When you travel to the polar regions with Hurtigruten, you realise they are not your usual cruise operator. You won’t find waterslides or casinos on their ships, instead, you place yourself on an expedition with like-minded adventurers whose focus is on personal growth rather than luxury amenities. The atmosphere onboard is relaxed and casual, with great food, camaraderie and an array of quality equipment which you need when exploring remote destinations.
Their ships are occupied with Expedition Teams who have a deep understanding of the areas Hurtigruten ships explore. They are your hosts, providing interesting lectures in geography, history, wildlife and more. The team consists of Arctic survival experts, oceanographers, photographers and marine biologists so you know on every cruise you’re in safe hands, and your journey to the bottom of the world will be an unforgettable experience.
In 2020 a new ship joined the Antarctica voyage itinerary taking the total to three ships in the region. MS Roald Amundsen has one of the most eye-catching exterior designs of all the ships. Two outdoor/indoor level observation decks wrap around the raked bow enabling travellers to gain unrivalled views and photographs as they navigate the seas towards Antarctica. The ship is loaded with state-of-the-art technology, featuring science equipment, touch screens and an immersive ‘edutainment’ area where crew and guests meet to share tips and insights into the area they are approaching. In addition, there are lecture spaces, a speciality area for photography and biology workshops and even a small library.
In 2021, another of Hurtigruten's ships MS Maud will undergo a premium upgrade before her permanent deployment in Dover. In addition to the complete refurbishment, a Science Centre, and three restaurants will be added. MS Maud is great for exploring the Norwegian Coast and southern Scandinavia due to the ability to launch Explorer Boats, and the itineraries this ship sails are designed to play to her strengths and offer informal, destination-driven experiences.
If you would like help to find your perfect expedition cruise, simply complete the enquiry form to get in touch, or call our Polar Specialists on 0203 196 1000.
Please find a selection of cruises below. If you want to discuss something in particular that isn't listed here, please speak to our Polar Specialists.
MS Spitsbergen is named after the Arctic crown of Norway, after a complete reconstruction in 2016, the ship spends part of the year sailing the Norwegian Coast and part of the year as part of the expedition programme, to destinations further afield.
Ms Nordstjernen was originally built in 1956 as a ferry serving the coast of Norway and was extensively modernised in 2000 for exclusive Arctic explorer sailings. She offers great value cruises to Spitsbergen / Svalbard and retains the character of an old Atlantic ship, restored to her former splendor with new brass, classic wooden interiors and all her original artwork.
Named after the Norwegian polar explorer, Roald Amundsen who was the first person to reach the South Pole. Like its namesake, the MS Roald Amundson is a pioneer in Polar expedition voyages. The ship is one of the first to feature a hybrid propulsion system that will not only reduce its fuel consumption but will show that large hybrid ships are possible. The Roald Amundsen will be joined by its sister ship the MS Fridtjof Nansen in 2019.
The original Fram was the most famous explorer ship of her time, and the achievements of her Arctic and Antarctic expeditions are the stuff of legend. In this spirit, the comfortable surroundings and advanced technology on today’s MS Fram – which was fully upgraded in summer 2022 – make her exceptionally well suited for modern expedition cruising.
MS Fridtjof Nansen the next generation expedition ship. It will explore some of the most spectacular and remote places on Earth. It is the sister ship to the MS Roald Amundsen. Together they are the first hybrid expedition ships to operate in the polar regions.
MS Nordkapp is named after North Cape - the northernmost point on mainland Europe: North Cape and one of the geographical highpoints.
MS Nordkapp was refurbished in 2016 and now features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior. You will be delighted to know there are three different restaurants, a Multe bakery and ice cream bar, a sauna and fitness room.
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We'll compare a huge selection of expedition ships, cruises and operators to find your perfect cruise.
Our prices are amongst the best you'll find, plus look out for Polar Routes exclusive offers!
As supporters of the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust, booking with us helps support the work of the trust within Antarctica.
All our holidays are ATOL protected (11104), for your complete peace of mind.