- Two-story observation lounge with panoramic views
- Two saunas
- Small swimming pool & jacuzzi
- Fitness room
- Sundeck
- Dining room
- Internet café
- Arcade
- Shops
- Bars & lounge
- Cafe/bistro
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. (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 Hurtigruten
meant that places such as the Lofoten Islands, the Trollfjord, and the
North Cape became accessible to domestic and international travellers
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 travellers.
Spacious suites, comfortable cabins, and a variety of elegant public
areas and 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.
Hurtigruten's newest vessels are in the Millennium Class,
with the ms Finnmarken being built in 2002. Its name reflects Norway's
coastal heritage, and it is a beautifully appointed ship. The ship's
cabins, suites, and lounges are decorated in Art Nouveau style,
reminiscent of the first Coastal Voyage ships in Old World elegance.
Eleven Norwegian artists have put the finishing touches on the interior
with drawings, watercolors, oil paintings, charcoal drawings,
lithographs, and sculptures. Of the 32 suites on board, 14 have a
balcony and 2 have a Jacuzzi. All cabins have safes, refrigerators,
telephones, and TVs. The fitness center with sauna and a massage parlor
is located on deck 8, as are the hair salon and the Internet café; the
outdoor swimming pool is on deck 7. Several restaurants, bars, and
indoor and outdoor cafés are available throughout the ship, as well as
numerous elegant panoramic lounges and observation areas.
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 small ships like other cruise ships?
Though
they are working ships as well as passenger ships, most of the
Hurtigruten ships look and feel like cruise ships. This is especially
true of the Millennium Ships, each of which is outfitted with spacious,
art-filled public areas, exercise room, sauna, hair dryers in the
cabins, elevators, and stabilizers. 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). Most feature two lower berths,
while some have a mix of two lower and upper berths.
Q: Are the ships suitable for physically challenged passengers?
The Millennium & 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 (outside on deck); however,
smoking is not permitted in the dining rooms or cabins.
Q: Are there laundry facilities?
The ship is equipped with self-service laundry facilities including irons, ironing boards, and detergent.
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 travel guide (courier) 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
Midnight Sun can be seen above the Arctic Circle from mid-May to late
July. The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, is most often seen
during the winter months. Unlike the Midnight Sun, which is visible as
long as the weather is fair, 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, smart, casual clothing that can be easily layered to
accommodate the changes in weather. A warm sweater, hat, gloves, light
rain gear, and a wind breaker are suggested, and good walking shoes are
vital.
Q: What is the tipping policy?
Recommended: $12 USD
per person, per day for crew, restaurant, and cabin tipping. However,
tipping is at your discretion. Subject to change.
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.
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
There is a 24-hour coffee shop on board where snacks can be purchased.
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 documents are required?
A
current passport is required for U.S. citizens to enter Norway and the
other Scandinavian countries. A visa is not necessary. Non-U.S.
citizens may have other requirements.
Q: What currency is accepted on board?
Travellers' checks, American Express®, Visa®, and MasterCard®. Most currencies can be changed at reception.
Q: How do I call the U.S. on board?
The ships have pay phones, faxes, and on some ships, an Internet café.
For further information on Hurtigruten and your ship, please refer to their website at www.hurtigruten.com. |