Low Prices On All Hurtigruten Cruises

Hurtigruten’s dining experience is built around the Norway’s Coastal Kitchen concept, where ingredients are sourced from over 50 local farms, fisheries, and producers along the route. Because the ships are floating kitchens, the menu often changes based on what was picked up at the last port—think fresh Arctic char, Lofoten lamb, or cloudberries.

Torget (Main Restaurant)

The heart of the ship. It offers a relaxed but high-quality atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling windows.

• Breakfast: Large buffet with hot dishes, fresh bread, smoothies, and Norwegian staples like smoked salmon and brown cheese.
• Lunch: A mix of plated dishes and a buffet featuring seasonal local specialties.
• Dinner: A three-course set menu that rotates daily. There are usually 4–5 set seating times.

Kysten (Fine Dining)

An upscale, à la carte restaurant focusing on premium ingredients like reindeer and award-winning local cheeses.

• Cost: Extra charge (unless you are a Platinum fare guest, then it’s included).
• Vibe: Modern, elegant, and quieter than Torget.

Brygga (Bistro)

For a quick, casual meal.

• Menu: Burgers, pizzas, wraps, and the famous shrimp sandwich—a Norwegian classic.
• Note: Many items here may be an additional cost depending on your ticket type.

Multe (Bakery & Ice Cream)

The go-to spot for smørbrød (open-faced sandwiches), waffles with cloudberry jam, and brown cheese flavored ice cream.

Fuel surcharges may apply depending on itinerary and global fuel conditions. Any applicable charges are communicated prior to departure.

When booking a Hurtigruten cruise, payment requirements depend on how far in advance your reservation is made.

• For bookings confirmed 90 days or more before departure, a non-refundable deposit of 25% of the total cruise cost is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance must be paid no later than 90 days prior to departure. No additional invoice will be issued, and travel documents are typically sent 7 to 14 days before sailing.
• For bookings made within 90 days of departure, full payment is required immediately at the time of booking.
• Hurtigruten reserves the right to cancel any reservation for non-payment, retain the deposit, and apply applicable cancellation fees. Please note that special promotional fares may require full payment at the time of booking. Travel documents will be released once full payment has been received.

Hurtigruten Cancellation Policy

Guests may cancel their cruise at any time; however, all cancellations must be submitted in writing by the original booking holder. The cancellation becomes effective on the date Hurtigruten receives the written request.

Please note that bookings totaling less than USD $1,340 (including taxes and fees) are non-refundable.

For other bookings, cancellation penalties are based on the number of days prior to departure:

90 days or more: 25% of the total cruise package
60–89 days: 50% of the total cruise package
30–59 days: 75% of the total cruise package
Less than 30 days or day of departure: 100% of the total cruise package
Cancellations received on the day of departure are subject to 100% penalty.

Additional Important Information

• For cruises that include pre-paid flights or airfare arranged by Hurtigruten, airline cancellation policies apply separately to the air portion. Costs related to travel protection, insurance, or connecting travel not included in the cruise fare are additional and non-refundable.
• No refunds will be issued for no-shows, missed embarkation, or guests who disembark early. In shared staterooms, partial cancellations will result in cancellation penalties for the canceling guest, while remaining passengers will be charged the adjusted fare based on updated occupancy.
• If you cancel for a reason covered by your travel protection plan, reimbursement must be requested directly from your insurance provider. Insurance premiums are non-refundable. Cancellation fees are calculated based on the total amount paid to Hurtigruten, even if the stateroom is later resold.

General Rules

• Indoor Areas: All indoor areas, including cabins, hallways, lounges, and restaurants, are strictly non-smoking.
• Balconies: Unlike some other cruise lines, smoking is not permitted on private cabin balconies.
• E-Cigarettes & Vaping: Under Norwegian law and company policy, e-cigarettes and vaping devices are treated the same as tobacco and are only allowed in designated smoking areas.

Designated Smoking Areas

Smoking is only permitted in clearly marked areas on the outside decks.

• These areas are typically located towards the aft (rear) of the ship.
• During Port/Refueling: Smoking is strictly prohibited on all outside decks while the ship is in port or undergoing refueling. The crew will make an announcement when these restrictions are in place.
• Environmental Protection: Throwing cigarette butts overboard is strictly forbidden and can lead to immediate fines or removal from the ship.

Penalties

• Cleaning Fee: If you smoke in your cabin, you will be charged a cleaning fee (typically around 150 EUR / 1,500 NOK) to cover the cost of deep-cleaning the linens, carpets, and curtains to remove the odor for the next guest.
• Safety Risk: Since fire is the greatest hazard at sea, repeated violations of the smoking policy can result in being asked to leave the ship at the next port at your own expense.

Hurtigruten’s approach to travel protection depends on whether you are sailing the classic Norwegian coast or heading on an expedition.

Mandatory Requirements

• HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions): You are required to have valid travel/health insurance. For remote regions like Antarctica, your policy must specifically cover medical evacuation and repatriation, with a recommended minimum coverage of $200,000 USD.
• Coastal Express (Norway): While not always “strictly” checked at the gangway like in Antarctica, Hurtigruten states that all guests must have travel/health insurance. If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, this is vital as you will be responsible for the full cost of any medical treatment or emergency transport in Norway.

Hurtigruten’s Own Travel Protection Plan

Hurtigruten often offers its own optional Travel Protection Plan (typically through a third-party provider like Aon or Allianz) during the booking process for U.S. and Canadian guests. It usually includes:

• Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Coverage for non-refundable costs if you have to cancel for a covered reason (illness, jury duty, etc.).
• Medical & Evacuation: Secondary coverage for medical expenses incurred during the trip.
• Baggage Protection: Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage.

Cancellation & Financial Protection

If you choose not to buy protection, you are subject to Hurtigruten’s standard cancellation fees.

• 91+ days before sailing: Loss of the non-refundable deposit (usually 20–25%).
• 60–90 days before: 50% of the total fare.
• 0–59 days before: 100% of the fare (no refund).

Onboard Medical Services

• Facilities: Every ship has a small medical center with an English-speaking doctor and nurse.
• Costs: These are not included in your cruise fare. Consultations, medications, and treatments will be charged to your shipboard account, which you then submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement.

Fully All-Inclusive (No Tipping Required)

In late 2024, HX transitioned to an all-inclusive model for their entire fleet (Antarctica, Galápagos, Greenland, etc.).

• Gratuities Included: Your cruise fare now covers all gratuities for the crew, expedition team, and restaurant staff.
• No Extra Service Charges: You won’t find automatic daily service charges added to your onboard account.
• Exceptional Service: While tipping is not required, if you wish to leave an additional thank you for the crew, there is usually a communal tip box at the reception on the final day, or you can add a discretionary amount to your onboard account. This is shared among the crew (excluding officers).

The Coastal Express (Norway)

Policy: Discretionary (Not Common Practice)

Tipping is not a part of Norwegian culture, and the same applies to the ships sailing the classic coastal route between Bergen and Kirkenes.

• No Obligation: Staff are paid a fair Norwegian wage, and tipping is neither required nor expected.
• The Tip Box: If you feel the service was truly exceptional, you will find tip boxes and envelopes in the main restaurant (Torget) or near the reception during the final days of your voyage.
• Distribution: These tips are pooled and divided among all crew members, including those “behind the scenes” like laundry and galley staff. Hurtigruten explicitly requests that you do not tip individual crew members to ensure everyone is treated fairly.

Drink & Bar Tipping

• Coastal Express: Unlike many US-based cruise lines, Hurtigruten does not automatically add a 15–20% service charge or gratuity to every beer, wine, or cocktail you purchase. The price you see on the menu is the price you pay.
• HX Expeditions: House wine, beer, and most spirits are included in your fare, so there is no transaction (or tip) involved.

Porters and Shore Excursions

• Porters: It is not necessary to tip porters at the terminal in Bergen or other ports.
• Tour Guides: On shore excursions, tipping the local guide or bus driver is entirely at your discretion. If you are on an HX expedition, the expedition team members are already covered by your all-inclusive fare.

Authentic Norwegian Heritage
Hurtigruten is the original Norwegian coastal cruise line, offering unmatched expertise in sailing the fjords, Arctic waters, and polar regions. Their long-standing local knowledge ensures authentic itineraries and deeper cultural connections.

Unmatched Scenic Itineraries
From the dramatic Norwegian fjords to Antarctica, Greenland, Iceland, and Alaska, Hurtigruten focuses on destination-rich voyages that showcase natural beauty, wildlife, and remote landscapes not accessible to large cruise ships.

Exceptional Value for Expedition Travel
Hurtigruten cruise deals often include accommodations, meals, onboard enrichment, and select excursions—making it one of the best values in expedition and adventure cruising.

Smaller Ships, More Access
With smaller, purpose-built vessels, Hurtigruten can navigate narrow fjords, remote coastlines, and polar waters, offering closer views and more time ashore compared to traditional cruise lines.

Expert-Led Experiences
Guests sail with professional expedition teams, scientists, and local experts who provide in-depth lectures, guided landings, and educational programs that enrich every journey.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Cruising
Hurtigruten is a global leader in sustainable travel, operating hybrid-powered ships, reducing emissions, eliminating single-use plastics, and supporting local communities through responsible tourism.

Locally Inspired Dining
Enjoy fresh, regionally sourced cuisine inspired by the destinations visited. Hurtigruten’s New Nordic culinary concept highlights seasonal ingredients and sustainable seafood.

Relaxed, Crowd-Free Atmosphere
Hurtigruten offers a calm and refined onboard experience without casinos, flashy entertainment, or overcrowded venues—perfect for travelers who prefer nature, learning, and relaxation.

Family-Friendly Savings
Select Hurtigruten cruise deals offer special child savings, making expedition travel more accessible for families with older children who enjoy educational and outdoor adventures.

Ideal for Adventure & Nature Lovers
Whether spotting the Northern Lights, exploring polar regions, or cruising along rugged coastlines, Hurtigruten is ideal for travelers who value exploration, wildlife, and unforgettable scenery.

What destinations does Hurtigruten cruise to?
Hurtigruten specializes in Norway’s coastal route, Arctic regions, Antarctica, Greenland, Iceland, Alaska, and other remote destinations.

Are Hurtigruten cruises all-inclusive?
Most voyages include accommodations, meals, onboard lectures, and select activities. Expedition cruises often include guided excursions and landings.

Is Hurtigruten suitable for first-time cruisers?
Yes, especially for travelers seeking smaller ships, scenic cruising, and destination-focused experiences rather than traditional cruise entertainment.

Does Hurtigruten offer Wi-Fi onboard?
Wi-Fi is available on most ships but may be limited or slower in remote regions.

What is the dress code onboard?
Dress is casual and practical, with an emphasis on comfort and weather-appropriate clothing.

Are shore excursions included?
Many coastal stops are included, while optional excursions may be available for purchase depending on itinerary.

Do Hurtigruten ships have medical facilities?
Ships are equipped with medical facilities and trained personnel, though services may be limited in remote regions.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.

Are Hurtigruten cruises environmentally friendly?
Hurtigruten is a global leader in sustainable cruising, using hybrid-powered ships, reducing waste, and sourcing local ingredients.