Hurtigruten Coastal Voyage: Ultimate Norway Cruise Guide by Homejourney
The Hurtigruten coastal voyage is Norway's iconic journey from Bergen to Kirkenes, blending working ferry service with breathtaking scenery since 1893. This 12-day roundtrip covers 2,500 nautical miles, stopping at 34 ports twice, offering fjords, Arctic Circle crossings, and northern lights potential.[5][1]
Homejourney, your trusted partner for safe and verified travel insights, brings this comprehensive guide to help Singapore travelers plan confidently. Whether cruising for adventure or eyeing global lifestyle options, we prioritize transparency and user safety in every recommendation.
Table of Contents
- Why Choose the Hurtigruten Coastal Voyage
- Best Time to Sail
- Getting There from Singapore
- Full 12-Day Roundtrip Itinerary
- Top Ports and Excursions
- Onboard Experience and Practical Tips
- From Norway Coasts to Singapore Shores: Lifestyle Links
- Custom Itineraries and Extensions
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose the Hurtigruten Coastal Voyage
Unlike typical cruises, Hurtigruten's coastal voyage is a vital lifeline for coastal communities, delivering mail and goods while carrying passengers.[1][2] It sails year-round, immersing you in authentic Norwegian life amid dramatic landscapes—from fjords to the midnight sun.[8]
For Singaporeans seeking a contrast to tropical vibes, this Norway cruise offers crisp air, wildlife spotting (whales, eagles), and cultural ports. Homejourney verifies: over 100 years of reliable service ensures safety and trust.[1]
Key Highlights Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12 days roundtrip Bergen-Kirkenes[5] |
| Ports | 34 stops, twice each[1] |
| Distance | 2,500 nautical miles[5] |
| Unique | Arctic Circle crossing, North Cape[3] |
Best Time to Sail the Norwegian Coast
Summer (June-August) brings midnight sun and Geirangerfjord visits (April 15-Sept 14).[3] Winter (Nov-Feb) offers northern lights, with cozy indoor views.[1]
Singapore travelers prefer May-Sept for milder weather (5-15°C) and longer days. Avoid December for short stops in darkness. Homejourney tip: Book early for peak season; check Bank Rates for favorable NOK-SGD exchange.
Getting There from Singapore
Fly Singapore Airlines or Scandinavian Airlines to Oslo (12-14hrs), then domestic to Bergen (1hr). Total cost: SGD 1,500-2,500 return. From Changi Airport, connect seamlessly.[1]
Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK); 1 NOK ≈ SGD 0.16 (2026 rates). Use Homejourney's tools for real-time conversions when planning budgets or investments.
Full 12-Day Roundtrip Itinerary: Bergen to Kirkenes & Back
This Bergen Kirkenes route is the original Coastal Express. Northbound: fjords to Arctic; southbound: daylight views of nocturnal ports.[1][2]
Northbound Highlights (Days 1-6)
- Day 1: Bergen - Depart via Hjeltefjord, meet Expedition Team.[1]
- Day 2: Ålesund, Molde - Art Nouveau architecture; optional Geirangerfjord (summer).[3]
- Day 3: Trondheim - Nidaros Cathedral stroll.[1]
- Day 4: Bodø - Cross Arctic Circle, Saltstraumen maelstrom.[1]
- Day 5: Tromsø - Arctic adventure hub.[1]
- Day 6: Honningsvåg - North Cape gateway.[1]
Kirkenes Turnaround & Southbound (Days 7-12)
- Day 7: Kirkenes - Easternmost port, UNESCO Meridian Column.[1]
- Day 8: Honningsvåg-Hammerfest - World's northernmost town.[3]
- Day 9: Lofoten Islands (Svolvær) - Trollfjord, rorbu cabins.[3]
- Day 10: Brønnøysund - Seven Sisters Mountains.[3]
- Day 11: Kristiansund - Island scenery.[1]
- Day 12: Florø-Bergen - Sognefjord views, disembark.[1]
Full board included: fresh seafood meals.[5] Ships like MS Nordlys offer panoramic lounges.
Top Ports and Must-Do Excursions
Explore 34 ports; key stops include:
- Tromsø: Hike, visit Arctic Cathedral (2-4hr stops).[1]
- Lofoten (Svolvær): Hurtigruten Museum, Trollfjord sail-by.[1][3]
- Honningsvåg: North Cape plateau (world's end feel).[3]
- Geiranger (summer): UNESCO fjord waterfalls.[3]
- Trondheim: Medieval sites, short walks.[1]
Insider tip: Join Expedition Team hikes—free, expert-led for safe Arctic exploration. Homejourney emphasizes verified safety protocols.[1]
Onboard Experience and Practical Tips
Accommodations & Dining
Cabins from basic (SGD 3,000pp) to suites (SGD 6,000+). Full board: local cod, reindeer, seasonal berries.[5] Vegetarian options available.
Practical Tips for Singapore Travelers
- Visa: Schengen (90 days); apply via Norway embassy in Singapore.
- Safety: Stable, low crime; pack layers for 0-15°C.[1]
- Money-saving: Book 6+ months ahead; opt northbound one-way (7 days).[4]
- Connectivity: WiFi extra; download offline maps.
Health: COVID rules lifted; consult Singapore MOH. Homejourney verifies all tips for trustworthiness.
From Norwegian Fjords to Singapore Real Estate: Lifestyle Connections
Many Norwegian coast cruisers from Singapore explore diversification. Norway's stable economy mirrors Singapore's appeal for investors—low volatility, high trust.
For expats or second-home seekers, Singapore offers tropical contrast: stable HDB prices (avg SGD 500k), proximity to fjord-like Sentosa coves. Check Property Search for verified listings or Projects Directory for coastal-inspired developments. Homejourney supports NOK-SGD conversions via Bank Rates .
Norwegian travelers eyeing Asia: Singapore's safety (top global ranking) and growth make it ideal. Explore Projects for investor insights, maintaining our user-first transparency.
Custom Itineraries and Extensions
7-Day Northbound Express
Bergen to Kirkenes: Focus on fjords to Arctic. Fly back from Kirkenes.[4]
Extended 14-Day with Lofoten
Add overland to Bergen post-Kirkenes. Pair with Singapore stopover for real estate viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hurtigruten coastal voyage route?
12-day roundtrip from Bergen to Kirkenes via 34 ports, crossing Arctic Circle.[1][5]
How much does Hurtigruten coastal voyage cost from Singapore?
SGD 4,000-8,000pp incl. flights/full board (2026 est.). Book via official site.[5]
Best Hurtigruten ship for Norway cruise?
MS Richard With or MS Kong Harald for panoramas.[1]
Can I see northern lights on Hurtigruten?
Yes, winter northbound (Sept-April); no guarantees.[8]
Visa for Singaporeans on Hurtigruten coastal voyage?
Schengen visa-free up to 90 days.
Hurtigruten vs luxury cruises?
More authentic, working ship vs entertainment-focused.[8]
Ready to sail? Homejourney guides your journey with safety-first advice. Explore Singapore properties at Property Search or maintain your home with Aircon Services . Contact us for personalized plans—trust verified by users.
