Top of the World Cruises - Hurtigruten Passenger Favorite

Nordnorge - Hurtigruten

Award-winning Hurtigruten, which has run voyages along the Norwegian coast since 1893, reveals that once again, the North Cape – the northernmost point on the European continent – was the best-selling spot for shore excursions in 2011.  Last year, nearly 57,000 guests visited the site on Hurtigruten’s “North Cape” and “Breakfast at the North Cape” excursions, and the “North Cape” tour was officially the company’s top-seller. 

The Top 10 Excursions for 2011 were as follows:

•     The North Cape – Hunningsvåg: A stop 1,000 feet above the Arctic Ocean
•     Midnight Concert in Tromsø: A visit to the “Arctic Cathedral,” Tromsdalen Church
•     The Arctic Capital Tromsø: A tour of the largest town above the Arctic Circle
•     A Taste of Vesterålen: A sampling of Viking history accompanied by breathtaking scenery
•     Lofoten Islands: An exploration of a region known for aquaculture, agriculture and art
•     Geiranger Panorama 2: A journey up the “Eagle Road” and down the Trollstigen Road
•     The Russian Border – Kirkenes: An excursion to the place where East meets West
•     Breakfast at the North Cape: An early-morning adventure at the top of the world
•     Glacier Adventure – Svartisen: A trip to Norway’s second largest glacier
•     Trondheim and Nidaros Cathedral: A sightseeing experience in Norway’s first capital

    On the top-ranking “North Cape” tour, offered on Hurtigruten’s northbound Bergen-Kirkenes sailings, guests cross the 71st parallel – something few people can claim – and take in the sub-Arctic landscape as they make their way to the North Cape Plateau. This part of the world is known as “Finnmark,” and it combines Sami, Russian and Finnish cultures.  Summer visitors may see grazing reindeer and Sami camps, and winter visitors’ bus may follow a snow plow up the final eight miles to reach the plateau, which rises more than 1,000 feet above the Arctic Ocean.  Once there, guests eagerly brace themselves against the winds to stand beside the iconic North Cape globe for photographic evidence that they have literally stood at the top of the world.  Guests on the “Breakfast at the North Cape” tour, offered on Hurtigruten’s southbound travels, have the opportunity to greet the day in this beautiful setting.  On their way back to their ship, participants meet a Sami family and their reindeer, then ultimately rejoin the ship in Hammerfest, the world’s northernmost town.

    Tromsø, which is Norway’s biggest city north of the Arctic Circle, also offers excursions that are popular among voyage guests.  “The Midnight Concert in the Arctic Cathedral,” which drew nearly 20,000 guests to Tromsdalen Church in 2011, was Hurtigruten’s second best-selling excursion last year; the “Arctic Capital Tromsø”   excursion, which  attracted more than 18,000 participants last year, was the company’s third best-selling tour.  Hurtigruten guests must be on to something, as Tromsø was recently named the top cruise destination for 2012 by Frommer’s.  On the midnight concert tour, offered on southbound trips, guests enter an elegant church filled with candlelight and Norwegian folk music; on the capital tour, offered on the northbound route, guests get a grand tour of “The Paris of the North.”  A highlight of this excursion is a visit to the Polaria Centre, an educational facility that features an aquarium, displays and a panorama theater.  It’s a good place to learn about the Northern Lights and the polar bears and seals that are at home here in the tundra.  Other excursions in Tromsø offered by Hurtigruten include opportunities to ride a dog sled, visit with 250 huskies (without sledding) or gain a better understanding of the history of polar expeditions.

    Hurtigruten offers approximately 45 excursions in the 34 ports it visits on its sailings between Bergen and Kirkenes.  Guests can choose activities that suit their individual interests and taste for adventure – from embarking on a glacier adventure in Svartisen or participating in a Viking feast in Stamsund-Svolvaer on the northbound route, to taking a scooter expedition in Lapland or enjoying a day of sightseeing in Bergen on the southbound route.

    Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations – including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen – as well as year round along Norway's coast and Europe in the spring.  The company’s fleet of 14 intimate ships, which each carry 100 to 646 guests, allows travelers to enjoy unique destinations in a relaxed atmosphere.

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Norway's Hurtigruten Prepares to Celebrate 120th Anniversary

Hurtigruten's Nordnorge is a typical Norewgian Coastal cruiser

Hurtigruten is commemorating the 120th anniversary of its six to 12-day Norwegian Coastal Voyages – long known by the epithet bestowed by Lonely Planet -- “The World’s Most Beautiful Voyage” -- with enhanced offerings focusing on music, culture and culinary and detailed in a new 2013 Norway Brochure.  A staple of Norwegian culture since 1893, Hurtigruten’s fleet of modern ships offers a unique glimpse into Norwegian culture as they transport guests and locals alike along Norway’s spectacular west coast, stopping at 34 ports of call between the cultural center of Bergen and Kirkenes, high above the Arctic Circle.

    The new brochure details the extraordinary voyage and land opportunities available in 2013 – local culinary specialties, Viking history and myth, the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights, stunning fjords and rare glimpses of wildlife, to name a few – as well as an exciting array of more than 45 optional excursions to help personalize the voyage for each guest.  Travelers booking by Sept. 30, 2012 are rewarded with an early booking discount of up to 25%; some limitations may apply.  Members of the 1893 Ambassador Club, a free loyalty club for guests who have sailed a minimum of three nights on any Hurtigruten ship in the past, receive a 5% discount on the voyage fare as well as a range of other exclusive benefits.

    Hurtigruten presents guests with an ever-changing landscape of small fishing villages in the rugged Lofoten Islands; Art Nouveau Ålesund, the medieval Viking capital of Trondheim; and Norway's "Paris of the North," Tromsø.  A diverse array of optional excursions provides opportunities for customization of the experience, offering an ever deeper understanding of Norwegian culture.  Options for 2013 include a trip to the breathtaking Geiranger Fjord – a UNESCO World Heritage Site praised by National Geographic – featuring cascading waterfalls, emerald waters and panoramic views of Ålesund; a journey across the 71st parallel to the North Cape, the northernmost point in Europe and home to grazing reindeer and the indigenous Sami people; and the Lofotr Viking Feast, which immerses guests in Viking culture with a visit to the Viking museum and a real Viking feast, complete with home-brewed mead.  Guests are encouraged to book optional excursions prior to departure as space can be limited.

    For those seeking to combine other travel plans with a Hurtigruten sailing, the recently added port-to-port pricing allows visitors of Norway to create a truly customized vacation experience, choosing the number of days they wish to sail and between what ports.

    Sailing aboard Hurtigruten ships means large, comfortable lounges with panoramic windows and wonderful views from large outdoor decks; open seating for most meals; authentic Norwegian cuisine designed with fresh seasonal ingredients and incredible seafood, complemented by a comprehensive wine list; multilingual tour directors; a range of comfortable cabin choices that includes large suites, some with private balconies; and a friendly and well-informed crew, ready to offer assistance and learned suggestions.

    Fares subject to availability and include accommodation in cabin grade of choice; full board; a selection of complimentary items onboard for suites; International flights, optional excursions, fuel surcharges are additional.

Membership in the 1893 Ambassador Club loyalty is free of charge and its included discounts are for the cruise component only.  Guest who have already cruised can join by visiting www.hurtigruten.us/1893 or calling 877-301-3059; new travelers can join the program while onboard their voyage or after returning home.

    Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast and Europe in the spring and fall.  The company’s fleet of 14 intimate ships, carrying 100 to 646 guests, allows travelers to enjoy unique destinations in a relaxed atmosphere.

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Hurtigruten’s 8-Day “Autumn Adventure” Reveals Natural Splendor of the North Atlantic’s Multifarious Ports

This September, Hurtigruten invites guests to discover the natural beauty of the North Atlantic with an eight-day “Autumn Adventure” voyage, set against an ever-changing backdrop of Arctic fauna, emerald pastureland, undulating coastline and soaring cliffs. As the MS Fram explorer ship wends its way between Reykjavik and Bergen, guests explore Leith - Edinburgh’s port, as well as the more remote areas of the Faroe Islands, a hub of Nordic culture; the Shetland Islands, which contain a notable amount of prehistoric archaeological remains; and the Orkney Islands, known for its abundance of wildlife – seals, seabirds, whales, dolphins – and the colorful flowers of its coastline. Fares range from $1,762 to $4,096 per person, double. An optional flight package, priced from $1,660 per person, includes economy class flights from New York (JFK) to Reykjavik and Bergen to JFK, as well as a one night post-cruise hotel stay in Bergen. Members of the 1893 Ambassador Club, a free loyalty club for guests who have sailed a on any Hurtigruten ship in the past, receive a 5% discount on cruise fare as well as a range of other exclusive benefits.

Description: Description: MS Fram hi-res - credit to Hurtigruten-Neck ErnstThe 318-guest MS Fram begins its journey in Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik, where nature-themed activities such as glacier trekking, mountain biking, geothermal baths and visiting the Heiðmörk nature reserve, abound. The ship then ports at Tórshavn in the Faroe Islands, known for their symphony orchestra and traditional lace handicrafts. In Lerwick, the capital and main port of the Shetland Islands, the lodberries – the name for the charming stone buildings lining the harbor – recall the town’s 17th-century roots as a fishing and trade mainstay. Derived from the Norse name meaning “church Bay,” Kirkwall boasts an impressive selection of historical sites and museums: St. Magnus Cathedral, set at the heart of the town; Tankerness House Museum, set in one of Scotland’s best-preserved 16th-century town houses; and a doorway and aumbry from the 11th-century church of Saint Olaf for which the town is named. At the port of Leith, a hub of Scottish activities through the centuries – ranging from whaling and golf to glass making – guests can dine in one of the waterfront restaurants or visit Trinity House, which houses the town’s seafaring history. The trip ends in Bergen, where the UNESCO World Heritage Bryggen buildings meld seamlessly with more modern structures.

Voyages include accommodation in cabin grade of choice; full board; a selection of drinks with meals onboard for suites; wind and water resistant jacket; landings in Polarcirkel boats; and lectures by the expedition team. International flights, optional excursions, fuel surcharges and gratuities are additional. The optional flight package price includes transfers between the airport, pier and hotel at set dates and times, current air taxes and air fuel surcharges; other departure airports and upgrades to business and first class are available upon request.

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Hurtigruten Celebrates the Return of the Finnmarken with Cruise Discounts.

Award-winning cruise-company Hurtigruten is celebrating the return of the newly-refurbished MS Finnmarken to its Norwegian Coastal Voyage itineraries for 2012 – and inviting previous Hurtigruten guests to return as well, with exclusive savings of up to 20%. Designed in an Art Nouveau style reminiscent of the original MS Finnmarken (built in 1912), this 628-berth ship is outfitted with lounges, bars and bistro, conference facilities, fitness room, sauna, swimming pool, and outside Jacuzzis.

After spending two years as a hotel ship in Australia, the MS Finnmarken will once again join the fleet of 11 Hurtigruten ships offering six to 12-day itineraries along Norway’s spectacular west coast, sailing to 34 ports between the cultural center of Bergen and Kirkenes, high above the Arctic Circle. The voyages offer guests a unique glimpse into Norwegian culture – Viking history and myth, the midnight sun, the Northern Lights, stunning fjords and rare glimpses of wildlife at every turn – as well as an exciting array of optional excursions to help personalize the voyage. Members of the 1893 Ambassador Club, a free loyalty club for guests who have sailed a minimum of three nights on any Hurtigruten ship in the past, save up to $2,290 on bookings made by Feb. 29, 2012 for specific voyages between Jan. 1 and May 16, 2012. Discounted fares range from $930 to $9,158 (regularly priced $1,163 to $11,448); higher prices are for suites.

Hurtigruten’s modern fleet visits 34 unique ports of call as it sails the 1,250 miles between Bergen and Kirkenes, a an itinerary named the “world’s most beautiful voyage” by Lonely Planet’s “Bluelist.” Guests take in an ever-changing landscape of small fishing villages in the rugged Lofoten Islands; Art Nouveau Alesund, the medieval Viking capital of Trondheim; and Tromsø, which was recently selected by Frommer’s Guide as a Top 10 Cruise Destination 2012.

Optional excursions provide guests with the opportunity to customize the cruise experience: the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Geiranger Fjord praised by National Geographic; a journey across the 71st parallel to the North Cape, home to grazing reindeer and the indigenous Sami people; and the Lofotr Viking Feast, which immerses guests in Viking culture with a visit to the Viking museum and a real Viking feast, complete with home-brewed mead. Guests are encouraged to book optional excursions prior to departure as space can be limited.

Rates are subject to availability and include accommodations in cabin or suite of your choice; full board; and entrance to the Hurtigruten Museum (on six-, 11- and 12-day options). International flights, optional excursions and fuel surcharges are additional.

The 1893 Ambassador Club loyalty discount reward can be combined with Early-Booking fares and other selected discount programs. Membership in the program is free of charge and its included discounts are for the cruise component only. Guest who have already cruised can join by visiting www.hurtigruten.us/1893 or calling 877-301-3059; new travelers can join the program while onboard their voyage or after returning home.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen, as well as year round along Norway's coast and Europe in the spring and fall. The company’s fleet of 13 intimate ships, with 151 to 646 berths, allows passengers to enjoy unique destinations in a relaxed atmosphere.

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Hurtigruten Offers Discount on Antartic Cruises

Guests can enjoy early booking savings of up to 20% on five exciting Antarctic exploration voyages offered by award-winning cruise company, Hurtigruten, if booked by Dec. 31, 2011.

These once-in-a-lifetime voyages, aboard the purpose-built expedition ship MS Fram, explore the vast and mysterious wilderness of the White Continent, the coldest, driest and windiest destination on earth. The size of the ship allows guest a more intimate experience – leaning on its rails as gleaming icebergs pass by, taking in blue whales and orcas feeding nearby, and standing near penguin populations whose individual rookeries number in the tens of thousands. Reduced pricing for the 10- to 19-day, Nov. 2012 through Feb. 2013 sailings range from $5,567 to $13,719 per person, double, and includes accommodation in cabin or suite of choice; flights between Ushuaia and Buenos Aires; Ushuaia transfers; all meals onboard; expert guides and lecturers; wind and water-resistant coat; and numerous PolarCirkel boat landings.

· The 17-day “Christmas Expedition” celebrates the season with traditional carols, festive meals, Santa Claus visits and a New Year's gala as guests travel round-trip from Buenos Aires on a route that navigates the western-most outposts of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia Island and several ports in Antarctica. Prices for the Dec. 17 departure range from $8,257 to $13,719 with savings.

· The 13-day “Polar Circle Expedition” and the shorter 10-day “Classic Expedition” focus solely on Antarctica, sailing through the Drake Passage to landings that immerse guests in the remote landscape and exotic wildlife of The White Continent. The “Polar Circle Expedition” spends its extra days traveling as far south as the Antarctic Circle, departing Feb. 1, 2013 with discounted prices of $7,366 to $12,743. Reduced rates for the “Classic Expedition” range from $5,567 to $9,814 for five departures between Nov. 29 and Jan. 11.

· The 13-day “Weddell Sea Expedition” follows the path forged by British Captain James Weddell, who reached 74º latitude in 1823 - a first for explorations, and resulted in scientific discoveries that covered extensive ground in biology, zoology, geology, meteorology and magnetism. Priced with savings, the Jan. 20 sailing is $7,366 to $12,743.

· Guests on the 19-day “In the Realm of the Great Explorers” explore the same areas visited by Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton, a prominent figure during the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration. In addition to Antarctica, the voyage takes in the sub-Arctic eco-system of the Falkland Islands, and South Georgia, home to the largest king penguin colony in the world. The Feb. 22 departure date offers reduced prices from $5,940 to $11,618.

Hurtigruten’s MS Fram accommodates 318 guests (allowing no more than 200 for the Antarctica sailings) in suites and staterooms and features a restaurant, two bars, panoramic lounges library, an Internet café and conference rooms. The early-booking savings can be combined with discounts available in the 1893 Ambassador Program, Hurtigruten’s customer loyalty program, which includes 5% off Explorer Voyages to Antarctica in addition to exclusive discounts and recognition benefits for members.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast and Europe in the spring and fall. The company’s fleet of 13 intimate ships, carrying 100 to 646 passengers, allows passengers to enjoy unique destinations in a relaxed atmosphere.

See the Northern Lights at Their Brightest in 50 Years

September 2011 – A surge of solar flares has NASA predicting the Northern Lights activity to be stronger than any time in the past 50 years – making this winter the perfect time to sail aboard the “world’s most beautiful voyage” -- Hurtigruten’s classic cruise along Norway’s 1,250-mile west coast. Hurtigruten’s modern fleet wends its way between the cultural center of Bergen and Kirkenes, high above the Arctic Circle, on six to 12-day itineraries that visit 34 unique ports illustrating the charm of winter in Norway, from the snow-capped wooden buildings in Trondheim’s harbor to the artfully constructed Kirkenes Snow Hotel. According to scientists, the increased Northern Lights activity is caused by the Solar Maximum – a period when the sun’s magnetic field on the solar equator rotates at a slightly faster pace than at the solar poles. This collision with the Earth’s air molecules causes energy in the form of lights to be emitted.

In addition to experiencing the elusive aurora borealis as few can – along the coast, where the lights are the strongest – passengers are privy to a host of onboard activities, educational lectures about the Northern Lights and local history, and optional excursions that delve deeper into the areas visited. Fares between November 1 and March 14, the ideal time to see the Northern Lights, range from to $2,698 to $7,569 per person, double. Members of the 1893 Ambassador Club, a loyalty club for those who have sailed on Hurtigruten in the past three years, receive 10% off of the voyage as well as a range of complimentary onboard benefits.

A comprehensive range of optional excursions brings to life the diverse ports visited, from Art Nouveau Alesund and the small fishing villages in the rugged Lofoten Islands to the medieval Viking capital of Trondheim and Norway's "Paris of the North," Tromsø. Guests can experience an adrenaline-fueled husky ride that takes them through a frozen landscape of ocean, mountains and open plateaus on the “Dog Sledding” expedition in Tromsø; watch as a guide plunges through the ice to catch and then cooks giant king crabs on the “King Crab Safari” in Kirkenes; or be immersed in ancient Viking culture with the “Lofotr Viking Feast,” which includes a visit to the Viking museum and a real Viking feast, complete with home-brewed mead. Guests are encouraged to book optional excursions prior to departure, when available, as limited space is offered on board.

Rates are subject to availability and include accommodation in cabin or suite of your choice, full board, educational lectures and all aspects of the onboard program; flights, transfers, optional excursions and cruise fuel surcharge are additional.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast and Europe in the spring and fall. The company’s fleet of 12 intimate ships, with 151 to 646 berths, allows passengers to enjoy unique destinations in a relaxed atmosphere.

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Dive Deep into Norwegian History with Hurtigruten

Hurtigruten invites guests to be immersed in Norwegian culture of old and present during the “Year of Nansen-Amundsen” with the seven-day Ice Breakers Voyage, carving the same path forged by the celebrated maritime pioneers. As the 691-passenger MS Nordkapp wends her way along Norway’s fjord-filled west coast, travelers are privy to the expertise of Scandinavian historian Arne Kertelhein, whose lectures illuminate the history of Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen, their incredible journeys and the diverse regions visited. An array of optional excursions provide the opportunity to delve deeper into the rich history of each port, from an authentic Viking feast in the largest Viking building ever found to sightseeing among the wooden houses and colorful wharfs of charming Tromso, home to the Gothic-style Nidaros Cathedral. Prices for the Oct. 14 voyage range from $1,550 to $2,949 per person, double. Members of the 1893 Ambassador Club, a loyalty club for those who have sailed on Hurtigruten in the past three years, receive 10% savings as well as a range of complimentary onboard benefits.

While the MS Nordkapp takes in an ever-changing landscape of small fishing villages, bustling towns and islands, guests learn firsthand why the route was named “world’s most beautiful voyage” by Lonely Planet’s “Bluelist.” Departing Bergen and docking early in the charming Art Nouveau town of Alesund, guests have a chance to explore before continuing north to Trondheim, where Gothic-style architecture reigns supreme. Entering the Arctic Circle, travelers will see the busy town of Bodo and the rugged Lofoten Islands before arriving in Tromso, the gateway to the Arctic, where the stunning Arctic Cathedral and famous Polaria Center sit amid the collection of modern shops and cafes. After stopping in Hammerfest and Honningsvag, the ship calls at its final port of Kirkenes, near the Russian border.

The optional excursions are designed to impart an even deeper understanding of Norway in its guests, including its cities, traditions and people. Among the offerings available are a Viking feast in a genuine Viking banquet hall, complete with live entertainment and home-brewed mead; the Polar History City Walk in Tromso, which explores the history of the largest town in northern Norway with a visit to the Polar Museum and Tromso’s oldest pub, Olhallen; and a visit to Atlanterhavsparken Aquarium, including a diving show, followed by a chance to admire Alesund from the vantage point of Mount Aksla.

Rates include accommodation in cabin grade of choice; all meals on board, including a selection of drinks for those in suites; a wind and water proof jacket; and all aspects of the onboard program, including lectures. Optional excursions, flights and cruise fuel surcharge are additional.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast and Europe in the spring and fall. The company’s fleet of 12 intimate ships, carrying 100 to 646 passengers, allows passengers to enjoy unique destinations in a relaxed atmosphere.

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Hurtigruten Repeat Passenger Program

October 2010 -- Hurtigruten has announced the launch of the “1893 Ambassador” program – a new global customer loyalty program designed to reward the company’s repeating guests with exclusive discounts and recognition benefits. Named after the year of the company’s original founding by Captain Richard With, the program allows members to enjoy 10% off their next Norwegian Coastal Voyage, along Norway’s fjord-indented coast; 5% off a future Explorer Voyage to remote Greenland, Antarctica or Spitsbergen, or spring cruises in Europe; and/or a 5% discount on selected excursions booked onboard during a Norwegian Coastal Voyage. Additional benefits include an exclusive bridge visit on the Norwegian Coastal Voyage; a fruit basket in cabin; a three-day bicycle rental; a quarterly member newsletter with background stories and insider tips; and a personalized member card. Guest who have already cruised can join by visiting www.hurtigruten.us/1893 or calling 877-301-3059; new travelers can join the program while onboard their voyage or after returning home. The discount rewards can also be combined with Early-Booking fares and other selected discount programs. Membership in the program is free of charge and its included discounts are for the cruise component only.

By offering trips to some of the world’s most remote destinations, Hurtigruten’s “1893 Ambassador” program comes in handy for its legion of fans. With so much to experience and absorb in Greenland, Spitsbergen, Antarctica, Europe and the Norwegian coast, it is easy to see why so many of Hurtigruten’s guests look to return to explore either the same destination or a new one. Discovering new cultures, meeting locals in otherwise unreachable places, standing amongst thousands of penguins, viewing polar bears and an assortment of varied marine animals and birds, or just to gaze in awe at the magnificent beauty of the landscapes of glaciers, fjords, mountains, summer’s Midnight Sun or winter’s Aurora Borealis, and hills of colorful flora and fauna.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast and Europe in the spring. Additional information on all of these adventures, as well as brochures and reservations, can be obtained from travel agents or Hurtigruten's visitor-friendly web site, www.hurtigruten.us; or by phone: (800) 323-7436;

Buy 6 Nights Get 5 Free! Hurtigruten Unveils Unprecedented Opportunity

June 2010 -- The Norwegian fjords, a highlight of Hurtigruten's Coastal Voyage, have had awards and honors bestowed on them over the years, most recently by National Geographic Traveler which named it the world’s most celebrated and iconic travel destinations. And Hurtigruten is making it easier to take in these Norway treats (and many others) this fall, offering its 12-day roundtrip Norwegian Coastal Voyage for the price of the seven-day northbound portion - five nights free with the purchase of six. The special, amounting to a 30% discount, must be booked by Sept. 30 and is available for cabins on select sailings -- 22 to be exact -- that depart between Oct. 5 and Dec. 31, 2010. Solo travelers get the same opportunity as there are no single supplement charges for singles cabins during this time period. The voyage takes in Norway's scenic 1,250-mile west coast between the charming Hanseatic port of Bergen and the near-Russian border town of Kirkenes. Further savings are offered to AARP members -- on board cabin credit of up to $100 -- and a 10% fare savings for passengers who sailed on any Hurtigruten ship in the past three years. As comparison, regular 12-day fares range from $2,190 to $3,057 per person, double.

Besides seeing many of the celebrated fjords, Hurtigruten guests enjoy a charming portfolio of 34 ports, including Trondheim, one of the country’s oldest cities and a thriving university town; Tromso, Europe's largest town above the Arctic circle; the Lofoten archipelago, with peaked mountains and villages filled with rust-red fishermen’s cabins; and Alesund, destroyed by fire in 1904 and completely rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style. Those ports that are visited late at night on the northbound leg are visited during the day on the southbound journey - so guests have the opportunity to easily explore every one of them.

Shore excursions range from touring to active explorations: the North Cape, sitting 1,000 feet above the churning Barents Sea and offering a top-of-the-world vista; a visit to the Norway-Russia border station near Kirkenes; a "Taste of Vesterålen" - visits to Harstad, Trondeneshalvoya Peninsula, Hinnoya Island and Sortland; dog-sledding from November on; and a Lofotr Viking Feast with traditional foods, singing and dancing; to name a few. Pre-booking excursions before departure saves guests 5% off the excursion price.Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast.
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Hurtigruten Offers 50% Off A Companion's Cruise Fare On "Shackelton's Holiday Voyage"

June 2010 -- Home to 90% of the world's ice and near as many penguins, Antarctica is as unique a destination as can be found to exchange gifts and celebrate the holidays -- with its pristine environment, sun-light polar nights, abundant wildlife, and glaciers that seem to go on forever. But Hurtigruten isn't waiting until then to deliver a gift to travelers -- offering a 50% discount on the cruise portion of the companion's fare on its 17-day "Shackleton's Holiday Voyage." Booking the December 17, 2010 departure by Sept. 15 saves the companion $4,254 to $9,182 (or in the spirit of the holiday - $2,127 to $4,591 per person in a shared cabin). The festive sailing follows much of the same path as Shackleton's original Endurance Expedition of 1914 -- considered one of history's greatest survival stories -- navigating the western-most outposts of the Falkland Islands and visits whaling stations, beautiful Drygalski Fjord on South Georgia Island and the even more remote South Orkneys before heading to Antarctica.

Regular fares are $9,863 to $19,720 per person, double and include all meals onboard, the services of expert naturalist guides, noted guest lecturers, round-trip air between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia (air not included in the discount), PolarCirkel boat landings, and port fees. This savings offer is combinable with Hurtigruten's Repeater discount - 10% savings for passengers who sailed on any Hurtigruten ship in the past three years. There are six other Antarctica itineraries (10 departures total) during the November - February season, ranging from 10 to 19 days.

Guests are treated to all of the holiday fanfare including traditional carols, Norwegian glogg (mulled wine), Santa Claus, and a special Christmas breakfast. Cocktails and appetizers set the stage for a New Year's Eve dinner followed by a festive midnight celebration. Of course, this is all mingled with the sight of blue whales and orcas feeding mere feet from the passenger's perch aboard the world's most deluxe exploration ship - the 318-berth, ice-rated MS Fram - and penguin populations whose individual rookeries number in the tens of thousands.

Travelers depart Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, and sail to the Falklands, an archipelago consisting of more than 740 islands and a breeding ground for millions of seabirds, as well as home to King and other penguin species. In South Georgia, passengers disembark at the abandoned whaling station of Grytviken and visit the South Georgia Museum, a treasure trove of the island’s culture; Cooper Bay, known for its Macaroni and Chinstrap penguins; and the cemetery, where young Elephant seal pups, King and Gentoo penguins and timid Pintail ducks are likely to be spotted. The ship then takes guests by the Washington Strait and Coronation Island, the largest of the South Orkney Islands in the Scotia Sea, before setting course towards Elephant Island and Antarctica.

June 2010 -- Home to 90% of the world's ice and near as many penguins, Antarctica is as unique a destination as can be found to exchange gifts and celebrate the holidays -- with its pristine environment, sun-light polar nights, abundant wildlife, and glaciers that seem to go on forever. But Hurtigruten isn't waiting until then to deliver a gift to travelers -- offering a 50% discount on the cruise portion of the companion's fare on its 17-day "Shackleton's Holiday Voyage." Booking the December 17, 2010 departure by Sept. 15 saves the companion $4,254 to $9,182 (or in the spirit of the holiday - $2,127 to $4,591 per person in a shared cabin). The festive sailing follows much of the same path as Shackleton's original Endurance Expedition of 1914 -- considered one of history's greatest survival stories -- navigating the western-most outposts of the Falkland Islands and visits whaling stations, beautiful Drygalski Fjord on South Georgia Island and the even more remote South Orkneys before heading to Antarctica.

Regular fares are $9,863 to $19,720 per person, double and include all meals onboard, the services of expert naturalist guides, noted guest lecturers, round-trip air between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia (air not included in the discount), PolarCirkel boat landings, and port fees. This savings offer is combinable with Hurtigruten's Repeater discount - 10% savings for passengers who sailed on any Hurtigruten ship in the past three years. There are six other Antarctica itineraries (10 departures total) during the November - February season, ranging from 10 to 19 days.

Guests are treated to all of the holiday fanfare including traditional carols, Norwegian glogg (mulled wine), Santa Claus, and a special Christmas breakfast. Cocktails and appetizers set the stage for a New Year's Eve dinner followed by a festive midnight celebration. Of course, this is all mingled with the sight of blue whales and orcas feeding mere feet from the passenger's perch aboard the world's most deluxe exploration ship - the 318-berth, ice-rated MS Fram - and penguin populations whose individual rookeries number in the tens of thousands.

Travelers depart Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, and sail to the Falklands, an archipelago consisting of more than 740 islands and a breeding ground for millions of seabirds, as well as home to King and other penguin species. In South Georgia, passengers disembark at the abandoned whaling station of Grytviken and visit the South Georgia Museum, a treasure trove of the island’s culture; Cooper Bay, known for its Macaroni and Chinstrap penguins; and the cemetery, where young Elephant seal pups, King and Gentoo penguins and timid Pintail ducks are likely to be spotted. The ship then takes guests by the Washington Strait and Coronation Island, the largest of the South Orkney Islands in the Scotia Sea, before setting course towards Elephant Island and Antarctica.

A broad range of landfall opportunities await in Antarctica – Half Moon Island, a rookery for Chinstrap penguins; Port Lockroy, where postcards postmarked "Antarctica" can be purchased; Whaler's Bay with its warm springs and black volcanic sand; Paradise Harbor and its stunning views of snowy peaks, ice cliffs and sculpted bergs; Lemaire Channel, one of Antarctica's most beautiful passages, where humpback and killer whales and Elephant seals are common sights; and numerous others. As the MS Fram sails through the Drake Passage, guests can enjoy a view of Cape Horn, South America’s southernmost point, while learning about the region from expert onboard lecturers. The ship disembarks at Ushuaia and guests fly onto Buenos Aires, where they are free to explore the city.

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Hurtigruten Offers 1/2 Off for Second Passengers On Norwegian Coastal Voyages

June 2010 -- The North Cape beckons, the oft-lauded fjords await, the midnight sun lights the way around the clock, and Hurtigruten makes it easier to take in all these Norway treats (and many more) this summer with a 50% off the companion fare special running through Sept. 13, 2010. Passengers, able to choose from more than 100 departures of the Norwegian Coastal Voyage six-, seven- or 12-day sailings, take in Norway's spectacular fjord-filled, 1,250-mile west coast between the charming Hanseatic port of Bergen and Kirkenes, close to the Russian border. Booking deadline is August 31; combinable offers include AARP on board cabin credit of up to $100 and 10% savings for passengers who sailed on any Hurtigruten ship in the past three years. Regular fares range from $1,632 to $11,621 per person, double.

National Geographic Traveler magazine has placed the Norwegian fjords, a highlight of Hurtigruten's Coastal Voyage, at the top of its list of the world’s most celebrated and iconic travel destinations - based on its survey done with the National Geographic Center for Sustainable destinations. Besides seeing many of these celebrated fjords, Hurtigruten guests get to visit an eclectic array of ports (34 in all), including Trondheim, one of the country’s oldest cities and a thriving university town; Tromso, Europe's largest town above the Arctic circle; the Lofoten archipelago, with peaked mountains and villages filled with rust-red fishermen’s cabins; and Alesund, destroyed by fire in 1904 and completely rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style.

Shore excursions range from touring to active explorations: the North Cape, sitting 1,000 feet above the churning Barents Sea and offering a top-of-the-world vista; a riverboat safari in Kirkenes; a visit to the UNESCO islands of Vega, where eider ducks are kept as pets; taking in the beauty of the Geirangerfjord, also a UNESCO site; a RIB safari to Saltstraumen to witness the world's most powerful tidal current; an exploration of Lapland; and a Lofotr Viking Feast with traditional foods, singing and dancing; to name a few. Pre-booking excursions before departure saves guests 5% of the excursion price.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast.

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Hurtigruten Deals on Spring and Summer Cruises.

February 2010 -- Hurtigruten has announced pricing specials on its Spring and Summer line-up of Exploration Cruises - cruises designed to take in some of the world's most remote destinations. All offer savings of 25% on the price of suites aboard the world's newest and most deluxe expedition ship, the MS Fram, and free air from New York's JFK or Newark's Liberty Int'l Airport, if booked by April 31, 2010. And to make it even more of a deal, Hurtigruten is allowing the discount to be combined with a two other offers: "10% Repeater Discount" - for passengers who sailed on any Hurtigruten ship in the past three years; and "AARP" - members receive a $50 shipboard credit; as do "AAA" members. Add-on airfares from dozens of North American gateways range from $100 to $600.

Included cruises are three "Greenland" September departures - discounted rates for suites are $5,649 to $9,314 per person, double; the 11-day, May 29 "Climate Pilgrimage" sailing to Northern Norway and the Arctic island of Spitsbergen -- $5,108 to $7,137 for suites (other cabin grades on this cruise enjoy a 15% reduction - no free air - $4,100 to $5,263); and a new European cruise -- “Baltic Adventure” -- a fascinating 11-day, roundtrip journey that takes in major sites in Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia and Poland - suite fares are $4,325 to $5,522.

While guests see the effects of 'global warming' firsthand in Greenland, from both the deck of the luxury expedition ship and on shore, experts in numerous disciplines, including geology, weather, marine life, environment, history and culture, fill in the gaps of their understanding of this ice-encrusted ancient land. Passengers take in sights and scenery little changed in 5,000 years while moving from village to village, as well as spend time ashore, meeting and sharing time with the local population. Scenic highlights include Eqip Sermia Glacier, a huge wall of ice that calves directly into the sea; towering icebergs in Disko Bay and at the mouth of Jakobshavn Ice Fjord, a World Heritage Site; and Jakobshavn Glacier, the world’s most active glacier. Guided walking tours take in Inuit villages and towns, with tongue-twisting names – Qeqertarsuaq, Ukkusissat, Itelleq and Ilulissat – and illustrate how the friendly local populations flourish in one of the harshest climates on Earth.

Guests on Hurtigruten's "Climate Pilgrimage" visit research stations, track wildlife, participate in field studies and meet with some of the field's top climate research scientists during visits in Northern Norway and the Arctic island of Spitsbergen. The warming of the Arctic now allows vessels to cross the 80th parallel - something not possible less than 20 years ago. Walruses, whales and polar bears rule this region and the MS Fram will treat guests to a close look at the marginal ice-zone and its large yearly variations.

“Baltic Adventure” showcases the variety, beauty and fairy-tale quality of the Baltic Sea. The 11-day adventure begins and ends in Norway's Oslo, exploring the city and visiting the museum that houses the original Fram - the only wooden-hulled ship to explore both poles, more than 100 years ago. Highlights include Sweden's Stockholm, known as the "Venice of the North"; Finland's Helsinki, boasting a lively marketplace, rich cultural life and architectural gems; St. Petersburg, Russia's cultural capital, home to the famed Winter Palace and Hermitage Museum; Estonia's capital city of Tallinn, a World Heritage Site due in large part to its 13th-century Toompea Castle and Kadriorg Palace; and Poland's port city of Gdynia, a sister site of the 1970 rebellion, and now an important center of commerce.

The 12,700-ton, eight-deck MS Fram, makes significant use of Greenland’s culture as inspiration for design while incorporating a striking Scandinavian feel. Suites include seating areas, some with two rooms, TV, mini-bar and queen-size beds. The ship boasts an Internet café, a large glass-enclosed observation salon offering panoramic views, restaurant with ocean views, wellness center with saunas, work-out room and two glass-screened heated outdoor whirlpools; a friendly and well-informed crew is ready to offer assistance and suggestions when asked.

All sailings include cabin category selected, three meals daily aboard ship, services of naturalist guides, specified land excursions and PolarCirkel excursions, ship transfers, government fees, cruise taxes and port charges. Airline fuel surcharges, air taxes and ticketing fees are additional.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast. Additional information on all of these adventures, as well as brochures and reservations, can be obtained from travel agents or Hurtigruten's visitor-friendly web site, www.hurtigruten.us;

Hurtigruten Annouces Theme Voyages

February 4, 2009 - As a growing number of travelers seek to return home with lifetime memories, built from experiential vacations, Hurtigruten has responded to their passengers’ interests with an expanded roster of even more fascinating Theme Voyages possibilities for 2010. All of which take place aboard the company's fleet of modern vessels as they make their way along Norway’s spectacular fjord-filled, 1,250-mile west coast, on 6- to 12-day sailings between the cosmopolitan city of Bergen and the Arctic town of Kirkenes -- a route named the “world’s most beautiful voyage” by Lonely Planet’s “Bluelist.” Theme Voyages fares range from $1,205 to $8,042 per person, double.

Theme Voyages combine music, history, the culinary arts, national celebrations and traditional arts and crafts spiked with informative talks and activities. Start the New Year in the Arctic on the North Cape with the “Celebrations in the Arctic.” The “Rhythm and Fabric of Life” is a fusion of music, crafts, dance and folk culture. “Hall of the Mountain King,” aboard the MS Trollfjord, explores the life and music of Edvard Grieg, while the “Special Norwegian Fjords" sails out of Dover, England, crossing the North Sea, and explores some of the world's most scenic fjords on Norway's fairytale western coast. Passengers on “Lords of the Fjords” learn of the historic tales and adventures of the Vikings. “Tastes and Sounds of the Fjords” treats guests to musical performances from chorals to jazz and cooking classes and wine tastings, and “Norway's Big Day Out” puts them shoulder to shoulder with locals decked out in their national costumes in independence day processions. Follow in the footsteps of Norway’s most famous polar heroes -- Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen -- and their voyages on “The Ice Breaker.” Arrive in time to follow millions of rare migrating birds returning to the Arctic on the “Birds of the Nordic Coast.”

· "Celebrations in the Arctic" brings in the New Year as no one else can - with the countdown held on the North Cape, Europe's most northern point. Expect dancing, fireworks and a midnight toast. 12 days sailing departs Dec. 27, 2010 with fares from $2,190 to $6,662.

· "The Rhythm & Fabric of Life" showcases the deep-rooted traditions of the Norwegian culture, mixing music, crafts, dance and folk culture. Guests enjoy learning to folk dance and see how traditional instruments are made – departing April 11 & Sept. 23. Fares for the seven-day journey range from $1,697 to $4,981.

· "Lords of the Fjords" is a step back in time to when the Vikings ruled the waters and land. Onboard experts, including documentary filmmaker Klaus Kiesewetter, provide talks and entertainment, immersing the passenger in the Viking history and culture. Departing Apr. 7 and 14, fares for the seven-day journey range from $1,697 to $4,981.

· “Special Norwegian Fjords” visits 12 of Norway’s most spectacular fjords to the land of fairytales and trolls, of cozy villages clinging to dramatic landscapes, and fortresses and castles on the way from the White Cliffs of Dover in Kent, U.K., across the North Sea to Stavanger, the oil capital of Norway. Fares for the 10-day journey, departing April 9, range from $1,568 to $4,703.

· "Tastes & Sounds of the Fjords" is a series of choir, jazz and classical concerts, cooking lessons and wine tastings, combined to create a unique culinary experience - while in the midst of the majestic beauty of the fjords. Departing Apr. 15 and Sept 16, fares for the six-day immersion range from $2,097 to $4,676.

· "Norway's Big Day Out" is just what it sounds like - a celebration of Norway's Constitution Day (May 17). Children's parades and festivities take play across the nation and guests learn about the country's history from experts. Six May 2010 departures of 12 days are offered at fares from $2,374 to $8,042.

· "Hall of the Mountain King" explores the life of Edvard Grieg. Performances by pianist Rune Alver and talks by lecturer Eilif B. Lotveit bring to life Norway's renowned composer - with daily recitals and daily lectures. Departures are Oct. 10 & 16; fares for the seven-day musical feast are $1,697 to $4,981.

· "The Ice-Breakers" - Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen were two of Norway's greatest explorers. And guests will learn more about them from famous lecturer Arne Kertelhein as the ship follows some their Norway routes, departing Oct. 11 & 18. Fares for the seven-day itinerary are $1,697 to $4,981.

· "Birds of the Nordic Coast" takes place as millions of migrating birds return to the Arctic for nesting - a true ornithological event with lectures and stellar bird-watching opportunities: species such as puffins, kittiwakes, guillemots, razorbills, cormorants, Arctic skuas, northern fulmars, Northern gannets, and sea eagles are numerous in this area. Fans depart May 20 for six days with fares ranging from $1,306 to $4,423.

Excursions are an important feature of Hurtigruten cruises, so the company has developed dozens of high-quality options for their guests to get off the ship and enjoy the local scene and sights - from visits to Geirangerfjord, a World Heritage site, and stunning views of the fjord, mountains and the “Seven Sisters” waterfall, to a sailing adventure that transports guests through Norway’s second largest glacier, Svartisen, where sea eagles spread their wings, to witnessing the world’s most powerful tidal currents and mountains dating back more than 250 million years.

Sailing aboard Hurtigruten ships means large, comfortable lounges with panoramic windows and wonderful views from large outdoor decks; open seating for meals; fresh seasonal ingredients, plenty of incredible seafood and a comprehensive wine list; multilingual tour directors; comfortable cabins - from the smaller inside accommodations to the large outside suites with private balconies; and a friendly and well-informed crew, ready to offer assistance and learned suggestions.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast.

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For Information on Cruises From New York Check out www.NYCruiseInfo.com.

For Information on Cruises From Baltimore, Norfolk, Philadelphia, Boston, Quebec, Montreal and the Great Lakes - Check out www.NortheastCruiseGuide.com.

Expedition Cruise Specialist Hurtigruten Special Cruises and Themes Cruises

October 2009 -- New Year's Eve on the North Cape, Opera in Oslo, Viking history and myth, air-inclusive vacations, the midnight sun, the Northern Lights, stunning fjords, wildlife at every turn...the list of cruise and land opportunities goes on and on and is detailed in Hurtigruten's new full-color, 80-page 2010 Norway brochure. Hurtigruten, a name synonymous with exploration cruising, continues to find more ways to showcase their year-round home, adding new theme cruises and shore excursions and packaging air, land and sea into easy to book vacations.

The centerpiece of nearly every offer are the six-, seven- and 12-day sailings along the spectacular fjord-filled west coast of Norway year-round -- a voyage named the “world’s most beautiful voyage” by Lonely Planet’s “Bluelist.” The scenery changes from moment to moment as the company's fleet of modern ships, journeying 1,250 miles between Bergen and Kirkenes, make 34 port calls -- small fishing villages in the rugged Lofoten Islands, Art Nouveau Alesund, the ancient Viking capital of Trondheim and Norway's "Paris of the North" Tromso. Cruise-only fares range from $1,205 to $6,622 per person, double with many prices reduced for early booking. Solo travelers avoid the single supplement on a large number of departures.

Coastal Value Packages - these 9- to 15-day independent adventure vacations offer a way to take in many of Norway's best sites without having to worry about booking flights or hotels - a one-stop, all-inclusive option with daily departures, year-round. One night is spent in both Bergen and Oslo, bookending the cruise, where guests have plenty of free time to explore and sightsee -- Oslo's Vigeland Park, Viking Ship Museum, the new Opera House, and many small shops selling unique Norwegian jewelry and other treasures. Walking the cobblestone streets of Bergen offers sights that include its Art Museum, with more than 9,000 works of art; St. Mary’s Church, the oldest building in Bergen; composer Edvard Grieg's home; and the wooden buildings in the Bryggen Wharf. The nine-day "Norwegian Holiday" incorporates the six-day south-bound sailing, departing from Kirkenes, above the Arctic Circle. The 10-day "Highlights of Norway" sails seven days on the northbound route. The 15-day "Grand Norway" offers guests the 12-day roundtrip, allowing them to see during the day what they may have missed at night in the other direction. Airfare is from New York with add-ons from dozens of North American gateways priced from $100 to $360. Air fuel surcharges, air and cruise taxes and ticketing fees are additional.

Theme Voyages - as more travelers look to bring home memories of unique and educational experiences, Hurtigruten has sought out the interests of their passengers and is offering an expanded roster of even more fascinating possibilities for 2010.

· "Celebrations in the Arctic" brings in the New Year as no one else can - with the countdown held on the North Cape, Europe's most northern point - Dec. 26, 2009 and Dec. 27, 2010.

· "Notes at Sea" is an opera-lover's dream trip - daily concerts on board and a Norwegian New Year's Concert at Oslo's brand-new Opera House - Jan. 5, 2010.

· "The Rhythm & Fabric of Life" showcases the deep-rooted traditions of the Norwegian culture, mixing music, crafts, dance and folk culture. Guests enjoy learning to folk dance and see how traditional instruments are made - Jan. 5, 2010

· "Lords of the Fjords" is a step back in time to when the Vikings ruled the waters and land. Onboard experts provide talks and entertainment, immersing the passenger in the Viking history and culture - Apr. 7 and Sept. 23, 2010.

· "Tastes & Sounds of the Fjords" is a series of choir, jazz and classical concerts, cooking lessons and wine tastings combined to create a unique culinary experience - while in the midst of the majestic beauty of the fjords - Apr. 15 and Sept 16, 2010

· "Norway's Big Day Out" is what it sounds like - a celebration of Norway's Constitution Day (May 17). Children's parades and festivities take play across the nation and guests learn about the country's history from experts - six May 2010 departures.

· "Hall of the Mountain King" explores the life of Edvard Grieg. Performances by pianist Rune Alver and talks by lecturer Eilif B. Lotveit bring to life Norway's renown composer - with daily recitals and daily lectures - Oct. 10 & 16, 2010.

· "The Ice-Breakers" - Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen were two of Norway's greatest explorers. And guests will learn more about them from famous lecturer Arne Kertelhein as the ship follows some their Norway routes - Oct. 11 & 18, 2010.

· "Birds of the Nordic Coast" takes place as millions of migrating birds return to the Arctic for nesting - a true ornithological event with lectures and stellar bird-watching opportunities - May 20, 2010.

Excursions and Explorations - getting off the ship and enjoying the local scene and sights has always been an important feature of Hurtigruten cruises, so the company has developed dozens of high-quality excursions for their guests. Port excursions range from city tours of Alesund and Tromso to the more unusual "Lofotr Viking Feast" - a true Viking feast, banquet hall and all - and a "Quad-Safari to the Russian Border," to the simply fun: "Dog Sledding in Tromso" and "Scootertrip in Lapland" (snowmobiles). Pre- and post-cruise explorations, ranging in length from a few hours to three days, offer wonderful opportunities to experience Norway in all its glory. Among the offerings - guests can spend two days in the Snowhotel in Kirkenes, sleeping on ice beds; float in a survival suit in the Barents Sea while the team leader dives for the evening's meal of King Crab; dog sled and snowshoe in Kirkenes; take the train from Bergen to Voss, a boat to Flam and a train to Myrdal on "Norway in a Nutshell"; and visit the mining town of Roros, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Most optional excursions can be booked before

Sailing aboard Hurtigruten ships means large, comfortable lounges with panoramic windows and wonderful views from large outdoor decks; no need to dress up for dinner (unless you want to) and open seating; fresh seasonal ingredients, plenty of incredible seafood and a comprehensive wine list; multilingual tour directors; comfortable cabins - from the smaller inside accommodations to the large outside suites with private balconies, picture windows and even Jacuzzis on some; and a friendly and well-informed crew, ready to offer assistance and their suggestions when asked.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway's coast.

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NOTE: For Information on Cruises From New York Check out http://www.nycruiseinfo.com/.
For Information on Cruises From Baltimore, Norfolk, Philadelphia, Boston, Quebec, Montreal and the Great Lakes - Check out http://www.northeastcruiseguide.com/.

Hurtigruten Norwegian Fjords Voyages

October 2009 -- National Geographic Traveler magazine has placed the Norwegian fjords, a highlight of Hurtigruten's Coastal Voyage, at the top of its list of the world’s most celebrated and iconic travel destinations - based on its survey undertaken in cooperation with the National Geographic Center for Sustainable destinations. This is the third time in the six-year history of the venerated magazine's "Places Rated" Destination Stewardship survey that the Norwegian fjords have topped the list. This honor follows the 2007 Lofoten Islands' designation as the world's third best island destination - another daily stop on the Coastal Voyage - and reinforces Lonely Planet's "Blue List" description of Hurtigruten's Coastal Voyage as the "world's most beautiful voyage."

"The integrity and world renown of National Geographic, as well as its global penetration makes this one of the most important awards in travel industry internationally," says Christian Bue Nordahl, Global Brand Manager at Hurtigruten ASA. "The fact that the Norwegian fjords have once again topped the list is an affirmation of the unique natural assets that we possess. We are delighted by the results and would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Fjord Norway on its success.”

More than 100,000 foreign visitors cruised the fjords and the rest of Norway's spectacular 1,250-mile west coast in 2008, aboard one of Hurtigruten's 11 modern ships that sail these waters daily, year-round. Besides the fjords, Hurtigruten guests get to visit an eclectic array of ports (34 in all), including Trondheim, one of the country’s oldest cities and a thriving university town; Bergen, a charming Hanseatic port; the Lofoten archipelago, with peaked mountains and villages filled with rust-red fishermen’s cabins; and Alesund, destroyed by fire in 1904 and completely rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style.

About the survey: 133 destinations were surveyed by 437 travel experts, and rated based on the following six criteria: environmental and ecological quality; social and cultural integrity; condition of historic buildings and archaeological sites; aesthetic appeal; quality of tourism management and outlook for the future.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing daily along the Norwegian coast as well as to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen.

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NOTE: For Information on Cruises From New York Check out http://www.nycruiseinfo.com/.
For Information on Cruises From Baltimore, Norfolk, Philadelphia, Boston, Quebec, Montreal and the Great Lakes - Check out http://www.northeastcruiseguide.com/.

Hurtigruten Offer Greenland Savings.

July 2009 -- As interest in Greenland grows, especially as regards its ongoing significance in the global warming debate, Hurtigruten is making it easier and more affordable for North Americans to get a first-hand look at the changing landscape and learn about its history, geography, culture, wildlife and environment from onboard experts during lectures and land excursions. Whether the consumer is interested in a "25% Off + 2 Hotel Nights" deal with savings of 25% and free hotel nights in Copenhagen; traveling solo at nearly the same rate as those traveling on a double occupancy basis, saving up to 47%; or wanting to embark on an air-included trip in Greenland and disembark at the harbor edge of New York City's skyline, while saving up to 67%; there is an offer made to fit. All sailings include cabin category selected, three meals daily aboard ship, services of naturalist guides, specified land excursions and PolarCirkel excursions, ship transfers, government fees, cruise taxes and port charges. New bookings must be made by August 31 and availability is capacity-controlled.

Guests aboard the world's newest expedition ship, Hurtigruten’s deluxe 318-berth MS Fram, take in sights and scenery little changed in 5,000 years while moving from village to village, and spend time ashore, meeting and sharing time with the local population. Scenic highlights include Eqip Sermia Glacier, a huge wall of ice that calves directly into the sea; towering icebergs in Disko Bay and at the mouth of Jakobshavn Ice Fjord, a World Heritage Site; and Jakobshavn Glacier, the world’s most active glacier. Guided walking tours take in Inuit villages and towns, with tongue-twisting names – Qeqertarsuaq, Ukkusissat, Itelleq and Ilulissat – and illustrate how the friendly local populations flourish in one of the harshest climates on Earth.

"Three Countries - One Deluxe Ship" -- besides saving 64% to 67% on the voyage ($8,667 to $13,117 in savings), and beginning the voyage on the MS Fram in a European country and ending it in New York (by way of Canada), and exploring one of the world's most remote destinations (Greenland), guests on the 18-day voyage are treated to a unique historical perspective as they are joined by Benedicte Ingstad, the daughter of the famed explorer Helge Ingstad. Ms. Ingstad was with her parents, Anne Stine and Helge, on their groundbreaking historical 1960 expedition to L'anse Aux Meadows in Newfoundland, where they discovered and excavated what is considered to be the “Vinland settlement” of Leif Eriksson from circa AD 1000, or 500 years earlier than Christopher Columbus’ “discovery” of North America. She will share memories of her family's adventures and the story of her father's life as well as show photographic material and unique films. Other highlights include visits to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: L’anse Aux Meadows, Red Bay (provisional World Heritage list) and Gros Morne National Park. The September 22 departure has fares of $4,249 to $7,249 per person, double, include flights from New York/Newark, one night hotel in Copenhagen, as well as the aforementioned inclusions.

"25% Off + 2 Hotel Nights" -- the 25% savings, amounting to a reduction of $1,990 to $5,745 per person, has the added bonus of including two hotel nights in the Denmark's capital city of Copenhagen, where guests will have time to explore this medieval city at a leisurely pace, taking in its abundance of attractions. The discounted prices for the 8- and 15-day Greenland sailings (10 and 17 days with the two hotel nights) in August and September range from $4,597 to $15,862 per person, double.

"Go Solo And Save" -- single travelers will pay the normal brochure rates -- as if they were traveling with a partner and paying the double occupancy rate - saving upwards of 47%, or $3,065 to $19,034. The no supplement savings, offered on the 8- and 15-day August and September departures, result in single passenger prices of $6,129 to $21,149. And the friendly crew and fellow guests are always around so no solo traveler ever really travels alone.

Air is offered by Hurtigruten; air add-ons rates for the Greenland-NY sailing (where air from NY is included) is available from dozens of North American gateways for $100 to $300.