Wilderness, Glaciers & Culture | Southbound
Wilderness, Glaciers & Culture | Southbound
$6840
Wilderness, Glaciers & Culture | Southbound
14 Days Starting in Anchorage, Alaska and ending in Vancouver, British Columbia
Visiting: Anchorage, Alaska, Seward, Alaska, College Fjord, Alaska, William Henry Bay, Alaska, Haines, Alaska, Tracy Arm, Alaska, Sitka, Alaska, Chatham Strait, Alaska, Wrangell, Alaska, Misty Fjords National Monument, Alaska, Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Alert Bay, British Columbia, Vancouver British Columbia
Tour operator:
Ship Name:
MS Roald AmundsenShip Capacity:
530
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Alaska Cruise | Alaska and British Columbia - Wilderness, Glaciers and Culture (Southbound) 2025/26
Itinerary
Day 1 : Anchorage, Alaska Anchorage, Alaska / Anchorage, Alaska
Location: Anchorage, Alaska, Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska. Located between mountains, it is a beautiful mixture of urban and wilderness. Thanks to its proximity to the Chugach State Park with its 45 species of mammals and the city's rich history, there is so much to be seen in this unique destination.
Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska. Located between mountains, it is a beautiful mixture of urban and wilderness. Thanks to its proximity to the Chugach State Park with its 45 species of mammals and the city's rich history, there is so much to be seen in this unique destination.
Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska. Located between mountains, it is a beautiful mixture of urban and wilderness. Thanks to its proximity to the Chugach State Park with its 45 species of mammals and the city's rich history, there is so much to be seen in this unique destination.
Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska. Located between mountains, it is a beautiful mixture of urban and wilderness. Thanks to its proximity to the Chugach State Park with its 45 species of mammals and the city's rich history, there is so much to be seen in this unique destination.
Day 2 : Seward, Alaska
Location: Seward, Alaska
It is hard to believe that a place as beautiful as Seward exists. Surrounded on all sides by Kenai Fjords National Park, Chugach National Forest, and Resurrection Bay, Seward offers all the quaint realities of a small railroad town with the bonus of jaw-dropping scenery. This little town of about 2,750 citizens was founded in 1903, when survey crews arrived at the ice-free port and began planning a railroad to the Interior. Since its inception, Seward has relied heavily on tourism and commercial fishing. It is also the launching point for excursions into Kenai Fjords National Park, where it is quite common to see marine life and calving glaciers.
It is hard to believe that a place as beautiful as Seward exists. Surrounded on all sides by Kenai Fjords National Park, Chugach National Forest, and Resurrection Bay, Seward offers all the quaint realities of a small railroad town with the bonus of jaw-dropping scenery. This little town of about 2,750 citizens was founded in 1903, when survey crews arrived at the ice-free port and began planning a railroad to the Interior. Since its inception, Seward has relied heavily on tourism and commercial fishing. It is also the launching point for excursions into Kenai Fjords National Park, where it is quite common to see marine life and calving glaciers.
Day 3 : College Fjord, Alaska
Location: College Fjord, Alaska
College Fjord in the northern sector of Prince William Sound, is considered one of the most scenic fjords in the world with spectacular glacier viewing. . There are over a dozen major glaciers in the fjord, all surrounded by rugged snow-capped mountains. It is possible from one point to see eight glaciers at once. College Fjord was discovered in 1899 during the Harriman Expedition. Edward Henry Herriman, a millionaire railroad tycoon, set sail with 125 other passengers and crew, including 23 of esteemed scientists from several Ivy League schools, to explore the fjords of Alaskan. The scientists named the glaciers in this fjord after their Ivy League alma maters and their sister schools. Those names include Amherst, Barnard, Bryn Mawr, Harvard, Smith, Vassar, and Yale. The glaciers of the northwest side feature names of women's colleges and those of the southeast side are names of men's colleges.
College Fjord in the northern sector of Prince William Sound, is considered one of the most scenic fjords in the world with spectacular glacier viewing. . There are over a dozen major glaciers in the fjord, all surrounded by rugged snow-capped mountains. It is possible from one point to see eight glaciers at once. College Fjord was discovered in 1899 during the Harriman Expedition. Edward Henry Herriman, a millionaire railroad tycoon, set sail with 125 other passengers and crew, including 23 of esteemed scientists from several Ivy League schools, to explore the fjords of Alaskan. The scientists named the glaciers in this fjord after their Ivy League alma maters and their sister schools. Those names include Amherst, Barnard, Bryn Mawr, Harvard, Smith, Vassar, and Yale. The glaciers of the northwest side feature names of women's colleges and those of the southeast side are names of men's colleges.
Day 5 : William Henry Bay, Alaska
Location: William Henry Bay, Alaska
Day 6 : Haines, Alaska
Location: Haines, Alaska
Unlike most cities of Southeast Alaska, Haines can be reached by road. With a population of 2,200, Haines lies in the upper northern reaches of the Inside Passage and is an important access point to the Yukon Territory and Interior Alaska. While cruising into Haines, see the Lynn Canal, the longest and deepest fjord in North America. Once in town, mountains seem to surround you on all sides while the jagged cathedral peaks of the Chilkat Mountains loom over Fort Seward. Haines has two distinct personalities. On the north side of the Haines Highway is the section of Haines that developed around the Presbyterian mission. After its missionary beginnings, it served as the trailhead for the Jack Dalton Trail into the Yukon during the 1897 gold rush to the Klondike. South of the highway, the town resembles a military post, which is exactly what it was for nearly half a century. In 1903 the U.S. Army established Fort William Henry Seward at Portage Cove just south of town. The post (renamed Chilkoot Barracks in 1922) was the only military base in the territory until World War II. In 1939, the army built the Alaska Highway and the Haines Highway to connect Alaska with the other states. Today, the community of Haines is recognized for the Native American dance and culture center at Fort Seward as well as for its superb fishing, camping and outdoor recreation.
Unlike most cities of Southeast Alaska, Haines can be reached by road. With a population of 2,200, Haines lies in the upper northern reaches of the Inside Passage and is an important access point to the Yukon Territory and Interior Alaska. While cruising into Haines, see the Lynn Canal, the longest and deepest fjord in North America. Once in town, mountains seem to surround you on all sides while the jagged cathedral peaks of the Chilkat Mountains loom over Fort Seward. Haines has two distinct personalities. On the north side of the Haines Highway is the section of Haines that developed around the Presbyterian mission. After its missionary beginnings, it served as the trailhead for the Jack Dalton Trail into the Yukon during the 1897 gold rush to the Klondike. South of the highway, the town resembles a military post, which is exactly what it was for nearly half a century. In 1903 the U.S. Army established Fort William Henry Seward at Portage Cove just south of town. The post (renamed Chilkoot Barracks in 1922) was the only military base in the territory until World War II. In 1939, the army built the Alaska Highway and the Haines Highway to connect Alaska with the other states. Today, the community of Haines is recognized for the Native American dance and culture center at Fort Seward as well as for its superb fishing, camping and outdoor recreation.
Day 7 : Tracy Arm, Alaska
Location: Tracy Arm, Alaska
As part of the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, Tracy Arm is within the Tongass National Forest. Tracy Arm is one of Alaska’s classic fjords. At the end of the narrow and almost 50 km long fjord, passing breathtaking mountains, steep cliffs and spectacular waterfalls, one can see the twin Sawyer Glaciers, South Sawyer and North Sawyer, active tidewater glaciers. Wildlife of the area includes whales, harbor seals, eagles, kittiwakes, Arctic Terns and Pigeon Guillemots.
As part of the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, Tracy Arm is within the Tongass National Forest. Tracy Arm is one of Alaska’s classic fjords. At the end of the narrow and almost 50 km long fjord, passing breathtaking mountains, steep cliffs and spectacular waterfalls, one can see the twin Sawyer Glaciers, South Sawyer and North Sawyer, active tidewater glaciers. Wildlife of the area includes whales, harbor seals, eagles, kittiwakes, Arctic Terns and Pigeon Guillemots.
Day 8 : Sitka, Alaska
Location: Sitka, Alaska
It's hard not to like Sitka, with its eclectic blend of Alaska Native, Russian, and American history and its dramatic and beautiful open-ocean setting. This is one of the best Inside Passage towns to explore on foot, with St. Michael's Cathedral, Sheldon Jackson Museum, Castle Hill, Sitka National Historical Park, and the Alaska Raptor Center topping the must-see list.Sitka was home to the Kiksádi clan of the Tlingit people for centuries prior to the 18th-century arrival of the Russians under the direction of territorial governor Alexander Baranof, who believed the region was ideal for the fur trade. The governor also coveted the Sitka site for its beauty, mild climate, and economic potential; in the island's massive timber forests he saw raw materials for shipbuilding. Its location offered trading routes as far west as Asia and as far south as California and Hawaii. In 1799 Baranof built St. Michael Archangel—a wooden fort and trading post 6 miles north of the present town.Strong disagreements arose shortly after the settlement. The Tlingits attacked the settlers and burned their buildings in 1802. Baranof, however, was away in Kodiak at the time. He returned in 1804 with a formidable force—including shipboard cannons—and attacked the Tlingits at their fort near Indian River, site of the present-day 105-acre Sitka National Historical Park, forcing many of them north to Chichagof Island.By 1821 the Tlingits had reached an accord with the Russians, who were happy to benefit from the tribe's hunting skills. Under Baranof and succeeding managers, the Russian-American Company and the town prospered, becoming known as the Paris of the Pacific. The community built a major shipbuilding and repair facility, sawmills, and forges, and even initiated an ice industry, shipping blocks of ice from nearby Swan Lake to the booming San Francisco market. The settlement that was the site of the 1802 conflict is now called Old Sitka. It is a state park and listed as a National Historic Landmark.The town declined after its 1867 transfer from Russia to the United States, but it became prosperous again during World War II, when it served as a base for the U.S. effort to drive the Japanese from the Aleutian Islands. Today its most important industries are fishing, government, and tourism.
It's hard not to like Sitka, with its eclectic blend of Alaska Native, Russian, and American history and its dramatic and beautiful open-ocean setting. This is one of the best Inside Passage towns to explore on foot, with St. Michael's Cathedral, Sheldon Jackson Museum, Castle Hill, Sitka National Historical Park, and the Alaska Raptor Center topping the must-see list.Sitka was home to the Kiksádi clan of the Tlingit people for centuries prior to the 18th-century arrival of the Russians under the direction of territorial governor Alexander Baranof, who believed the region was ideal for the fur trade. The governor also coveted the Sitka site for its beauty, mild climate, and economic potential; in the island's massive timber forests he saw raw materials for shipbuilding. Its location offered trading routes as far west as Asia and as far south as California and Hawaii. In 1799 Baranof built St. Michael Archangel—a wooden fort and trading post 6 miles north of the present town.Strong disagreements arose shortly after the settlement. The Tlingits attacked the settlers and burned their buildings in 1802. Baranof, however, was away in Kodiak at the time. He returned in 1804 with a formidable force—including shipboard cannons—and attacked the Tlingits at their fort near Indian River, site of the present-day 105-acre Sitka National Historical Park, forcing many of them north to Chichagof Island.By 1821 the Tlingits had reached an accord with the Russians, who were happy to benefit from the tribe's hunting skills. Under Baranof and succeeding managers, the Russian-American Company and the town prospered, becoming known as the Paris of the Pacific. The community built a major shipbuilding and repair facility, sawmills, and forges, and even initiated an ice industry, shipping blocks of ice from nearby Swan Lake to the booming San Francisco market. The settlement that was the site of the 1802 conflict is now called Old Sitka. It is a state park and listed as a National Historic Landmark.The town declined after its 1867 transfer from Russia to the United States, but it became prosperous again during World War II, when it served as a base for the U.S. effort to drive the Japanese from the Aleutian Islands. Today its most important industries are fishing, government, and tourism.
Day 9 : Chatham Strait, Alaska
Location: Chatham Strait, Alaska
Day 10 : Wrangell, Alaska
Location: Wrangell, Alaska
A small, unassuming timber and fishing community, Wrangel sits on the northern tip of Wrangel Island, near the mouth of the fast-flowing Stikine River—North America's largest undammed river. The Stikine plays a large role in the life of many Wrangel residents, including those who grew up homesteading on the islands that pepper the area. Trips on the river with local guides are highly recommended as they provide, basically, an insider's guide to the Stikine and a very Alaskan way of life. Like much of Southeast, Wrangel has suffered in recent years from a declining resource-based economy. But locals are working to build tourism in the town. Bearfest, which started in 2010, celebrates Wrangel's proximity to Anan Creek, where you can get a close-up view of both brown and black bears. Wrangel has flown three different national flags in its time. Russia established Redoubt St. Dionysius here in 1834. Five years later Great Britain's Hudson's Bay Company leased the southern Alaska coastline, renaming the settlement Ft. Stikine. It was rechristened Wrangel when the Americans took over in 1867; the name came from Baron Ferdinand Petrovich von Wrangel, governor of the Russian-American Company. The rough-around-the-edges town is off the track of the larger cruise ships, so it does not get the same seasonal traffic that Ketchikan and Juneau do. Hence, it is nearly devoid of the souvenir shops that dominate so many other nearby downtown areas. But the gift shops and art galleries that are here do sell locally created work, and the town is very welcoming to visitors; independent travelers would do well to add a stop in Wrangel during their Southeast wanderings.
A small, unassuming timber and fishing community, Wrangel sits on the northern tip of Wrangel Island, near the mouth of the fast-flowing Stikine River—North America's largest undammed river. The Stikine plays a large role in the life of many Wrangel residents, including those who grew up homesteading on the islands that pepper the area. Trips on the river with local guides are highly recommended as they provide, basically, an insider's guide to the Stikine and a very Alaskan way of life. Like much of Southeast, Wrangel has suffered in recent years from a declining resource-based economy. But locals are working to build tourism in the town. Bearfest, which started in 2010, celebrates Wrangel's proximity to Anan Creek, where you can get a close-up view of both brown and black bears. Wrangel has flown three different national flags in its time. Russia established Redoubt St. Dionysius here in 1834. Five years later Great Britain's Hudson's Bay Company leased the southern Alaska coastline, renaming the settlement Ft. Stikine. It was rechristened Wrangel when the Americans took over in 1867; the name came from Baron Ferdinand Petrovich von Wrangel, governor of the Russian-American Company. The rough-around-the-edges town is off the track of the larger cruise ships, so it does not get the same seasonal traffic that Ketchikan and Juneau do. Hence, it is nearly devoid of the souvenir shops that dominate so many other nearby downtown areas. But the gift shops and art galleries that are here do sell locally created work, and the town is very welcoming to visitors; independent travelers would do well to add a stop in Wrangel during their Southeast wanderings.
Day 11 : Misty Fjords National Monument, Alaska Prince Rupert, British Columbia / Prince Rupert, British Columbia
Location: Misty Fjords National Monument, Alaska, Prince Rupert, British Columbia
Rudyerd Bay is one of the highlights of the Misty Fiords, 40 miles east of Ketchikan, along the Inside Passage. This fjord cuts through steep-sided mountainous terrain and extends far into the mainland. The scenery is stunning, with dramatic thousand-foot waterfalls plunging down rainforest covered cliffs to the water below.
Rudyerd Bay is one of the highlights of the Misty Fiords, 40 miles east of Ketchikan, along the Inside Passage. This fjord cuts through steep-sided mountainous terrain and extends far into the mainland. The scenery is stunning, with dramatic thousand-foot waterfalls plunging down rainforest covered cliffs to the water below.
Just 40 mi (66 km) south of the Alaskan border, Prince Rupert is the largest community on British Columbia's north coast. Set on Kaien Island at the mouth of the Skeena River and surrounded by deep green fjords and coastal rain forest, Prince Rupert is rich in the culture of the Tsimshian, people who have been in the area for thousands of years. As the western terminus of Canada's second transcontinental railroad and blessed with a deep natural harbor, Prince Rupert was, at the time of its incorporation in 1910, poised to rival Vancouver as a center for trans-Pacific trade. This didn't happen, partly because the main visionary behind the scheme, Grand Trunk Pacific Railroad president Charles Hays, went down with the Titanic on his way back from a financing trip to England. Prince Rupert turned instead to fishing and forestry. A port of call for both BC and Alaska ferries, but relatively new to cruise ships, this community of 15,000 retains a laid-back, small-town air.
Just 40 mi (66 km) south of the Alaskan border, Prince Rupert is the largest community on British Columbia's north coast. Set on Kaien Island at the mouth of the Skeena River and surrounded by deep green fjords and coastal rain forest, Prince Rupert is rich in the culture of the Tsimshian, people who have been in the area for thousands of years. As the western terminus of Canada's second transcontinental railroad and blessed with a deep natural harbor, Prince Rupert was, at the time of its incorporation in 1910, poised to rival Vancouver as a center for trans-Pacific trade. This didn't happen, partly because the main visionary behind the scheme, Grand Trunk Pacific Railroad president Charles Hays, went down with the Titanic on his way back from a financing trip to England. Prince Rupert turned instead to fishing and forestry. A port of call for both BC and Alaska ferries, but relatively new to cruise ships, this community of 15,000 retains a laid-back, small-town air.
Day 13 : Alert Bay, British Columbia
Location: Alert Bay, British Columbia
Alert Bay is a small village on Cormorant Island, with approximately 1,300 residents. More than half are First Nations people. The settlement was named in 1860 in honour of the Royal Navy ship HMS Alert, which conducted survey operations in the area. The traditional Kwakwaka’wakw people of Alert Bay have endured a difficult history of devastating foreign diseases and failed government policies of assimilation. Today there is a revival of their traditions. One of the most well-known features in Alert Bay is the 173 foot wooden carved totem pole, claimed by some to be the tallest totem pole in the world.
Alert Bay is a small village on Cormorant Island, with approximately 1,300 residents. More than half are First Nations people. The settlement was named in 1860 in honour of the Royal Navy ship HMS Alert, which conducted survey operations in the area. The traditional Kwakwaka’wakw people of Alert Bay have endured a difficult history of devastating foreign diseases and failed government policies of assimilation. Today there is a revival of their traditions. One of the most well-known features in Alert Bay is the 173 foot wooden carved totem pole, claimed by some to be the tallest totem pole in the world.
Day 14 : Vancouver, British Columbia
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is a delicious juxtaposition of urban sophistication and on-your-doorstep wilderness adventure. The mountains and seascape make the city an outdoor playground for hiking, skiing, kayaking, cycling, and sailing—and so much more—while the cuisine and arts scenes are equally diverse, reflecting the makeup of Vancouver's ethnic (predominantly Asian) mosaic. Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the world's most livable cities, and it's easy for visitors to see why. It's beautiful, it's outdoorsy, and there's a laidback West Coast vibe. On the one hand, there's easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, a fabulous variety of beaches, and amazing parks. At the same time, the city has a multicultural vitality and cosmopolitan flair. The attraction is as much in the range of food choices—the fresh seafood and local produce are some of North America's best—as it is in the museums, shopping, and nightlife.Vancouver's landscaping also adds to the city's walking appeal. In spring, flowerbeds spill over with tulips and daffodils while sea breezes scatter scented cherry blossoms throughout Downtown; in summer office workers take to the beaches, parks, and urban courtyards for picnic lunches and laptop meetings. More than 8 million visitors each year come to Vancouver, Canada's third-largest metropolitan area. Because of its peninsula location, traffic flow is a contentious issue. Thankfully, Vancouver is wonderfully walkable, especially in the downtown core. The North Shore is a scoot across the harbor, and the rapid-transit system to Richmond and the airport means that staying in the more affordable ’burbs doesn't have to be synonymous with sacrificing convenience. The mild climate, exquisite natural scenery, and relaxed outdoor lifestyle keep attracting residents, and the number of visitors is increasing for the same reasons. People often get their first glimpse of Vancouver when catching an Alaskan cruise, and many return at some point to spend more time here.
Vancouver is a delicious juxtaposition of urban sophistication and on-your-doorstep wilderness adventure. The mountains and seascape make the city an outdoor playground for hiking, skiing, kayaking, cycling, and sailing—and so much more—while the cuisine and arts scenes are equally diverse, reflecting the makeup of Vancouver's ethnic (predominantly Asian) mosaic. Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the world's most livable cities, and it's easy for visitors to see why. It's beautiful, it's outdoorsy, and there's a laidback West Coast vibe. On the one hand, there's easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, a fabulous variety of beaches, and amazing parks. At the same time, the city has a multicultural vitality and cosmopolitan flair. The attraction is as much in the range of food choices—the fresh seafood and local produce are some of North America's best—as it is in the museums, shopping, and nightlife.Vancouver's landscaping also adds to the city's walking appeal. In spring, flowerbeds spill over with tulips and daffodils while sea breezes scatter scented cherry blossoms throughout Downtown; in summer office workers take to the beaches, parks, and urban courtyards for picnic lunches and laptop meetings. More than 8 million visitors each year come to Vancouver, Canada's third-largest metropolitan area. Because of its peninsula location, traffic flow is a contentious issue. Thankfully, Vancouver is wonderfully walkable, especially in the downtown core. The North Shore is a scoot across the harbor, and the rapid-transit system to Richmond and the airport means that staying in the more affordable ’burbs doesn't have to be synonymous with sacrificing convenience. The mild climate, exquisite natural scenery, and relaxed outdoor lifestyle keep attracting residents, and the number of visitors is increasing for the same reasons. People often get their first glimpse of Vancouver when catching an Alaskan cruise, and many return at some point to spend more time here.
Ship Details
MS Roald Amundsen
Ship Overview
MS Roald Amundsen is as pioneering as the man it is named after, Roald Amundsen - the legendary Norwegian explorer. One of two fully hybrid ships in our fleet, explore the wonders of the world onboard one of the most environmentally friendly ships in the world.
Named after the legendary Norwegian explorer, Roald Amundsen - the first man to traverse the Northwest Passage in 1903, and reach the Geographical South Pole in 1911. MS Roald Amundsen is as pioneering as the man it is named after, the state-of-the-art ship features new and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology that reduces fuel consumption and shows the world that hybrid propulsion on large ships is possible.
MS Roald Amundsen serves as a comfortable base camp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way. As one of two hybrid ships within the fleet, the innovative sustainable technology reduces the ship's fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 20%.
One of the most eye-catching exterior design features is the two-level indoor/outdoor Observation Deck. It is an ideal place to scan the scenery as you explore the world around you and watch for wildlife with your binoculars.
Ship Details
Ship Name:
MS Roald Amundsen
Adults Only Areas:
no kids
Ship Children Facilities:
none
Ship Nursery:
none
Smoking Areas:
some
Ship Size:
small
Ship Style:
expedition
Ship Type:
ocean
Ship Currency:
NOK
Ship Language:
no+en
Ship Capacity:
530
Number of Decks:
9
Number of Cabins:
265
Ship Launch Year:
2019
Ship Gross Tonnage:
20889
Ship Length (Meters):
140 M
Ship Width (Meters):
23.6 M
Ship Speed (Knots):
15 Kn
Deck Plans
Deck 10
Pool DeckPool BarSaunaExplorer Lounge & Bar
Deck 11
Observation DeckOutdoor GymRunning Track
Deck 3
Expedition LaunchMedical Center
Deck 4
GangwayPolar Outside Cabins
Deck 5
Expedition SuitesArctic Superior CabinsPolar Outside Cabins
Deck 6
Aune Main DiningFredheim RestaurantShopReceptionExpedition TeamLibraryAmundsen Science CenterLecture HallsObservation Deck
Deck 7
Fitness CenterWellness CenterObservation DeckExpedition SuitesArctic Superior Cabins
Deck 8
Expedition SuitesArctic Superior Cabins
Deck 9
Lindstrom RestaurantExpedition SuitesArctic Superior Cabins
Cabins
Expedition Suite
These suites are large, well-appointed cabins with expansive windows and most have balconies. Some have a private outdoor hot tub. The suites feature flexible sleeping arrangements with comfortable seating areas and TV. Many can accommodate up to four people. Expedition suites are exclusively in upper and mid-deck locations. Our Expedition Suite concept includes a bathrobe, espresso maker, and more. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
Arctic Superior
Arctic Superior class cabins are comfortable and roomy accommodation and most have balconies. Flexible sleeping arrangements, sofa beds, TV and other features make this one of our most popular categories. Our Arctic Superior concept includes a kettle, tea and coffee. Can accommodate two to four passengers.
Polar Outside
The Polar Outside cabins are primarily on the middle decks with windows, most are spacious, have flexible sleeping arrangements and TV for excellent and high standard accommodation. Can accommodate two to four passengers.
Expedition Suite - XL suite with balcony (Grade MA )
Extra Large Corner Suite° with private balcony. Ship’s most spacious cabins with large windows, flexible sleeping arrangements, sofabed, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker.
Expedition Suite | XL Suite (Grade MB )
Extra Large Corner Suite without balcony. Aft corner suite with sofabed, flexible sleeping arrangements, large windows, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker. The first minibar setup is included for each item, each replenishment is chargeable. Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
Expedition Suite | Corner suite (Grade MF )
Corner suite with large windows. Corner suite with large windows. Flexible sleeping arrangements, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker. The first minibar setup is included for each item, each replenishment is chargeable. Without balcony.Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
Expedition Suite - Suite with balcony (Grade ME )
Suites with private balcony, different sizes, top-high decks, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker.
Arctic Superior - Outside cabin on lower/middle decks (Grade TY )
Large accessible cabins without balcony. Lower/middle decks, flexible sleeping arrangements, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.
Arctic Superior - Outside cabin with balcony (Grade XY )
Accessible cabin with balcony. High deck, broad balcony, double bed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.
Expedition Suite - Corner suite (Grade MF )
Corner suite with large windows. Corner suite with large windows. Flexible sleeping arrangements, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker. Without balcony.
Expedition Suite - Corner suite with balcony (Grade MC )
Aft Corner Suite with private balcony and hot tub. Various sizes, large windows, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofa, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker
Expedition Suite | Large suite - With balcony (Grade MD )
Large Corner Suite with private balcony, flexible sleeping arrangements, sofabed, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, espresso maker. The first minibar setup is included for each item, each replenishment is chargeable. Adapted for guests with wheelchair.Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
Arctic Superior - Outside cabin with balcony (Grade XTD )
Cabins on a high deck with balcony. Spacious cabins, different sizes, double bed, some with sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.
Arctic Superior | Outside cabin - With balcony (Grade XTD )
Cabins on a high deck with balcony. Spacious cabins, different sizes, double bed, some with sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.
Expedition Suite - Large suite with balcony (Grade MD )
Large Corner Suite with private balcony, flexible sleeping arrangements°, sofabed, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, espresso maker. Adapted for guests with wheelchair.
Arctic Superior | Outside cabin - With balcony (Grade XTJ )
High deck cabins with balcony. Spacious cabins, different sizes, flexible sleeping arrangements with double bed that can be divided into two single beds, some with sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee. With limited view.
Expedition Suite | Corner suite - With balcony (Grade MC )
Aft Corner Suite with private balcony and hot tub. Various sizes, large windows, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofa, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker. The first minibar setup is included for each item, each replenishment is chargeable.Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
Expedition Suite | XL Suite - With balcony (Grade MA M4 )
Extra Large Corner Suite with private balcony. Ship’s most spacious cabins with large windows, flexible sleeping arrangements, sofabed, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker. The first minibar setup is included for each item, each replenishment is chargeable.Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
Polar Outside - Outside cabin on lower/middle decks (Grade RR )
Larger cabins on middle° decks. Most 20 square meters, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV. Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
Polar Outside | Outside cabin - Lower/middle decks (Grade RS )
Larger cabins on middle decks. Most 20 square meters, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV.
Arctic Superior | Outside cabin - Lower/middle decks (Grade TT )
Large cabins without balcony. Lower/middle decks, flexible sleeping arrangements, sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
Polar Outside | Outside cabin - Lower/middle decks (Grade RR )
Larger cabins on middle decks. Most 20 square meters, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV.Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
Expedition Suite - XL suite (Grade MB )
Extra Large Corner Suite° without balcony. Aft corner suite with sofabed, flexible sleeping arrangements, large windows, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker.
Arctic Superior | Outside cabin - With balcony (Grade XT )
High deck cabins with balcony. Spacious cabins, different sizes, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
Arctic Superior | Outside cabin - Lower/middle decks (Grade TY )
Large accessible cabins without balcony. Lower/middle decks, flexible sleeping arrangements, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
Arctic Superior - Outside cabin with balcony (Grade XT )
High deck cabins with balcony. Spacious cabins, different sizes, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.
Arctic Superior | Outside cabin - With balcony (Grade XY )
Accessible cabin with balcony. High deck, broad balcony, double bed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.
Arctic Superior - Outside cabin with balcony (Grade XTJ )
High deck cabins with balcony. Spacious cabins, different sizes, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee. With limited view.
Arctic Superior - Outside cabin on lower/middle decks (Grade TT )
Large cabins without balcony. Lower/middle decks, flexible sleeping arrangements, sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.
Polar Outside - Outside cabin on lower/middle decks (Grade RS )
Cabins on middle decks. Double bed, TV.
Expedition Suite | Suite - With balcony (Grade ME )
Suites with private balcony, different sizes, top-high decks, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker. The first minibar setup is included for each item, each replenishment is chargeable.Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.
Dining
Prepare your tastebuds for mouthwatering meals inspired by the region’s flavours and crafted from many locally sourced ingredients, with three different restaurants to choose between.
Aune Main Dining
Named after the Norwegian ship chandler and polar expedition supplier Tinus Aune.
Fredheim Restaurant
The ships’ informal and social meeting place – named after a 1900s hunting station on Svalbard.
Lindstrøm
A speciality restaurant named after Adolf Lindstrøm, the favourite chef of the Norwegian polar heroes.
Entertainment
Your expedition ship is your home away from home; casual, comfortable and complete with everything you need for your adventure. Top to bottom, bow to stern, your ship is fitted out with quality materials inspired by simple Scandinavian chic.
Explorer Lounge & Bar
Relax and rejuvenate in the elegant Explorer lounge & bar. Sink into a comfortable armchair and gaze out at the magnificent views through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
Library
The ship has a small selection of books on different topics that is available to guests while on board. The library is located on deck 6.
Observation Deck
The ship has spacious outdoor areas. They are perfect vantage points to sit back, relax and watch the world go by. The observation deck is located on deck 11, where you will also find the outdoor gym and running track.
Reception
The reception is located on deck 6.
Shop
In our on-board shop you can buy clothing suitable for expedition cruises. Our Expedition Team will be happy to give you expert advice on how to dress properly according to the destinations. We offer a great range of both warm and practical clothing, and we focus on fabrics with natural fibres. We also offer souvenirs, handicrafts, and postcards, in addition to a small selection of soap, toothpaste, and other personal effects.
Enrichment
Excursions
Let the participants reveal the adventurer they carry within, and get to know the spectacular surroundings by taking part in the excursions we offer. You can also take a brief break and join in one of the activities that take place on deck. This will recharge your batteries for the next session.Take a break and fill all of your senses - storytelling about food and its traditions is a large part of the gastronomic experience on our ships.
Expedition Team
The onboard Expedition Team is composed of the Expedition Leader, the Assistant Expedition Leader, the Expedition Coordinator plus several lecturers and experts. Your Expedition Leader will regularly update you on the progress of the trip as well as the different points of interest and wildlife sightings that may occur. Biographies of the Expedition Team can be found on board. In the ships science center, you will be able to find information regarding the trip and book optional excursions and activities
Lectures
The ship’s experienced lecturers command an in-depth knowledge of the areas in which we sail. They will conduct, on a regular basis, lectures on topics such as biology, history and geology throughout the voyage. The lecturing schedule will be announced every day in the on board daily program.
Science Center
This is the core of the onboard experience. The Science Center is packed with state of the art technology and high tech gadgets such as touch screens and science equipment. This is where guests and staff/crew meet, mingle and create a deeper understanding for the areas you explore. The flexible venue features lecture spaces, a small library, and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology, and more. This is also where you'll find Hurtigruten’s hand picked Expedition Team.
Kids and Teens
No Hurtigruten Expedition ships feature children’s playrooms.
Health & Fitness
A full suite of facilities equip you to maintain an active lifestyle balanced by relaxation for body and mind. After exploring new destinations or exercising on board, you can rejuvenate in the wellness center, or relax in the infinity pool.
Gym
After a day of exploring new destinations, guests can relax and rejuvenate in the large gym and Wellness center.
Hot Tub & Pool
After a day of exploring new destinations, guests can relax and rejuvenate in the aft infinity pool and hot tubs as one of the highlights.
Hot Tubs
Located on Deck 10.
Infinity Pool
Enjoy the scenery and sunsets on the massive in- and outdoor Observation Decks with the aft infinity pool and hot tubs as one of the highlights.
Outdoor Running Track
Located on Deck 11.
Sauna
The ship has a wellness center where the guests may buy treatments as body massage, face-, hand- and foot treatments.
Gratuities
It is not common practice to tip on Hurtigruten ships on the coastal voyage, but if you feel that crew members should be rewarded° for providing exceptional service, tip boxes are placed in the restaurant together with envelopes.
Useful Information
Age Restrictions
Hurtigruten AS cannot allow children under the age of 5 to travel with us to Antarctica and South Georgia. For safety reasons, children under 12 years of age will be considered for participation on each landing.
Alcohol Policy
Guests are reminded that only beverages sold and/or provided in the restaurants, bars, cabins, and suites can be consumed on board. Any alcoholic beverages purchased in ports-of-call will need to be stored separately on board the ship by our crew. Your purchases will be returned to you and delivered to your cabin on the last day of your sailing.
Children
Hurtigruten Expeditions cannot allow children under the age of 5 to travel with us to Antarctica and South Georgia. For safety reasons, children under 12 years of age will be considered for participation in excursions at each landing.
Cruise Card
You will be issued a cruise card upon arrival on board as part of the check-in procedure in accordance with ISPS regulations. All our guests are requested to wear this card when disembarking the ship in all ports of call and landings. The card serves as a control system on the gangway, enabling the ship to know which of our guests are on board or ashore at any time. This card, in addition to being the key card for your cabin, is also your payment card on board. The card is the only means of payment for the onboard facilities. To activate the cruise card account, you must have a Visa, Diners, or MasterCard.The evening before the cruise ends, the account will be totalled and settled on board and a receipt will be emailed to you. Please note that when using your credit card on board the ship your account will be debited in Euros, the official currency on board the ship. Credit cards that are used to make payments on board must be valid for at least three months after the journey has ended. The rate of exchange will be the one stipulated by your credit card company. Please note that there are no money exchange services or facilities for cash withdrawals on board.
Dietary Requirements
If you have special requests (e.g. dietary or medical) please inform us as soon as possible. We will do our best to meet such requests but cannot guarantee to do so and under no circumstance will any such request be accepted by us so as to form part of a contractual agreement.
Disabled Cabins / Mobility
The MS Roald Amundsen is suitable for wheelchair users. Persons in need of special assistance must travel with a companion. Please note that the gangway must be used for wheelchair users to embark and disembark. In ports where tidal conditions or other circumstances require the use of a portable gangway, or during landings with expedition boats, it is not possible to use/take wheelchairs. Embarkation or disembarkation in Nome, extension tours to Machu Picchu, the Galapagos Islands, and Lake Titicaca are not suitable for wheelchair users. Guests who use a wheelchair must bring their own standard size, foldable chair.
Disabled Facilities
The MS Roald Amundsen is suitable for wheelchair-users. Persons in need of special assistance must travel with a companion. Please note that the gangway must be used to wheelchairs-users to embark / disembark. In ports where tidal conditions or other circumstances require use of a portable gangway, or during landings with tender boats, it is not possible to use/take wheelchairs.Nome is not suitable for wheelchair embarkation or disembarkation. For cruises with embarkation and/or disembarkation in Longyearbyen, we only accept bookings of wheelchair users on request.Passengers who use a wheelchair must bring their own, standard size, foldable chair.
Dress Code
On board dress is informal. For all voyages, we advise you to bring breathable rain and windproof clothing. A warm hat, gloves, scarf and thermal clothing can be useful, together with thermal underwear, during the winter months. Sturdy shoes are important for some shore excursions and a walking stick/trekking pole may be useful.
Drones
Please note the use of passenger-operated drones is not permitted during your voyage. This is for general safety as well as the protection of the vulnerable wildlife and other guests’ personal security.
Equipment Rentals
On many of our expedition cruises we are landing in areas covered with snow. Terrain might be muddy, uneven, wet, and very slippery. The weather may be inclement and cold. This is part of being an explorer. In Antarctica, it is mandatory to use rubber boots for all landings. For nature landings in Arctic Canada or other locations, rubber boots are recommended. A pair of special purpose boots can be borrowed on board free of charge for the duration of your cruise, and we will make sure that they are rinsed and declared clean from seeds and other biological material after every landing. This is to avoid unintentionally spreading invasive species into fragile environments. We carry sizes from 32 to 50. If you need a smaller or larger size than this, or prefer to wear your own boots, you are welcome to bring private rubber boots, but please be advised that our Expedition Team will have them checked before going ashore, to make sure they are suitable for landing. We also lend out walking sticks on board. If you are more comfortable using your own walking sticks, bring them along with you, but bear in mind that they must be properly cleaned and disinfected after every landing.
Food & Beverage
On board, we serve a delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all in accordance with your daily programme. Mealtimes will be announced in the daily programme. Due to Covid Regulations, we have limited Capacity in the Restaurants and we are working with time slots. We are asking kindly all guests to book their time slots with the Headwaiter. Please provide information regarding special requests for seating arrangements and dietary requirements to your sales office/travel agent before your cruise.
Hurtigruten App
The Hurtigruten APP is your digital guide onboard, it is recommended to download it before you come onboard, To be able to follow the activities on board, make restaurant reservation, book tours and find A-Z info here from the minute you step onboard. The App will only work while you are on board as it is connected to the ship’s Wi-Fi.
Languages
The working language on board is English. Announcements and written information are also given in German, and may also be given in French and Chinese on selected departures. In order to be able to accommodate lectures in a language other than English, we offer an “in ear” translation into German. Lectures will be streamed into the cabins.
Laundry
This service is free of charge for all suite guests. There is no self-service laundry for guest. Instead, you will be provided a laundry form that you need to fill out. Prices are listed on this form.
Lifesaving equipment, life vests and safety on board
The ship complies with international safety requirements, and is a modern vessel suitable for sailing in the respective destinations, including icy waters. All guests will be instructed in safety procedures and the use and location of the safety equipment before departure. There is a Safety Notice posted on the inside of the cabin door which we encourage all guests to read carefully. During the sailing, special safety regulations will apply on landings with the Expedition boats. Please follow the instructions given by the Expedition Leader and crew/staff. Special lifejackets for use during landings will be provided to all passengers. A mandatory briefing regarding the safety guidelines will also be given.
You can hand in your mail at the reception, and for the cost of stamps we will forward the post in every port where possible. The time needed for delivery of mail may be relatively long. Hurtigruten Expeditions accepts no responsibility for lost mail.
Medical Facilities
There is an English-speaking physician and nurse on board always. The ship has a small medical facility with the necessary equipment and medication to handle small emergencies. In the event of a serious emergency, the nearest hospital will be contacted. Medical consultations as well as medicines will be charged to the passenger affected. All guests must have personal travel/health insurance. If you depend on medication, remember to bring sufficient supplies to last through any unforeseen delays. We also recommend that you keep your medication in your hand luggage, properly labelled, and with clear instructions for its use. If you depend on vital medication, please inform the ship’s doctor upon arrival. Illness on board can lead to quarantine, and orders from the ship’s physician and captain must be followed.
Plastic, pollution and cleaner ocean
Changing the world of adventureWe are constantly enhancing how we reduce, recycle° and handle our waste – and are sharing everything we learn along the way. Our guests and crew collect tons of waste from beaches every year and are educated and trained in conservation. Hurtigruten is spreading awareness about pollution in every way we can, including partnerships, organisations, research and real time monitoring of the oceans.Hurtigruten is investing in cutting-edge technology and advancing innovations throughout our entire organisation. We are building° the world’s greenest and most advanced fleet of expedition cruise ships and are changing the world of adventure travel. We are continuously drilling down into every detail to ensure that we keep improving. Banning single-use plasticThe fight against plastic pollution has been a focus for Hurtigruten for years. 15 metric tons of plastic ends up in the world oceans° every minute of the day and if the trend continues, this number will double in the next 10 years. This means that by 2050 there will be more plastic than fish in the oceans.Hurtigruten will become the world’s first plastic-free cruise° company. And Hurtigruten was the first major travel company to remove single-use plastic from all our ships, restaurants and hotels. Plastic straws have been replaced by metal, stir pins will no longer be used – and the same with plastic cups wrapped in plastic, plastic cutlery, plastic bags, plastic lids on coffee cups, plastic toothpicks, plastic aprons, single-use packaging of butter and all other single-use plastic items that Hurtigruten’s 500,000 guests and 2,500 employees encounter on a day-to-day basis.The single-use plastic ban also is also being imposed on the hotels, restaurants and other establishments of our land-based operations. Plastic packaging has either been removed or replaced by environmentally friendly alternatives made of paper, metal or other biodegradable and sustainable materials. And most important, this means a huge cut in single-use items all together.No one can win the war on plastic alone. At Hurtigruten, we work actively to spread the experiences from our plastic reduction° program and engage our guests, allies, competitors, local communities, authorities and anyone else who wants to join the fight. We have also implemented stricter sustainability demands on our suppliers, challenging them to reduce or stop the use of single-use plastic.Cleaning beachesThe most important everyday task of our crews and guests° is to stop the waste before it hits the oceans. But sometimes, we need to do some first aid as well. On a daily basis, Hurtigruten Expedition teams take guests on excursions and hikes somewhere truly spectacular. On every landing at every destination, our Expedition Teams and guests are encouraged to take part in collecting waste. In addition, Hurtigruten Expedition Teams arrange larger beach cleanups on carefully selected spots. This results in the removal of several metric tons of waste every year.Spreading awareness – creating ambassadorsHurtigruten wants to create a deeper understanding° of the areas we explore and the opportunities and challenges they are facing. We aim to create ambassadors for every destination on every voyage. Guests are joined by Hurtigruten’s highly skilled and experienced Expedition Teams. With fields of expertise ranging from biology and polar survival to the Northern Lights and sustainability, they indulge in talks, lectures and discussions about local cultures, wildlife, nature and pollution – such as plastic and microplastic and how this affects the oceans. This is to further increase our guests´ knowledge about these issues. Through the Young Explorer program, Hurtigruten introduce and engage young guests in beach cleanups, special lectures and other sustainability activities.Hurtigruten is proud to engage, support and cooperate with organisations and initiatives like Clean Arctic Alliance, European Climate Foundation, Norwegian Polar Institute - the main research organisation focusing on polar bears living on Svalbard, Bellona Foundation and the Clean Up Svalbard program. In addition, we have established Hurtigruten Foundation to raise awareness and reward local and global initiatives that make a positive impact.Managing waste and stopping spillsAll waste on all our ships and hotels is of course sorted° for recycling. Together with partners we work to install better sorting facilities on board and to ensure adequate infrastructure at key ports to collect and recycle waste from our operations. We also work to influence ports and authorities to provide better waste management.We maintain stringent policies regarding discharge into the sea, including a ban on discharging food waste, grey water, bilge water and black water in vulnerable areas. We are of course also in compliance with the Ballast Water Convention.Reducing food waste through innovationFood production monitoringWhen serving over 4 million meals each year, even a tiny reduction in food waste° can make a huge difference. For us, tiny is not enough. That’s why we have pledged to reduce food waste by 30 per cent by 2021. We have implemented a digital registration and real-time measurement of all stages of our food production to increase our knowledge and minimize food waste. Our early results show more than a 20 percent expected reduction in food waste.Food systems sustainability effortsHurtigruten has signed a three-year agreement with the EAT foundation, whose mission is to catalyse a food system transformation through sound science, impatient disruption and novel partnerships. Our partnership aims at exploring other initiatives to improve our sustainability efforts within food systems and broaden the on board food offering.Food traceabilityWhat we take out of the water is equally important. You should know where your food is coming from. When serving you a local cheese in Lofoten, we can take you to the farm and meet the goats. Needless to say, Hurtigruten maintains a ban on all red-listed seafood, and we demand third party certification of all fish purchased (MSC, ASC or equivalent).
Safety on board
The ships comply with all safety requirements and our vessels travelling in icy waters are suitable for this. Upon arrival on board, all passengers will be instructed in safety procedures and the use and location of the safety equipment. Special safety regulations will apply on landings with tender boats. A mandatory briefing regarding the safety guidelines will also be given.
Science, innovation and technology
Fighting climate change through innovationHurtigruten’s revolutionary hybrid powered ships are the backbone of what will be the world’s greenest expedition cruise fleet. They have been named after legends of the golden age of Polar exploration. This is no coincidence. Hurtigruten traces our roots back to the great polar heroes and has explored some of the most spectacular and demanding waters of our planet since 1893.Driving technology and innovation has helped us overcome every obstacle we have faced since, and now climate change is facing us with another huge challenge that must be overcome. Our response is new technology and innovation.Building on our 125 years of pioneering heritage, our new ships will be equipped with large battery packs to significantly cut emissions. In addition, the ships are packed with cutting-edge green technology, environmental solutions, and improved hull and bow design. Historical green upgradeBeing the world leader in green adventure travel, our urge to improve has made us introduce another groundbreaking° industry-first:Hurtigruten is refitting a number of our existing ships from traditional diesel engines to hybrid power - combining liquified natural gas (LNG), bio gas° (LBG) and battery packs. This huge green upgrade program allows us to optimize the full use of clean battery power and LNG – the greenest fuel currently available for shipping. The use of efficient LNG engines alone will reduce CO2 emissions by up to 25 percent compared to 2015 levels. NOx emissions will be reduced by a whopping 90 percent.Research, innovation, cooperation & monitoringIn our quest for greener travel, Hurtigruten cooperates with a number of technology-driven companies. From global players° to local startups, Hurtigruten is determined to raise the standards and move borders. As we have done with the Norwegian startup Blueye Robotics, adding underwater drones – and literally opening new horizons for our guests. Hurtigruten also has a long history of participating in programs to monitor and analyse the waters and areas we operate in. Together° with our guests we are involved in important research, from registration of polar bears on Svalbard and logging seawater temperature along the Norwegian° coast, to oil surveillance and Antarctic research.Since 1932, Hurtigruten has been measuring sea temperature, salinity levels and algae growth as part of an ongoing collaboration° with the Norwegian Institute for Marine Research and the Norwegian Institute for water research. 80 years ago, we threw a bucket° overboard to collect samples to bring home. Now, we collect precise water measurements using the sophisticated sensor system Ferrybox. The data collected by Ferrybox is transferred via satellite to NIVA and used by reseachers to monitor natural variability in the ocean and human impacts on the oceans, including climate change. Ocean Visuals is a system currently installed onboard MS Trollfjord. With the advanced laser equipment, we continuously monitor the ocean for oil spillages. MS Trollfjord and MS Midnatsol have made 5 million measurements so far, identifying more than 40 incidents of oil spillages and two leaks from installations on shore. The Norwegian Coastal Administration is notified immediately° of such instances. All data from Ocean Visuals is collected and is made open source for anyone to review and research.We take part in enhancing the areas° we sail in by contributing to citizen science. For example, at Svalbard we take part in the Norwegian Polar Institute project for registration of marine mammals° in the Arctic (Marine Mammal Sightings Data Base). The data improves our overall understanding of habitat use and seasonal movement patterns.Advancing shore powerWhen connected to shore power, our emissions are reduced to zero. Our entire fleet sailing the Norwegian coast will be retrofitted with this capability by 2021. Shore-based electricity has enormous positive effects. The new shore-based electricity facility in the port of Bergen alone, will reduce our NOx emissions by 2.5 tons and CO2 emissions by 150 tons per ship, every year.The combination of battery packs and shore-based power will reduce CO2 emissions by a further 8 percent.Caring for the seaOur vessels produce their own fresh water through onboard° desalination and purification technology. We reuse heat from engine coolant and the vessels´ exhaust° systems to warm up the hot water tanks° on board. By doing so, we save power equivalent to the consumption° of 6700 households per year. We have also introduced new automatic° technology to reduce food waste, as part of our sustainability and waste programs.We work to maintain stringent policies° regarding discharge into the sea, including a ban on discharging food waste, grey water, bilge water and black water in Hjørundfjorden, Geirangerfjord/Storfjorden and Lyngenfjorden - and other vulnerable areas.Banning heavy fuel oilWith leading environmental agencies such as Clean Arctic Alliance and European Climate Foundation, Hurtigruten is spearheading a campaign to ban the use of HFO in Arctic waters. After operating in these waters for 125 years, we see no other option. It does not make sense to bring more pollution, more risk, to areas that need less.
Seasickness
Seasickness pills are available in reception. If you are prone to seasickness, it is recommended that you bring pills that you are familiar with. You may also buy “sea bands” on board.
Small Boat Landings
Guests are respectfully reminded that only our stable expedition boats enable both water-based exploration and safe landings in otherwise inaccessible areas. You will need to be fairly agile to board these, but there is otherwise no need to worry about travelling in them. The crew will show you what to do and as long as you follow their instructions, after a few times it will become second nature. On all landings in expedition boats, guests are expected to wear proper footwear. For additional information about the footwear, see separate point “Equipment loans”. Landing operations depend on favourable conditions.
Smoking Policy
On board, smoking is only permitted in designated areas on outside decks. Smoking is not permitted in cabins or private balconies. Throwing cigarette butts overboard is strictly prohibited. A cleaning charge of approximately EUR 150 will be applied for smoking in your non-smoking cabin to cover the cost of cleaning the linen and curtains and thus return it to a non-smoking standard. E-Cigarettes, according to Norwegian law, are the equivalent to tobacco cigarettes and are therefore only permitted in the designated smoking areas.Smoking is prohibited when the ship is refueling. Announcements will be made on board accordingly.Smoking is not allowed during nature landings in AECO and IAATO areas, except for city landings.
Special Requests
If you have special requests (e.g. dietary or medical), please inform us as soon as possible, and no later than 8 weeks prior to your cruise departure. We will do our best to meet such requests but cannot guarantee to do so, and under no circumstance will any such request be accepted by us so as to form part of a contractual agreement.
Suite Service
À la carte dining option On the ships which have a Lindstrøm restaurant, suite guests are offered the chance to dine here. Reservations must be made on board and are offered upon availability. Suite breakfast On the ships which have an à la Carte restaurant, suite guests are offered a high-end breakfast, served at the table. Not available on embarkation day. Suite check-in An exclusive check-in area is available for suite guests, where they may meet and greet some of the ship officers. TakeawayWe offer a takeaway service on some of the ships from our Fredheim restaurant, 7.30 to 8.30 for breakfast and then from 12.00 noon until 21.00hrs for our all day dining from the Fredheim menu, available on your TV screen and you can order by phone. Welcome greeting On embarkation day, the suite guests will find a carabiner watch, a bottle of champagne and a welcome greeting from the captain in their suite after check-in. Turn-down service Suite guests will receive a daily turn-down service, including fresh towels and chocolate or similar on the pillow. Laundry service This service is free of charge for all suite guests. There is no self-service laundry for guest. Instead, you will be provided a laundry form that you need to fill out. Prices are listed on this form. Minibar Minibar is available in Suite Cabins and will be replenished on a daily base. The first replenishment is included.
Sustainable operations, destinations and wildlife
Fighting mass tourismOne of Hurtigruten’s most important goals° is to fight the exploitation and degradation of sites, nature and local communities by mass tourism. Operations where quantity wins over quality result in poor guest experiences in the short run - and damaged sites and destinations in the longer run. Exploration travel is not about volume, it’s about unique experiences for active guests. We have proven that explorers are willing to pay for quality experiences, learning, understanding and a broadening of their horizons. We need to stop measuring success in more tourists, more ships or more hotel beds. We need to instead measure it in the quality of the guests and the footprints they leave behind. Hurtigruten has called for a stop to mass tourism in pristine areas. We work for stricter regulations, such as size limitations on cruise ships° and restricting number of guests allowed on shore. We are already following these guidelines ourselves. Our goal is to develop, encourage and maintain sustainable all-year activity, instead of flooding the valuable sites during peak season and leaving them quiet for the rest of the year. This is key to developing sustainable destinations, thriving communities and unique experiences. There is room to grow, but the growth has to be balanced and sustainable.Enhancing local communities and cultureHurtigruten respects and supports indigenous communities, values culture and traditions, and maintains a close cooperation with communities wherever we operate. We have a deep respect for the communities, people and areas we visit, and ensure that any impact left by both guests° and crew is only minor and transitory . We will not leave visible or lasting signs from a visit.Trading locally and buying services like excursions and sourcing ingredients from local suppliers, Hurtigruten contributes to the livelihoods and welfare of small coastal societies. Hurtigruten respects and supports indigenous communities, values culture and traditions, and maintains a very close cooperation with the communities that make an immense effort to welcome our guests – wherever we visit.Hurtigruten has also committed to buying° most of our goods and services from local suppliers, and we are by far the largest player in locally sourced food in the Norwegian travel industry.Norway’s Coastal kitchen and reducing food wasteAround 80 percent of the food and drinks° we serve comes from Norwegian suppliers, and nearly half of this is delivered directly from farms, fisheries and producers – with as few food miles added as possible. By trading locally, we reduce transportation° emissions to a minimum and increase the knowledge and understanding of local food, customs and cultures among our guests. Knowing the source also ensures the well-being of animals and the safe origin of other ingredients.Our concept Norway´s Coastal kitchen has changed our onboard food concept, abandoning all industrial processed food and removing endangered species from our menus. Instead, our guests get to experience tasty and healthy food from local suppliers throughout the whole journey. We only serve species approved by WWF’s Seafood Guide and we became MSC-certified in 2018.We have committed to reducing food waste by 20 percent by 2021. We have implemented a digital registration and real-time measurement of our food production to minimise food waste. Our early results show more than a 20 percent expected reduction in food waste. Respecting nature and wildlifeExploring some of the most spectacular wildernesses on our planet - and observing theirunique wildlife - is an important part of every Hurtigruten voyage. This comes with an obligation to explore respectfully.Observing wild animals and birdlife is done at distance so as not to alter natural behavior and with the utmost respect for their welfare and habitat. Throughout every voyage – and prior to each landing - all guests are briefed and educated in local wildlife guidelines.Hurtigruten Expedition Team members are hand-picked, trained and certified annually, ensuring that all preparations, landings and encounters with nature and wildlife happen in accordance with Hurtigruten’s strict policies and guidelines – which surpass all industry standards.Conservation of the environmentIn order to improve our footprint, we need to understand and constantly improve our knowledge of the wildlife we encounter. That is why we participate in and encourage science and research° in several ways. We contribute to registration of polar bears on Svalbard, log seawater temperature along the Norwegian coast and conduct oil surveillance and Antarctic research. Our crew and guests also remove metric tons of garbage and litter from shores.Hurtigruten is a founding member of AECO, an organisation working for responsible, environmentally-friendly and safe tourism in the Arctic. We are also proud members of IAATO, which advocates for and promotes safe and environmentally-responsible travel to the Antarctic. One main focus of these organisations is to promote public awareness and concern for the conservation of the environment and its associated ecosystems.In 2015 we established Hurtigruten Foundation, which provides funding to grassrootsorganisations and NGOs working to protect the natural environment and cultural heritage of the areas we sail in.Providing a diversified and safe work environmentWhile we work to enhance the destinations we visit, we also continously strive to enhance our own organisation. We are absolutely sure that a diversified working environment is essential for Hurtigruten to succeed. We operate with a zero tolerance for gender-based discrimination and 44 percent of our manager level employees are women. We work to ensure women´s full participation at all levels throughout our company, and we are eagerly waiting for our first female captain to be appointed as one of many° in the futuree. Hurtigruten expects all partners and companies to respect equality and give everyone the same opportunity to succeed.Hurtigruten’s operations depend on a peaceful environment with democratic and effective institutions, and a stable working environment. We have implemented safeguards and policies to prevent violations of anti-corruption laws. Our organisation has implemented a whistleblower policy. The Hurtigruten ethical rules are known by all employees and the Supplier Code of Conduct is signed by all suppliers. All operations comply with the Modern Slavery Act.
Taking Sustainability Seriously
Exploring our blue planet for more than a century has taught us the importance of being green.Meaningful ChangeAs a result, we are now supporting 41 environmental, cultural and social projects in 11 different countries. These range from helping endangered orcas in the Pacific Northwest and protecting Galápagos seabirds, to securing safe spaces for vulnerable Greenlandic children and enabling community storytelling for the Itquamavit elders in Canada’s frozen north. We hope that the ripples we create today will one day turn into the waves of the future.With the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals as our compass, our cruises to the planet’s most stunning corners are where explorers can truly feel at home.After all, it’s not about us, it’s about all of us.Saying Goodbye to PlasticWe announced our war on plastics in 2018 when we were the first expedition company to ban non-essential single-use plastic throughout our entire operation. That means you won’t find items like plastic cups, plastic straws or plastic cutlery on board our ships. You also won’t see our shops selling microplastic-made fleeces but stocking natural wool clothing instead.Absent too are plastic water bottles. We provide all our guests on an expedition cruise with a complimentary high-quality reusable bottle for use at water refill stations dotted around the ship. This simple act saves at least 1,000 plastic bottles a day on some of our larger ships.Inspiring Environmental AmbassadorsWitnessing the beauty of our planet is sure to leave a lasting impression on you, and you’ll talk enthusiastically about these stunning destinations with friends and family for decades to come. To make sure you can speak informatively when you return home, every one of our expedition cruises has a focus on the environment.The Expedition Team give lectures that raise awareness of climate change, ocean plastic, and the measures we can all take to help ease these issues. It is our hope that engaging with nature on our expedition cruises will inspire you to do all you can to cherish and protect the precious world we all share.Connecting With CommunitiesWe are dedicated to supporting the local communities we visit, and to creating beneficial ripple effects that continue long after we’ve left. By trading locally and sourcing services such as food produce and excursions from local suppliers, we contribute to the livelihood and welfare of people.We strive not only to connect with these communities, but to share genuine friendship with them while always respecting their values and customs. As guests in their home, our emphasis is on appreciating their unique culture and ensuring our interactions are positive and upbuilding for all. You can therefore enjoy authentic experiences knowing your visit is doing good, both for you and for them.A Footprint We’re Proud OfYou’ll likely encounter a range of wildlife during your expedition, doing so from a safe distance. We’ll be sure to never get too close to them, out of respect for their welfare as much as yours. By not disturbing wildlife with our presence, you’ll be able to observe their natural behaviour, in their natural habitat. We want to leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but pictures! In fact, in many of the areas we visit in Antarctica, we even specifically wipe out our footprints so as to prevent penguins tripping and falling into them.Working Together As OneSustainability isn’t something we can do alone. Everyone in our industry needs to work together for a greener future. We are therefore founding members of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) and members of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO). These trade member organisations work to establish sustainable tourism in polar regions, fighting mass tourism by limiting ships and shore visits, and creating guidelines that protect fragile environments and rare wildlife.We’ve also committed ourselves to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. These guiding principles will take us steps ahead of current regulations to offer you greener and more sustainable expedition cruises on and for the planet.Serving Planet-Friendly Plant-Based FoodWe offer full menus of delicious plant-based dishes that will impress even those yet to be convinced by this way of eating. These meals not only have low or even zero CO2 footprints, they also promote healthier living and prove conclusively that vegan and vegetarian cuisine can still taste great. We’ve also put in place food management waste programmes on all our ships, aiming to reduce food waste by at least 30%.Investing in Green TechBuilding our two new hybrid-powered expedition ships, MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, represents the biggest investment in our almost 130 years of history. They are packed with ground-breaking green technology, such as battery packs, heat recovery systems, and a cutting-edge hull design. These innovations combined reduce carbon emissions by more than 20 %, compared to other cruise ships of the same size.Hurtigruten stopped using heavy fuel oil more than a decade ago and campaign for its worldwide ban. To set a new standard, we are also considering a range of new, green fuel options, including biofuels made from organic waste.Doing Your PartThere are a range of simple things you can get involved in during your cruise to do your bit. Help out on a beach clean-up where the refuse we collect is brought back onto the ship to be recycled. Citizen Science projects get you to observe our natural world closely and contribute to current research.Even hanging a tag on your cabin door to say your towels and bed sheets don’t need changing can save energy and water. You also have the option to donate to the Hurtigruten Foundation which funds projects around the world.We are setting a new, more sustainable standard for expedition cruising. You can be sure we will continue with our commitment to sustainability; leading the way with green tech, protecting our planet, supporting local communities, and inspiring more to action.With the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals as our compass, our cruises to the planet’s most stunning corners are where explorers can truly feel at home.
Walking on board
We kindly remind you to take care when walking on board the ship while at sea, especially when venturing out on deck, observing the signs for warnings of wet and slippery decks. Be aware the doors toward the outer deck are potentially dangerous in windy conditions. Please adhere to the signs and announcements when it is not advised to go outside. While walking inside, hold on to railings but not to door frames, to avoid injury.
What to Wear
On board dress is informal. For all expedition cruises, we advise you to bring breathable rain and windproof clothing. A warm hat, gloves, scarf, and thermal clothing including thermal underwear can be useful, when sailing to cold destinations.. Sturdy shoes are important for shore excursions and landings, and a walking stick/trekking pole may be useful. For additional information about footwear, see separate point “Equipment loans”.
Wi-Fi
We offer Wi-Fi on board. But on expedition cruises to remote destinations, coverage and speed will be very limited. Internet will be provided through a satellite connection (if in sight), except when we’re close to mobile communication infrastructure on land. Due to capacity limitations, the included Wi-Fi is limited to browsing and not streaming. Please contact the reception desk if you have any questions related to Wi-Fi usage. The areas we sail in have poor mobile connections, or in some cases there are none available on shore. Check with your carrier for details.
Check out our Q&As
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What languages are spoken onboard?
The working language on board is English. Announcements and written information are also given in German, and may also be given in French and Chinese on selected departures. In order to be able to accommodate lectures in a language other than English, we offer an “in-ear” translation into German. Lectures will be streamed into the cabins. Whilst Santa Cruz II sails under the Ecuadorian flag; Announcements for guests are given in English, and may also be given in German, French, Spanish, or Italian depending on the guests traveling. Lectures and other presentations are held in different languages in different rooms.
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Are expeditions suitable for children?
We do welcome children onboard. However, Hurtigruten Expeditions doesn't allow children under the age of 5 to travel with us to Antarctica and South Georgia. For safety reasons, children under 12 years of age will be considered for participation in excursions at each landing. For those travelling to the Galápagos on Santa Cruz II only - Parents with children below the age of 6 need to present at embarkation a release form signed by their parents or guardians to board a Galápagos cruise. If children between the ages of 6-18 are accompanied by one parent/legal guardian, a minor consent form signed by the other parent, or both parents if the minor is accompanied by a legal guardian, must be presented on boarding.
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Do I need my own equipement or can I borrow whilst onboard?
On many of our expedition cruises, we are landing in areas covered with snow. The terrain might be muddy, uneven, wet, and very slippery. The weather may be inclement and cold. This is part of being an explorer. For settlement landings in Greenland, Iceland, Alaska, Norway, and other locations it is highly recommended to bring your own proper sturdy footwear. In Antarctica, South Georgia, and Svalbard, it is mandatory to use rubber boots for all landings as well as on nature landings in Arctic Canada, Greenland, and Iceland. In sailing areas where boots are mandatory for landings, they will be provided on board during your expedition free of charge. Boots are rinsed and declared clean from seeds and other biological material after every landing to avoid unintentionally spreading invasive species into fragile environments. We carry sizes from 32 to 50. If you need a smaller or larger size than this or prefer to wear your own boots, you are welcome to bring private rubber boots, but please be advised that our Expedition Team will have them checked before going ashore, to make sure they are suitable for landing. We also lend out walking sticks on board. If you are more comfortable using your own walking sticks, bring them along with you, but bear in mind that they must be properly cleaned and disinfected after every landing. For those guests onboard Santa Cruz II equipment includes sit-on-top kayaks, paddle boards, a glass bottom boat, and snorkeling gear (mesh bags, masks, fins, tubes, and buoyancy vests). The use of all these is free of charge. These activities are regulated by the National Park and must always be under the supervision of a licensed naturalist guide. Guests must attend a short safety briefing before these activities are held. Safety briefings and release documents are mandatory for participation in these activities. Wetsuits are available in all sizes, from XXS to XXL. All gear provided by the ship is cleaned and disinfected under the medical officer´s supervision. A brand-new mouthpiece is given to each snorkeler when using the ship´s gear.
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Why do I need to pay a single supplement if I am travelling along?
The voyage prices you see across the website and brochures are based on two people travelling together and sharing a cabin. Solo travellers may be required to pay an additional fee known as a Single Supplement, which can vary depending on the cabin selected or destination. However, we understand that in the true spirit of exploration - some guests like to travel solo. So we occasionally remove this additional Single Supplement fee across selected departures, voyages and destinations. This list of departures is often changing, so for the latest information, please contact us.
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What is your gratuity policy?
On board Hurtigruten Expedition Ships, it's not common practice or expected to tip. However, we have learned that many of our guests wish to give special thanks to our service crew on board. It is at the individual's discretion to honour the service provided by the crew in the bars, restaurants, cabins, and behind the scene. If you wish to leave a tip, you can do so by one of the following options: By seeing the reception and debit the amount to your cruise account. Or leave a tip in the tipping box located at the Reception, during the last days of the voyage. The money collected from these boxes will then be divided equally among all crew members after the voyage, we ask not to tip individual crew members during the voyage to ensure the people behind the scenes also are included. Please Note: Officers and Expedition Team are not included in this breakdown.
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Can I use a drone whilst onboard?
The use of passenger-operated drones is not permitted during your voyage. This is for general safety as well as the protection of vulnerable wildlife and other guests’ personal security. Drones are not allowed in Galapagos. Flash photography is not allowed on wildlife in the national parks. Professional video photography requires a special permit of the National Park Directorate.
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What should I pack for my Expedition cruise?
From the frozen Antarctic to the temperate Galapagos Islands and West Africa - the climate and conditions vary between the various destinations we explore. Regardless of the destination you visit, we recommend you bring suitable footwear for both wet and dry landings. It's possible to borrow boots, trekking poles, and other bits of equipment depending on the destination you travel to.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We care deeply about your safety, health, and well-being. We’ve several procedures throughout all our ships, designed to keep you safe and healthy. We constantly review the global situation and ensure all our measures are following the latest guidelines from local authorities as well as our prevention measures.
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