hurtigruten cruise cancelled

Rebook your cancelled cruise

For guests affected by Hurtigruten Expeditions cancelled sailings, we offer a flexible and risk-free rebooking policy. Please fill out the form to take advantage of this offer. When submitting the form, we acknowledge that you do not wish to travel on your current booked cruise or voyage, therefore, we will release your cabin (if booked).

Rebooking Policy for cancelled cruises

• For all guests booked on a cancelled cruise ,  we offer free rebooking for a future Hurtigruten Expedition cruise with departures up to 31 March 2023. 
• A changed booking will be credited as a future cruise voucher with an amount in accordance with the information in our sent cancellation letter.
• Your future cruise voucher must be used by 31 December 2022.
• The voucher is combinable with all other Hurtigruten Expeditions offers valid at the time of rebooking.
• Please note: You do not need to have decided on which exact Hurtigruten Expedition cruise to rebook when sending us this initial form.
• This offer only applies to bookings that have been cancelled by us. The decision to cancel the sailing came into effect when the official cancellation letter was sent from Hurtigruten Expeditions to you or your travel agent. This offer does not apply to guests who have already accepted our previous offer to rebook on another sailing prior to this date/time.

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If you would like to request other solutions instead of using our rebooking offer, please fill out this feedback form .

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Expedition Cruise News

Hurtigruten cancels all expedition cruises following coronavirus outbreak.

Hurtigruten , the Norwegian expedition cruise line, has temporarily suspended all its expedition cruises until further notice.

Included in the list of cancellations are the line’s round Britain mini cruises, scheduled for September 2020.

The cancellations happened after 40 passengers and crew tested positive for Covid-19 on board the line’s hybrid expedition ship, MS Roald Amundsen.

Four crew members were initially confirmed positive last Friday (31 July), which led to all 158 crew members being tested for the virus.

Following the tests, 32 more crew members were confirmed positive, with the ship now currently docked in Tromsø, Norway with no guests on board.

As a result of the outbreak, Hurtigruten announced the cancellation of all sailings on MS Roald Amundsen , MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Spitsbergen until further notice.

MS Roald Amundsen was due to sail four mini-cruises around the UK this September, but these sailings have now been cancelled.

The sailings were due to depart from Portsmouth (2 September), Liverpool (7 and 17 September) and Glasgow (12 September), each lasting six days and touring the British Isles.

Hurtigruten was one of the first cruise lines to restart its operations following the industry-wide suspension of sailings caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Chief executive of Hurtigruten Daniel Skjeldam said: “The safety and well-being of our guests and crew is Hurtigruten’s number one priority. We are now focusing all available efforts in taking care of our guests and colleagues.

“We are working closely with the Norwegian National and Local Health Authorities for follow-up, information, further testing, and infection tracking.

“In light of the recent increase in new cases of COVID-19 globally, the only responsible choice is to suspend all expedition sailings until we are absolutely confident, we can carry out our operations in line with all requirements from the Authorities and with the even stricter requirements, we have set for ourselves.

Hurtigruten is currently in the process of reaching out to and informing guests booked on the now cancelled voyages .

The next available British Isles cruise listed on the Hurtigruten website will set sail in April 2021.

The 400 passengers from the two cruises aboard MS Roald Amundsen late last month are now required to go into quarantine.

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To reserve your cabin and lock in the final price, you will be required to place a deposit on your cruise. After you have placed a deposit to secure your reservation, you will be asked to pay the remaining balance of your fare at the final payment due date.

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Nasty response to refund request

By bones774 , December 23, 2021 in Hurtigruten

Recommended Posts

OP here, still nothing from H and I don't expect to hear, once they forwarded to their legal division they basically wrote me off.

I finally wrote to Washington State Office of Attorney General, hopefully that will move it along.

As I've never sailed with either Hurtigruten or Havila I can't speak to their ships but I would certainly be much more inclined to deal with Havila after this experience. 

Hurtigruten just totally avoids any kind of negotiation. 

I will keep all apprised 

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• 3 weeks later...

Follow-up- the complaint was moved to a resolution type center, with no teeth,. H response was that they are offering to apply my down payment that they are holding towards a new cruise for the upcoming year. However I don't know if i will have opportunity this year and they are not matching the same deal i bought during the covid. So i've lost my money and a great deal and their guarantees about not losing your money are pretty much worthless as you read the fine print.

They are a Norwegian company and though doing business in the states the AG office has little power over them and Norway office is of no use.  

• 2 months later...

On 2/13/2022 at 1:00 PM, bones774 said: OP here, my first scheduled cruise was lifted and shifted at height of covid. It was shifted to the same time slot the next year(2021) but again was not avail for USA citizens. They wanted me to pay 60 days out when we weren't even allowed into Norway. On the phone the Seattle office were all very nice until I asked for refund, they told me they were gonna go out of the way and offer me my deposit as a future credit, by now I'm disgusted with them. I still have to notify Seattle consumer affairs.  Had a busy work schedule up till now. Still nothing further from them.  tha KS all , good luck

Not unusual for a company to move the handling of issues from customer service to legal when a customer threatens to either turn it over to their lawyer or a regulatory agency involved. One of the reasons why many consumer advocate recommend that such threats are an absolute resort and that if you make the threat it closes of other options.

If they stated that they have turned your case over to their legal department, then you should ask for a contact in their legal department and address your request to that department with appropriate documentation.

When your cruise was pushed back to the next year did you have any opportunity to decline the change and get your refund at that point?  For many travel companies, including many cruise lines the deposits were converted to cruise credits, unless the individual specifically requested a refund.  Are you certain that there was not similar language in their terms and conditions.

If you did not resolve the issue before full payment was due, and you chose not to pay, then they are probably looking at it under the failed to pay terms and conditions.

17 hours ago, ldtr said: Not unusual for a company to move the handling of issues from customer service to legal when a customer threatens to either turn it over to their lawyer or a regulatory agency involved. One of the reasons why many consumer advocate recommend that such threats are an absolute resort and that if you make the threat it closes of other options.   If they stated that they have turned your case over to their legal department, then you should ask for a contact in their legal department and address your request to that department with appropriate documentation.   When your cruise was pushed back to the next year did you have any opportunity to decline the change and get your refund at that point?  For many travel companies, including many cruise lines the deposits were converted to cruise credits, unless the individual specifically requested a refund.  Are you certain that there was not similar language in their terms and conditions.   If you did not resolve the issue before full payment was due, and you chose not to pay, then they are probably looking at it under the failed to pay terms and conditions.    

thanks for this well written info.

I did learn a lesson from the referral to legal.

I didn't read all the T&C bit they never offered me the chance for a refund. It was all kinda "loosey gossy", they were very affable agents and seemed to be winging it all along,  always telling me "we'll see", "sounds good".

It's a small deposit , not too concerning, but I would and would've been happy for them to offer me same deal. That's what gets me mad, I think they just used the opportunity to get out of the deal I had. It's thousands more now, I had very good "pandemic" pricing.

firefightermom007

Have just read thru your whole thread, and we have experienced terrible customer service from Hurtigruten around Antartica sailings.  They have not been consistent with post cruise offers due to missed ports (they never refunded the port charges).  Even though several sailings had exactly the same issues - 1 sailing got 30% FCC and a partial refund -another sailing only got 20% FCC.  To make matters worse, not everyone got offered the FCC...only those who filed complaints.

• 2 weeks later...

On 6/2/2022 at 5:45 PM, firefightermom007 said: Have just read thru your whole thread, and we have experienced terrible customer service from Hurtigruten around Antartica sailings.  They have not been consistent with post cruise offers due to missed ports (they never refunded the port charges).  Even though several sailings had exactly the same issues - 1 sailing got 30% FCC and a partial refund -another sailing only got 20% FCC.  To make matters worse, not everyone got offered the FCC...only those who filed complaints.

Were you dealing with Seattle office? They were all very nice on phone, gained my confidence but when the crap hit the fan they were incompetent and/or clueless. I partly blame myself I should have had them issue to me more email documentation to back up their talk. All i wanted was for them to stick to our original contract. I've requested a contact person in the legal department to try and resolve the issue but have yet to hear back from Hurtigruten. They have my $250. deposit and acknowledge it will be good for a limited time, so i guess they are saying that it's within their contractual rights to hold it but what about my contract rights and the sailing i put deposit on???

Well let's see if Havila can do better in the future, they will be my go to.

3 hours ago, bones774 said: Well let's see if Havila can do better in the future, they will be my go to.

Well. Might very well be - just note that you pay at least 20% in deposit and "Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the deposit will not be refunded to the customer upon cancellation"

- in general you will not get any refund for deposit for voyages when booked in Europe.

This also applies if you buy a cruise in Europe from, for example, Royal Caribbean.

6 hours ago, hallasm said: Well. Might very well be - just note that you pay at least 20% in deposit and "Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the deposit will not be refunded to the customer upon cancellation" - in general you will not get any refund for deposit for voyages when booked in Europe. This also applies if you buy a cruise in Europe from, for example, Royal Caribbean.

I think during covid, H and many other cruise lines were offering special cruise deposit guarantees and "no worry" types of contracts. Don't have it in front of me but I'll verify tomorrow.  Plus I am in the states.

3 hours ago, bones774 said: Plus I am in the states

You’re right - my comment was not related to Hurtigruten but Havila.

When you purchase a voyage from Havila you can only purchase the voyage in Norway - hence Norwegian Terms and conditions - despite you live in the states.

3 hours ago, hallasm said: You’re right - my comment was not related to Hurtigruten but Havila. When you purchase a voyage from Havila you can only purchase the voyage in Norway - hence Norwegian Terms and conditions - despite you live in the states.

That doesn't sound very positive for us in the states or elsewhere. Not looking good for Norwegian cruising.  I would've thought Norway a more progressive consumer friendly country.

18 minutes ago, bones774 said: That doesn't sound very positive

I totally agree.  It is common in Europe that you do not get a deposit back if you cancel yourself - in case of illness, insurance covers.  As mentioned, this applies to all travel purchased in Europe - also RCCL, NCL, HAL….  But often a significantly smaller amount. Havila has some untenable conditions but few read terms and conditions. 

It’s the same with many airline tickets

Getting back to the origins of this thread, I did not cancel myself. As you know, Norway had very strict entry requirements.  After I booked 1st sailing H postponed me for 1 year which I was accepting. After the 2nd sailing date passed, entry to country was still forbidden to me and they just cancelled me out w/o offering same contracted deal, they retain my deposit.

• 1 month later...

just to update, nothing has happened at all since i requested a contact/call from legal. 

2 hours ago, bones774 said: just to update, nothing has happened at all since i requested a contact/call from legal. 

What I would do at this state is to write a letter to the legal department.  With that letter provide all of the documentation that you have on the actual events, the timing of the purchase, the timing of the cancellation, and who made the cancellation, Any information you have on how other customers were treated (did they get the opportunity for cash refund) and any communications that you had in order to resolve the issue.  Stick to facts, do not threaten, do not evaluate, just provide the details, and request either the refund or specifics why you did not qualify, even though they canceled the cruise.

Send the letter certified, return receipt and see if you get any answer.

I'll give it a shot, quite a bit of research and work, this is since Sept of 2020. Lotsa explaining to do. 

13 hours ago, bones774 said: I'll give it a shot, quite a bit of research and work, this is since Sept of 2020. Lotsa explaining to do.  Thanks

Sorry to hear, "H" is treating you this way, Ira.   What a contrast from our experience with them, on our Covid 'extended' Antarctica cruise two years ago.  They even gave us a free flight home from Chile, even though we did not purchase air from them...

2 hours ago, bob brown said: Sorry to hear, "H" is treating you this way, Ira.   What a contrast from our experience with them, on our Covid 'extended' Antarctica cruise two years ago.  They even gave us a free flight home from Chile, even though we did not purchase air from them...   Good luck!

Very surprised also. the guys in Seattle on the phone were always very nice but they weren't being businesslike, more like let's wait and see or that sounds good. I wish i couldve documented all that better but it was all just verbal. I'd be happy i they just offered me the original deal i contracted for. I  won't deal with them again unless they decide to offer me my original deal. I remember what you went thru and thought they were a more upscale line but now hiding behind their legal department and not responding to my queries is terrible.

Best of luck to you and Betty and hope to see you onboard.

• 8 months later...

On 7/23/2022 at 9:46 AM, bones774 said: Very surprised also. the guys in Seattle on the phone were always very nice but they weren't being businesslike, more like let's wait and see or that sounds good. I wish i couldve documented all that better but it was all just verbal. I'd be happy i they just offered me the original deal i contracted for. I  won't deal with them again unless they decide to offer me my original deal. I remember what you went thru and thought they were a more upscale line but now hiding behind their legal department and not responding to my queries is terrible. Best of luck to you and Betty and hope to see you onboard.

@bones774  

I know this thread died off several months ago, but I am investigating a coastal cruise for fall 2023 and thought Hurtigruten was only choice.  Did this issue ever get resolved or are you still in limbo?

Havila didn't show up in search but glad I checked this forum and I will look into their trips. The coastal trip with Hurtigruten has been in my radar fir several years and I’m astonished how their overall pricing and product has changed as they became more mainstream tourist centered. They were my front leader for polar expeditions until recently. Just returned from Antarctica with another company as well as different companies for Svalbard & Greenland recent past.

35 minutes ago, ColdCruise said: Just returned from Antarctica with another company as well as different companies for Svalbard & Greenland recent past.   thanks !

Which company did you use for Antarctica?

9 minutes ago, vtgumby said: Which company did you use for Antarctica?

I used Quark, they were using World Explorer which is owned by a Portuguese company, Mystic. Quark provided the expedition team and ran the gift shop, everyone else was employed by Mystic. Quark had a good Black Friday promotion - significant discount & possibility to be matched w same sex roommate to avoid single supplement (got unlucky & had a match, a couple other got lucky on that trip and ended up without a match). Good trip but not sure id choose them again. I left a trip review under Quark.

Strangely, upon returning to work i was in a meeting with a guy who'd also just returned. Comparing expedition experiences I felt they had more time on target, so would consider his expedition team for future trip (although he also may have paid considerably more pp). He & his wife used an Australian company-  Aurora Expeditions 

1 hour ago, ColdCruise said: @vtgumby   I used Quark, they were using World Explorer which is owned by a Portuguese company, Mystic. Quark provided the expedition team and ran the gift shop, everyone else was employed by Mystic. Quark had a good Black Friday promotion - significant discount & possibility to be matched w same sex roommate to avoid single supplement (got unlucky & had a match, a couple other got lucky on that trip and ended up without a match). Good trip but not sure id choose them again. I left a trip review under Quark.   Strangely, upon returning to work i was in a meeting with a guy who'd also just returned. Comparing expedition experiences I felt they had more time on target, so would consider his expedition team for future trip (although he also may have paid considerably more pp). He & his wife used an Australian company-  Aurora Expeditions 

Thanks so much for the information, you’ve expanded our possibilities!

7 hours ago, ColdCruise said: @bones774   I know this thread died off several months ago, but I am investigating a coastal cruise for fall 2023 and thought Hurtigruten was only choice.  Did this issue ever get resolved or are you still in limbo?   Havila didn't show up in search but glad I checked this forum and I will look into their trips. The coastal trip with Hurtigruten has been in my radar fir several years and I’m astonished how their overall pricing and product has changed as they became more mainstream tourist centered. They were my front leader for polar expeditions until recently. Just returned from Antarctica with another company as well as different companies for Svalbard & Greenland recent past.   thanks !

No not resolved. I lost $250 to them. Their "legal dept" never got back to me with any resolution.

You bought the trip through their Seattle office, right? Did you post on their Facebook page (if they have one), or other social media site? Also your local and state representatives? Small claims court if you booked through the Seattle office as the representative of the Norwegian company?

Or contact your credit card and dispute the fee since if they cancelled your reservation you could argue you didn’t get the thing you paid for. I had to involve my cc to get a refund of my Lufthansa airfare … they held onto my fare money from April  to July 2020 and the cc returned my money within a week of me filing a complaint with them.   

 I guess at this point, it’s how much more aggro it’s worth, or if you can stand the loss, save frustration and chock it up to a bad business transaction. I’d still be ticked, but like a lot of big business shenanigans they just stonewall and wear you down till you give up and go away. Very unfair but uneven balance of power - consumer vs multimillion (NOK) business.

GottaKnowWhen

I am recently back from a two-week Hurtigruten trip: Hamburg to Nordkapp and return. Except that we didn't return via ship because the ship had mechanical problems and after limping along for a couple of days, on day 11 they chartered some planes and airlifted us to Hamburg. Put us up in a nice hotel, offered reimbursement for meal costs through the "end of the cruise" on that Friday.

They offered a choice of 60%FCC or 40% Refund. I choose the 40% option. I had booked through the Seattle office. The other American couple onboard had booked through the Global or Norway site. They are also choosing the 40% option. It will be interesting to see if/when the refund shows in may account, and to see if there is a difference in speed of processing etc. depending on where we booked.

On 3/30/2023 at 5:25 PM, GottaKnowWhen said: I am recently back from a two-week Hurtigruten trip: Hamburg to Nordkapp and return. Except that we didn't return via ship because the ship had mechanical problems and after limping along for a couple of days, on day 11 they chartered some planes and airlifted us to Hamburg. Put us up in a nice hotel, offered reimbursement for meal costs through the "end of the cruise" on that Friday. They offered a choice of 60%FCC or 40% Refund. I choose the 40% option. I had booked through the Seattle office. The other American couple onboard had booked through the Global or Norway site. They are also choosing the 40% option. It will be interesting to see if/when the refund shows in may account, and to see if there is a difference in speed of processing etc. depending on where we booked.

Update on my refund...

On 22 March I sent my request to Hurtigruten US office. On 27 March they informed me that my refund check would be mailed on 30 March. Today, 4 April I received my check for 40% refund plus the promised €25/pp per meal for our time in Hamburg after the airlift from mid-cruise.

I think they were very responsive and deserve several thumbs up!

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Maud Temporarily Returns to Hurtigruten Fleet

• March 5, 2024

Hurtigruten Group announced that the MS Maud will make a temporary return to Hurtigruten as as part of its environmental upgrade programs while HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) adjusts fleet deployments following its most successful Antarctic season ever, according to a press release.

Previously, the ship had operated on the Norwegian coast but joined the HX fleet in 2021. The MS Maud is expected to return to HX in 2026.

  “Hurtigruten is undertaking the most significant environmental upgrade in the cruise industry. The diverse fleet capabilities of the Hurtigruten Group gives us the opportunity to temporarily move MS Maud from HX to Hurtigruten, filling the void left by the upgrade program. MS Maud will return to HX again in 2026,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten Group.

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Greenland Cruises

Book early for 2025 /2026 sailings to Greenland and save up to 40% with the HX Price Promise*.

Greenland Expedition Cruises

Greenland will take your breath away. Surrounded by a vast network of glaciers and glittering fjords, you’ll cruise past calving icebergs in Disko Bay, hike along pristine beaches and green valleys, and see photogenic wildlife. Experience Greenland’s culture and traditions as you visit colourful settlements and join exciting activities with your Expedition Team. See our itineraries, activities and current offers.

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PLUS with our Price Promise, if you find the same cabin available for a lower price after you've booked, let us know and we'll give you back the difference.

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Greenland expeditions come with a great selection of activities. We take you to Greenland in the best months for outdoor adventures as the days are long and the weather is mild.

Your expert Expedition Team will help bring you closer to Greenland’s captivating wildlife and culture through lectures, guided hikes, landings, and kayaking.

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On our Greenland tours you can meet some of the hardiest wildlife on the planet, including – muskoxen, caribou, Arctic hares, Arctic foxes, reindeer, stoats and Arctic wolves.

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Travel safely and in comfort aboard our hybrid-powered expedition ships and ships modified for better sustainability. Our smaller ice-class ships allow you to experience more remote and unspoilt polar destinations, and these are the ships you’ll travel with to Greenland.

Purpose-built as an expedition cruise ship, MS Fram is an exceptional base camp for explorers.On board, comfort is a top priority, so after a day of exploration you can relax in a hot tub ,dine in your choice of two restaurants or at the outdoor BBQ and catch up with your fellow guests with a cocktail in hand as you watch the scenery glide past in the Explorer Lounge & Bar. In the Science Centre, at the heart of the ship, you’ll discover more about the places you sail to and listen to talks by the Expedition Team.  With key expedition features and technology, MS Fram is primed to bring you on a journey of discovery to our planet’s most alluring and unspoiled regions. 

The newest addition to our fleet will honor the heritage of her namesake – the Norwegian explorer, scientist, humanitarian and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Fridtjof Nansen. Known for his innovations in Arctic expeditions, Nansen led the first crossing of Greenland on cross-country skis. He is perhaps most famous for his attempt to reach the geographical North Pole during the Fram Expedition (1893-1896). Interestingly, after Nansen's Fram expedition, the ship was passed on to another great explorer who secretly planned an expedition to the South Pole - Roald Amundsen.

MS Maud, previously MS Midnatsol, is named after one of the most famous polar vessels of all time, Roald Amundsen's 'Maud' from 1917. The original 'Maud' got her name from the first Queen of modern-day Norway. She also had her namesake in Hurtigruten Expedition’s 1925 flagship, DS Dronning Maud ('DS Queen Maud'). Today, MS Maud is equipped with advanced technology that makes her exceptionally well-suited for expedition cruises in Norway and the British Isles.

MS Spitsbergen

MS Spitsbergen is named after the crown jewel of Arctic Norway – the Svalbard archipelago and its biggest island, Spitsbergen. Hurtigruten has a long history of travelling to Spitsbergen, beginning in 1896 with the 'Sports Route'. After a complete reconstruction, MS Spitsbergen joined the Hurtigruten fleet in 2016. The ship features high technical standards as well as comfortable, modern public areas and cabins. She is modern and environmentally progressive and will undergo further improvements that will reduce emissions and fuel consumption even more. The new ship’s maneuverability and optimal size make her quite suitable for exploring polar waters.

Helping local communities

On a Hurtigruten Expeditions cruise to Greenland you’ll be helping to improve the lives of Greenlandic children. The Hurtigruten Foundation supports the work of local charities and development projects wherever we travel.

Stories from Greenland

Travel Guide to Greenland

Greenland is truly a world apart – it’s beautiful, with glaciers and colossal blue icebergs, green meadows, hot springs and clean air. It's unlike any landscape you're likely to have seen before.

The coastal ice-free fringe of Greenland supports a range of mammals and birds living in the seas, fjords and protected areas, offering nature lovers a unique wildlife experience.

Greenland Sea - about

Dive in and Learn All About the Greenland Sea

How much do most people know about the Greenland Sea? Perhaps it’s obvious that because a lot of it is within the Arctic Circle it’s going to be cold and probably full of icebergs.

Get closer to nature with our small expedition boats

Our expedition ships venture where many cruise liners can’t. But we want to go further. We want to immerse you in the raw, untamed beauty of the natural world – and that’s where our small expedition boats come in.

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Hurtigruten

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Hurtigruten fleet

Ms fridtjof nansen, ms roald amundsen, ms spitsbergen, ms trollfjord, ms otto sverdrup, mv santa cruz ii galapagos, ms nordnorge, ms polarlys, ms nordkapp, ms richard with, ms kong harald, ms vesteralen, review of hurtigruten.

Hurtigruten (hurtigruten.com) is a Norwegian passenger shipping company specializing in cruise and ferry services. The "Norwegian Coastal Express Route" ( Bergen - Kirkenes ) is a cargo-passenger ferry service along Norway's western and northern coast. Hurtigruten's cruiseferries sail nearly the entire length of Norway and complete this roundtrip itinerary in 11 days. The route also includes Lofoten Islands and Vesteralen Islands .

Hurtigruten's competitor on the Norwegian cruiseferry market is Havila Voyages .

Company History

The Hurtigruten company was established by government contract in 1893, in order to improve communications along Norway's jagged and long coastline. On July 2, 1893, the steamship Vesteralen departed on the company's maiden voyage/first roundtrip itinerary from Trondheim , arriving in Svolvaer on July 3rd (35,5 hours crossing) and at Hammerfest on July 5th (after 67 hours). The steamer was mastered by Captain Richard With (Hurtigruten's founder).

Hurtigruten's first expedition voyage was in 1896.

Only Vesteraalens Dampskibsselskab was willing to navigate the then poorly charted waters. Such a voyage was especially hard during the dark and long winters. Hurtigruten was a breakthrough for communities. Mail to Hammerfest from central Norway (which had taken 3 weeks in summer and 5 months in winter) could already be delivered in just 7 days.

Encouraged by Vesteraalens' early success, several other companies obtained concessions to operate the coastal route, extended to run from Bergen (southwest) to Kirkenes (far northeast). 11 ships visit each of the 34 ports daily, northbound and southbound. The 12-day roundtrip itinerary Bergen-Kirkenes includes 65 port stops, with ports' stays ranging from 15 min to 4+ hours.

Currently, Hurtigruten provides 24/7 cargo and passenger ferry service Bergen-Kirkenes. To operate this service, the company receives a Norwegian subsidy. However, in 2017 the subsidy arrangement was changed as preventing ferry competition. Some Norwegian interests also argued that Hurtigruten's Norwegian Coastal Service monopoly is not beneficial to the country and that local passengers will only benefit from more competitive offers.

In the 1980s, Hurtigruten's role changed. Operating subsidies were phased out and the operators put emphasis on tourism. New, larger and more luxurious vessels were introduced, with more attention to restaurants, bars, hot tubs, and other comforts. Hurtigruten still serves important cargo and passenger needs and operates year-round. The last two shipping companies, Troms Fylkes Dampskibsselskap (TFDS) and Ofotens og Vesteraalens Dampskibsselskab (OVDS), merged on March 1, 2006, as the Hurtigruten Group AS, and a year later became Hurtigruten ASA. In addition to the ferries, high-speed regional express ships, and coastal route, the company operates cruises around South America, Antarctica, and Greenland.

At the end of 2014, the British private equity "TDR Capital" (specializing in control buyout investments in Europe) acquired Hurtigruten. In July 2014, TDR announced 3 potential buyers for the company and receiving offers from them. Since 2014, TDR Capital has provided the money needed for the purchasing and the refurbishment of MS Spitsbergen, as well as the capital for the drydock refurbishments of 4x ships in the Hurtigruten fleet and for two new shipbuilding orders (with optional two more vessels) in an attempt to revive the company.

When TDR bought Hurtigruten, the bid was for USD 884 million. TDR Capital got 90% and both Hurtigruten's shareholders retained 5% of the company each. Future plans are the brand (specializing in explorer cruising / expedition-type vacations) to be popularized on the markets in Asia and the USA. New itineraries will be added, including in exotic destinations, such as Amazon River (South America in general), Caribbean and other not polar regions, in addition to the line's traditional Arctic and Antarctica cruises.

In 2017, Hurtigruten signed a strategic partnership with Alibaba Group's Fliggy (a subsidiary company specializing in tourism). Via Figgy, Hurtigruten scheduled in January and February 2018 and 2019 Antarctica cruises (on the ship Midnatsol (now Maud) ) exclusively for Chinese travelers. These itineraries are roundtrips from Ushuaia Argentina and transit through the Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula .

Since July 2, 2018, fleetwide was implemented a policy for not using any single-use plastic products (bags, straws, cups, cutlery, toothpicks, aprons, stir pins, drink mixers, coffee lids). The decision made the shipping company world's first "plastic-free". It is estimated that 15 tons of plastic enters into oceans every minute of the day, ranking plastic pollution world's single biggest threat to the oceans. Hurtigruten's ban of single-use plastics was also imposed on all hotels, restaurants and other establishments contracted by the subsidiary company subsidiary Hurtigruten Svalbard for the land-based operations on Svalbard islands .

Hurtigruten Group's CEO is Daniel Skjeldam, Steven Taylor is the CCO.

Hurtigruten Norway's CEO is Hedda Felin. Hurtigruten Americas' President is Jeffrey Oar.

Hurtigruten Expeditions/HX's CEO is Gebhard Rainer, who in 2024 (effective June 15th) succeeded .Daniel Skjeldam.

In January 2021, Hurtigruten Group's cruise shipping operations were reorganized into two separate entities - "Hurtigruten Expeditions" (rebranded "HX" in December 2023) and "Hurtigruten Norway". Both entities have different management teams (including CEOs).

Hurtigruten Expeditions/HX operates a fleet of smaller-sized vessels deployed in regions like South America and Antarctica, Alaska, North and Central America, Arctic Norway (Spitsbergen, Svalbard), Atlantic Europe (Iceland and Greenland), Southern Europe (Mediterranean), Canary Islands Spain, Madeira Portugal). HX's current Nautical Itinerary Planner/Marine Operations Officer is Niclas Eriksson.

"Hurtigruten Norway" operates Norwegian coastal voyages (Bergen-Kirkenes/ 34-port route) providing cruise and ferry services.

In 2023 Hurtigruten hired Alex McNeil ( Quark Expeditions ' Director of Expedition Experience & Innovation) as SVP of Expeditions Product & Guest Experience, as well as Alastair Newton (Alavan Business Advisory Ltd's Director and Co-founder) as Director of Expedition Operations.

Company changes 2024

In January, HX expanded leadership team with Alex Delamere-White (CCO/Chief Commercial Officer), Jim Sayer (Senior VP of Global Marketing, Managing Director and VP of Europe), Nathaniel Sherborne (VP Sales and Marketing, UK & Nordics/previously worked for P&O UK, Cunard and Princess), Carla Brake (Senior Sales Director), Sheralyn Berry (General Manager for the Americas), Jennifer Kennedy (Business Development Manager Southeast USA), Kent Phillips (Business Development Manager Western Canada), and Ian Kivell (Business Development Manager Eastern Canada).

Effective from November 2024, HX is an all-inclusive cruise line providing as standard/complimentary (fleetwide, and to all destinations) the following amenities and services:

• Daily land expeditions and activities (hikes, community visits, lectures, etc)
• Full shipboard dining (breakfast, lunch, dinner with house wine and beer)
• Availability of wine, beer, spirits, and cocktails throughout the day and evening
• Unlimited access to beverages (coffee, tea, soft drinks)
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Inclusive crew gratuities.
• Participation in the onboard interactive science program (Science Centre + activities)
• Access to wellness facilities (sauna, hot tubs, gym, etc)
• Complimentary photos captured by the ship's professional photographer.
• Expedition gear and a reusable water bottle for guests to take home.

In May, HX appointed Chloe Couchman as Executive VP of Public Relations and Communications, reporting directly to the CEO.

Company changes 2023

In December, at the 2023 World Cheese Awards (in Trondheim), Hurtigruten’s Nidelven Bla was named "World’s Best Cheese". Produced by the company Gangstad Gardsysteri AS, the gourmet blue mold cheese is available onboard most Hurtigruten ships (including on all vessels serving the Coastal Express route) since 2015.

In November, Hurtigruten Norway signed a partnership with Arctic Umiaq Line AS (aka Arctic Umiaq/2006-founded passenger and freight shipping/ferry line in Greenland) to promote sustainable travel and tourism in Greenland.

In September, HX appointed Sheralyn Berry as General Manager for the Americas (USA-Canada-Latin America). Previously (2018-2023) she was Contiki Holidays' President for Canada.

In 2023, Hurtigruten Norway celebrated its 130th Anniversary, since its first Norwegian Coastal Express voyage in 1893. In September, the sister-company Hurtigruten Expeditions (operating a 6-ship fleet) was rebranded to "HX".

In March 2023, Hurtigruten launched the "Sea Zero" ship project in partnership with SINTEF (1950-founded, Trondheim-based independent research organization) plus a consortium of 12 maritime companies. The project (budgeted EUR 13 million/USD 14M/GBP 11,5M) received EUR 7M (~USD 7,5M/~GBP 6,2M) in public funding. The 2-year research and development phase (2023-2025) is for developing a battery-based powerplant, a hybrid propulsion system and optimized hull design and onboard energy consumption (electricity used for the hotel operations). Hurtigruten's Sea Zero project will result in the construction of the world's most energy-efficient cruise vessel.

In December 2022, Hurtigruten purchased from the family-owned Rathfinny Wine Estate (Vineyard in Polegate, East Sussex, England UK) a total of 1700 wax-sealed bottles of sparkling wine and placed them at a secret location off Arctic Norway's coast to age. In May 2023, after six months of aging on the seabed (at depth 34 m/112 ft), the bottles (branded Havets Bobler) were retrieved and introduced fleetwide to celebrate the company's 130th Anniversary. The first "Arctic-aged" champagne was tasted on May 12th (by celebrity sommelier Nikolai Haram Svorte) in Sandnessjoen. The special wine-tasting event was attended by Tina Gurra (Hurtigruten's Director of Beverages) and Mark Driver (Rathfinny Estate's co-owner).

Company changes 2022

In March 2022, Hurtigruten Group AS acquired a 24,9% stake (1/4th) in Metropolitan Touring ( Quito Ecuador -headquartered travel company and luxury brand) specializing in South America and Galapagos voyages.

In October 2022 Hurtigruten Expeditions signed a deal with Speedcast (Australian satellite technology provider) and implemented fleetwide SpaceX ' Starlink (satellite internet) connectivity. The fast Internet is unlimited and offered complimentary to both passengers and the crew.

Company changes 2021 (Hurtigruten Galapagos cruise charter)

In June 2021, Hurtigruten Expeditions signed a boat charter deal with Metropolitan Touring (shipowner/company specializing in Galapagos and South America voyages) for the luxury yacht Santa Cruz 2 (max capacity 90 passengers). The boat was extensively drydock-renovated in 2021 (all staterooms and public areas).

The first Hurtigruten Galapagos cruise was scheduled to depart on January 7, 2022.

Hurtigruten's 8-night/9-day Galapagos Islands itinerary includes hotel stays in Quito Ecuador (two nights/pre- and post-voyage), 6-nights of cruising (roundtrips from Baltra Island ), and two domestic flights (between Quito and Baltra).

The maiden season (2022) included a total of 32x expedition packages combining the voyages with land tours in the Galapagos, Cusco-Machu Picchu , Lake Titicaca (Andes Mountain/Bolivia and Peru), Manuel Antonio National Park (off Costa Rica's coast).

In December 2021 were opened bookings for Galapagos 2023-2024 seasons and announced new itineraries. To the 6-night "Eastern Galapagos" was added a 4-night "Northern Galapagos", a 4-night "Western Galapagos" and an 8-night B2B/back-to-back (Northern and Western Galapagos). Hurtigruten also expanded its land program by adding the luxury hotel Mashpi Lodge (capacity 47 beds, northwest of Quito), as a 3-night pre-/post-tour accommodation option for any Galapagos voyage.

Company changes 2020

In late-November 2020, Hurtigruten sold MS Lofoten to Sorlandet Maritime Videregaende Skole (Maritime High School). Since August 2021, the 1964-built vessel is used as a training ship (including hotel ship) for the students. The deal included the option Hurtigruten to occasionally charter the vessel during non-school periods.

For 2020, Hurtigruten reported a loss of EUR 160,6 million (~USD 194M) - in comparison to EUR 17M (~USD 20,5M) loss in 2019. As of Dec 31, 2020, the company had EUR 72M (~USD 87M) liquidity (cash and cash equivalents) and average monthly cash burn EUR 13M (~USD 16M). Hurtigruten's current fleet consists of 16 boats, including 11x expedition ships (5x for Arctic-Antarctic voyages) and 7x ferries (under a 10-year contract with Norway's Ministry of Transportation).

Hurtigruten Svalbard (catamaran cruises)

In May 2019, Hurtigruten partnered with Brim Explorer (Norwegian company specializing in eco-friendly cruising) to introduce a battery-powered catamaran (double-hulled vessel / with 2 parallel hulls) which is custom-designed for scenic polar exploration. The new boat operates various daily-scheduled sea excursions from homeport Longyearbyen (on Spitsbergen Island , Svalbard Norway ) under the new "Hurtigruten Svalbard" brand.

The 2020-launched hybrid catamaran has LOA length 24 m/79 ft, large battery packs and is one of the world's newest fully-electric powered ships. The vessel's batteries can be recharged shoreside and provide power for up to 10 hours at cruising speed 10 knots (18,5 kph / 11,5 mph). Max passenger capacity is 140. Shipbuilder is Maritime Partner AS (shipyard in Alesund Norway ). Boat's exterior and design is by Hareide Design AS - the company that designed the ships of Norwegian Yacht Voyages . Catamaran's hull design is by Wave Propulsion AS (based in Bomlo Norway). Among catamaran's features are hydrophones and underwater drones. The Blueye Robotics-produced drones were also introduced to other Hurtigruten ships.

The construction of MS Brim Explorer (sistership) started in September 2018 (the order was placed in April) and it was launched in June 2019. Starting in August, itineraries are along Norway's coast and north of the Arctic Circle, including Lofoten (during summer) and short breaks from Tromso (during winter). The sistership ( currently under construction ) for Hurtigruten Svalbard was inaugurated in August 2019. Futuristically designed, both tour boats feature 2 decks with floor-ceiling and wall-to-wall windows and offer premium food prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Since 2019, the company's subsidiary Hurtigruten Svalbard (via partnership with the Finnish company Aurora Powertrains) offers eSled (electric snowmobiles) on shore excursions (wilderness tours) on Svalbard Islands (Norway's Arctic). The new snowmobiles are powered by electricity supplied by alternative sources (solar panels and windmills).

In mid-October 2020, Hurtigruten Group initiated a process to sale Hurtigruten Svalbard's real-estate portfolio (3 hotels, retail shops, apartments). As financial advisor was contracted Carnegie Investment Counsel (Registered Investment Advisor firm).

Hurtigruten's ferry service "Norwegian Coastal Express"

"Norwegian Coastal Express" is a Norwegian passenger shipping (cruise ferry) service on the routes Bergen-Kirkenes (northbound) and Kirkenes-Bergen (southbound) along the western and northern coasts of Norway. Currently, Trondheim-Svolvaer ferry route takes 33 hours, while Trondheim-Hammerfest ferry time is 41 hours 15 min.

On the Bergen-Kirkenes ferry route are transported passengers, as well as provisions, mail and various cargo to Norwegian communities without any road or air access.

For the period 2012-2019, Hurtigruten was given an annual USD 600 million subsidies for public transportation (regular ferry) services not otherwise provided. The company's current contract expires on December 31, 2019, with an optional 1-year extension. At the end of September 2017, Norway's Ministry of Transportation and Communication invited ferry companies to compete for the Norwegian Coastal Service's subsidy, with a deadline for the bids January 3, 2018. The new ferry contract was signed for the period January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2031. Hurtigruten had to modernize 7x vessels (deployed on this route) in order to comply with the contract's requirements.

New ships (Polar-class expedition vessels)

In early-June 2016, Hurtigruten signed a letter of intent for building 4 new expedition ships with ice-strengthened hulls, allowing cruising to Antarctic and Arctic destinations. This was company's largest investment in its 123-year history. It followed the announcement (April 2016) that Hurtigruten will add 2 new Polar-class expedition vessels to its fleet.

The shipbuilder is Kleven Marine shipyard ( Ulsteinvik Norway ). Ship design and propulsion were developed by Rolls-Royce, with the assistance of the designer Espen Oino. The construction order included two additional options. The new ships were named MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen . These are the world's first expedition ships with hybrid propulsion. The new-class vessels feature latest environmentally friendly marine technologies. The new hybrid technology allows cruising with fully electric propulsion for up to 30 min. The main gain is the total reduction in fuel consumption and CO2-emissions. The new hybrid technology, along with the effective use of electricity onboard and optimized hull design, reduces emissions by nearly 20%.

The newbuilds have underwater drones (ROV / remotely operated underwater vehicle) developed by Blueye Robotics (Norway). Each drone weighs 7 kg and has 4 thrusters for propulsion. The ROV also features a wide-angle video camera designed to work in limited-light conditions. It streams true-color live images to the ship's TV screens, to all cabin TVs and also to the digital diving masks of the passengers cruising on the ship's Zodiac boats.

Each newbuild has 3 restaurants with current itinerary-based menus. The pool deck has bars, infinity pool, Jacuzzis. Building materials used during construction were predominantly Norwegian, with extensive use of granite, oak, and wool, among others. WIth max passenger capacity 530 each, the new ships were scheduled for launch in July 2018 and July 2019.

In August 2017, Hurtigruten made an investment of NOK 300 million (USD 39 M) in Kleven Group for a 40% interest. In September 2017, Hurtigruten acquired 40% stocks in Kleven Verft after the shipyard experienced a financial crisis.

Along with Hurtigruten, Kleven Group (parent company for the shipyards Kleven and Myklebust) includes Age Remoy, the Kleven-owned companies John Kleven and H-Invest, the yacht-building company Lurssen (Germany) and the private investor Per Lillebo. Without the newly infused capital, Kleven Shipyard was facing bankruptcy. In June 2018, Hurtigruten became full owner of the shipyard after buying the remaining 60% shares. Under the 2018 deal, Hurtigruten also fully owns the subsidiaries Kleven Maritime Contracting and Kleven Maritime Technology. Following the acquisition, Hurtigruten provided NOK 600 million (USD 75 M) financing in order to facilitate Kleven Verft's shipbuilding capabilities.

The last time when the company had a newbuild was in 2007 ( MS Fram ).

In early-February 2019, Hurtigruten announced that in 2021 will add 4 old ships to the company's expedition fleet - Spitsbergen (2009), Midnatsol (2003), Trollfjord (2002), Finnmarken (2002). This fleet also includes Fram (2007) and the newbuilds/sisterships Roald Amundsen (2019) and Fridtjof Nansen (2020).

On October 25, 2018, Hurtigruten signed an MoU (memorandum of understanding) with Kleven Verft AS for the construction of a third newbuild (530-passenger expedition vessel) sistership to the hybrid-powered Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen. The MoU was signed by Daniel Skjeldam (Hurtigruten Group's and HX' CEO until 2024 June) and Olav Nakken (Kleven Verft's CEO).

In March 2023 the company signed a partnership with SINTEF (Stiftelsen for industriell og teknisk forskning/1950-founded, Trondheim-headquartered independent organization specializing in contract projects/analysis, research, and development) for the design of a new class "zero-emission" ferries for Hurtigruten's Norwegian Coastal Express service. The first ship is planned for inauguration in 2030.

Hurtigruten fleet's LNG and Battery Power upgrades

In April 2018, the company announced a USD 150 million fleet renovation project - Hurtigruten's ever largest. Almost all vessels will be upgraded with new hybrid powerplants that combine LNG-engines (liquefied natural gas) and batteries. For the project was contracted Rolls-Royce Marine, initially for 6 vessels and optional another 3. The program's completion was scheduled before the new coastal service contract (January 1, 2021). The project also includes all boats to be upgraded with shore power capabilities.

In November 2018, Hurtigruten announced its fleet will be powered with LBG (liquified biogas) produced mainly from dead fish using organic-waste recycling methods. LBG is sourced from Norway and other Northern European countries with large fisheries and forestry industries producing big volumes of organic waste. In May 2019, Hurtigruten signed an 8-year deal with Biokraft AS to supply LBG fleetwide.

By 2021, Hurtigruten has six old vessels upgraded with FGSS (fuel gas supply system) and biogas- battery-powered (LBG, LNG, batteries).

• For this USD 850 million (EUR 770 M) drydock conversion project, in March 2019 was contracted Hoglund Gas Solutions (HGS) - Hamburg -based subsidiary of the Norwegian company Hoglund Marine Automation). Hoglund developed, delivered and installed the FGSS equipment package, while HB Hunte Engineering GmbH designed and engineered the vessels' fuel tanks.
• Hurtigruten also allocated three boats - Midnatsol (Maud) , Trollfjord (Eirik Raude) , Finnmarken (Otto Sverdrup) - exclusively for cruise shipping operations between homeports Bergen and Kirkenes. These new Norwegian coastal cruises are available for booking by international passengers and not serving Norwegian ferry passengers.
• Following the project's completion in 2021, the three vessels (Trollfjord, Finnmarken, Midnatsol) were renamed to, respectively, MS Eirik Raude, MS Otto Sverdrup, MS Maud. These ships were also upgraded with hybrid powerplants and equipped with large-capacity battery packs. Starting in 2021, the 3 ships are deployed year-round for Norwegian Coastal cruises.
• MS Otto Sverdrup (Finnmarken) was drydocked in 2020, while MS Eirik Raude (Trollfjord) and MS Maud (Midnatsol) were drydocked in 2021. The three boats were also significantly refurbished (all interior public spaces and all staterooms) and new suites were added. Their max passenger capacity was reduced to 530.

By 2023, 3x "Norwegian Coastal Express" boats (Kong Harald, Nordlys, Richard With) will undergo drydocks for powerplant conversions (from diesel to battery-hybrid), during which new low-emission diesel engines and large battery packs will be installed.

• For this project, on May 11, 2021, Hurtigruten signed a contract with Kongsberg Maritime to deliver the hybrid equipment packages.
• Each ship will be fitted with 2x SAVe Energy storage systems (1,120kWh lithium-ion batteries) controlled via SAVe CUBE (drive switchboards that control the thrusters) and 2x Bergen B33:45V diesel engines (diesel generator sets with SCR-Selective Catalytic Reduction to optimize CO emissions control). The Kongsberg's equipment also includes re-blading of the propellers, installing new thruster motors, AC (current switches), new safety and radio systems.
• The drydocks will be conducted by Myklebust Verft AS (shipyard in Gursken, Norway).

All Hurtigruten ships now have shoreside-power capabilities (plugs for electricity supply at port berths).

Among the deckplan changes following the drydock refurbishments are:

• new venues - Expedition Launch (tender boat platform serving passenger embarkation for shore excursions, complete with expedition equipment and boats), Science Center (fitted with high-tech gadgets and top-notch media technologies and served by ship's Expedition Team), new/redesigned wellness complex (relaxation lounge, gym, treatment rooms for massages).
• Ships' sundeck areas (with outdoor swimming pool/whirlpool) were also upgraded.
• Three new restaurants were introduced - Restaurant Aune (Main Dining Room serving breakfast, lunch, dinner), Restaurant Lindstrom (new speciality dining venue for contemporary cuisine) and Fredheim (casual eatery). On top deck was added an outdoor grill bar.
• The onboard art collections were preserved.

Hurtigruten cruise experience

Hurtigruten ships provide comfortable home-like travel experiences while touring the charming cities, islands and mountain scenery of Norway. The atmosphere onboard is casual because these vessels are on a mission to transport traveling locals and freight in addition to the international mix of cruise passengers making a voyage out of it. Most of the Norwegian crew speak English. Tipping is optional, though many guests will remember the ship's dining staff. On the expedition ms Fram, Hurtigruten recommends 50 kroner per day.

Dining, with all meals included for one-way and roundtrip travelers, takes place in a single onboard restaurant. Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style, open-seating, with a good selection of international and Norwegian selections. Dinners are reserved-seat, set-time, 3-course meals. Special dietary requests have to be made in advance. The 24-hour cafe is most often used by travelers making short trips. Liquor is highly taxed. Passengers may bring their own alcohol supply onboard for consumption in cabins.

Apart from an occasional musical group aboard during summertime departures, there is no entertainment scheduled by Hurtigruten. The Arctic Circle crossing ceremony is a rousing show for those guests chosen by King Neptune as victims (ice-cold water initiation) and others spectating. Everyone watches the constantly changing scenery from decks or in the cozy observation lounges and midship bars, while some also play games and read. Norwegian art (sculptures and paintings) decorates the entire fleet.

An extensive tour program is geared to the seasons and includes city walking tours, church and museum visits, dog sledding, birding, kayaking, Lapland cultural tours, and trips to the North Cape. Hurtigruten tours may be pre-booked online. One of the unique features of these voyages is that passengers rotate often, with point-to-point ferry travelers embarking and disembarking along the route.

Itinerary of Hurtigruten

Currently, the company Hurtigruten provides two types of services - ferry (cargo and passenger shipping along Norway's coast) and cruises (global expeditions and Norwegian cruiseferry ).

Hurtigruten Expeditions/HX operates a fleet of small-sized vessels deployed in regions like South America and Antarctica, Alaska, North and Central America, Arctic Norway (Spitsbergen, Svalbard), Atlantic Europe (Iceland and Greenland), Southern Europe (Mediterranean), Canary Islands Spain, Madeira Portugal). HX's current Nautical Itinerary Planner/Marine Operations Officer is Niclas Eriksson.

Galapagos cruises 2024-2025

Starting in January 2022, Hurtigruten Expeditions offer an 8-night/9-day Galapagos Islands itinerary that includes hotel stays in Quito Ecuador (two nights/pre- and post-voyage), 6-nights of cruising (roundtrips from Baltra Island ) and two domestic flights (between Quito and Baltra).

Hurtigruten's Galapagos voyages are operated by the chartered from Metropolitan Touring luxury yacht Santa Cruz 2 (2002-built, last refurbished in 2021). The first Hurtigruten Galapagos cruise was scheduled to depart on January 5, 2022.

Hurtigruten's Galapagos 2024-2025 seasons feature new itineraries and land-stay options.

• 6-night "Eastern Galapagos"
• 4-night "Northern Galapagos"
• 4-night "Western Galapagos"
• 8-night "Northern and Western Galapagos" ( B2B/back-to-back ).

As a 3-night pre-/post-tour accommodation option for any Galapagos voyage Hurtigruten offers Mashpi Lodge (rainforest luxury hotel, capacity 47 beds) located northwest of Quito.

HX 2025-2026 season

In November 2023, HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) unveiled its 2025-2026 season, highlighting its commitment to expanding into growth destinations through the introduction of new ports, landings, and itineraries, along with increased emphasis on local integration and community engagement initiatives.

The upcoming season features 80+ itineraries spanning 5 continents, solidifying HX's reputation for pioneering novel and innovative travel experiences in vital expedition regions such as Alaska, Antarctica, Greenland, and the  Northwest Passage .

Notable Highlights:

Greenland: HX's most extensive Greenland season to date involves the addition of a 4th vessel,  MS Spitsbergen . The company is among the first to operate from Nuuk's new airport, with the launch of four itineraries, including 'Grand Greenland' voyages originating from and concluding in Nuuk. This development reduces transit times, allowing passengers to immediately immerse themselves in Greenland's wildlife and landscapes. Furthermore, the itineraries along Greenland's west coast feature enhanced community engagement, building upon the recently announced partnership between HX's sister brand, Hurtigruten, and the local Arctic Umiaq Line.

Iceland: HX is set to offer two new Icelandic itineraries, both departing from  Reykjavik . The company made history by becoming the first cruise line to connect to shoreside electricity in Iceland this fall.

Northwest Passage and Arctic Canada: In 2025, HX introduces four new Arctic Canada sailings, all originating from or concluding at the new port in  Nuuk, Greenland . These voyages encompass two Northwest Passage crossings, allowing travelers to experience this renowned route.

Antarctica: HX offers 50 departures to Antarctica, marking the largest-ever offering in this destination. The company's Science & Education program continues to support numerous projects and research endeavors in the region.

Svalbard: HX introduces exclusive spring itineraries, allowing guests to explore Svalbard as it emerges from the polar winter into spring.

Alaska: HX's  MS Roald Amundsen , the world's first  battery hybrid-powered ship , continues to serve guests for its 5th season in Alaska.

West Africa: HX plans to return to West Africa, where it is expected to be the sole cruise line offering exclusive voyages to the archipelagos of Cape Verde and the Bissagos Islands.

"Svalbard Express" and "North Cape Express" voyages 2023

In 2023, Hurtigruten offers with MS Trollfjord two new for the company voyages themed as "Svalbard Express" and "North Cape Express". The new itineraries are an upgraded extension to the Norwegian Coastal Express, also featuring longer in-port stays (half-day or full-day), special onboard events and exclusive amenities (all-day dining, afternoon tea service, takeaway service, cooking classes, alcoholic beverages tastings, cocktail bar, live entertainment).

Svalbard Express (June 3 - Sept 9, 2023) is priced from USD 4960 pp. North Cape Express (departing on September 26, 2023) is priced from USD 2457 pp.

The 14-night/15-day "Svalbard Express" itinerary is a Bergen roundtrip that follows the original coastal routes operated by Hurtigruten in the period 1968-1982, visiting the archipelagos Lofoten and Vesteralen, as well as Nordkapp and Spitsbergen Island ( Svalbard Archipelago ). Svalbard Express' call ports include Andalsnes, Traena, Stokmarknes, Tromso, Honningsvag, Bjornoya/Bear Island (coastal cruising), Spitsbergen ( Longyearbyen , Ny-Alesund ), Tromso, Senja Island, Svolvaer, Bronnoysund, Alesund, Urke/Hjorundfjord, Bergen.

Svalbard Express is also offered as a 7-day one-way either Kirkenes-Longyearbyen or Longyearbyen-Kirkenes. Both one-way packages are inclusive of a 2-night hotel in Longyearbyen, 2x land excursions, an evening at Camp Barentz's cabin, as well as catamaran cruising (MS Bard/hybrid-electric passenger ship, 2020-built/IMO 9892248).

The 14-night/15-day "North Cape Express" departs from Oslo (overnight) and ends in Bergen (overnight) visiting Kristiansand, Farsund, Haugesund, Hardangerfjord (cruising), Alesund, Bronnoysund, Svolvaer, Stokmarknes, Tromso, Honningsvag, Alta, Lodingen, Rorvik, Molde, Kristiansund, Bergen.

Norwegian Coastal Express cruises (Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages)

Hurtigruten's new coastal Norway excursions program implements expedition teams. More than 35 of these voyages are new, along with the company's existing shore excursions and themed activities.

Next is the cruise ship itinerary map showing the Norwegian Coastal Express (ferry route) operated by Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages (since 2021).

The list of all ports along the northbound "Norwegian Coastal Express" itinerary includes Bergen (turnaround port), Alesund , Floro , Geiranger (Stranda) , Maloy (Vagsoy) , Molde , Torvik (Heroy, Leinoya Island) , Kristiansund , Rorvik (Vikna) , Trondheim , Bodo , Bronnoysund (Bronnoy) , Nesna , Ornes (Meloy) , Sandnessjoen (Alstahaug) , Stamsund (Vestvagoy Island) , Svolvaer (Vagan, Austvagoya Island) , Trollfjorden (Hadsel) , Finnsnes (Lenvik) , Harstad (Hinnoya Island) , Risoyhamn (Andoy Island) , Skjervoy , Sortland (Langoya Island) , Stokmarknes (Hadseloya Island) , Tromso , Berlevag , Hammerfest , Honningsvag (Mageroya Island , Nordkapp / North Cape ), Kjollefjord (Lebesby) , Mehamn (Gamvik) , Oksfjord (Loppa) , Batsfjord , Vardo (Vardoya Island) , Kirkenes (turnaround port).

Next table shows Hurtigruten's 11-night / 12-day "Classic Norwegian Coastal Voyage" itinerary roundtrip from Bergen. Prices in 2020 started at ~USD $1900 per person (double-occupancy cabin rates).

Adventure cruisers can expect the unexpected with Hurtigruten, offering:

• A record number of authentic Norwegian excursions (3-day and 4-day cruise extensions) are offered, ranging from gentle strolls to energetic hikes, and from nature-themed tours to urban exploration - onshore and by ship.
• Professional expedition teams interpret the wildlife, nature, and culture along the coast during onboard lectures and port talks.
• "Young Explorers" kids activity program is custom-tailored (on selected ships and cruises only).
• Kids-friendly tours/excursions specifically designed for children ages 7-13 yo
• New astronomy-themed cruises offer stargazing excursions (first introduced in 2018).
• A locally-sourced onboard food menu mirrors Norway's rugged coastline.
• The company offers convenient dates for year-round Norwegian cruise departures. Hurtigruten is one of the ever best options to book the unique "Northern Lights" cruises.

Hurtigruten's coastal expedition excursions accommodate all activity levels and ages. They range from the midnight concert (in Tromso's Arctic Cathedral) to exploring Kristiansund mountains by dogsledding with Alaskan huskies. Adventurers are even able to chase the Northern Lights during snowmobile safaris between the ports Kjollefjord and Mehamn.

Among the other excursions on the daily coastal voyages between Bergen to Kirkenes, are themed:

• Discover Norway's 2nd largest glacier
• Catch, prepare and eat king crabs
• Explore the most powerful tidal current in the world on a RIB-boat safari.

Expedition hosts of the coast are available on 9 out of 11 Hurtigruten ships. Onboard experts share their first-hand knowledge of natural phenomena, wildlife, landscapes, and history. They also enhance cruise tourists' experiences by a variety of activities and interpreting the natural and cultural treasures encountered along the ferry route.

Hurtigruten passengers can also enjoy touring mainland Norway by adding port stays (3 or 4 days) in one of 6 featured port cities (prior to or after the voyage). In Bronnoysund , Tromso , and Trondheim , passengers can take "naturban" mini-expeditions on explorer boats while the cruise ship is docked in port.

Hurtigruten announced it will offer roundtrip voyages from Port Dover UK in winter 2021-2022, which is a first in the company's 126-year history. Also revealed were 12-day "Norway Expedition" cruises (between October 2021-March 2022) departing out of Dover and visiting ports along Norway's coast. The itineraries are on MS Maud (currently MS Trollfjord ). Passengers can participate in complimentary activities each day, allowing them to explore the history, culture, and wildlife of the destinations visited. Hurtigruten also increased the number of its expedition team members sailing onboard the cruise ship in order to provide lectures and additional information.

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Mother says $15,000 family cruise was canceled after she posted booking details on Facebook

• A Kentucky woman said her family's cruise was canceled after they fell victim to identity theft.
• Tiffany Banks said the incident occurred after she shared booking information on Facebook.
• Banks and her family spent a year planning a trip on the Carnival Celebration ship.

A Kentucky mother said her family's booking on a cruise was canceled just 48 hours before the ship was due to set sail after they fell victim to identity theft .

Tiffany Banks, her husband, and their children had spent a year planning their trip on the Carnival Celebration ship , which Carnival Cruise Line operates.

But in a post on Tiffany's TikTok account, she said she received an email from Carnival saying that two excursions she had booked had been canceled.

When she called the company to find out more, she said she was told that her entire cabin had been canceled.

"Full-blown panic," Tiffany Banks says in the video. "We'd been planning this vacation for a year, we booked on the Presidential Excel Suite," which she says is the biggest room on the Celebration ship.

Banks said a "lead" at the company told her the "online system had been logged into and it had been canceled."

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She said that after talking with the employee for almost two-and-a-half hours, they offered two interior rooms in place of the suite.

"I just can't even fathom how that they think that that's right," Banks said, adding that the family had invested almost $15,000 into the vacation — $12,000 to $13,000 for the room and the rest for flights and excursions.

Nevertheless, the family decided to head to the port on the day the ship set sail, but they had to rent an Airbnb in Miami as the booking was still canceled.

Banks later posted an update to TikTok in which she said the family had been "victims of identity theft" after an apparent scammer targeted one of their Facebook posts that contained booking information.

She said the person opened a fake Carnival profile, added the family's booking to their account, and then canceled the family's cruise.

Banks said that Carnival offered her $10,000 in onboard credit.

She said that she refused the offer and that the family was not interested in booking with Carnival again while also sharing what she claimed to be audio clips of conversations with a Carnival employee.

Business Insider approached Banks for comment but received no response.

In a statement to BI, a Carnival Cruise Line spokesperson said: "While we are not going to comment about any specific incident, most cyber and consumer experts consistently advise that it is never a good idea to post personal information about your travel plans, including a confirmation number for a booking, which could allow a bad actor or identify thief to use that information in inappropriate or even illegal ways."

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

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