FAQs
Everything you and your clients need to know about travelling on a Hurtigruten voyage.

Popular questions
discounts
Does Hurtigruten offer departures with no single supplement, so I can better assist my solo clients?
Our prices are based on double occupancy. However, to help your solo clients save, we frequently offer no single supplement on select voyages. This allows them to enjoy a private cabin at the same per person rate as those travelling in pairs. When searching for voyages, simply set the number of passengers to “1” to view eligible sailings.
pricing
How much is the deposit required to hold/confirm a booking?
We can hold a booking for 7 days with an initial non-refundable 25% payment if booking more than 90 days before departure. Any departures less than 90 days from the time of booking, will require a full payment.
payments
What happens if either I or my client fails to pay the remaining balance on time?
Our team will always remind you via email if there is an overdue payment prior to us cancelling the voyage. If the payment remains overdue it will be subject to cancellation.
General Questions
You may see a higher price than the listed “from price” because it’s based on double occupancy for the lowest cabin category across all departure dates, and factors like single occupancy, selecting a different date, or sold-out cabins can affect your final price; due to dynamic pricing, availability and pricing updates may be delayed, so searching alternate dates can help find the best rates.
You can pay online or call us to pay by phone. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, American Express, UnionPay, and JCB. Some banks may charge a foreign transaction fee; check with your provider, as Hurtigruten does not receive any part of this fee. Payments via bank transfer are also accepted (details on your invoice), but we do not accept checks.
You don’t need a PIN to pay by credit card online or by phone, but your bank may send a confirmation code to your mobile. Be ready with your card type, number, expiration date, and CVV.
Bookings can be held for 7 days with a non-refundable 25% deposit if departure is more than 90 days away. Full payment is required for bookings made within 90 days of departure. Final balances are due 90 days before departure. You may pay using two different cards via the ‘Make a Payment’ page.
Unfortunately, the final payment date cannot be extended. Once booked, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your reference number, which is needed for deposit payments. Hurtigruten does not process automatic payments, but a unique payment link will be provided for any outstanding balance.
Yes, travel agents with a valid agreement with Hurtigruten can access discounted fares. These are available 60 days before departure for summer sailings and 120 days for winter sailings.
To redeem an offer not available online, contact us.
To apply the 1893 Ambassador discount, enter your client’s Ambassador number when booking. The discount will appear in the shopping basket and on the final invoice, but not on the fares and availability page. Learn more about the Ambassador Loyalty Programme.
All ships have elevators and at least one accessible cabin. Accessible cabins must be requested at booking.
Transfers for wheelchair users must be arranged in advance.
Please note that onboard assistance is not provided.
Yes. Either you or your client can book excursions online, through our Customer Service Center, or onboard.
Booking early is strongly recommended for Svalbard and North Cape Lines. All are subject to weather, sea conditions, and participant minimums.
Additionally, pre/post programmes are offered for the Original Coastal Express and Signature voyages. Book through Customer Service.
Yes. Safety briefings are mandatory and take place either in port or onboard depending on the embarkation point.
Cruise preparation
Do clients need a passport to travel to Norway?
Yes. A valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the voyage’s end is required for boarding and disembarkation.
Are visas required?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Travel agents should advise clients to check with embassies or consulates of countries visited or transited.
What is the new UK ETA requirement?
All non-UK citizens (including those transiting through the UK) must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). More info at the UK Government’s official ETA site.
Are there health or vaccination requirements?
No mandatory vaccinations are currently required to enter Norway. Clients should check with the Norwegian Institute for Public Health and their doctor, especially regarding DVT precautions.
While packing varies by season, some essentials include warm, layered clothing, waterproof outerwear, sturdy walking shoes, swimwear, sun protection, and personal medications.
Warm layers and waterproof jacket and pants
Sturdy, comfortable, and worn-in walking shoes or boots
Casual shoes to use on board
Extra pair of cotton shoes for on shore excursions like snowmobiling
Hat, gloves, and scarf (especially in winter)
Casual attire (no formalwear needed)
Swimwear for sauna or hot tub
Sun protection (e.g., sunscreen, sun hat, and sunglasses) and lip balm
Personal medications and health insurance
Passport and printed travel documents
Swimwear for hot tubs or saunas
For hiking excursions, guests should wear comfortable, broken-in walking shoes, layered clothing, waterproof jacket with hood, and a small backpack. Poles and seasonal equipment will be provided.
In case clients forget something, there is an onboard shop with seasonal gear, toiletries, knitwear, and local gifts.
For the safety of all guests and in compliance with ISPS (International Ship and Port Security) regulations, all luggage is screened upon arrival and hand baggage may be scanned at each port. A range of items are strictly prohibited and will be confiscated if found. This includes, but is not limited to:
Weapons and replicas: Firearms, starter pistols, spear guns, air guns, ammunition, realistic imitations, knives or scissors with blades over 7 cm, throwing stars, daggers, axes, and martial arts weapons.
Explosives and flammable substances: Fireworks, gunpowder, lighter fluid, paints, and chemicals.
Illegal or incapacitating substances: Narcotics, stun guns, mace, tear gas, phosphorus, and poisons.
Heating or electrical hazards: Candles, incense, immersion heaters, heating blankets, large batteries, and personal appliances with exposed heating elements.
Restricted devices: Drones, hoverboards, Segways, recreational scooters, remote-controlled flying devices, satellite phones, signal jammers, laser pointers, and ham radios.
Other restricted items: Compressed gas tanks (e.g., dive or propane tanks), EPIRBs, and restraining devices like handcuffs or leg straps.
This list is not exhaustive, and the Ship Security Officer or Captain reserves the right to confiscate or deny any item deemed unsafe or inappropriate. For a safe and smooth embarkation, please review packing guidelines in advance and advise clients accordingly.
Flights
Yes, you can easily book flights through us. When using our agent portal, simply add outbound and return flights by selecting the Arrival and Departure Packages during the booking process.
Clients all receive their flight tickets electronically. They are included in your client’s travel documents. Encourage clients to check in via the airline’s website 24 to 48 hours prior to departure and present their passport or national ID at the airport check-in desk to receive their boarding pass.
If your client wishes to skip any flight segments, contact us first to avoid full cancellation of the ticket due to airline sequencing rules. If your client’s airline shows their booking as “stand-by,” be aware that we do not issue stand-by tickets, and your client has the right to a confirmed seat. Airlines are made aware the guest must arrive in time for a cruise departure.
Will I be notified of flight or booking changes? Yes. We will contact you directly by phone or email. For last-minute changes, our emergency team will reach out to your client using their emergency contact details.
What if my client’s outbound or connecting flight is delayed? Advise them to proceed to the airport and board their flight as planned. If they miss a connection, the airline’s service desk can assist with rebooking. Clients should ensure they arrive at the airport closest to the departure port at least 90 minutes before the ship’s departure. If delays threaten embarkation, contact us immediately.
What if their flight is canceled in advance? Clients should check their airline booking using the airline’s reference (found on their travel documents). They may already be rebooked. If no rebooking has occurred or the new flight arrives too late, contact us so we can assist.
What if a client misses their transfer due to a delayed flight? Clients should check the transfer schedule and take the next available shuttle. If no suitable options remain, they should take a taxi. If they still cannot arrive on time, please contact us.
They must report missing luggage at the airport and register all accommodations (including the ship and hotels) to assist delivery. A PIR (Property Irregularity Report) receipt should be obtained and brought onboard if luggage hasn't arrived. Our team will assist with delivery and help source essential items. Medications should be kept in carry-on luggage. All receipts should be saved for reimbursement claims with the airline.
Life & Cabins on board
Influence of nature and wildlife: Sailing along the Norwegian coast means embracing the unpredictability of nature. Weather conditions may cause last minute changes to the itinerary or cancellation of excursions to prioritize guest safety. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed as they depend on the season, migration patterns, and chance, which makes every encounter even more special.
Private en suite bathroom is provided with every cabin
Solo travelers also get private cabins with en suite bathrooms
Amenities in common areas: Lounges, restaurants that local Norwegian cuisine, and panoramic decks for scenic views
Cabin amenities: Vary by category and are listed during the booking process. You can also find detailed information on each ship's page.
Complimentary Wi-Fi comes with Select fare and is on all Signature Line voyages. Basic fare guests can access Wi-Fi by registering for the FREE 1893 Ambassador Loyalty Program.
Dress code: Comfortable and casual. No formalwear is required.
Gratuities are not required. Guests may leave tips in designated boxes or envelopes if they choose.
Plugs: European 220V two-pin (Continental) sockets. Guests should bring their own adapters.
For clients prone to seasickness: Midship cabins on lower decks with windows is recommended for better stability. All ships have stabilizers for smoother sailing, but still may sway when winds and waves are high.
Upgrade options onboard: Occasionally upgrades may be offered for sale on board the ship if cabins are available, please speak to reception on board or during the check-in process. We recommend booking the cabin type you want when you make your initial booking as upgrades may not always be available.
Allergies or dietary requirements: Please let us know about any allergies or special diets when booking. We offer plant-based meals and can cater to most dietary needs with advance notice.
Currency and payment methods accepted: Onboard currency is Norwegian Kroner (NOK). Visa and MasterCard are accepted. Guests use a cruise card to settle their account at the end of the voyage.
Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas when not docked. No indoor or in-cabin smoking.
Views by cabin type:
Polar Inside: No window
Polar Outside: Picture window (some categories like A and L may have portholes or limited views)
Arctic Superior: Picture window
Expedition Suites: Picture window; some also offer a balcony or bay window
Cabins with restricted views: QJ, AJ, J, L, and some USP cabins may have limited or obstructed views. Cabins with the letter J in the category code (QJ, AJ, J) have restricted views. Some midship cabins near lifeboats or on the outdoor walking deck may also have partial obstructions. L-grade cabins located at the front of the ship typically offer a tunnel view. Unspecified outside cabins (USP) may also have a limited view.
Cabin selection: Clients traveling the full route on Select fare may choose their cabin number for a fee. Basic fare includes a cabin assigned at check-in. Some cabins may have obstructed views, foot traffic outside the window, or experience noise during docking.
Self-service laundry rooms with washers, dryers, and irons are available. Tokens can be purchased onboard.
Dining and drinks (all times subject to change):
Torget: Main dining with buffet breakfast, à la carte lunch and dinner open 6pm-8:30pm
Brygga: Casual dining with salads, burgers, sandwiches open 12pm-9:30pm
Kysten: Fine Arctic dining (select ships) open 6pm-9pm
Multe: Café and bakery with waffles, ice cream, and pastries
Plant-based options are available for all meals.
Medical and health support: There is no doctor or pharmacy on board, but crew are trained in first aid and ships remain close to land for emergencies. Guests must have travel and health insurance, and bring enough medication for possible delays. Passengers should keep their medication in their carryon with clear labels. Norwegian pharmacies require paper prescriptions with a doctor's signature. Please wash or sanitize hands often, especially before meals. Sanitizer is provided throughout the ship. Our air systems circulate fresh, non-recycled air.
Guests can bring vehicles on board at any port except for our seasonal stops in Geirangerfjord in summer and Hjørundfjord in fall, because we don’t dock in these two locations.
All-Inclusive: Signature Voyages include meals, select drinks, daily snacks, coffee and tea, and onboard programming
Dining and drinks:
Flora: All-day dining
Brasserie Árran: Sámi-inspired cuisine
Røst: Fine dining (suite guests only; extra charge for others)
1893 Bar: Snacks and drinks
Cabin selection: Clients can select cabins on full voyages only. Half voyages receive assigned cabins; some may have restricted views or be near external walkways or loading areas.
Infants and children must share a bed or have a pre-booked crib (fee applies), and must be booked by phone because not all cabins are suitable.
Support of dietary needs and allergy restrictions: Please make note any allergies or dietary restrictions during booking. Plant-based and allergy-conscious options available
Medical and health support: There is no doctor or pharmacy on board, but a nurse is available, and the ship stays close to land in case of emergencies. Guests must have travel and health insurance, and bring enough medication for possible delays. Passengers should keep their medication in their carryon with clear labels. Norwegian pharmacies require paper prescriptions with a doctor's signature. Please wash or sanitize hands often, especially before meals. Sanitizer is provided throughout the ship. Our air systems circulate fresh, non-recycled air.
Languages Spoken: English, Norwegian, some German/French
Sustainability practices on board: Plastic use is minimized, waste is sorted for recycling, and guests are encouraged to conserve energy and respect wildlife.
Pets: Guests may travel with a pet by booking their ticket through our Customer Service Center and noting that a pet will be accompanying them. Additional fees apply.
Arrivals, departures, and transfers
Boarding and departure
General boarding: All guests must be on board at least 15 minutes before departure from all ports.
Bergen only: Guests must arrive no later than 30 minutes before departure. Check-in starts at 3:30pm, and cabins are available from 6:00pm.
Safety briefing: All guests must attend a mandatory safety briefing in the Guest Lounge Lecture Hall after check-in.
Final boarding in Bergen: Arrive by 8:00pm for an 8:30pm departure.
Luggage drop: Available between 1:00pm and 2:30pm at the terminal.
Exploring Ports
Guests are free to explore ports at their leisure, but must return on time.
Even if arrival is delayed, the ship may still depart on schedule.
Departure times are always posted at the gangway.
The ship cannot wait for late passengers. Missed departures require arranging your own transportation to the next port.
Transfer information by port
Bergen
Terminal address: Nøstegaten 30, 5010 Bergen
Open: 1pm–8pm on departure days
Flybussen airport transfers stop near many city center hotels. Hotel-specific stop details are included in travel documents.
From the railway station: The Hurtigruten bus meets guests outside the station archway 20 minutes after train arrival (do not go to the central bus station).
To the railway station: Pick-up is 45 minutes before train departure.
Luggage lockers: Available on the first floor of the terminal.
Tromsø
Port address: Tromsø Havn, Samuel Arnesensgt. 5 – Prostneset
Bussring airport shuttle stops at major hotels and near the terminal. Closest terminal stop: Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum (450 ft walk).
Hotel stops include Radisson Blu, Clarion The Edge, Scandic Ishavshotel, and Thon Hotel Tromsø.
Wheelchair users: Please pre-book and provide details; Bussring can accommodate but must be notified in advance.
Kirkenes
Port address: Kaiv. 4, 9900 Kirkenes
Transfers: Use only the Barents Buss (the official Flybuss). Two companies operate in Kirkenes, so this is important.
From airport to ship/hotel: Barents Buss runs transfers timed with SAS and Norwegian flights.
From hotel to ship: Stops at Thon and Scandic Hotels between 11:50am–12:15pm, then to the port.
From ship to airport/hotel: Bus departs at 9am, stops at hotels first, then airport.
No luggage storage at port—carry all belongings with you.
Snowhotel/Gamme Cabins: Refer to your itinerary for specific transfer instructions.
Wheelchair users: Barents Buss can accommodate foldable wheelchairs. Other types should pre-book taxis with Taxi Kirkenes.
Trondheim
Port address: Pir 1 nr. 7 (HR-kaien)
No Hurtigruten transfers available. Use taxis, the Værness Express bus, or local R70 trains (credit card accepted).
Oslo
Transfers: Pre-booked guests use Flytoget Airport Express Train only (FLY1 or FLY2).
From the airport: Follow signs to Flytoget, scan QR code received by email. Trains depart every 10 minutes from platform 3.
To the airport: Trains leave Oslo Central Station from platforms 13 or 14.
QR codes are valid for all passengers in the same booking and can be scanned on mobile or printed.
Additional Transfer Notes
Wheelchair users: Transfers in Bergen, Tromsø, and Kirkenes can accommodate wheelchairs if pre-booked. Provide details about wheelchair type and dimensions.
Transfers do not stop directly in front of hotels, so some walking may be required.
Private transfers can be arranged at an additional cost; please contact our customer service team.
Emergency assistance: If needed, call our 24-hour line: +1 888 970 6509
General guidelines
Arrival time for all ports: Guests must be on board at least 15 minutes before departure
Bergen embarkation: Arrive at terminal 30 minutes prior to departure
Departure punctuality:
Ships may depart on time even if arrival was delayed
Departure time is posted at the gangway
The ship cannot wait for late passengers
Missed departures require guests to make independent travel arrangements
Embarkation details by port
Bergen:
Terminal address: Jektevik Terminal, Nøstegaten 30, 5010 Bergen
Terminal hours for the Svalbard Line: 1pm–8pm; luggage drop from 1pm–2:30pm
Check-in for the North Cape Line: 10:30am–2pm
Ship access: From 12pm; cabins ready at 3pm
Safety briefing: Mandatory in Guest Lounge
Departure time for the North Cape Line: 2:30pm
Transfers:
Airport to terminal: Flybussen shuttle (voucher required).
Hotel pickup for the North Cape Line: Based on deck number; final timing confirmed at hotel hospitality desk
Welcome desks for the Svalbard Line:
Home Hotel Bryggen: 5pm–7pm
Clarion Admiral Hotel: 7pm–9pm
Oslo:
Terminal address: Søndre Akershus Kai, Oslo
Check-in time: 12pm–5pm
Ship access: From 12pm; cabins ready at 3pm
Safety briefing: Mandatory and conducted on board before departure
Departure time: 6pm
Transfers:
Airport to city: Flytoget Airport Express Train (voucher required; FLY1 and FLY2 only)
Hotel: Clarion Hotel The Hub (hospitality desk 6pm–9pm)
Sightseeing tour: May be included pre-boarding
Tromsø:
Terminal address: Prostneset, Quay 8, Samuel Arnesens gate 3, 9008 Tromsø
Check-in time: 8am–5pm
Ship access: From 8am; cabins ready at 3pm
Safety briefing: Mandatory and conducted on board
Departure time: 6pm or 9pm (check itinerary)
Transfers:
Airport to Hotel/Terminal: Bussring shuttle; stop at Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum
Hotel Pickup for Port: From 12pm
Disembarkation details by port
Bergen:
Arrival time: 7am
Post-voyage transfers: To airport or hotels if pre-booked
Luggage storage: Available at terminal
Oslo:
Arrival time: 8am
Post-voyage transfers:
Flytoget train: QR code required (check travel documents)
Taxi: May be available outside terminal
Oslo Central Station: An almost 2,300-foot or 700-meter walk from Revierkaia
Tromsø:
Arrival time: 8am
Post-Voyage Transfer:
To hotel at 11am if booked
Or use Bussring airport shuttle and walk 427 feet or 130 meters to stop
Accessibility transfers
Wheelchair transfers available in Bergen, Tromsø, and Kirkenes (must be pre-booked)
Wheelchair bus requirements: Type, measurements, and special needs must be submitted
Flybussen and Bussring: Accept foldable wheelchairs
If you would like to print out the details for the North Cape Line portion, please click here for the PDF.