- 23 suites available, many with balconies
- All cabins are equipped with telephone. Inside cabins have televisions
- An internet cafe
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Fitness center
- Sauna
- Restaurants, cafes 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) 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 NCV 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 NCV 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 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 Norwegian Coastal Voyage ships is
renowned. The people and scenery along this route have inspired
well-known artists who have brought them to life on board.
Norwegian Coastal Voyage's newest vessels are in the Millennium
Class, with the ms Trollfjord being built in 2002. Its name reflects
Norway's coastal heritage, and it is a beautifully appointed ship. Of the 23 suites on board, 5 have a
balcony. All cabins have safes, refrigerators,
telephones, and TVs. The fitness center with sauna is located on the top deck, 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. The ms Midnatsol was built in 2003 and reflects many of the same amenities as the ms Trollfjord.
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. 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 Norwegian Coastal Voyage 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 per person, per day for crew, restaurant, and cabin tipping. However, tipping is 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.
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. and Canadian citizens to enter
Norway and the other Scandinavian countries. A visa is not necessary.
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 Norwegian Coastal Voyage Inc. and your ship, please refer to their website at www.norwegiancoastalvoyage.us.
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