(LifeWire) - Company Information
Formerly known in the United States as Norwegian Coastal Voyage, Inc., Hurtigruten now uses its Norwegian name (meaning "fast route") worldwide. The majority of Hurtigruten cruises explore the fjords, mountains and villages along Norway's 1,250-mile west coast. Hurtigruten started in the late 19th century as a ferry and mail service between villages. The company now has an impressive line of ships, unique itineraries and a great selection of ports of call.
Mission
The atmosphere and the dress code on a Hurtigruten cruise are casual. There are no glitzy formal nights, casinos or shows. These cruises offer an immersion in Norwegian culture and place a greater emphasis on nature. All of the cruises give guests the opportunity to experience natural wonders and wildlife, such as polar bears, sea eagles and whales.
Destinations
Europe, Greenland, North America and Antarctica
Tour Participant Demographics
The Norwegian cruises have a mix of passengers, from Americans enjoying a luxury vacation to locals traveling to a neighboring village. Americans are a minority on all of the Hurtigruten cruises; the majority of the guests are European. The typical Hurtigruten cruiser is over 50, well educated and well traveled.
Single Traveler Information
Hurtigruten offers a limited number of cabins available for single travelers. There is a single-supplement charge, which is usually 75% to 90% of the double-occupancy rate.
Cost
Fares range from $1,700 for a six-day Norwegian cruise from Kirkenes to Bergen with an inside room accommodation, to $19,000 for a suite on a 21-day Christmas cruise to Antarctica.
Trip Length
Trips are six to 21 days long.
Quick Facts About Hurtigruten Cruises
- All ships (except the oldest, Nordstjernen and Lofoten) are accessible for guests using wheelchairs.
- Hurtigruten offers insurance for purchase through Trip Mate that protects against trip cancellation or interruption, medical emergencies and baggage loss.
- Hurtigruten's cruise ship, the Framm, was built to travel through Arctic waters. The decor features works by Greenlandic artists, and the ship has panoramic lounges and an Internet cafe.
- There is no medical staff aboard the Norwegian coastal cruises because the ships are never far from land. There is a doctor aboard Hurtigruten's other ships.
- Electrical power onboard is delivered at 220 volts. Bring a converter and plug adapter for 110-volt appliances.
- Hurtigruten has a no-tipping policy.
- Senior Saver and AARP discounts apply on certain departures.
- Hurtigruten Cruises offers theme cruises on gastronomy and folk music. One particular cruise includes a stay in Norway's Alta Igloo Hotel, a 21,000-square-foot hotel constructed mainly from ice.
(866) 552-0371
Hurtigruten
405 Park Ave.
Suite 904
New York, N.Y. 10022
www.hurtigruten.us
