Bergen – Kirkenes – Bergen
The Coastal Express
The original Norwegian coastal voyage – connecting fjords, towns & people since 1893
- Regular departures
- 12 days
- 34 Places
- Full board
Speed across the open waters of Vestfjord on this high-octane RIB adventure around the Lofoten archipelago. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for Sea Eagles and stop to explore the remote island of Skrova.
Highlights
See Lofoten’s rugged landscapes from a RIB
Pass small, sheltered bays and sandy beaches
Look out for sea eagles during the boat ride
How it works
Departing Svolvær by RIB, your experienced skippers will first drive to an idyllic lagoon lined with white sandy beaches and surrounded by islands and skerries. Here, you’ll have a good chance of spotting Sea Eagles, Europe’s largest bird of prey.
You’ll then continue at high speed on Vestfjord to the island of Skrova. Decades ago, the fishing and whaling industry swelled the island’s population to several thousand, but nowadays, the village is home to just under 200 people. Skrova has two nicknames: ‘Photo Island’ because of the permanent outdoor photo exhibitions found here; and ‘Hawaii Island’ because of its sunny clime and impressive scenery. You’ll pause here to learn about modern-day salmon fishing and the island’s history.
You’ll then travel to the village of Skjoldvær, before heading back across Vestfjord to Svolvær, greeted at the harbour entrance by the statue of the “Fisherman’s Wife” before re-boarding the waiting ship.
Before you book
Activity level
Active: Good mobility needed
Group size
Groups up to 24 guests
Availability
Summer, Autumn
Transport
Walking
Food & drink
No food or drink included
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing
Good to know
The excursion is not suitable for guests with back problems. Minimum age: 6 years old when accompanied by an adult
Voyages with this excursion
This excursion is available on select Hurtigruten voyages along the Norwegian coast. Explore all voyages.
Available: Summer, Autumn
Kirkenes – Bergen
The Coastal Express – South
The southbound leg on our classic coastal voyage, exploring beautiful archipelagos & fjordlands
- Regular departures
- 6 days
- 33 Places
- Full board
Bergen – Kirkenes – Trondheim
The Coastal Express – To the Viking Capital
The original Norwegian coastal voyage, returning via Trondheim – home of Viking kings
- Regular departures
- 11 days
- 34 Places
- Full board
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions our guests ask most often
If an excursion is not fully booked, any remaining slots will be available for purchase on board through your Expedition Team. These will be charged in Norwegian Kroner at your ship’s exchange rate.
However, to ensure yourself a spot, we recommend booking in advance.
You will be able to view them all by logging into your booking here.
If you booked through a travel agent, you can reach out to them for this information.
Yes, you will get a full refund to your original payment method. If that's not possible, we will reach out to check your payment details.
Each of our excursions has a rating to illustrate the level of fitness required. There are four categories, with 1 being the easiest and 4 the most difficult.
Level 1 = Easy: suitable for most
Excursions at this level are physically undemanding and suitable for most people. Level 2 = Moderate: some mobility needed
Excursions in this category involve a small amount of physical activity, but on easy terrain with few major challenges. Level 3 = Active: good mobility needed
Excursions in this category are more active and involve outdoor pursuits that require a decent level of fitness. You may be expected to carry your own backpack and equipment. They are not suitable for those with limited mobility.
Level 4 = Challenging: good mobility and fitness needed
These are our most challenging excursions, and require a good level of fitness. They may involve hiking or biking on uneven terrain and may also require specialist equipment. You would be expected to carry your own backpack and equipment. Excursions in this category are not suitable for those with limited mobility.
Prices can vary depending on the season you travel. Costs such as exchange rates and local prices may change from year to year, so we show a “starting from” price as a guide. The exact price will be confirmed when you book.
Other excursions in Svolvær
Discover more ways to explore this beautiful coastal destination
Meet the Vikings (Winter)
Step back in time and experience life in the Viking Age at the Lofotr Viking Museum. Enjoy an authentic Viking meal and watch your hosts perform traditional rituals.
Winter, Autumn
Fishing in Lofoten - Summer
Try your hand at authentic sea fishing for haddock, cod, and mackerel aboard a traditional Norwegian fishing boat from 1917, MS Symra
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Lofoten Islands
Enjoy a beautiful journey by bus to Henningsvær, a charming village of arts and crafts.
Spring, Summer
Lofotpils Brewery
Tour Lofoten's only craft brewery, learn about the beer-making process and taste the brews.
Year-round
Kayaking in Lofoten - Winter
Take to the water and see Svolvær’s coastline from a different perspective as you follow a local guide and paddle aboard your own two-person kayak.
Winter, Spring, Autumn
Guest favourite
Lofoten Scenery & Henningsvær - winter
Travel by bus to Henningsvær to discover Lofoten's art, culture and fishing heritage.
Winter, Spring, Autumn
Kayaking in Lofoten
Experience the raw natural beauty of Henningsvær as you explore the crystal-clear waters by kayak.
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Fishing in Lofoten - Winter
Fish the open sea aboard a classic 1917 boat and learn to prepare your catch.
Winter, Spring, Autumn
Lofoten Scenery & Henningsvær
Scenic bus tour to pretty Henningsvær, with wooden church, galleries and fishing heritage.
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Guest favourite
Sea Eagle Tour in Lofoten by RIB
Enjoy a RIB ride around Lofoten with a great chance of spotting Sea Eagles.
Year-round