Hurtigruten – MS Nordlys

Named after the Northern Lights, MS Nordlys brings the drama of the Arctic sky into its design, with warm tones, natural materials, and wide picture windows framing the ever-changing scenery. Life on board is comfortable and relaxed, with a sauna and fitness room, panoramic lounges, and a choice of dining venues. The Coastal Kitchen restaurant serves dishes made with fresh produce from ports along the route, Brygga offers casual favourites, and Multe Bakery & Ice Cream Bar is the place for Norwegian cakes and ice cream. Evenings are best spent in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, watching the mountains glide by with a drink in hand.

Bergen – Gateway to the Fjords

Fly from Dublin and transfer to the port to board MS Nordlys. Before departure, wander the colourful Bryggen wharf or ride the funicular up Mount Fløyen for sweeping views.

Ålesund and the Fjords

Admire elegant art nouveau architecture and, depending on the season, sail into either Geirangerfjord or Hjørundfjord, and find  crashing waterfalls, soaring peaks, and sweeping greenery. 

Trondheim – A City of History

Founded by Viking king Olav Tryggvason in 997, Trondheim is Norway’s historic heart. Visit the impressive Nidaros Cathedral, explore the Archbishop’s Palace where the crown jewels are kept, or stroll across the old bridge into Bakklandet, a district of brightly painted wooden houses, cobbled lanes, and cosy cafés.

Bodø, Crossing the Arctic Circle and Lofoten

Mark the symbolic moment of crossing into the Arctic Circle with a traditional ceremony on deck. In Bodø, admire striking street art or join an optional excursion to Saltstraumen, the world’s strongest tidal current. By afternoon, the jagged Lofoten Wall rises from the sea, welcoming you into an archipelago of soaring peaks and fishing villages. Stamsund and Svolvær offer a glimpse of daily life in one of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes.

Tromsø - The Artic Capital

Arrive in Tromsø, long a centre for Arctic exploration. Visit the striking Arctic Cathedral, browse museums, or take a break in one of the city’s lively cafés. Optional excursions include husky sledding, fjord boat trips, or even a tasting at Mack Brewery, home to Norway’s oldest pub.

Honningsvåg and the North Cape

Sailing further north, the ship reaches Honningsvåg, your gateway to the North Cape, continental Europe’s northernmost point. A globe monument marks this wild and windswept spot, where the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans meet. Further along, pass the dramatic Finnkirka sea cliffs and learn about the traditions of the Sámi people who herd reindeer in these lands.

Kirkenes – The Turning Point

By the time you reach Kirkenes, you’ll be further east than both St Petersburg and Istanbul. This is the turning point of the voyage, and a chance to explore optional excursions such as a king crab safari and renting an ATV to the Norwegian border. From here, the ship begins its southbound journey, revisiting northern ports in daylight.

Hammerfest

On the southbound route, the ship calls at Hammerfest, one of the world’s northernmost towns, before continuing past coastal villages and islands. By evening you return to Tromsø, arriving close to midnight – a chance to experience the city under the glow of the midnight sun in summer, or the crisp skies of spring.

Svolvær and The Isles

The largest town in the Lofoten Islands is the gateway to the Island peaks, crystal fjords, and enchanting fishing villages. Situated above the Arctic Circle, this is a prime place to catch those ethereal Northern Lights and experience the hazy Midnight Sun.

Brønnøysund – Norway’s midpoint of myths and mountains