Fjords and waterfalls
Cruise into the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord or the hidden Hjørundfjord – fjords framed by soaring cliffs, tumbling waterfalls and mountain farms that cling to the slopes above still, glacial-blue waters.
The Coastal Express – North
Bergen – Kirkenes
The northbound leg of our classic coastal route, from Bergen to Arctic Norway
1 / 13
Journey north from Bergen and the fjords to Kirkenes in the remote Arctic
Sail north along Norway’s stunning coast in one week with extended stops in charming towns like Trondheim, Tromsø, and Bodø. Travel with locals and experience authentic coastal life. This voyage is perfect for culture lovers.
Price from
$1,926per person
Lowest rate - Sailing December 2026
7 days
Full board (breakfast, lunch, & dinner)
34 Stops
Regular departures
One-week voyage to Norway’s northern frontier
Enjoy extended daytime stops in Trondheim, Ålesund, Tromsø and Bodø
Sail through iconic fjords, season depending
See Geirangerfjord in summer or Hjørundfjord in spring and autumn
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
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
Tromsø encounters
Experience Tromsø, the lively “Gateway to the Arctic”, where polar history, northern culture, and café life blend beneath snow-capped mountains and an ever-changing canopy of light.
The North Cape
Stand at the edge of Europe atop the North Cape plateau – a place of wind, vast skies, and unbroken horizons where the Arctic Ocean stretches toward the pole.
Art Nouveau Ålesund
Discover Ålesund’s elegant Art Nouveau architecture and lively harbors, where spires and sea meet under mountain light. Wander cobbled streets, visit local cafés, and watch fishing boats drift between colorful waterfront houses.
Trondheim heritage
Walk through Trondheim’s cobbled streets to Nidaros Cathedral – Norway’s Gothic masterpiece and sacred heart – then linger by the river cafés of Bakklandet, where old timber wharfs meet city life.
Cross the Arctic Circle
Cross the Arctic Circle – a symbolic passage marked by ceremony, laughter, and sea spray – as stories of explorers and coastal traditions come alive under endless skies.
Remote Kirkenes
Reach Norway’s remote eastern frontier – a realm of quiet harbors, Arctic birdlife and rich wartime history, where vast skies and calm seas mark the final chapter of your journey.
Coastal flavors
Savor 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.
Loading
Loading
Loading
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.
Loading
Loading
Loading
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 traveling. 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.
