Part of the
Hurtigruten Group

Activities & Excursions onboard MS Maud

There are a wide range of activities & excursions to enjoy whilst onboard MS Maud


Dog Sledding in Tromsø, Norway - Photo Credit: Hurtigruten

Taking your expedition further

Life onboard MS Maud is designed to offer a great selection of adventures for all levels and abilities - from escorted landings using our fleet of small expedition boats to guided hikes and kayaking. Our included excursions can be reserved for no extra charge.

Wildlife Watching

Landings via expedition boat

Going ashore in expedition tender boats on St Kilda, Scotland. Photo: Tom Woodstock / Ultrasharp
Whiskey tasting at the Lagavulin distillery, Isle of Islay, Scotland. Credit: Tommy Simonsen.

Whiskey tasting at the Lagavulin distillery, Isle of Islay, Scotland. Credit: Tommy Simonsen.

Embrace local cuisine

One of the joys of exploring off the beaten track is uncovering quality fresh local produce, traditions perfected over thousands of years and the incredible people who delicately bring them to life. Each port of call has its own unique perspective when it comes to food and drink, making no two days the same. Being at sea, our expeditions are spoilt for choice when it comes to locally sourced, fresh seafood. Sample everything from the traditionally smoked fish of the Norwegian coastline, to the langoustines and lobsters caught in the fresh waters of the Outer Hebrides, Scotland. Don't be disheartened if you aren't a seafood lover, there are a wide range of options making these cruises a true culinary journey. Whether you are a whisky connoisseur or a nordic mead enthusiast, go in search of the great tastes of the British Isles, Norway and the Arctic. Blending traditional methods with contemporary flavours, you will be sure to uncover some hidden gems within our range of authentic excursions.

Stand up paddleboarding & sea kayaking

History walk on St Kilda, Scotland. Photo: Tom Woodstock / Ultrasharp

History walk on St Kilda, Scotland. Photo: Tom Woodstock / Ultrasharp

Step through history

There is no better way to experience life as a local, than by getting an insight into the rich and detailed history that has shaped the islands and coastline of the North East Atlantic. From the influence of Viking exploration to the modern day, discover the people, places, and events that make each port of call so unique. As you sail onboard MS Maud, you'll witness the history of the Viking age, that dominated this area between the 8th to 11th century. Our range of authentic experience will transport you back to an age of exploration as you live, dine and even meet the Vikings of Norway and Iceland. To the more recent history, see how ports like Tromsø, Belfast and Rekjavik continue to thrive. Having influenced everything from the doomed voyage of the Titanic in 1912 and the polar expeditions of Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, to the modern culture and music of the 70's and 80's.

Beach clean

Collecting samples onboard a science boat, Isle of Islay, Scotland. Photo: Tom Woodstock/Ultrasharp

Collecting samples onboard a science boat, Isle of Islay, Scotland. Photo: Tom Woodstock/Ultrasharp

Science Center

The jewel in Hurtigruten and MS Maud's crown, is the onboard Science Center and opportunities for our guests to get involved with the Science Programme. The center is a relaxed and informal area of the ship, a place where you can come to learn more alongside our world-leading Expedition Team. Throughout the Science Programme we have a big focus on experiential learning, as we know you - our guests - want to better connect with nature and understand each destination as best they can. When they aren't leading excursions or activities, our Expedition Team, lead by our Science Coordinator, will run a wide range of science based activities in the Science Center and ashore. From dabbling in scientific analysis of rock and biological matter, to collecting water samples in order to monitor plankton levels and microplastics. Everyone is welcome to take part regardless of scientific background or experience.

Penguins perched on the ice of Cuverville Island, Antarctica. Credit: Espen Mills / HX Hurtigruten Expeditions

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