What Cruise Lines Go to Norway Explore Top Voyages Today

Norway’s breathtaking fjords and Northern Lights attract top cruise lines like Hurtigruten, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean, offering diverse voyages from summer coastal explorations to winter aurora-chasing expeditions. Smaller luxury operators, including Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn, provide intimate, high-end experiences along Norway’s dramatic coastline, ensuring unforgettable journeys for every traveler.

Key Takeaways

• Norway cruises are offered by top lines like Hurtigruten, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises.
• Choose expedition cruises for fjords, wildlife, and remote Arctic regions with expert guides.
• Seasonal timing matters—summer for midnight sun, winter for Northern Lights viewing.
• Small-ship lines like Viking and Ponant provide intimate, scenic voyages along Norway’s coast.
• Book early for peak summer months to secure cabins and preferred itineraries.
• Look for themed cruises—photography, history, or adventure—to enhance your Norwegian experience.

What Cruise Lines Go to Norway? Explore Top Voyages Today

Norway, a land of dramatic fjords, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights, is a bucket-list destination for travelers seeking awe-inspiring natural beauty. For many, the most immersive and convenient way to experience this Nordic wonderland is by taking a cruise. Cruising to Norway offers a unique blend of comfort, adventure, and cultural discovery, allowing passengers to wake up each day to a new breathtaking port of call without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. Whether you’re drawn to the deep-blue waters of the Geirangerfjord, the vibrant streets of Bergen, or the Arctic wilderness of Tromsø, Norway’s coastline is best explored from the deck of a cruise ship.

But with so many cruise lines offering voyages to Norway, how do you choose the right one? From luxury liners to expedition-focused vessels, the options can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide answers the essential question: What cruise lines go to Norway? We’ll explore the top cruise operators sailing Norwegian waters, compare itineraries, highlight unique onboard experiences, and provide practical tips to help you plan the perfect Norwegian cruise. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to select a voyage that matches your interests, budget, and travel style.

Why Choose a Cruise to Explore Norway?

The Unique Geography of Norway

Norway’s geography is unlike any other country in Europe. With over 50,000 kilometers of coastline—including 1,190 named fjords—the country’s rugged terrain makes overland travel challenging and time-consuming. A cruise offers unparalleled access to remote coastal towns, hidden coves, and UNESCO-listed fjords such as Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord. The fjords were carved by glaciers during the last ice age, creating steep cliffs, lush valleys, and serene waters that can only be fully appreciated from the sea.

All-Weather Access and Scenic Routes

Norway’s cruise season typically runs from April to September, with peak months in June, July, and August when daylight can stretch up to 20 hours in the south and nearly 24 hours in the Arctic Circle (known as the Midnight Sun). Even in shoulder seasons, cruise ships navigate safely through fjords and coastal waters, offering stunning views of snow-dusted mountains and cascading waterfalls. Unlike road or rail travel, cruises avoid the risk of snowstorms and landslides common in mountainous regions, ensuring a reliable and scenic journey.

Onboard Comfort and Cultural Immersion

Modern cruise ships are floating resorts, offering gourmet dining, spas, entertainment, and enrichment programs. Many lines feature Norwegian cultural events, such as traditional music, local cuisine tastings, and lectures on Viking history. Excursions often include guided hikes, kayaking in fjords, dog sledding in the Arctic, and visits to historic stave churches. This blend of comfort and adventure makes cruising the ideal way to experience Norway’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to Norway

Hurtigruten – The Original Norwegian Coastal Express

No discussion of Norwegian cruises is complete without mentioning Hurtigruten, the original “Coastal Express” that has been sailing Norway’s coastline since 1893. While it operates as a working ferry service connecting 34 ports from Bergen to Kirkenes (near the Russian border), it also welcomes tourists on both short and long voyages. Hurtigruten’s ships, such as the MS Trollfjord and MS Roald Amundsen (the world’s first hybrid electric cruise ship), offer an authentic Norwegian experience.

• Itineraries: 12-day Classic Round Trip (Bergen to Kirkenes and back), 7-day Northbound, 7-day Southbound
• Unique Features: Hybrid propulsion, onboard science center, expedition-style excursions, local crew and cuisine
• Best For: Travelers seeking an authentic, eco-conscious journey with access to remote Arctic towns

Hurtigruten’s “Hurtigruten Expeditions” brand also offers longer, adventure-focused itineraries, including the 14-day “Norway in Depth” cruise and Arctic voyages to Svalbard. Their ships are designed for polar exploration, with reinforced hulls and expert naturalist guides.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – Freestyle Cruising in Fjords

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers a more casual, flexible approach to cruising, ideal for travelers who want to explore Norway’s highlights with modern amenities. NCL’s large ships, such as the Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Encore, sail from major European hubs like Southampton and Copenhagen to Norwegian ports including Stavanger, Ålesund, and Tromsø.

• Itineraries: 7- to 10-day Norwegian Fjords cruises, often combined with stops in Denmark or the UK
• Unique Features: “Freestyle Dining” (no fixed meal times), water parks, Broadway-style shows, specialty restaurants (e.g., Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro)
• Best For: Families, first-time cruisers, and those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and onboard entertainment

NCL’s itineraries often include scenic cruising through Geirangerfjord, with optional shore excursions like the famous Trollstigen mountain road or kayaking in the fjord. Their “Free at Sea” promotion includes perks like free shore excursions, dining, and beverage packages, making it a value-packed option.

Cunard Line – Elegant Ocean Liners with a Norwegian Twist

For travelers who appreciate classic elegance and transatlantic heritage, Cunard Line offers refined Norwegian voyages aboard its iconic ocean liners, the Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria. Cunard’s cruises to Norway often depart from Southampton and include stops in Bergen, Stavanger, and Oslo, with scenic fjord cruising.

• Itineraries: 7- to 12-day Norwegian Fjords voyages, sometimes extended to include Iceland or Greenland
• Unique Features: Formal evenings, afternoon tea, ballroom dancing, onboard planetarium, and enrichment lectures
• Best For: Couples, mature travelers, and those who enjoy a traditional, luxurious cruise experience

Cunard’s “White Star Service” ensures personalized attention, and their shore excursions often include exclusive experiences like private concerts or guided tours of historic sites. The Queen Elizabeth’s 2024 Norwegian season includes a 10-night voyage with a full day in Geirangerfjord, complete with a gala dinner and live jazz performance.

Holland America Line – Mid-Sized Ships with Cultural Depth

Holland America Line strikes a balance between intimacy and comfort, with mid-sized ships like the Rotterdam and Zuiderdam offering a more personalized experience. Their Norwegian itineraries focus on cultural immersion, with longer stays in port and curated excursions.

• Itineraries: 7- to 14-day Norwegian Fjords cruises, often including Bergen, Flåm, and Trondheim
• Unique Features: Culinary arts center, BBC Earth onboard programming, extensive art collections, and partnerships with local museums
• Best For: Travelers interested in history, cuisine, and scenic beauty

Holland America’s “Explorations Central” program includes onboard lectures on Norwegian folklore, Viking history, and Arctic wildlife. Their “Signature Shore Excursions” offer unique experiences like a private fjord cruise or a visit to a working salmon farm. The line also offers longer “Grand Voyages” that include Norway as part of a 20+ day European journey.

Princess Cruises – Scenic Cruising and Onboard Innovation

Princess Cruises is known for its “MedallionClass” technology, which enhances the guest experience through wearable devices that enable keyless stateroom entry, mobile ordering, and personalized recommendations. Their Norwegian itineraries often feature extended scenic cruising through the fjords, with ships like the Enchanted Princess and Sky Princess.

• Itineraries: 7- to 12-day Norwegian Fjords cruises, with departures from Southampton, Copenhagen, or Amsterdam
• Unique Features: MedallionClass technology, Movies Under the Stars, Discovery at Sea programs, and partnerships with National Geographic
• Best For: Tech-savvy travelers, families, and those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and enrichment

Princess’s “Fjordland Discovery” cruise includes a full day in Geirangerfjord with optional excursions like the Dalsnibba mountain viewpoint or a RIB boat tour. Their onboard “Discovery at Sea” program features talks by naturalists and historians, while “Movies Under the Stars” offers open-air screenings with fjord views.

Silversea Cruises – Ultra-Luxury and All-Inclusive

For travelers seeking the pinnacle of luxury, Silversea Cruises offers all-inclusive, small-ship voyages to Norway. With ships like the Silver Spirit and Silver Cloud, Silversea provides an intimate, high-end experience with personalized service and gourmet dining.

• Itineraries: 7- to 14-day Norwegian Fjords cruises, often including Arctic ports like Honningsvåg and Longyearbyen
• Unique Features: All-inclusive pricing (beverages, tips, gratuities, shore excursions), butler service, Michelin-inspired cuisine, and expert-led expeditions
• Best For: Luxury travelers, couples, and those seeking a private, immersive journey

Silversea’s “Expedition” voyages include Zodiac landings, guided hikes, and wildlife viewing in remote areas. Their 2024 Norwegian season includes a 10-day “Arctic & Fjords” cruise with a visit to the North Cape and optional Northern Lights viewing in winter.

Popular Norwegian Cruise Itineraries and Routes

The Classic Norwegian Fjords Route

The most popular itinerary is the 7- to 10-day Norwegian Fjords cruise, typically starting from a major European port like Southampton, Copenhagen, or Amsterdam. This route includes scenic cruising through Geirangerfjord, Nærøyfjord, and Sognefjord, with port calls in Bergen, Ålesund, and Flåm. Highlights include:

• Geirangerfjord: UNESCO World Heritage Site with waterfalls like Seven Sisters and Suitor
• Flåm Railway: One of the world’s most scenic train rides, descending 863 meters in 20 kilometers
• Bryggen Wharf: Bergen’s historic Hanseatic quarter with colorful wooden buildings

Most lines offer optional excursions like kayaking, hiking, or visiting the Briksdalsbreen glacier. This itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors and families.

The Arctic Circle and North Cape Adventure

For travelers seeking a more adventurous journey, cruises that venture into the Arctic Circle are a must. These itineraries often depart from Bergen or Tromsø and include ports like:

• Tromsø: The “Gateway to the Arctic,” known for its vibrant culture and Northern Lights
• Honningsvåg: Gateway to the North Cape, Europe’s northernmost point
• Kirkenes: Near the Russian border, offering dog sledding and snowmobiling

Hurtigruten, Silversea, and Princess Cruises offer Arctic voyages, with opportunities to see polar bears, reindeer, and the Midnight Sun. Winter itineraries (October–March) focus on Northern Lights viewing and snow-based activities.

The Coastal Express (Hurtigruten) Experience

The Hurtigruten Coastal Express is a unique itinerary that follows Norway’s coastline from Bergen to Kirkenes, stopping at 34 ports. Unlike traditional cruises, this journey is both a ferry and a tourist attraction, offering:

• Authentic local culture: Onboard Norwegian cuisine, local crew, and community interactions
• Flexible travel: Passengers can disembark at any port and rejoin later
• Scenic diversity: From lush southern fjords to Arctic tundra

The 12-day round-trip is the most popular option, but shorter segments (e.g., 7-day Northbound) are also available. This itinerary is ideal for independent travelers and those interested in regional culture.

Combined Norway and Iceland Cruises

Some lines, including Cunard and Holland America, offer combined Norway and Iceland itineraries, allowing travelers to experience both destinations in one voyage. These cruises often start in Southampton or Copenhagen, with stops in:

• Reykjavik: Iceland’s capital, known for geothermal spas and vibrant nightlife
• Akureyri: A charming town in northern Iceland with botanical gardens
• Bergen and Stavanger: Norwegian highlights

These itineraries provide a broader Nordic experience, with opportunities to see glaciers, geysers, and volcanic landscapes alongside Norway’s fjords.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line for Your Norway Voyage

Consider Your Travel Style and Budget

Norway cruises range from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury, so your choice should align with your preferences:

• Budget: NCL and Princess Cruises offer competitive pricing with promotions like “Free at Sea” or “MedallionClass” discounts.
• Mid-Range: Holland America and Cunard provide a balance of comfort, service, and value.
• Luxury: Silversea and Regent Seven Seas offer all-inclusive, high-end experiences.

Expedition-focused lines like Hurtigruten and Silversea may cost more but include unique activities and expert guides.

Evaluate Itinerary Details

Not all Norwegian cruises are equal. Look for:

• Scenic cruising time: How many hours will you spend inside the fjords?
• Port stays: Are they long enough for meaningful exploration?
• Excursion options: Do they include active adventures (kayaking, hiking) or cultural experiences (museums, food tours)?

For example, NCL’s itineraries often include shorter port stays but more onboard entertainment, while Hurtigruten offers longer stays in smaller towns.

Assess Onboard Amenities

Consider what you value most:

• Families: NCL and Princess offer kids’ clubs, water slides, and family-friendly dining.
• Couples: Cunard and Silversea provide romantic ambiance, fine dining, and private balconies.
• Adventure seekers: Hurtigruten and Silversea include Zodiac landings, guided hikes, and wildlife viewing.

Check if your line offers enrichment programs, spa services, or fitness centers.

Check for Special Offers and Promotions

Many lines offer early-booking discounts, free airfare, or onboard credit. For example:

• NCL: “Free at Sea” includes free shore excursions, dining, or beverage packages.
• Princess: “MedallionClass” offers personalized service and mobile ordering.
• Hurtigruten: “Expedition” voyages include free excursions and expert lectures.

Booking 6–12 months in advance often yields the best deals.

Essential Tips for Cruising to Norway

Best Time to Cruise Norway

The ideal time depends on your goals:

• Summer (June–August): Warmest weather, Midnight Sun, peak season (higher prices, more crowds)
• Shoulder Seasons (April–May, September): Fewer tourists, lower prices, still scenic
• Winter (October–March): Northern Lights, snow activities, shorter daylight

For fjord cruising, summer is best. For Northern Lights, consider a winter Arctic voyage.

What to Pack

Norway’s weather is unpredictable. Pack:

• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Layered clothing (temperatures vary widely)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Binoculars (for wildlife and fjord views)
• Camera with extra batteries (cold drains battery life)

Even in summer, evenings can be cool. Don’t forget a hat and gloves for Arctic cruises.

Onboard and Onshore Etiquette

• Respect local culture: Norwegians value punctuality, personal space, and environmental conservation.
• Use reusable bottles: Norway has excellent tap water; avoid plastic.
• Tip appropriately: Most lines include gratuities, but small tips for guides are appreciated.

Health and Safety

• Norway has excellent healthcare, but travel insurance is recommended.
• Some excursions (e.g., hiking, kayaking) require moderate fitness.
• Check visa requirements if you plan to disembark in multiple countries.

Data Table: Comparison of Top Cruise Lines to Norway

Cruise Line	Ship Size	Best For	Typical Itinerary Length	Unique Feature
Hurtigruten	Small to Mid (100–600 passengers)	Adventure, authenticity, eco-tourism	7–14 days	Hybrid electric ships, Arctic expertise
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)	Large (3,000+ passengers)	Families, first-time cruisers, entertainment	7–10 days	Freestyle Dining, water parks
Cunard Line	Large (2,000–3,000 passengers)	Couples, mature travelers, luxury	7–12 days	Formal evenings, ocean liner heritage
Holland America Line	Mid (1,400–2,000 passengers)	Cultural travelers, scenic beauty	7–14 days	BBC Earth programming, culinary arts
Princess Cruises	Large (3,000+ passengers)	Tech-savvy travelers, families	7–12 days	MedallionClass, Movies Under the Stars
Silversea Cruises	Small (200–600 passengers)	Luxury, all-inclusive, privacy	7–14 days	Butler service, Michelin-inspired dining

Conclusion: Embark on Your Norwegian Adventure

Norway’s fjords, mountains, and Arctic wonders are calling, and a cruise is the most unforgettable way to answer. Whether you choose the authentic coastal journey of Hurtigruten, the freestyle fun of Norwegian Cruise Line, the elegant luxury of Cunard, or the all-inclusive indulgence of Silversea, there’s a Norwegian cruise tailored to your dreams. Each line offers a unique lens through which to experience Norway’s natural splendor and cultural richness.

As you plan your voyage, consider what matters most: adventure or relaxation, authenticity or comfort, family-friendly fun or romantic elegance. Use the insights from this guide to compare itineraries, evaluate onboard amenities, and select the cruise that aligns with your travel style. With the right preparation—packing layers, researching excursions, and booking early—you’ll be ready to sail through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.

So, what cruise lines go to Norway? The answer is: many of the world’s finest. Now that you know your options, it’s time to set sail. Skål to your next great adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines go to Norway for a scenic fjord adventure?

Major cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Hurtigruten offer voyages to Norway’s breathtaking fjords and coastal towns. These itineraries often include stops in Bergen, Ålesund, and the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Are there luxury cruise lines that sail to Norway?

Yes, luxury options include Viking Ocean Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Seabourn, which provide high-end service and immersive Norwegian experiences. These lines often feature smaller ships for access to intimate ports and exclusive excursions.

Which budget-friendly cruise lines go to Norway?

For affordable options, consider Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, or P&O Cruises, which offer Norwegian itineraries without breaking the bank. These lines frequently run seasonal deals on summer and Northern Lights-focused voyages.

Do any expedition cruise lines specialize in Norway?

Expedition lines like Hurtigruten, Ponant, and Silversea focus on Norway’s remote regions, including the Arctic Circle and Svalbard. Their small ships and expert guides deliver unforgettable wildlife and glacier encounters.

What cruise lines go to Norway to see the Northern Lights?

Hurtigruten, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, and Princess Cruises are top choices for Northern Lights itineraries, sailing from September to March. Their winter voyages maximize chances of viewing the aurora borealis.

Can I find round-trip Norway cruises from the UK?

Yes, P&O Cruises, Cunard, and Ambassador Cruise Line offer round-trip voyages from UK ports like Southampton or Newcastle. These trips often highlight Norway’s fjords, cities, and natural wonders with convenient departures.