The MS Finnmarken, a Hurtigruten cruise ship formerly MS Otto Sverdrup, offers travellers a comfortable and engaging journey along Norway’s stunning coastline. With a capacity for 526 passengers after its 2020 refurbishment, this vessel blends Art Deco elegance with modern amenities, creating a relaxed yet enriching experience for guests seeking a unique coastal voyage.
Guests can expect a welcoming atmosphere focused on relaxation and discovery. The ship’s smaller size ensures easy navigation, appealing to couples, retirees, and multigenerational families. Passengers enjoy a mix of Norwegian culture and contemporary comforts, with friendly crew members providing attentive service. The onboard Expedition Team offers educational lectures on local wildlife and culture, fostering a sense of connection to Norway’s coastal landscapes. The casual dress code and lack of formal dinners create a laid-back yet refined environment.
Reception Areas
The main reception area on Deck 4 features a bright, open layout with floor-to-ceiling windows, showcasing the ship’s Art Deco-inspired design with rich colours and bold geometric shapes. The reception desk serves as a hub for guest inquiries and excursion bookings, with comfortable seating areas nearby. Large windows offer sea views, creating a warm and inviting space for passengers to plan their day or relax.
Dining Options
Dining aboard the MS Finnmarken is a treat, with four restaurants added during the 2020 refurbishment. The Aune Restaurant on Deck 4 serves Scandinavian-themed dishes with fresh, local ingredients, offering buffet-style breakfast and lunch and à la carte dinners. Lindstrom Restaurant provides speciality dining with a focus on Norwegian cuisine, while Fredheim Restaurant offers casual meals inspired by a Svalbard hunting station. An outdoor grill bar on Deck 8 serves light bites, complementing the coastal experience with fresh seafood and seasonal produce.
Entertainment Onboard
Entertainment focuses on education and relaxation rather than traditional cruise shows. The Science Center on Deck 4 serves as the Expedition Team’s headquarters, hosting lectures on Norway’s wildlife and history. The Explorer Bar Lounge on Deck 8, with plush sofas and floor-to-ceiling windows, offers a cozy space for live music or quiet drinks. Outdoor decks, including the unique bow access on Deck 5, allow guests to enjoy panoramic views. Activities like shuffleboard and board games provide light-hearted fun for all ages.
Accommodation Details
The ship’s 263 staterooms, refurbished in 2020, range from practical to luxurious. Inside cabins (8-13 m²) feature bunk beds or sofa beds, with en-suite bathrooms, heated floors, and smart TVs. Arctic Superior cabins offer ocean views and larger layouts (10-13 m²). The five new suites on Deck 8, with floor-to-ceiling windows, provide spacious living areas and private balconies. MG Grand Suites (35-37 m²) include separate bedrooms, hot tubs, and complimentary mini-bars. All cabins offer bathrobes, slippers, and individual air-conditioning for added comfort.
Hospitality Services
Hospitality is a strength, with the crew delivering attentive, personalised service. Suite guests enjoy priority dining and dedicated staff. The wellness complex on Deck 7 includes a gym, panoramic sauna, and spa with massage treatments. The onboard shop sells Norwegian knitwear, souvenirs, and toiletries, with duty-free options on international routes. Free Wi-Fi is available shipwide, though streaming is limited. The outdoor pool and Jacuzzi on Deck 7, unique to Finnmarken among Hurtigruten ships, offer a relaxing way to enjoy Arctic views.
