of Vesterålen, exploring local history, coastal landscapes and cultural heritage sites that define this northern region. Those remaining on board experience our passage through Risøyrenna, a shallow channel constructed in the 1920s specifically for Hurtigruten, allowing safe navigation through these waters. As we continue south, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. We sail through the island chains of Vesterålen and Lofoten, where steep mountains rise sharply from the sea and fishing villages cluster along sheltered harbours. After a brief call at Risøyhamn, we arrive in Stokmarknes, the 19th century birthplace of Hurtigruten. Further south, it may appear as though we are heading directly towards a mountain wall, but soon we enter the narrow Raftsund. Weather and conditions permitting, we detour into Trollfjord, where sheer cliffs rise almost vertically from the water, creating one of the voyage’s most memorable moments.

Just after breakfast, we cross the Arctic Circle, marking our exit from Arctic Norway to the mainland regions further south. The moment is traditionally celebrated on board, often with a spoonful of cod liver oil – a light-hearted rite of passage for those on deck. Sailing along the Helgeland coast, you’ll soon spot Torghatten, the distinctive mountain known for the natural hole through its centre. Local legend offers an explanation for this unusual formation, and your Expedition Team will be happy to share the story. Further south, we pass the Seven Sisters mountain range. According to folklore, seven troll sisters were caught by the sunrise and turned to stone, forming the peaks that rise dramatically from the coastline. Although we are now south of the Arctic Circle, winter skies can still offer opportunities to see the Northern Lights, should conditions allow.

Today, we arrive in Trondheim, offering time to explore Norway’s former capital at your own pace. Visit Nidaros Cathedral, built over the burial site of King Olav II, who reigned from 1015 to 1028. Its Gothic façade and intricate stonework make it one of Scandinavia’s most significant religious landmarks. Wander through the Bakklandet district, where colourful wooden warehouses now house cafés and small shops. You may wish to pause for coffee and a Nordic pastry before walking up to Kristiansten Fortress for views across Norway’s third-largest city and its surrounding fjord. As we continue south, the coastline reveals how closely Norway’s communities are tied to the sea. In Kristiansund, long known as Norway’s “dried cod capital,” fishing traditions remain central to local life. An optional excursion to the Bergtatt marble mine offers a contrasting experience, taking you deep inside a mountain and across an illuminated underground lake before a meal is served in the mine’s impressive hall.

During the night, we call at Ålesund, Torvik and Måløy as our sea voyage gradually draws to a close. Before docking in Bergen, there is still striking scenery to experience, including Nordfjord beneath the vast Jostedal Glacier. South of Florø, we cross the mouth of the Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, taking in views of the island-dotted coastline. In the early afternoon, we arrive in Bergen, marking the end of your Coastal Express journey. After breakfast on board and disembarkation, meet your private coach and English-speaking local guide for a city sightseeing tour. Explore the UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, with its colourful wooden warehouses reflecting Bergen’s Hanseatic heritage. Continue to St Mary’s Church and Håkon’s Hall, reminders of the city’s medieval importance. Your city tour concludes with a return journey on the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen, where wide views stretch across the harbour and surrounding mountains. You’ll then be brought back to your hotel where dinner is by your own arrangement.

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to Bergen railway station for the start of today’s Norwegian fjord journey. Your luggage will be forwarded to your hotel in Oslo, allowing you to travel comfortably with a small day bag. Travel by train from Bergen to Voss, where you change to a coach. The journey continues through a valley landscape shaped by rivers and cascading waterfalls as you make your way to Gudvangen. In Gudvangen, board a ferry for a fjord cruise along the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, one of the narrowest arms of the Sognefjord. Sheer mountain walls rise from the water, waterfalls thread down the rock face and small farms cling to the slopes, offering a sense of scale that is distinctly Norwegian. On arrival in Flåm, walk to your hotel and check in. Dinner is included at the hotel restaurant this evening.

This morning you’ll board the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s most renowned rail journeys. The ascent from the fjord to the mountain station of Myrdal reveals waterfalls, steep valley walls and sweeping views as the train climbs through dramatic terrain. At Myrdal, change trains and continue onward to Oslo. As the journey progresses, the landscape gradually shifts from mountain scenery to farmland, forests and small towns as you approach the capital. On arrival in Oslo in the afternoon, walk to your hotel and check in. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure, with lunch at your own arrangement. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner at the hotel restaurant, marking the conclusion of your journey through Finland and Norway.

After breakfast at the hotel, your escorted tour comes to an end. Departure transfers are not included, and you will make your own way to the airport according to your onward travel arrangements. If your schedule allows, you may wish to spend a little more time exploring Oslo before departing. A walk along the waterfront promenade offers views across the Oslofjord, while the Opera House invites you to step onto its sloping roof for a final panorama of city and sea. Art enthusiasts might consider a visit to the Munch Museum or the National Museum, home to a wide collection of Norwegian and international works. For a quieter moment, stroll through the Royal Palace gardens or along Karl Johans gate, the capital’s main boulevard. From Arctic wilderness and coastal voyages to fjord landscapes and Nordic capitals, your journey now draws to a close. We wish you a safe onward journey.

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 121.8 m

Passenger Capacity: 577

Built/Refurbished: 1993/2016/2023

MS Kong Harald is a tribute to Norway’s reigning monarch and his lifelong love of the sea. Named after King Harald V, a three-time Olympic sailor, this hybrid-powered ship offers both tradition and innovation. Refitted with advanced green technology in 2023, it now features battery packs and efficient engines that reduce emissions by up to 25%, alongside modern Arctic-inspired interiors that reflect Norway’s natural elegance.

Life aboard is warm and inviting, embracing the Norwegian spirit of koselig. You’ll find three restaurants, a bakery and ice cream bar, panoramic lounges, two outdoor hot tubs, a fitness room, sauna, and the Explorer Bar for relaxing with a view. The Expedition Team offers fascinating insights and guided excursions along the Norwegian coast. With its cosy cabins, eco-conscious upgrades, and maritime charm, MS Kong Harald blends sustainability, comfort, and cultural discovery.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 123.3 m

Passenger Capacity: 473

Built/Refurbished: 1996/2016/2022

MS Nordkapp, named after Norway’s iconic North Cape, has been a proud part of the Hurtigruten fleet since 1996 and was refurbished in 2016 with a sleek Arctic-inspired design. The ship features three distinct restaurants serving local Norwegian cuisine, a cosy bakery, a panoramic Explorer Lounge & Bar, a sauna and fitness room, and two outdoor hot tubs with stunning coastal views. With a warm, Nordic atmosphere, MS Nordkapp offers a relaxed and immersive way to experience the dramatic Norwegian coast.

The ship accommodates up to 473 guests in a variety of cabin types, from comfortable outside cabins to spacious expedition suites. Guests are accompanied by an expert Expedition Team offering lectures, excursions, and guided hikes that bring Norway’s nature, culture, and history to life. Whether you're enjoying fresh waffles at Multe or sipping cocktails as the Northern Lights dance above, MS Nordkapp is designed for a memorable, meaningful journey along one of the world’s most scenic coastlines.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 121.8 m

Passenger Capacity: 505

Built/Refurbished: 1994/2019/2024

MS Nordlys, named after the ethereal Northern Lights, embodies the magic of Norway’s Arctic skies with its vibrant, aurora-inspired art, décor, and colors, refreshed during renovations in 2019 and 2024. Accommodating 505 guests in cabins (590 including deck space), this modern Hurtigruten ship offers a cozy yet stylish ambiance with panoramic lounges, a large outdoor sun deck, and two hot tubs perfect for soaking in the breathtaking coastal scenery. Guests can unwind in comfy reclining chairs, stay active in the fitness room, or relax in the sauna, all while enjoying free Wi-Fi and a welcoming compass area with reception, shop, and Expedition Team facilities.

The onboard experience is enriched by the Expedition Team, who share their expertise on Norway’s culture, nature, and history through engaging lectures and guided hikes. Dining aboard MS Nordlys celebrates Hurtigruten’s Norway’s Coastal Kitchen, featuring locally sourced ingredients across three distinct venues: Torget, the main restaurant with buffet and set-menu options; Kysten, offering exquisite à la carte dining; and Brygga, a casual bistro serving Nordic-inspired dishes. The Multe bakery delights with fresh pastries and cloudberry-topped waffles. Currently replaced by MS Vesterålen until June 3, 2025, MS Nordlys promises an unforgettable journey through Norway’s iconic fjords and mountains.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 123.3 m

Passenger Capacity: 452

Built/Refirbished: 1997/2016/2022

Named for the rugged and captivating northern Norway, much of which lies above the Arctic Circle, MS Nordnorge offers a modern yet cozy retreat with its Arctic-inspired interiors, fully renovated in 2016. Accommodating 452 guests in cabins (590 including deck space), the ship features a spacious compass area with a reception, tour guide, conference room, and shop, alongside two outdoor hot tubs and a panoramic lounge perfect for soaking in Norway’s dramatic coastal vistas. Its claim to fame includes a 2011 Guinness World Record for the longest uninterrupted live TV documentary, broadcasting a 134-hour voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes.

MS Nordnorge delivers an immersive coastal experience with its Expedition Team, who share insights on Norway’s culture, nature, and history through engaging lectures and guided hikes. Dining celebrates Hurtigruten’s Norway’s Coastal Kitchen, sourcing local ingredients for three unique venues: Torget, offering buffet and set-menu dining; Kysten, an elegant à la carte restaurant; and Brygga, a casual bistro with Nordic flair. The Multe bakery serves fresh pastries and cloudberry-topped waffles, while the Explorer Lounge & Bar invites guests to relax with cocktails and stunning views. With amenities like a sauna, fitness room, and free Wi-Fi, MS Nordnorge ensures a memorable journey through Norway’s Arctic wonders.

Vessel Type: Espedition Ship

Length: 123 m

Passenger Capacity: 507

Built/Refurbished: 1996/2016/2023

Named after the mesmerizing "polar light" of the Aurora Borealis, MS Polarlys captures the essence of Norway’s Arctic allure with its modern, Arctic-inspired interiors, refurbished in 2016. This Hurtigruten vessel, accommodating 507 guests in cabins (650 including deck space), offers an inviting atmosphere with panoramic lounges, a sun deck, and two outdoor hot tubs perfect for soaking in the stunning coastal views. Equipped with a sauna, fitness room, and a compass area housing the reception, Expedition Team, and conference facilities, MS Polarlys ensures a comfortable and engaging journey along Norway’s iconic coastline.

The onboard experience aboard MS Polarlys is enriched by the Expedition Team, who deliver lectures and lead hikes to deepen guests’ understanding of Norway’s culture, nature, and history. Dining reflects Hurtigruten’s Norway’s Coastal Kitchen, featuring local ingredients in three distinct venues: Torget, the main restaurant with buffet and set-menu options; Kysten, an elegant à la carte dining experience; and Brygga, a casual bistro serving Nordic-inspired dishes. The Multe bakery delights with fresh pastries and cloudberry-topped waffles. Whether sailing on a roundtrip voyage or chasing the Northern Lights, MS Polarlys offers a cozy, immersive adventure steeped in Arctic wonder.

Vessel Type: Expedition Hybrid Ship

Length: 121.8 m

Passenger Capacity: 492

Built/Refurbished: 1993/2018/2023

Named after Captain Richard With, the founder of the Norwegian Coastal Express in 1893, MS Richard With embodies Hurtigruten’s storied heritage while embracing modern sustainability. Upgraded in 2022 to a greener hybrid ship, it features advanced battery packs and efficient engines that reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by approximately 25%, alongside state-of-the-art navigation, wastewater treatment, and SRC technology that cuts NOx emissions by at least 80%. With a cabin capacity of 492 guests (590 including deck space), the ship offers a cozy, contemporary ambiance with elegant Nordic design, highlighted by beautiful art throughout and panoramic lounges showcasing Norway’s breathtaking coastal scenery.

Onboard, MS Richard With provides a rich, immersive experience with a focus on Norway’s culture, nature, and history. The Expedition Team enhances voyages with insightful lectures and guided hikes, while the Norway’s Coastal Kitchen concept brings local flavors to life across three distinct dining venues: Torget, offering buffet and set-menu meals; Kysten, an à la carte fine-dining experience; and Brygga, a casual bistro with Nordic-inspired dishes. Guests can relax in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, unwind in outdoor hot tubs, or stay active in the fitness room and sauna. From roundtrip coastal journeys to northbound and southbound routes, MS Richard With delivers a perfect blend of tradition, comfort, and eco-conscious exploration.

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 108.55 m

Passenger Capacity: 274

Built/Refurbished: 1983/2019/2022

MS Vesterålen, one of the smallest and most storied ships in the Hurtigruten fleet, offers a unique blend of tradition and modern comfort along Norway’s stunning coastline. Named after the picturesque Vesterålen archipelago and the first Coastal Express steamship from 1893, this traditional vessel carries a rich maritime heritage. Freshly refurbished in 2019 and 2022, MS Vesterålen features bright, informal public areas, upgraded Arctic Superior cabins, mini suites, and modernized amenities including a revamped restaurant, café, gym, and the scenic Fyret Panorama Lounge on deck 7. With a capacity for 274 guests in cabins (490 including deck space), the ship provides an intimate experience, emphasizing Hurtigruten’s commitment to authentic coastal exploration.

Life on board MS Vesterålen is designed to immerse guests in Norway’s culture, nature, and maritime operations through an engaging "behind the scenes" focus. Passengers can enjoy educational lectures in English and German, handpicked hikes, and insights from the onboard Tour Leader about the region’s wildlife and heritage. The ship’s Norway’s Coastal Kitchen highlights local flavors, sourcing ingredients from 50 Norwegian farms and producers, served in The Restaurant with a mix of buffets and set menus, or at Kafé Galleriet on deck 4, offering traditional dishes like the signature shrimp sandwich. From iconic roundtrip voyages to northbound and southbound journeys, MS Vesterålen delivers a memorable adventure steeped in Norwegian tradition and breathtaking scenery.