Hurtigruten has introduced Signature voyages on its Norway sailings, with the Svalbard Line for summer and The North Cape Line for winter, offering guests a chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Norway.
The Signature voyages were previously known as the Svalbard Express and the North Cape Express, with the new names reflecting product upgrades and distinguishing them from the Original Coastal Express offerings.
Hedda Felin, CEO of Hurtigruten, emphasized the company’s commitment to guest satisfaction and innovation, shaping the Signature voyages to exceed expectations and showcase the essence of Norwegian coastal cruising.
Key features of the Signature voyages include an all-inclusive experience with Nordic cuisine, an expanded Coastal Experience Team for guidance, exclusive activities like hikes and photography workshops, and relaxation amenities to enhance the overall travel experience.
Key highlights of the Signature voyages include tailored itineraries with longer port stays, allowing guests ample time to explore each destination in depth.
A rotten press release from Hurtigruten says: All-Inclusive Experience: Guests will indulge in an all-inclusive culinary journey, savouring authentic Nordic cuisine crafted by our award-winning chefs, while enjoying premium beverages amidst the stunning Norwegian scenery. Suite guests have complimentary access to the award-winning restaurant Røst, launched last year, which is available to all guests at a small fee.
- Enhanced Guiding: With an expanded Coastal Experience Team on board, guests will benefit from personalized guiding and insights into Norway’s culture, history, and natural wonders, enriching their voyage experience.
- Exclusive Activities: Signature voyages offer an array of exclusive activities such as hikes, excursions, lectures, and photography workshops, allowing guests to engage with Norway’s picturesque landscapes in meaningful ways.
- Relaxation Amenities: From serene sauna sessions to other relaxation activities, guests can unwind and rejuvenate amidst the tranquility of Norway, immersing themselves fully in the Norwegian way of life.
CEO Hedda Felin said “for the 25/26 season, Hurtigruten is delighted to offer guests more departure options, including additional Signature voyages departing from Oslo. Responding to the growing demand from guests, departure capacity from Oslo has been doubled, opening more opportunities than ever to experience the breathtaking journey from Norway’s southernmost to northernmost points. Between autumn and spring, Hurtigruten’s ship MS Trollfjord offers The North Cape Line from the Norwegian capital. With visits to 14 ports, there’s ample time for excursions like skiing, dog sledding, and snowshoeing. Guests spend up to eight days above the Arctic Circle, increasing their chances of witnessing the mesmerising Northern Lights, backed by Hurtigruten’s highly popular Northern Lights Promise. This expansion provides travellers with greater flexibility in planning their Norwegian coastal adventure, allowing them to embark on their journey from the vibrant capital city of Norway. Oslo stands out as perhaps the most happening Scandinavian capital, offering a vibrant fusion of culture and nature.
This expansion provides travelers with greater flexibility in planning their Norwegian coastal adventure, allowing them to embark on their journey from the dynamic heart of Norway’s capital city. In addition to the Signature voyages, Hurtigruten continues to offer its renowned Original Coastal Express, embodying the heritage and authentic charm of Norwegian coastal cruising. These iconic voyages connect local communities and offer guests an authentic glimpse into everyday life along Norway’s stunning coastline. Our Original voyages are a testament to the enduring essence of Norwegian coastal cruising. They provide guests with an opportunity to experience the rhythm of life along Norway’s coast, from bustling ports to tranquil fjords.”
“Earlier this year, Hurtigruten introduced Tom Kerss as the world’s first Chief Aurora Chaser and the extension of its Northern Lights Promise for the 25/26 season. Kerss will join selected sailings, bringing his renowned expertise in aurora observation and photography to enhance the guest experience. Having Tom Kerss on board as our Chief Aurora Chaser underpins our commitment to providing guests with unforgettable experiences. Tom’s expertise enhances our guests’ understanding and appreciation of the Northern Lights, ensuring they have the opportunity to experience this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon in all its glory.
Tthe extended Northern Lights Promise reaffirmed Hurtigruten’s dedication to providing unparalleled opportunities for guests to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the Northern Lights. This unique guarantee assured guests that if the Northern Lights did not make an appearance during their voyage, they would receive a complimentary six- or seven-day voyage to try again the following season. At Hurtigruten, we understood the importance of experiencing the Northern Lights, and we wanted to ensure our guests had every opportunity to witness this extraordinary natural wonder. Refining how we organize our offerings makes it easier for guests, agents, and other partners to navigate. Seamless from the initial dreaming and research phase, they can choose between original voyages for The Coastal Express or Signature voyages comprising The North Cape Line and The Svalbard Line.”
