The MS Richard With, a Hurtigruten cruise ship named after the company’s founder, Captain Richard With, offers travellers a comfortable and engaging way to explore Norway’s stunning coastline. Refurbished in 2018 and upgraded to a hybrid-powered vessel in 2022, this ship accommodates 590 passengers and blends classic maritime style with modern eco-friendly technology, creating a relaxed yet enriching experience for those seeking a unique coastal voyage.
Guests can expect a welcoming atmosphere focused on relaxation and cultural discovery. The ship’s smaller size allows access to remote fjords, appealing to couples, retirees, and nature enthusiasts. Passengers enjoy a mix of Norwegian heritage and modern amenities, with the Coastal Experience Team delivering engaging lectures on local wildlife, history, and culture. The casual dress code fosters a laid-back environment, and the crew’s friendly, multilingual service ensures guests feel at ease. Complimentary Wi-Fi and a focus on scenic enjoyment enhance the journey.
Reception Areas
The Kompass area on Deck 4 serves as the ship’s central hub, featuring a 24-hour reception desk and shop. The Arctic-inspired decor, with natural materials and soft lighting, creates an inviting space. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer coastal views, and comfortable seating provides a calm spot for planning excursions or relaxing.
Dining Options
Dining showcases Norway’s Coastal Kitchen concept, with three restaurants and a bakery. Torget, the main restaurant on Deck 4, serves buffet-style breakfast and lunch with local ingredients, and dinners alternate between buffets and set menus. Kysten, an à la carte restaurant, offers refined seafood dishes like king crab. Brygga bistro provides casual options such as salads and pizzas with a Nordic twist. Multe bakery serves cloudberry jam, waffles, and fresh pastries.
Entertainment Onboard
Entertainment focuses on education and scenic enjoyment. The Activity Centre on Deck 4 hosts Coastal Experience Team lectures and presentations on Norway’s wildlife and culture. The Explorer Lounge and Panorama Bar on Deck 7, with floor-to-ceiling windows, offers a cozy space for live music, drinks, or board games. Outdoor decks and two aft-facing hot tubs provide prime spots for coastal views. Activities like photography workshops and citizen science projects engage curious travellers.
Accommodation Details
The ship’s 223 cabins, refurbished in 2018, range from practical to luxurious. Polar Inside cabins (8-11 m²) feature separate beds, one converting to a sofa, and en-suite bathrooms. Polar Outside cabins (8-12 m²) offer portholes or windows, some with limited views. Arctic Superior cabins (10-12 m²) on upper decks include double beds, TVs, and tea/coffee facilities. Expedition Suites (18-45 m²) boast double beds, seating areas, mini-bars, and private balconies or bay windows, with welcome gifts for suite guests. Accessible cabins are available for guests with mobility needs.
Hospitality Services
Hospitality shines through the crew’s attentive, multilingual service in Norwegian and English. Suite guests enjoy priority dining and complimentary amenities like mini-bar refills. The wellness area on Deck 7 includes an expanded gym, upgraded sauna, and two outdoor hot tubs with sea views. The onboard shop sells Norwegian souvenirs and essentials, with duty-free options on international routes. Free Wi-Fi is available shipwide, though streaming is limited. An infirmary provides basic medical care, and the Hurtigruten app offers digital access to activity schedules.
