Canada's Travel Industry Directory
Listed in Cruise Lines, Expedition Cruise Lines
Hurtigruten is a Norwegian coastal ferry and cruise operator best known for its historic Bergen to Kirkenes route along Norway’s west and north coast. The name means "express route," reflecting its origin as a fast mail, cargo, and passenger service that connected isolated coastal communities. Today it serves both local transport needs and international tourism, operating modern ships with cabins, restaurants, lounges, observation decks, and space for vehicles and cargo on some vessels. Headquartered in Norway, Hurtigruten is one of two operators on the state-supported Bergen–Kirkenes coastal route.
The classic voyage runs daily in both directions between Bergen and Kirkenes and a full round trip takes about 12 days. The itinerary is marketed as "the world’s most beautiful voyage" for its fjords, mountains, and remote villages, yet travelers can book shorter northbound or southbound segments and use the service as point-to-point transport. This dual role as a public coastal service and a cruise product gives Hurtigruten a unique blend of practical connections and scenic travel experiences.
