- 2 suites & 4 mini-suites available
- All cabins
have private bath with shower
- Jacuzzi (outdoors)
* Fitness center
- Sauna
- Internet Cafe
- Restaurant,
café and bars
Welcome Aboard In
1891, the idea of providing daily, year-round express boat service along
the west coast of Norway was born, and the Norwegian Coastal Voyage
Inc. NCV, now Hurtigruten, took up the challenge in 1893 when one boat
successfully completed a run from Trondheim to Hammerfest. This started a
communications revolution, giving business and coastal inhabitants
better access to the outside world. Letters taking three weeks to reach
Hammerfest from Trondheim during the summer (and up to five months
during the winter) could now be delivered in just a few days. Over the
years the route was extended from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes in the
north, and Hurtigruten has had more than 70 ships in service. In the
beginning ships were pulled from other Norwegian domestic or foreign
routes, but they have since given way to vessels which have been
specially constructed for the route, equipped with refrigerated
compartments, roll on/off facilities, and vehicle holds to increase the
freight and cargo service to the remote towns and farming communities
along the coast. From its beginning, it was believed that tourism
could be an important part of Hurtigruten operations, giving people the
unique opportunity to explore and experience this fjord-filled and
spectacular coastline. The advent of the Norwegian Coastal Voyage meant
that places such as the Lofoten Islands, the Trollfjord, and the North
Cape became accessible to domestic and international travelers who
wanted to experience the Land of the Midnight Sun and the Northern
Lights. In time, the route became internationally known as "The World's
Most Beautiful Voyage." Today, the fleet has changed dramatically
to accommodate even the most discerning travelers. Comfortable cabins,
and a variety of panoramic lounges fill the ships. And the artwork on
board the Hurtigruten ships is renowned. The people and scenery along
this route have inspired well-known artists who have brought them to
life on board.
Because of the warming effects of the Gulf Stream, the weather along the
west coast of Norway is quite mild and does not freeze. And, at the
leisurely pace of 16-18 knots, you'll have ample time to enjoy the
passing scenery, either out on deck or in one of the glass-enclosed
panoramic lounges. Frequently Asked Questions About Coastal
Voyage Cruising Q: Are Coastal Voyage ships like other
cruise ships? Though they are working ships as well as
passenger ships, most of the Norwegian Coastal ships look and feel like
cruise ships. Unlike traditional cruises, however, there is no organized
entertainment on board. Mother Nature is the entertainer!
Q: What are the cabins like? Cabins aboard the
ships are comfortable and cozy. The sizes of the rooms are similar on
all cabin categories (except suites). The majority of double cabins
have 2 lower berths while some may have upper / lower (separate and
cannot be moved together). All have private baths. Only suites (not all)
have televisions.
Q: Are
the ships suitable for physically challenged passengers?
The
Contemporary class vessels have elevators and cabins specially equipped
for physically challenged guests.
Q: Is smoking
permitted on board? There is one designated smoking area on
board; however, smoking is not permitted in the dining rooms or cabins.
Smoking allowed only outside deck, not allowed inside areas of ship, or
public areas. Q: Are there laundry facilities?
The
ship is equipped with self-service laundry facilities including irons,
ironing boards, and detergent, at nominal fee. Q: Is there a
doctor on board? Although the ships don't have medical
facilities or doctors on board, they are regularly in sight of land.
Should a medical emergency arise, the reception staff will contact a
doctor at the nearest port. In addition, onboard officers are trained in
first aid and can provide emergency assistance. Q: Are there
travel guides on board? You'll find a tour manager on board
to clarify practical details. Also, as a Vantage customer, you'll have
an experienced English-speaking Vantage Program Manager from the area to
accompany you throughout your journey.
Q: What will the
climate be like?
The west coast of Norway is warmed by
the Gulf Stream, so you can expect temperatures to be similar to those
found in New England. Though temperatures vary from south to north,
average temperatures range between 20 and 35 degrees Fahrenheit in the
winter and in the summer between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Q:
Will I experience the Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights?
The
Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) can be seen above the Arctic Circle
during the winter months only. Unlike the Midnight Sun, which can be
seen above the Arctic Circle from mid-May to late-July, the Northern
Lights can be seen only
when the right atmospheric conditions prevail. Q: What clothes
should I bring? There is no dress code on the Hurtigruten
ships. Most passengers wear comfortable, casual clothing that can be
easily layered to accommodate the changes in weather. The average
temperature in the far north in summer is just over 50 degrees. A warm
sweater,
hat, gloves, rain gear, warm jacket, and a wind breaker are
suggested, and good walking shoes are vital. A helpful hint: you may
want to bring an extra pair of waterproof walking shoes for comfort!
Q:
What is the
tipping policy? Hurtigruten has an official non-tipping
policy.
However, if you feel that the crew members should be rewarded for
providing exceptional service, this is entirely at your discretion.
Q:
Is the onboard electricity 110 or 220? All
vessels have an electrical supply of 220 volts. An adapter and
converter are required and are available at most U.S. department stores.
Q: What kind of meals are served on board? All
meals are included and are served at set times in the dining room. Meal
times may vary if there are several seatings.
If you love fish and seafood as the Norwegians do, you'll love the food
on board.
7:00 - 10:00 am: A breakfast buffet with a wide selection of food
12:00 - 2:30 pm: Large lunch buffet with hot and cold dishes and dessert
6:30 - 9:00 pm: Three-course dinner. Q:
What about special dietary requirements? The ship's staff
does its best to meet special dietary requirements. All requests for
special meals must be made at the time of booking, so that they can be
passed on to the ship. Q: What currency is accepted on board? American
Express®, Visa®, and MasterCard®. Most currencies can be changed at
reception. Norwegian Kronor is the recognized currency onboard. A
cruise card can be used for payment for extras and settled at the end of
the voyage.
Q: Is there internet on board?
All
ships offer internet access for a small charge. There are at least two
internet cafe PC's on board and at least one wireless zone. Wireless
coverage on board may vary from ship to ship and can only be guaranteed
in the conference area. There is no internet access in the cabins.
Please contact Reception if you wish to purchase access to the internet.
Q:
Is there telephone & fax access on board?
All ships have
payphones and fax. There is generally good coverage for mobile
telephones. |