The information and descriptions have been checked by our staff and/or local agents to ensure they are correct. However, changes may occur after the date of publication, and there may be occasions when Hurtigruten or local suppliers may withdraw some facilities.

Should we become aware of any significant change, that may be considered to have an effect on the enjoyment of your holiday, we will do our best to advise you. Many areas we visit are very remote and affected by prolonged cold or with various degrees of difficulty on their terrain. The facilities on offer will be subject to local conditions.

Every expedition cruise is unique. All routes and excursions are provisional and subject to change due to weather, sea, and/or ice conditions, amongst other factors that can cause our itineraries to change without prior notice. These decisions are taken with guest safety in mind.

In the event this happens whilst we are at sea, we will inform guests as soon as possible with the updates regarding the alternative route and change of plan. If we need to cancel a port of call, we will aim to substitute this with an equal or better alternative.

Please Note: Hurtigruten Expeditions reserves the right to change the itinerary and the content of excursions without prior notice (see terms and conditions).

You can find the latest booking terms and conditions here.

For all other terms and conditions including My Account, 1893 Ambassador Loyalty program, Passenger Rights, Cookie, and Privacy Policy, please click here.

Hurtigruten complies with the ISPS regulations (International Ship and Port Security System) where all luggage is subject to X-ray/metal detector inspection upon arrival at the port facility or ship. The ISPS regulations also include hand baggage scans in all ports of call throughout the course of the cruise.

Prohibited Items List

The above list is not exhaustive. The SSO/Captain are authorized to make a professional judgment as to the legality of any item declared, detected or discovered on board.

The Ship Manifest Information Form (SMIF) is necessary for immigration offices, flight tickets, and customs - and needs to be completed across all our Expedition Cruises and Ships. The form needs to be completed by all guests who are joining us onboard.

How to complete the form?

To start filling in your Ship Manifest Information Form, please click here.

Yes - a valid passport is essential, as it's the only accepted identification document.

The passport validity must be in accordance with national requirements in the country/countries you will visit AND have a minimum of 6 months remaining validity at the end of your cruise.

For more information please visit the Travel Requirements page.

You should receive your travel documents electronically approximately 2-3 weeks before departure provided full payment is received.

If you are working with a travel agent, your documents will be sent to your travel agent.

We have many ways to inspire your next trip with us, including a range of brochures covering all our destinations that are available to 'read online / order here'.

If you are looking for more inspiration on a specific topic, please check out the various inspirational stories section of the website.

Please Note: Information included within the brochure was correct at the time of printing.

Depending on the destination you are exploring with us we have various options to get ashore. The first option is to go alongside (docked in port) with the ship and guests can leave via the gangway. In places where we anchor we use our stable expedition boats for both water-based exploration and safe landings in otherwise inaccessible areas. You will need to be fairly agile to board these, but there is otherwise no need to worry about travelling in them.

The crew will show you what to do and as long as you follow their instructions, after a few times, it will become second nature. On all landings in expedition boats, guests are expected to wear proper footwear. For additional information about the footwear, see the separate point “Equipment loans”.

Please Note: Landing operations depend on favourable conditions.

Hurtigruten offers a choice of optional Pre- and Post-Programmes that can be added to your Hurtigruten journey. This can be a half or full-day excursion or an overnight tour.

Please note programmes are subject to change, and a minimum number of participants applies. For guests who are not fully mobile, Pre- and Post-Programmes are on request.

Explore Pre and Post Programmes here

On many of our expedition cruises, we are landing in areas covered with snow. The terrain might be muddy, uneven, wet, and very slippery. The weather may be inclement and cold. This is part of being an explorer.

For settlement landings in Greenland, Iceland, Alaska, Norway, and other locations it is highly recommended to bring your own proper sturdy footwear. In Antarctica, South Georgia, and Svalbard, it is mandatory to use rubber boots for all landings as well as on nature landings in Arctic Canada, Greenland, and Iceland. In sailing areas where boots are mandatory for landings, they will be provided on board during your expedition free of charge. Boots are rinsed and declared clean from seeds and other biological material after every landing. This is to avoid unintentionally spreading invasive species into fragile environments. We carry sizes from 32 to 50. If you need a smaller or larger size than this or prefer to wear your own boots, you are welcome to bring private rubber boots, but please be advised that our Expedition Team will have them checked before going ashore, to make sure they are suitable for landing.

We also provide walking sticks on board. If you are more comfortable using your own walking sticks, bring them along with you, but bear in mind that they must be properly cleaned and disinfected after every landing.

From the frozen Antarctic to the temperate Galapagos Islands and West Africa - the climate and conditions vary between the various destinations we explore. Regardless of the destination you visit, we recommend you bring suitable footwear for both wet and dry landings.

It's possible to borrow boots, trekking poles, and other bits of equipment depending on the destination you travel to. To help you pack accordingly, we have pulled together a list of recommendations for each destination, covering what to pack.

The Northern Lights mainly occur during the darker winter months (October - February), however, they have been seen as early as August and late as April in certain areas. The best place to experience the Aurora Borealis is around 60 - 75 degrees latitude, also known as the Aurora Zone which covers the northern parts of Canada, Norway, Svalbard, Northwest Passage, Iceland, and Greenland.

We do have a number of ships that sail around through the aurora zone - but due to the time of year they sail these waters, we can’t guarantee there will be sightings of the Northern Lights. However, we do offer the following specific Northern Lights Expedition:

These expeditions are covered by our Northern Lights Promise.

Additionally, we have some excursions that focus on the Northern Lights, however, this ship usually is the best place to spot them as there are no lights around it.

For more information on the Northern Lights including the answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions and the all-important how to photograph the ultimate polar light show. Check out the article here.

Your flight tickets are electronic; you may check-in by showing your passport to the agent at the check-in counter.

We offer a rich and varied programme of included and optional shore excursions run by third-party providers in many areas we sail to. In many ports, we offer an included excursion, which can be reserved for no additional charge. In some cases, the included excursion can be combined with other optional excursions in the port. Most excursions can be pre-booked, but may also be bookable onboard if capacity remains.

We advise that you book well in advance in order to avoid disappointment due to the excursion being fully booked. Please note that registration is binding, and once on board the Expedition Team will advise you of booking deadlines for excursions still available. Our excursions have English-speaking guides unless otherwise indicated and other languages cannot be guaranteed unless specified. Excursions are subject to change and possible cancellation due to weather conditions. They are also dependent on the number of participants.

In addition, the Expedition Team also arrange a variety of activities during the cruise. These will depend on location and season but may include hiking, snowshoeing, and kayaking. These activities are booked on board and subject to availability.

Specifically for guests onboard Santa Cruz II - We offer every day, in addition to the core activity (generally, nature walks, a variety of activity options approved by the national park: Snorkeling, Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Coastal explorations (aboard our inflatable dinghies, otherwise known as pangas), Glass-bottom boat rides, Biking (on Santa Cruz Island only).

Explore available excursions

The daily programme is shown on the information screens around the ship and on the TV in your cabin, with each day’s port calls, landings, lectures, meals, and activities on board. All our published plans are subject to change. You will receive the daily program with information about your next day the evening before. The timings of publication may vary due to ongoing operations on board - true expedition style.

For easy access to daily updates on board, we recommend using the Hurtigruten onboard app. For more information about the Hurtigruten app, please see here.

For guests onboard Santa Cruz II, each evening the expedition leader and his/her team hold a briefing regarding the next day's activities. The briefing is usually preceded by an “Eco Moment” – a short talk on a topic relevant to the Galapagos Islands and the activities and observations that day. The programme is also displayed on screens in various visible areas of the vessel and in the “Explorer” app.

In addition, one or more lectures will be given by expedition staff to enhance guest understanding of the Galapagos Islands and their history.

Expedition staff will also run sessions on various Citizen Science projects we are involved in onboard.

We offer a varied program of optional and included shore excursions throughout our expeditions. In many ports, we try to offer an included excursion, which can be reserved for no additional charge. In some cases, the included excursion can be combined with other optional excursions in the port. Most excursions can be pre-booked, but may also be bookable onboard if capacity remains. To review the range of excursions we have on offer, please visit the 'Enhance Your Cruise' section of the website - here, you will be able to search the catalog by destination/cruise/activity level. In addition to this, within the Voyage page, you will find a list of the excursions (included & optional) that are available for that particular sailing.

We offer Wi-Fi on board, but on expedition cruises to remote destinations, coverage and speed will be very limited. Internet will be provided through satellite connections (if in sight), except when we’re close to mobile communication infrastructure on land. Due to capacity limitations, the included Wi-Fi is limited to browsing and not streaming. Please contact the reception desk if you have any questions related to Wi-Fi usage.

Antarctica, Arctic Canada, North East Greenland, Svalbard, and many places in Alaska will have limited or no mobile coverage on shore. Check with your carrier for details.

Wi-Fi Internet connection is available on-board MS Santa Cruz II but due to the Galapagos’ remote location, please be aware that internet connection is intermittent and low-bandwidth. Limited complimentary Wi-Fi access is available for all guests.

Internet is only available in public areas.

All cell phones must be on AIRPLANE MODE for all trails within the National Park.

Cellular coverage is patchy, very low, and restricted to the vicinity of populated Islands (Santa Cruz and San Cristobal islands).

We have a variety of fitness and wellness options on board all our Expedition ships. Across all the ships in our fleet, you will find Hot Tubs, Sauna, and a Gym for you to use during your stay with us.

On MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, we also have an infinity pool, outdoor gym, and running track. There is also a wellness center onboard both of these ships for you to book a range of treatments including massage to help relax after a day's exploration.

Please Note: Treatments within the wellness center are an additional cost and can be booked when onboard.

Yes, your cabin with have it's own bathroom.

We do not have pet cabins, however service animals are permitted, based on local regulations and accompanied by the corresponding documentation.

Please click here for our complete policy on Accessibility for Disabled Persons and Persons with Reduced Mobility

On board, smoking is only permitted in designated areas on outside decks. Smoking is not permitted in cabins or private balconies. Throwing cigarette butts overboard is strictly prohibited. A cleaning charge of approximately 150 EUR will be applied for smoking in a cabin/suite, to cover the cost of cleaning linen and curtains to return it to a non-smoking standard. E-Cigarettes, according to Norwegian law, are the equivalent of tobacco cigarettes, and therefore smoking these is only permitted in the designated smoking areas.

When the ship is refuelling smoking is prohibited. Announcements will be made on board accordingly. Smoking is not allowed during nature landings in AECO and IAATO areas, except for city landings.

For those on board Santa Cruz II - smoking is only permitted at the Sky Deck, where ashtrays are available. Smoking is not permitted in cabins. Throwing cigarette butts overboard is strictly prohibited. Smoking is strictly prohibited while ashore within the Galapagos Islands National Park.

In our onboard shop, you can buy clothing suitable for expedition cruises. Our Expedition Team will be happy to give you expert advice on how to dress properly according to the destinations. We offer a great range of both warm and practical clothing and we focus on fabrics with natural fibres.

We also offer souvenirs, handicrafts, and postcards, in addition to a small selection of soap, toothpaste, and other personal effects.

You can hand in your mail at the reception, and for a service fee and cost of stamps, we will forward the post in every port where possible. The time needed for delivery of mail may be relatively long. Hurtigruten Expeditions accepts no responsibility for lost mail.

For those onboard Santa Cruz II - mailboxes and stamps are available at the Baltra Airport, and in Puerto Ayora. Be aware that the delivery may take a long time.

A laundry service is available on board. The service is included for suite guests. No self-service or dry-cleaning is possible.

Unfortunately, laundry service is not available on board Santa Cruz II. Two domestic-type washer/dryers are available 24 hours at the stern of the vessel for complimentary guest use, together with instructions, baskets, and biodegradable detergent is available from reception.

The working language on board is English. Announcements and written information are also given in German, and may also be given in French and Chinese on selected departures. In order to be able to accommodate lectures in a language other than English, we offer an “in-ear” translation into German. Lectures will be streamed into the cabins. 

Whilst Santa Cruz II sails under the Ecuadorian flag; Announcements for guests are given in English, and may also be given in German, French, Spanish, or Italian depending on the guests traveling. Lectures and other presentations are held in different languages in different rooms.

The plugs in your cabins are all 220V/50hz. Suites have 110V for shavers. The plugs are continental two-pin plugs, which may require an adapter. 

For Santa Cruz II, electricity on board is 110V, 60hz. Plugs are Type B (conventional US) and two-pin plugs.

There are a wide range of comfortable cabins on board for you. All expedition ships have cabins with private facilities. Accessible cabins are available. Please click here for our complete policy on Accessibility for Disabled Persons and Persons with Reduced Mobility.

You may experience some noise and vibration in some of the cabins. This varies depending on the location of your cabin. Also, noise affects people differently and what may be a problem for one guest may not be a problem for others.

Please be aware that some cabins on decks with passenger access or lifesaving appliances may have an obstructed view.

On all our Expedition Ships (except MS Santa Cruz II) the tap water within your cabin is drinkable.

On Santa Cruz II, all cabins have the same size window (Suites have 2 windows) and private facilities. All cabins have hair dryers in the bathrooms.

Unlike the rest of the fleet, the tap water in the cabins onboard MS Santa Cruz II only is desalinized, but not drinkable. For your convenience, drinking water dispensers are available in the Expedition, and Sky deck.

You may experience some noise and vibration in some of the cabins. This varies depending on the location of your cabin. Also, noise affects people differently and what may be a problem for one guest may not be a problem for others.

On many of our expedition cruises, we are landing in areas covered with snow. The terrain might be muddy, uneven, wet, and very slippery. The weather may be inclement and cold. This is part of being an explorer.

For settlement landings in Greenland, Iceland, Alaska, Norway, and other locations it is highly recommended to bring your own proper sturdy footwear. In Antarctica, South Georgia, and Svalbard, it is mandatory to use rubber boots for all landings as well as on nature landings in Arctic Canada, Greenland, and Iceland. In sailing areas where boots are mandatory for landings, they will be provided on board during your expedition free of charge.

Boots are rinsed and declared clean from seeds and other biological material after every landing to avoid unintentionally spreading invasive species into fragile environments. We carry sizes from 32 to 50. If you need a smaller or larger size than this or prefer to wear your own boots, you are welcome to bring private rubber boots, but please be advised that our Expedition Team will have them checked before going ashore, to make sure they are suitable for landing.

We also lend out walking sticks on board. If you are more comfortable using your own walking sticks, bring them along with you, but bear in mind that they must be properly cleaned and disinfected after every landing.

For those guests onboard Santa Cruz II equipment includes sit-on-top kayaks, paddle boards, a glass bottom boat, and snorkeling gear (mesh bags, masks, fins, tubes, and buoyancy vests). The use of all these is free of charge. These activities are regulated by the National Park and must always be under the supervision of a licensed naturalist guide.

Guests must attend a short safety briefing before these activities are held. Safety briefings and release documents are mandatory for participation in these activities.

Wetsuits are available in all sizes, from XXS to XXL.

All gear provided by the ship is cleaned and disinfected under the medical officer´s supervision. A brand-new mouthpiece is given to each snorkeler when using the ship´s gear.

The ships have a selection of books on different topics that are available to guests while on board. 

Onboard Santa Cruz II, our Natural History Library with a 24/7 coffee and tea station is located on the Expedition Lounge in the Expedition Deck. Please check with the naturalists for books to read during the voyage. After reading, guests are kindly requested to please return the books to the library. A selection of general subject books and natural history books are found, but for anything related to the Natural History of Galápagos, please ask the Expedition Leader for advice.

Within the Expedition Lounge is located our Science Corner. There we have a high-quality microscope set up for viewing various samples. We also have life-like replicas of skulls and bones from various wildlife species as well as replica bird eggs. Our expedition staff will run Science Corners during the voyage to help guests learn about the natural world around them and the Galapagos Islands in particular.

Prior to your departure, all guests will receive check-in times before your arrival at the port. Please adhere to these to ensure a smooth check-in.

On board, we serve a delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Mealtimes will be announced in the daily programme. In our main dining area, Aune restaurant, you are able to book your dining time via our onboard app and your table will be assigned to you. For the first day of the cruise for your convenience, we assign a time to you, and can be found in your welcome onboard letter. Please provide information regarding special requests for seating arrangements and dietary requirements to your sales office/travel agent before your cruise.

On the ships that have the à la carte restaurant Lindstrøm, our suite guests may enjoy all meals there. For dinner, Lindstrøm will be open for all guests, but there is an additional charge for non-suite guests. Reservation is required and will depend upon availability. Not available on MS Spitsbergen.

Fredheim is the ship’s third dining option, offering casual dining in a relaxed atmosphere, or a takeaway option during opening hours. There will be no takeaway option on the last day of the cruise when you disembark the ship. Not available on MS Spitsbergen, MS Fram.

Soft drinks, beer, and the house wine are included with all meals. Coffee, tea, and potable water that has been purified on board are included throughout the day. Complimentary still and sparkling water is provided for all meals. An upgraded beverage package is also available.

Onboard Santa Cruz II - All meals are designed by our Le Cordon Bleu-certified Gastronomic Director. Breakfast is buffet-style in the Beagle Restaurant on the Ocean deck. No reservations are required and the attire is always casual. We only ask our guests not to enter the dining area in bathing suits or barefoot.

Please provide information regarding special requests for seating arrangements and dietary requirements to Hurtigruten Expeditions or your travel agent before your cruise.

House beer, wine, and soft drinks are available and complimentary at lunch and dinner. Coffee, tea, and potable water that has been purified on board are included throughout the day. Complimentary still and sparkling water is provided for all meals. Other beverages, including cocktails, and an upgraded beverage package is also available for purchase.

If you have special requests (e.g. dietary or medical), please inform us as soon as possible, and no later than 12 weeks prior to your cruise departure. We will do our best to meet such requests but cannot guarantee to do so, and under no circumstance will any such request be accepted by us so as to form part of a contractual agreement.

Guests are reminded that only beverages sold and/or provided in restaurants, bars, cabins, and suites can be consumed on board. Any alcoholic beverages purchased in ports-of-call will be confiscated at the gangway and need to be stored separately on board the ship by our crew. Your purchases will be returned to you and delivered to your cabin on the last day of your sailing.

Guests who wish to bring bottles of wine and/or spirits aboard Santa Cruz II only will be charged a corkage fee of US $ 27+ taxes.

No. All meals, house wine, and beer are always included, as well as meals in Fredheim except Fram and Spitsbergen as these vessels do not have a Freheim restaurant.

Meals in Lindstrøm are included for all suite guests, dinner for regular cabins comes at a cover charge of 25 Euro per person.

Alcoholic drinks such as wines, beers and spirits are available throughout the day and evening and are included in your all-inclusive voyage. Be aware that local licensing laws apply to the hours at which alcoholic drinks may be served.

Please note that drinks in mini-bars and premium drinks such as cocktails and champagne are not part of our all-inclusive offering and attract an extra charge.

Guests who have booked a suite get all the same benefits as other travelers when it comes to all-inclusive drinks, but the first set-up in their mini-bar is also included. In addition, they can also choose from our range of premium beers, spirits and cocktails and will receive a complimentary bottle of champagne on ice as we set sail.

Yes. Teas, coffees, hot chocolate and soft drinks are available for no extra charge throughout the day, and there are water purification stations around your ship where you can refill your bottle.

All-inclusive drinks available from October onwards on expeditions departing for Antarctica & Galapagos. Available for all other destinations thereafter.

Basic Booking Terms & Conditions apply for sailings between now and the all-inclusive launch on our ships. If you have booked a sailing which becomes all-inclusive, no additional charges are applied. 

No. You will be automatically upgraded to all-inclusive at no extra cost. 

Apologies if you are not able to contact us via phone. The alternatives are to email us and request a call back at [email protected], or book your voyage online.

There are a few ways to book excursions for your upcoming expedition. If you want to book excursions before joining the ship, this can be done over the phone by contacting the Customer Service Center either at the time of booking or anytime up to four weeks before departure. Before joining your sailing, we recommend downloading the Hurtigruten Onboard App. This is the best way to keep up to date with everything going on, whilst onboard. You can also use the app for booking excursions on board - by exploring all excursions that are still available. We advise that you book well in advance to avoid disappointment due to some excursions becoming fully booked. When you join your sailing, you can visit the Expedition Desk onboard your ship, and the team will be able to help answer any questions about the planned excursions and activities.

Similar to that of an airline we run flexible pricing, where all prices are capacity-controlled and subject to availability. The applicable price will be quoted at the time of booking, but the prices may change at any time before the departure date. If booking through our Customer Service Center, you have the opportunity to hold a booking for 7 days with an initial non-refundable 25% payment. For more information on this, see the 'Can I set up a deposit?' question.

The “from price” reflects the lowest available per-person fare, based on double occupancy, across all available departure dates of the chosen itinerary. The “from price” fare may not be available on your chosen departure date when there are multiple departures of your chosen itinerary. Occasionally the “from price” may reflect the price of a cabin that has recently sold and has not yet been updated by our system to reflect a new “from price”. Prices may change at any time and are based on cabin availability and occupancy. Applicable price will be quoted at the time of booking creation.

The voyage prices you see across the website and brochures are based on two people travelling together and sharing a cabin. Solo travellers may be required to pay an additional fee known as a Single Supplement, which can vary depending on the cabin selected or destination. However, we understand that in the true spirit of exploration - some guests like to travel solo. So we occasionally remove this additional Single Supplement fee across selected departures, voyages and destinations. This list of departures is often changing, so for the latest information, please visit the Solo Traveller page to start planning your next expedition.

Our special child rate is valid for new bookings on all Expedition Cruises and is subject to change at any time. When the child occupies a cabin with at least two adults, a 50% savings applies to the cruise portion of the child’s package only. When the child occupies a cabin with one adult, a 20% savings applies to the cruise portion of the child’s package only. A 20% savings applies to the non-cruise portions of a package, where applicable, regardless of cabin occupancy. A child is defined as 2 through 15 years of age at the time of sailing. This offer is bookable online or by phone and is combinable with all current offers.

Please note:

- Participation of children under the age of 12 years in small-boat landings during expedition cruises is at the discretion of the captain.

- In accordance with International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators guidelines, the minimum age for travel to Antarctica is 5 years.

- Minimum age for Galapagos is 6 years.

Yes, you can! When you join your sailing, visit the Expedition Desk onboard your ship, and the team will be able to advise on all the Excursions available. For booking excursions on board, download the Hurtigruten App and explore all excursions that are still available. We advise that you book well in advance in order to avoid disappointment due to some excursions becoming fully booked.

Our excursions have English-speaking guides unless otherwise indicated and other languages cannot be guaranteed unless specified. Excursions are subject to change and/or possible cancellation due to weather conditions. Some excursions are also dependent on the number of participants.

Please note: Registration is binding, and once on board the Expedition Team will advise you of booking deadlines for excursions still available.

À la carte dining option | On the ships that have a Lindstrøm restaurant, suite guests are offered the chance to have all their meals here. Reservations must be made on board and are offered upon availability.

Room service | This service is offered to selected suite guests free of charge only, within the Lindstrøm opening times. (Suite number for MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen: 800, 801, 700, 701, 932, 919, 856, 849, 756, 749)

Suite check-in | Are first to check in as per our timeslot system. An exclusive welcome area in Lindstrøm is available for suite guests, where they may meet and greet some of the ship officers.

Welcome greeting | On embarkation day, the suite guests will find a carabiner watch, a bottle of champagne, and a welcome greeting from the captain in their suite after check-in.

Turn-down service | Suite guests will receive a daily turn-down service, including fresh towels and chocolate or similar on the pillow.

Laundry service | This service is free of charge for all suite guests. This does not apply to MS Otto Sverdrup; only self-service is possible on board this ship.

Minibar | Daily replenishment of the minibar is included for suites, except for large bottles of wine, sparkling wine, and Champagne (The first round is included, any additional refills will charged ).

For those on Santa Cruz II, only guests who book a suite will receive:

Welcome greeting | On embarkation day, all guests will receive a complimentary Galapagos wildlife book and a reusable water bottle. Suite guests will receive an additional welcome gift in their cabin.

Turn-down service | Guests will receive a daily turn-down service, including fresh towels and chocolate or similar on the pillow.

Wi-fi | Guests will receive limited complimentary Wi-fi access. Additional Wi-Fi is available for purchase, but due to the Galapagos’ remote location, please be aware that the internet connection is intermittent and low-bandwidth.

Wetsuit rental | Wetsuit rental is complimentary for guests on request.

We accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, American Express, UnionPay, and JCB.

Please Note: Some card providers may charge a foreign transaction fee for cards issued outside the EU, UK, and US when processing the payment, please check with your bank regarding these fees. Hurtigruten is not responsible for this fee and does not receive any portion or benefit from these fees.

To make a payment online please visit the 'Make a Payment' page. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, American Express, UnionPay, JCB, and Trustly.

It is also possible to make a payment via bank transfer. For details please see your invoice.

You can make a payment via cheque for departures more than 30 days out from booking. Please make cheques payable to Hurtigruten Americas, Inc. and send to 1505 Westlake Ave N, Suite 125, Seattle, WA 98109-6211, USA.

Please Note: Some card providers may charge a foreign transaction fee for cards issued outside the EU, UK, and US when processing the payment, please check with your bank regarding these fees. Hurtigruten is not responsible for this fee and does not receive any portion or benefit from these fees.

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.

Unfortunately, we are unable to extend the final payment date - to confirm the booking, a full payment is needed within 7 days. Any outstanding balance must be settled 90 days prior to departure.

We do not take any automatic payments for the outstanding balance. After placing a deposit, you will receive a payment link that is unique to your booking and where any outstanding balance can be settled. You can make payment across two separate cards - please visit the 'Make a Payment' page.

If you are having trouble making a payment online, please call us as per the details above. 

Some card providers may charge a foreign transaction fee for cards issued outside the EU, UK, and US when processing the payment, please check with your bank regarding these fees. Hurtigruten is not responsible for this fee and does not receive any portion or benefit from these fees.

Upon completion of your booking, you will receive a confirmation email to the email address supplied. This also includes your booking reference number which will be needed if paying via deposit. 

If your payment has failed or struggling to make payment online through your debit/credit card, please contact your bank in the first instance.

You do not need your PIN code for using a credit card to make a payment online or via the phone. However, a lot of banks might send a confirmation code or security check to your mobile phone. You will also be required to provide the following information:

Please have these to hand when making your booking.

You will be issued a cruise card upon arrival on board as part of the check-in procedure in accordance with ISPS regulations. The card serves as a control system on the gangway. This card, in addition to being the key card for your cabin, is also your payment card on board. To activate the cruise card account, you must have a Visa, American Express, Diners, or MasterCard.

Debit cards can be used to pay for the final invoice, but not for activating the cruise card account. Please note that there are no money exchange services or facilities for cash withdrawals on board.

MS Santa Cruz II will not provide keys to your cabins, nor a cruise card. Cabins may be locked from the interior. Each cabin has a safety box, and corridors are monitored by closed-circuit cameras.

Upon check-in, a shipboard account (SA) will be opened for you. We do not register credit cards at the beginning of the cruise. We request the final payment during the last night for check-out. Credit Cards accepted in Ecuador include Diners Club, Visa, American Express, and Master Card. Our staff will request you to sign a receipt to acknowledge your consumptions and purchases before charging it to your shipboard account.

The local currency in Ecuador is the US DOLLAR, and ATMs are available at the mainland airports, as well as in Baltra airport and in the towns of Puerto Ayora and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

No gratuities are expected onboard. Suggested gratuities for services on land will be shared in your travel documents.

On board Hurtigruten Expedition Ships, it's not common practice or expected to tip. However, we have learned that many of our guests wish to give special thanks to our service crew on board. It is at the individual's discretion to honour the service provided by the crew in the bars, restaurants, cabins, and behind the scene. If you wish to leave a tip, you can do so by one of the following options:

The money collected from these boxes will then be divided equally among all crew members after the voyage, we ask not to tip individual crew members during the voyage to ensure the people behind the scenes also are included. Please Note: Officers and Expedition Team are not included in this breakdown.

We accept Visa, American Express, Diners, or MasterCard, and for direct payments only Maestro Card. Please note that when using your credit card onboard the ship, your account will be debited in EUR. The rate of exchange will be the one validated by your credit card company.

Only credit card is accepted on Expedition cruises. The credit card must be valid for more than three months after your stay on board. Please note that when using your credit card onboard the ship, your account will be debited in EUR. The rate of exchange will be the one validated by your credit card company.

For your convenience, we also offer a Cruise Card system onboard all our ships. This system allows you to charge all onboard purchases to your cruise card. Cruise card accounts can be created at all points of payment on board the ship. We accept VISA, Master Card, Diners, and American Express or cash (NOK, EUR, GBP, USD) as a deposit. The itemized statement will be sent by email. Please contact reception if you require a printed version. The cruise card account needs to be settled by 10:00 p.m. on your last night on board.

For your convenience, your cruise card charges will be billed automatically to your credit card. The credit card must be valid for at least another three months. Any discrepancies must be reported before disembarkation. This also applies if you want to pay part cash and part credit card. The currency used onboard is as outlined above. Exchange rates are similar to those in a hotel. Please check with the reception for methods of payment. Please note that a PIN code may be required when paying with your personal credit card onboard.

Our expert team of itinerary planners and expedition leaders continue to closely monitor Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).

Across the globe, we actively collaborate closely with the wider scientific community and industry bodies to safeguard and study the diverse ecosystems we visit. Furthermore, we operate enhanced biosecurity procedures where HPAI has been detected.  

Should landing sites be closed on short notice to prevent the transmission of HPAI between wildlife colonies, our Expedition Team will have alternative sites or activities planned. We ensure that any material changes to an itinerary are communicated to our guests as far in advance as possible. 

For more information, please visit the Health & Safety section of the Help Center.

Yes, our ships are wheelchair accessible, with some operational requirements. Guests who use wheelchairs are required to bring their own. To ensure ease of movement on the ship, wheelchairs and mobility aids must be no wider than 60cm.

All mobility or medical equipment brought on board must be capable of being carried safely and must be declared before sailing. To ensure that all guests can be safely evacuated during an emergency, guests that require the use of a wheelchair can only be accommodated in accessible cabins.

Please click here for our complete policy.

We care deeply about your safety, health, and well-being. We’ve introduced several new procedures throughout all our ships, designed to keep you safe from Covid-19. We’ll be constantly updating these measures following the latest guidelines from local authorities.  

Please check here to get all the information about this topic.

Please ensure you bring enough prescribed medicine to cover the entire length of your trip. Our onboard medical facility does not supply prescribed medication.

The ships comply with international safety requirements and are modern vessels suitable for sailing in their respective destinations, including icy waters.

All guests will be instructed in safety procedures and the use and location of the safety equipment before departure. There is a Safety Notice posted on the inside of the cabin door which we encourage all guests to read carefully.

Santa Cruz II complies with the Galapagos Biocontrol Agency (ABG) AND ISPS (International Ship and Port Security System) regulations, where all luggage is subject to X-ray/metal and organic/biosecurity inspection prior to boarding the aircraft in mainland Ecuador. These inspections include carry-on screening before and after the Ecuador-Galapagos flight.

Santa Cruz complies with international safety requirements and is a modern vessel suitable for sailing in the Galapagos.

The first day´s programme includes a short but complete mandatory safety briefing about safety on board and during landing operations. This briefing is followed by the compulsory boat drill exercise.

A separate safety briefing is held prior to the first snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle-boarding opportunity.

Regardless of the ship you join - during the sailing, special safety regulations will apply on landings with the Expedition boats. Please follow the instructions given by the Expedition Leader and crew/staff. Special lifejackets for use during landings will be provided to all passengers. A mandatory briefing regarding the safety guidelines will also be given.

Seasickness pills are available for purchase in reception, at 1 Euro each. If you are prone to seasickness, it is recommended that you bring pills that you are familiar with. You may also buy “sea bands” on board.

There is always an English-speaking physician and nurse on board. The ships have a small medical facility with essential equipment, and medication to handle small emergencies. In the event of a serious emergency, the nearest hospital will be contacted. Medical consultations as well as medicines will be charged to the passenger affected. All guests must have personal travel/health insurance.

If you depend on medication, remember to bring sufficient supplies to last through any unforeseen delays. We also recommend that you keep your medication in your hand luggage, properly labelled, and with clear instructions for its use. If you depend on vital medication, please inform the ship’s doctor upon arrival.

Illness on board can lead to quarantine, and orders from the ship’s physician and captain must be followed.

We kindly remind you to take care when walking on board the ship while at sea, especially when venturing out on deck, observing the signs for warnings of wet and slippery decks. Be aware the doors toward the outer deck are potentially dangerous in windy conditions.

Please adhere to the signs and announcements when it is not advised to go outside. While walking inside, hold on to railings but not to door frames, to avoid injury.

For those guests on Santa Cruz II - In addition to the above, there are no elevators on the ship. Stairs are steep and guests should take extra care when moving between decks. Hold the hand rail!

No Hurtigruten Expedition ships feature children’s playrooms.

The use of passenger-operated drones is not permitted during your voyage. This is for general safety as well as the protection of vulnerable wildlife and other guests’ personal security.

Drones are not allowed in Galapagos. Flash photography is not allowed on wildlife in the national parks. Professional video photography requires a special permit of the National Park Directorate.

We cannot pre-advise the chartered flight times. Please note that there will be different flight departures. You will receive the information about your flight time one day before your departure at the Hurtigruten Hospitality desk, or look for charter flight information in your final documents. Departure time is very early. After the voyage our Expedition Team will inform you onboard about the flight schedule and flight number back to Buenos Aires or Santiago De Chile.

Please also note the limited luggage allowance on charter flights ( 1pc 23kg for check in luggage + hand luggage 8kg).

All guests will receive check-in times prior to arrival at the port. Please adhere to these to ensure a smooth check-in.