Arctic beginnings
Begin in Kirkenes, a northern outpost framed by vast skies and still waters. Here, silence and scale define the landscape – a world where light lingers and time seems to pause.
The Coastal Express – South
Kirkenes – Bergen
The southbound leg on our classic coastal voyage, exploring beautiful archipelagos & fjordlands
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See Norway’s most dramatic coastal highlights on this southbound sailing, past Arctic landscapes and remote islands
Sail from Kirkenes in Norway’s far north to Bergen. Explore Senja’s wilderness, Lofoten’s fishing villages, and the island maze of the Helgeland Coast. This voyage is perfect for nature lovers, offering authentic Norwegian experiences and more time in spectacular, remote areas.
Price from
2,118 AUDper person
Lowest rate - Sailing December 2026
6 days
Full board (breakfast, lunch, & dinner)
33 Stops
Regular departures
From the Arctic through Norway’s wild north
Sail through tiny Trollfjord and past the famed Torghatten mountain
Full-board dining with Norway's Coastal Kitchen
Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner made from the region's finest local ingredients
Comfortable cabins with private bathrooms
Choose from spacious suites to inside or outside cabin options
Up to 6 port calls each day
Short and long stops, offering a deeper look at coastal life
Enhance your voyage with optional seasonal excursions
Such as hiking, dogsledding, boat safaris, e-bike tours and cultural visits
Highlights of this voyage
Show full itinerary
Lofoten wonders
Sail beneath the jagged peaks of the Lofoten Wall, a dreamscape of sea and stone. Wander harbours lined with red rorbuer cabins and watch seabirds wheel above mirrored fjords.
Mighty Trollfjord
Enter the narrow Trollfjord, where sheer cliffs rise on either side and waterfalls plunge from mountain ledges – a moment of pure drama in Norway’s untamed, elemental heart.
Cross the Arctic Circle
Mark the moment you cross south from the Arctic with stories, ceremonies and the glow of coastal light shifting across sea and sky – a farewell to the polar world.
Helgeland Coast legends
Cruise past mythic peaks like the Seven Sisters and Torghatten’s hollow heart – landscapes woven with legend, glinting under the soft Nordic light that defines Norway’s southern shores.
Coastal flavours
Savour Norway’s coast through its cuisine – from Arctic char and king crab to freshly baked bread and creamy brunost (brown cheese). Each meal celebrates local ingredients shaped by sea, season, and tradition.
Bergen farewell
End your voyage amid Bergen’s colourful wharfs and mountain views – the sea’s gentle rhythm echoing the journey’s end, a fitting finale to Norway’s most storied and timeless coastal route.
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A different kind of cruise experience
We’ve been carrying visitors, locals and cargo along the Coastal Express route, steady as the tides since 1893. Our iconic postal ships call at 34 picturesque ports between Bergen and Kirkenes all year round – but it’s never just about the schedule. It’s about feeling the true pulse of everyday life along “The World’s Most Beautiful Voyage”.
On an Original voyage, you don’t just cruise Norway’s coast. You live it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between The Coastal Express northbound and southbound routes?
Both voyages visit 34 ports between Bergen and Kirkenes, but the experience differs depending on direction.
Northbound (Bergen to Kirkenes): This route is ideal if you want to see explore cities like Ålesund, Trondheim and Tromsø, or visit the famous fjords of Geirangerfjord or Hjørundfjord (season depending). You'll also enjoy a long stop in Honningsvåg, with optional excursions to the North Cape.
Southbound (Kirkenes to Bergen): This route is great for nature lovers, with opportunities to visit the enchanting Lofoten Islands, the legendary Torghatten mountain island, and magical Trollfjord. Optional excursions include a Sea Eagle safari and visit to the Hurtigruten Museum in Stokmarknes.
Which ships sail on The Coastal Express route?
Seven ships sail the Coastal Express route, and your ship will depend on your departure date. All offer similar facilities and experiences, though MS Vesterålen is smaller and offers a more classic, intimate feel.
What is the difference between sailing The Coastal Express in summer and winter?
The Coastal Express sails year-round, as it has done since 1893. Summer is the most popular season, with long days to explore under the Midnight Sun, while winter offers the chance to see the Northern Lights. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are quieter times to travel, with fewer crowds and spectacular seasonal colours along the coast.
Are all meals included?
Yes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included, and are served in the main restaurant, Torget. Tea, filter coffee and water are also available throughout the day. Additional food and drink packages - such as upgrades to include dining in Kysten - can be purchased online, by calling our Customer Service Centre, or when on board.
What activities are offered on board?
There is so much more to do on board than just watch the Norwegian coast sail by. Our Expedition Team run daily lectures, presentations, on-deck talks and evening gatherings tailored to the season. Expect around 10–15 lectures on topics such as history, wildlife, geology and the Northern Lights (in winter) or the Midnight Sun (in summer). You’ll also find a sauna on board (open daily 06:00–22:00 - not on MS Vesterålen) and outdoor hot tubs on certain ships (MS Nordnorge, MS Nordkapp, MS Polarlys and MS Richard With).
Which languages are spoken on board?
Norwegian and English are the official onboard languages. Some members of the Expedition Team, reception staff and service crew also speak German. On board MS Richard With, some of the Expedition Team also speak French. Most of our excursions are guided in two or three languages. Please contact the Expedition Team on board for further information.
Are shore excursions included in the price?
No, excursions are not included in the price of the voyage. These can be booked for an additional cost - either when you book your voyage, in the My Booking portal, or with the Expedition Team on board.
Can I book flights, hotels and transfers with Hurtigruten?
Yes. We have a variety of options available with flights, transfers and hotels. For peace of mind, when you book the whole package directly with Hurtigruten, you’ll have access to assistance 24/7 including while you are travelling. Find out more:
Is Wi-Fi available on board?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship - both in your cabin and in communal areas.
Is the cruise suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes. All our ships welcome wheelchair users and have accessible cabins with automatic doors. Passengers need to bring their own wheelchair and, if assistance is required, travel with a companion. Please let us know at the time of booking so we can make the right arrangements.
