This tour includes return international airfares. See the Fine Print section for further details.
Hurtigruten's Norwegian Coastal Cruise along the scenic coast and fjords of Norway has often been praised as being one of the most beautiful voyages in the world. Each day of your voyage will yield unforgettable memories of natural beauty as you discover a coastline with an ever changing personality with a new revelation around every headland.
This tour is categorised as 1 out of 5
Explore at your own pace: Discover your destination at your own pace with our self-guided itinerary. Options include driving, rail, or cruising (excluding expeditions). Enjoy included guided day trips for sightseeing as outlined in your itinerary.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
✓ Add roundtrip international airfares from $299 per person
✓ Small, personal group experience, no more than 24 guests
✓ Incredible sightseeing and experiences including reindeer and husky safaris, a visit to Santa Claus’ Village, cruising Norway’s famous UNESCO-listed fjords and in-depth city tours in Helsinki, Bergen and Oslo
✓ 9 nights in 4-star hotels, including one night in a glass igloo gazing up at the night sky searching for the northern lights
✓ 5 nights on board the signature Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express voyage, southbound
✓ Norway in a Nutshell journey from Bergen to Oslo, including the scenic Bergen Railway, iconic Flåm Railway, a cruise along dramatic UNESCO-protected Nærøyfjord and coach travel through Western Norway’s beautiful scenery
✓ Catch the Santa Claus Express train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi
✓ Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 9 dinners
✓ All transport, including cruise, coach, ferry and train
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Time to get excited about your northern lights adventure and board your flight to Finland.
Welcome to Helsinki! After arriving, make your own way to your hotel where you can check in and spend the afternoon at leisure. If you wish, you can easily see some sights of Helsinki on foot from your hotel.
Tonight, meet your guide and tour group at a welcome dinner.
After breakfast this morning at your hotel, we hit the streets as you enjoy a walking tour of Helsinki by your guide that will take in the main attractions and highlights of Finland’s capital. Included on the tour is a stop at Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square and the world famous Tempeliaukio Church, also known as the ‘Church of Rock’, which is built into the bedrock of the city.
This evening is yours to explore the vibrant nordic capital, why not check out the many bars, restaurants and cafes that are all within walking distance to your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Begin your day with an early departure from the hotel at 7:30am as you board the train for a scenic journey north to Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland. Leaving behind the cosmopolitan landscapes, the route gradually transforms into the untouched wilderness of the Arctic, offering a glimpse into Finland’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Upon arrival in Rovaniemi, take some time to explore this charming town at your leisure, where a blanket of snow is almost certain to enhance its magical winter atmosphere. As you are now within the Arctic Circle, keep an eye on the night sky—this region offers one of the best opportunities to witness the elusive Northern Lights.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 8.5 hours.
On your second day in Rovaniemi, immerse yourself in an authentic Lapland experience with a visit to a local husky kennel. Here, gain insight into the essential role that huskies have played in the traditions and daily life of the indigenous Sámi people. Learn about their history, training, and the deep bond between the dogs and their handlers.
This afternoon, embark on an unforgettable husky-drawn sled or cart ride through the pristine Lapland wilderness. Glide across the snow-covered landscapes, taking in the serene beauty of the Arctic as the huskies lead you on this exhilarating adventure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
October & November departures:
Please note, if there is not enough snow, a husky cart with wheels will be arranged instead of a sledge.
No visit to Rovaniemi is complete without meeting its most famous resident—Santa Claus. After breakfast, we visit the world-renowned Santa Claus Village, where the magic of Christmas comes to life year-round. Explore this festive destination, meet Santa himself, and experience the enchanting atmosphere. Take time to interact with reindeer and immerse yourself in the joyful spirit of the season.
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Saariselkä, where you will check in to the Northern Lights Village and settle into your private glass igloo. Surrounded by the pristine Arctic wilderness, this unique accommodation offers a perfect vantage point for witnessing the natural beauty of Lapland. Enjoy some leisure time to soak in the tranquil surroundings before gathering for a delightful dinner at the hotel.
Following dinner, meet a local Sámi family for an intimate glimpse into their fascinating culture and way of life. Learn about their deep connection to the land and their centuries-old traditions, including the herding and care of reindeer. You will also have the opportunity to feed the family’s reindeer, a truly special experience.
Later in the evening, if weather conditions allow, embark on a magical reindeer sleigh ride through the snow-covered Lapland wilderness. Glide silently beneath the Arctic sky, keeping watch for the elusive Northern Lights dancing above.
Return to your glass igloo, where the experience continues. With luck, you may witness the breathtaking auroras from the warmth and comfort of your own bed, making for an unforgettable end to the day.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
After breakfast, begin your journey north through Finnish Lapland to the small township of Inari, the cultural heart of the indigenous Sámi people. Known for their nomadic heritage and deep connection to reindeer herding, the Sámi have shaped the traditions of Scandinavia for centuries.
Upon arrival in Inari, visit the newly renovated SIIDA Museum, a renowned cultural centre showcasing the spiritual and material heritage of the Finnish Sámi. Through immersive exhibitions and carefully curated collections, gain a deeper understanding of their traditions, history, and way of life.
Enjoy a buffet lunch, offering a taste of authentic Arctic cuisine, before continuing the journey north. In the afternoon, cross the border into Norway and arrive in Kirkenes, home to the iconic Snowhotel Kirkenes.
At approximately 4:00pm, check in to the Snowhotel, where you will be welcomed with a warm drink and an introduction to this remarkable Arctic retreat. Explore the Snowhotel’s stunning ice and snow sculptures, or opt for an optional excursion, such as a king crab safari or a Northern Lights tour (booked locally).
Tonight, settle into your cozy Gamme cabin, inspired by the traditional Sámi hunting and fishing huts found in the Lapland wilderness. End the day with an included dinner at a unique farmhouse restaurant offering an authentic Nordic dining experience in a rustic yet elegant setting.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Today after breakfast and the morning at your leisure, embark on the next stage of your Arctic adventure as you board your Hurtigruten ship for a five-night voyage along Norway’s breathtaking coastline. This legendary coastal cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the country’s dramatic fjords, charming fishing villages, and rugged Arctic landscapes.
The first port of call is Vardø, home to the historic Vardøhus Fortress, a star-shaped stronghold that has guarded Norway’s northeastern frontier for centuries. As night falls, keep watch for the elusive Northern Lights, which frequently illuminate the Arctic skies during the winter months.
In the evening, arrive at the small port of Båtsfjord before continuing to Berlevåg. From the deck, you may catch a glimpse of Mount Tanahorn rising to the west or see the Kjølnes Lighthouse perched on a cliff, its beacon guiding ships through the Barents Sea. These remote ports are also home to Norway’s most famous male choir, a group of local fishermen whose powerful voices echo the maritime traditions of the region.
Settle into the rhythm of life at sea as your Arctic cruise unfolds, offering endless opportunities to witness Norway’s pristine beauty and, with luck, the enchanting Northern Lights.
Special Information
Approximate times in port:
Vardø: 16:05 - 17:00
Båtsfjord: 20:00 - 20:30
Berlevåg: 22:25 - 22:35
As your voyage continues, the ship makes a late-night stop in Mehamn. In winter, those seeking adventure can opt for an exhilarating snowmobile excursion through the vast Arctic wilderness. Traverse snow-covered plains and valleys, breathe in the crisp winter air, and, if conditions allow, witness the Northern Lights illuminating the starry sky above.
During the day, the journey takes you through several coastal ports, including Honningsvåg and Hammerfest. In Hammerfest, visit the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, erected in 1854 to commemorate the first precise geographic measurement of the globe—an essential milestone in mapping the Earth.
Continuing south, the ship arrives in Øksfjord, making a brief stop at the historic trading post of Skjervøy, a key maritime hub for centuries. Late in the evening, the voyage reaches Tromsø, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Arctic."
Special Information
Approximate times in port:
Mehamn: 01:20 - 01:30
Kjøllefjord: 03:25- 03:35
Honningsvåg: 05:45 - 06:00
Havøysund: 08:00 - 08:15
Hammerfest: 11:00 - 12:45
Øksfjord: 15:50 - 16:05
Skjervøy: 19:30 - 19:45
This morning, the ship arrives in Harstad, where you have the opportunity to join one of Hurtigruten’s classic excursions, A Taste of Vesterålen (optional). This immersive tour showcases the region’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage before rejoining the ship further south in Sortland. Those who remain onboard will experience the scenic passage through Risøyrenna, a shallow channel constructed specifically for Hurtigruten in the 1920s.
Prepare for breathtaking scenery as the journey continues through the world-famous Lofoten and Vesterålen archipelagos. Known for their dramatic peaks, unspoiled wilderness, and charming fishing villages, these islands offer some of the most spectacular landscapes in Norway. A short stop in the tiny village of Risøyhamn precedes our arrival in Stokmarknes, the birthplace of Hurtigruten over 125 years ago. Here, you may wish to visit the Hurtigruten Museum to learn more about the legacy of this legendary coastal voyage.
As the ship continues south, it appears to head directly into a towering mountain—only to reveal the hidden Raftsund, a narrow strait flanked by peaks rising over 1,000 meters from the sea. The journey then reaches the breathtaking Trollfjord, one of the most dramatic fjords in Norway.
In the evening, the ship arrives in Svolvær, the largest town in Lofoten, where you can explore at your leisure or take part in one of several optional excursions. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this picturesque fishing town, perhaps unwinding at a local café, pub, or restaurant. Overnight onboard as the voyage continues southward.
Special Information
Approximate times in port:
Tromsø: 23:45 - 01:30
Finnsnes: 04:20 - 04:40
Harstad: 08:00 - 08:30
Risøyhamn: 10:45 - 11:00
Sortland: 12:30 - 13:00
Stokmarknes: 14:15 - 15:15
Svolvær: 18:30 - 20:30
Stamsund: 22:15 - 22:30
Today marks an important milestone as we cross the Arctic Circle, a true rite of passage for those sailing Norway’s northern waters. To celebrate the occasion, take part in a traditional Arctic ceremony on deck, where guests are offered a spoonful of cod liver oil—a longstanding maritime tradition.
As we continue south along the stunning Helgeland Coast, marvel at the unique Torghatten Mountain, standing 258 meters above sea level. Its most striking feature is the enormous hole running through its center—160 meters long, 35 meters high, and 20 meters wide—believed to have formed during the Ice Age.
Another highlight of the journey is sailing past the legendary Seven Sisters mountain range. According to folklore, these towering peaks were once seven beautiful troll sisters who, caught by the rising sun, were turned to stone, creating the breathtaking landscape seen today.
The voyage then makes a brief stop at the historic trading post of Nesna, before continuing to Sandnessjøen. Later in the day, we arrive in Brønnøysund, where you may choose to join an optional excursion to the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre. This insightful tour provides a closer look at Norway’s thriving seafood industry, with an opportunity to sample freshly caught Norwegian salmon.
Although we have now crossed south of the Arctic Circle, the night sky may still offer a chance to witness the magical Northern Lights.
Special Information
Approximate times in port:
Bodø: 02:30 - 03:30
Ørnes: 06:25- 06:35
Nesna: 10:25 - 10:35
Sandnessjøen: 11:45 - 12:15
Brønnøysund: 15:00 - 17:25
Rørvik: 21:00 - 21:30
This morning, arrive in the historic city of Trondheim, known for its beautifully preserved wooden architecture and rich Viking heritage. Take time to explore its charming streets and be sure to visit the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, Scandinavia’s largest medieval building. Built over the burial site of King Olav II, who reigned from 1015 to 1028, this Gothic masterpiece remains a significant pilgrimage site.
As the journey continues along the Norwegian coastline, witness firsthand the vital role that fishing plays in sustaining coastal communities. The ship arrives in Kristiansund, often referred to as Norway’s dried cod capital due to its centuries-old tradition of exporting salted and dried fish. Here, you have the option to join an excursion along the renowned Atlantic Road, an official National Scenic Route. This stunning 8-kilometre stretch of highway winds across eight bridges, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and open sea.
Another optional excursion takes you deep inside the Bergtatt marble mine, where an underground boat ride across an illuminated subterranean lake leads to the mine’s Grand Hall, where you will enjoy a unique meal in an extraordinary setting.
For those who remain onboard in Kristiansund, the voyage continues with an open-sea crossing toward Molde, famously known as Norway’s "City of Roses". From here, admire the spectacular Molde Panorama, a distant view of the dramatic Romsdal Alps, their jagged peaks rising across the fjord.
Special Information
Approximate times in port:
Trondheim: 06:30 - 09:30
Kristiansund: 16:30 - 17:30
Molde: 21:15 - 21:45
As the voyage nears its conclusion, the ship makes overnight calls at Ålesund, Torvik, and Måløy. Before reaching Bergen, take in the breathtaking landscapes of Nordfjord, situated beneath the vast Jostedal Glacier. This fjord, stretching 90 kilometres inland, gradually widens to the east, offering a final glimpse of Norway’s dramatic coastal scenery.
In the morning, we arrive at Florø, Norway’s westernmost community. A few nautical miles south, the journey crosses the mouth of the majestic Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. As we continue along the rugged, island-dotted coastline, soak in the stunning final views before the ship docks in Bergen in the early afternoon.
Upon arrival disembark and meet your private coach and English-speaking local guide for a sightseeing tour of Bergen. The tour includes a guided walk through Bryggen, St. Mary’s Church and Håkon’s Hall, two of the city's most significant historical landmarks. The tour concludes with a scenic ride on the Fløibanen Funicular, offering panoramic views of Bergen, or a visit to Troldhaugen, depending on the museum's schedule.
Enjoy the remainder of the day exploring this charming coastal city at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Approximate times in port:
Ålesund: 00:30 - 01:20
Torvik: 02:35 - 02:45
Måløy: 05:45 - 06:00
Florø: 08:15 - 08:30
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes as you travel from Bergen to Oslo via the iconic Norway in a Nutshell route. This extraordinary adventure seamlessly combines rail, coach, and ferry travel, offering spectacular views of fjords, mountains, and picturesque villages.
The day begins with a scenic train ride from Bergen to Voss, followed by a coach journey to Gudvangen. As the route winds through the valley, be captivated by cascading waterfalls and dramatic landscapes.
Upon arrival in Gudvangen, board a ferry for a spectacular cruise along the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, one of the narrowest and most dramatic fjords in Norway. Surrounded by towering cliffs and serene waters, this fjord is a true natural wonder. The cruise concludes in the charming village of Flåm.
From Flåm, experience one of the world’s most breathtaking railway journeys aboard the Flåm Railway. This historic train climbs nearly 900 metres to Myrdal, passing through steep mountainsides, deep ravines, and rushing waterfalls. Upon reaching Myrdal, transfer to the main railway line for the final leg of the journey to Oslo, arriving in the late evening.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today is estimated between 9 and 14 hours, depending on the seasonal timetable.
After breakfast this morning at your hotel, enjoy an Oslo Grand City tour that will take in the main attractions and highlights of Norway’s capital. Included on the tour is a stop at Oslo Opera House and the world famous Vigeland sculpture park, created by iconic Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland. Also, see the Holmenkollen Ski Jump before returning to the hotel.
This evening we enjoy a farewell dinner to reminisce on our Northern Lights adventure.
Inspiring Highlights
Your journey across Scandinavia ends after breakfast today. Please make your own way to the airport.
Welcome home, we hope you have been truly inspired with memories to last a lifetime.
The Norwegian Coastline Cruises operate with a number of different ships, all with similar facilities and deck plans. Please click the ship name below to be taken to further information including the deck plans;
MS Kong Harald
MS Nordkapp
MS Nordnorge
MS Richard With
MS Polarlys
Bedding on board the cruise is restricted to the following configurations. If you wish to upgrade your cabin, the following amounts are payable in addition to the package price prior to travel:
Polar Outside cabin: INCLUDED. Our Polar outside cabins are situated mostly on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Some cabins have double beds, while others have separate beds, one of which is a sofa bed, or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Arctic Superior (Promenade Deck):. Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic superior cabins. Situated on upper decks, they all have bathrooms with shower and WC, tea and coffee-making facilities and TVs. The cabins have double beds. All the cabins have individual specifications. Upgrades from $324 per person, twin share.
Arctic Superior (Upper deck): The same Arctic Superior standard, however, is located on the upper deck with unobstructed views. Upgrades from $$509 per person, twin share.
Please request your cabin upgrade in the 'special requests' field. Availability and price will then be confirmed and added to your invoice upon acceptance.
Please note, Hurtigruten will assign your cabin number closer to departure. In the event you are travelling with another party, note that cabins may not be allocated together. If you prefer to select your own cabin number additional fees will apply.
We offer two payment options – the choice is yours. Our advertised price is based on our 'Pay in Full' option, which includes a discount by making full payment at the time of booking. Alternatively, choose our 'Installment Payment Plan' option for the flexibility of incremental payments, beginning with a low deposit.
Please click 'Book Now' and proceed to the payment page to select your preferred option under the heading ‘Choose how to pay’. The total due will be reflected accordingly.
Pay In Full Option:
Installment Payment Plan Option:
Booking Process
Please refer to conditions below, which are agreed to at time of purchase.
Can I extend my stay pre- and/or post-tour?
This depends on the package you are booking.
Where available, extensions must be added at time of purchase and cannot be added post-purchase unless inside the 7-day cooling off period.
We can assist in arranging your airfares to accommodate an extension; however, you must also book the additional nights’ accommodation through us at time of booking (where available as an add-on):
When adding additional nights to your booking, the cost of the extra nights’ accommodation will be reflected on your invoice and payable with the final balance.
Airfare surcharges may apply if extending due to airfare seasonal changes and possible fare differences. These are payable at the time of selecting your desired airfare.
The second installment of your booking must be made before airfares can be booked.
Outside of extending your stay you must select Land Only if:
If you are interested in one of the above options, please select LAND ONLY at time of check-out and you will need to arrange your own airfares. Inspiring Vacations will not be accountable for flight delays or missed tour components due to late arrival or airline changes.
Conditions of flights for this package bookable by Inspiring Vacations:
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
Inspiring Vacations do not arrange seat selection. It is important to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats or they may charge a fee to do so. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.This particular tour is categorised as a ”1”
1 - Leisurely Paced Tour: A general level of fitness and mobility is required for this tour. The itinerary includes ample free time and you will not be impacted by stairs and uneven terrain. Where coach transportation is included, you will be required to get on and off the coach with ease.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.
You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $3,879.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent in flight and is subject to change depending on the flight schedule, please refer to the day by day itinerary for the time spent on land.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visas may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
Max 24 people. Please be advised that under exceptional circumstances, the group size may slightly surpass the designated limit due to operational reasons, such as in the event that a cruise date is consolidated with another.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Northern Lights
Please note, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomena and can't be guaranteed. The dates provided will give you the best chance of hopefully viewing the lights during your trip, but Inspiring Vacations will not be liable for any departures which unfortunately don't see the Northern Lights during their trip.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre and post tour accommodation
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Your transfer may be shared with other Inspiring Vacations customers.
Please specify in the 'Special Request' field when making your purchase your preferred travel arrangements and if you would like our team to book additional nights' accommodation. The additional cost for these land arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
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