Which Cruise Line Goes to Norway Discover the Top Picks for 2024

Norway’s breathtaking fjords and Northern Lights are best explored with top cruise lines like Hurtigruten, Viking Ocean Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line—each offering unique 2024 itineraries tailored to adventure and luxury seekers alike. Whether you crave immersive coastal voyages or scenic Arctic expeditions, these award-winning lines deliver unforgettable Norwegian experiences with expert guides, sustainable practices, and routes to iconic ports like Bergen, Tromsø, and the Lofoten Islands.

Key Takeaways

• Hurtigruten leads: Best for authentic Norwegian coastal voyages and Northern Lights.
• Celebrity Cruises: Luxurious options with scenic fjord itineraries in 2024.
• P&O Cruises: Ideal for families seeking short, affordable Norway trips.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Flexible dining and diverse ports like Bergen, Stavanger.
• Silversea: All-inclusive luxury with expert-led excursions to hidden gems.
• MSC Cruises: Budget-friendly mega-ships offering summer Arctic Circle routes.

Which Cruise Line Goes to Norway? Discover the Top Picks for 2024

Norway’s breathtaking landscapes—from the dramatic fjords of Geiranger to the ethereal Northern Lights—are a bucket-list destination for travelers worldwide. But with so many cruise lines offering voyages to this Nordic gem, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re drawn to the serene beauty of fjord cruising, the allure of Arctic adventures, or the cultural richness of coastal cities, 2024 promises an array of unforgettable Norwegian itineraries. This guide dives deep into the top cruise lines that go to Norway, helping you navigate options based on your interests, budget, and travel style.

From luxury liners to expedition ships, each cruise line brings its own flair to exploring Norway’s 1,700-mile coastline. We’ll compare itineraries, onboard experiences, and unique selling points to ensure your journey is as seamless as it is spectacular. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, discover which cruise line aligns best with your dream Norwegian getaway.

Why Norway? The Allure of Fjords, Culture, and Arctic Wonders

Norway isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. The country’s natural beauty is unparalleled, with UNESCO-listed fjords like Nærøyfjord and Sognefjord, cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Beyond the scenery, Norway’s coastal cities—such as Bergen, Ålesund, and Tromsø—offer a blend of Viking history, modern design, and culinary delights (think fresh seafood and reindeer stew). For Arctic enthusiasts, the Northern Lights and midnight sun phenomena add a magical touch to winter and summer sailings, respectively.

Unique Norwegian Experiences to Seek

• Fjord Exploration: Sail through narrow, cliff-lined fjords on smaller ships that can access hidden gems like the Trollfjord or Lysefjord.
• Arctic Adventures: Spot polar bears, walruses, and reindeer in Svalbard, or witness the Northern Lights in Tromsø and Alta.
• Local Culture: Visit stave churches, sample traditional rakfisk, and attend folk festivals in coastal towns.
• Sustainable Travel: Norway’s focus on eco-friendly tourism means many ships use hybrid engines or shore power.

Tip: For the best weather and longer daylight hours, plan a summer cruise (June–August). Winter voyages (November–March) are ideal for Northern Lights chasers.

Top 6 Cruise Lines for Norway: A Detailed Comparison

1. Hurtigruten: The Original Norwegian Fjord Experts

As Norway’s original coastal ferry-turned-cruise line, Hurtigruten is synonymous with fjord exploration. Their ships operate year-round along the Norwegian coast, stopping at 34 ports—from Kirkenes in the Arctic to Bergen in the south. Unlike traditional cruises, Hurtigruten blends tourism with local transit, offering an authentic glimpse into coastal life.

• Fleet: Hybrid-electric ships like the MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, plus smaller vessels.
• Itineraries: 12-day “Classic Roundtrip” (Bergen–Kirkenes–Bergen) or shorter 5–7-day segments.
• Unique Perks: Onboard scientists, Arctic cuisine, and excursions like snowmobiling and dog sledding.

Best For: Eco-conscious travelers, Arctic explorers, and those seeking off-the-beaten-path ports.

2. Viking Ocean Cruises: Luxury Meets Norwegian Heritage

Viking has redefined luxury cruising with its Scandinavian-inspired ships. Their Norway itineraries focus on cultural immersion, with overnight stays in ports like Bergen and Stavanger. Think spacious staterooms, free shore excursions, and onboard lectures on Viking history.

• Fleet: 930-passenger ships with Nordic spas and infinity pools.
• Itineraries: 12–14-day “In Search of the Northern Lights” or “Scandinavia & the Baltic.”
• Unique Perks: Complimentary wine/beer at meals, no kids’ programs (adults-only), and private balconies on all rooms.

Best For: Luxury seekers, history buffs, and couples.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Flexibility and Fun

NCL’s “Freestyle Cruising” model appeals to those who want freedom—no set dining times, casual dress codes, and diverse onboard activities. Their Norway itineraries often combine fjords with stops in Copenhagen or Stockholm.

• Fleet: Larger ships like the Norwegian Encore (4,000+ passengers).
• Itineraries: 7–10-day “Norwegian Fjords” with visits to Geiranger and Ålesund.
• Unique Perks: Broadway-style shows, water slides, and specialty dining (e.g., French, Brazilian).

Best For: Families, first-time cruisers, and those who love onboard entertainment.

4. Princess Cruises: Scenic Routes and Enrichment Programs

Princess excels at showcasing Norway’s scenery through its “Discovery at SEA” program, featuring local historians and wildlife experts. Their ships are equipped with the “MedallionClass” wearable tech for contactless service.

• Fleet: Mid-sized ships like the Enchanted Princess.
• Itineraries: 12-day “Norwegian Fjords with Copenhagen” or 7-day “Fjord Highlights.”
• Unique Perks: “FjordTalk” lectures, stargazing decks, and gourmet dining with Norwegian ingredients.

Best For: Scenic cruisers, tech-savvy travelers, and enrichment-focused journeys.

5. Hurtigruten Expeditions: Arctic Thrills and Wildlife

For adrenaline junkies, Hurtigruten Expeditions (a sister brand) offers polar-focused voyages. Their ships, like the MS Maud, sail to Svalbard and the Arctic Circle, with Zodiac landings and kayaking.

• Fleet: Ice-strengthened ships with observation decks.
• Itineraries: 10–14-day “Arctic Norway” or “Svalbard in Depth.”
• Unique Perks: Onboard biologists, snowshoeing, and Northern Lights wake-up calls.

Best For: Wildlife photographers, adventure seekers, and Northern Lights enthusiasts.

6. Regent Seven Seas Cruises: All-Inclusive Luxury

Regent takes luxury to the next level with all-inclusive packages (flights, excursions, premium drinks). Their Norway itineraries often include overnights in ports and private transfers.

• Fleet: Smaller ships like the Seven Seas Explorer (750 passengers).
• Itineraries: 10–12-day “Norwegian Fjords & Arctic Wonders.”
• Unique Perks: Butler service, Michelin-inspired dining, and free business-class airfare.

Best For: High-end travelers, all-inclusive lovers, and those prioritizing comfort.

Norway Itineraries: Fjords, Arctic, or Coastal Culture?

Classic Fjord Routes (7–12 Days)

These itineraries focus on Norway’s UNESCO-listed fjords, with stops in Geiranger, Flåm, and Stavanger. Ideal for first-time visitors, they often include scenic train rides (e.g., Flåm Railway) and waterfall tours.

• Sample Itinerary: Bergen → Ålesund → Geiranger → Trondheim → Bergen (Hurtigruten or Viking).
• Must-Do: Kayak under the Seven Sisters Waterfall or hike to Trolltunga.

Arctic & Northern Lights Cruises (10–14 Days)

Winter voyages to Tromsø, Alta, and Svalbard prioritize aurora viewing and wildlife. Look for ships with glass igloos or onboard observatories.

• Sample Itinerary: Bergen → Tromsø → Honningsvåg → Kirkenes → Bergen (Hurtigruten Expeditions).
• Must-Do: Dog sledding, snowmobile tours, and Sami cultural experiences.

Coastal Culture & City Hopping (7–10 Days)

Combine fjord scenery with urban exploration in Bergen, Ålesund, and Oslo. These cruises often include museum visits and culinary tours.

• Sample Itinerary: Copenhagen → Oslo → Bergen → Ålesund → Copenhagen (Princess or NCL).
• Must-Do: Visit the Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf in Bergen or the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund.

Expedition Cruises (12–14 Days)

For intrepid travelers, expedition ships venture to remote areas like the Lofoten Islands or North Cape. Expect Zodiac landings and expert-led hikes.

• Sample Itinerary: Tromsø → Svalbard → Longyearbyen → Bear Island (Hurtigruten Expeditions).
• Must-Do: Spot walruses, polar bears, and Arctic foxes.

Onboard Experiences: What Sets Each Cruise Line Apart

Cuisine: From Norwegian Delicacies to Global Flavors

• Hurtigruten: Arctic-inspired menus with reindeer, king crab, and cloudberries.
• Viking: Nordic fine dining (e.g., smoked salmon, lingonberry sauce).
• NCL: Casual buffets and specialty restaurants (e.g., Cagney’s Steakhouse).
• Regent: Michelin-level cuisine with local Norwegian ingredients.

Tip: Book specialty dining in advance for lines like Regent or Viking.

Entertainment & Activities

• Luxury Lines (Viking, Regent): Classical concerts, enrichment lectures, and spa retreats.
• Mainstream (NCL, Princess): Broadway shows, comedy clubs, and water slides.
• Expedition (Hurtigruten Expeditions): Wildlife talks, photography workshops, and stargazing.

Accommodations: Balcony, Suite, or Expedition Cabins?

• Balcony Staterooms: Standard on Viking, Regent, and Princess (ideal for fjord views).
• Suites: Regent offers butler service; Viking has Nordic-inspired decor.
• Expedition Cabins: Hurtigruten Expeditions’ rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows for wildlife spotting.

Practical Tips for Booking a Norway Cruise in 2024

Budget Considerations

• Budget-Friendly: NCL and Hurtigruten’s standard cabins (from $1,500/person for 7 days).
• Mid-Range: Princess and Viking (from $3,000/person).
• Luxury: Regent (from $7,000/person, all-inclusive).

Tip: Book early (6–12 months ahead) for summer cruises; last-minute deals often available for winter.

Seasonal Recommendations

• Summer (June–August): Best for fjords, hiking, and midnight sun. Crowded but vibrant.
• Winter (November–March): Ideal for Northern Lights and Arctic adventures. Quieter ports.

What to Pack

• Layered Clothing: Weather changes rapidly; pack waterproof gear.
• Comfortable Shoes: For hiking and cobblestone streets.
• Binoculars: Essential for wildlife and fjord views.
• Camera: Capture the Northern Lights or fjord reflections.

Shore Excursions: DIY or Book Through the Cruise?

• Book Through the Cruise: Guaranteed to align with ship departures; often includes transportation.
• DIY: Cheaper but risk missing the ship (e.g., in remote ports like Longyearbyen).

Cruise Line Comparison Table

Cruise Line	Best For	Avg. Itinerary Length	Price Range (7 Days)	Unique Feature
Hurtigruten	Fjord exploration, Arctic	7–12 days	$2,000–$4,000	Hybrid-electric ships, local transit
Viking	Luxury, culture	12–14 days	$4,000–$6,000	All-balcony cabins, free excursions
NCL	Families, flexibility	7–10 days	$1,500–$3,000	Freestyle dining, entertainment
Hurtigruten Expeditions	Wildlife, adventure	10–14 days	$3,500–$5,500	Zodiac landings, Arctic experts
Regent	All-inclusive luxury	10–12 days	$7,000–$10,000	Butler service, Michelin dining

Conclusion: Choosing Your Perfect Norwegian Cruise

Norway’s magic lies in its diversity—from the serene fjords to the Arctic’s wild frontier. Whether you’re drawn to Hurtigruten’s eco-friendly hybrid ships, Viking’s cultural deep dives, or Regent’s all-inclusive opulence, 2024 offers a cruise line tailored to your dreams. Prioritize your must-haves: Do you crave adventure or relaxation? Cultural immersion or wildlife encounters? Use this guide to match your preferences with the perfect itinerary.

Remember, Norway’s beauty is best experienced at a pace that lets you savor every waterfall, fjord, and Northern Lights display. Book early, pack wisely, and get ready for a journey that will leave you breathless—just like the Norwegian landscape itself. Lykke til! (Good luck!)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise line goes to Norway and offers the best fjord experiences?

Hurtigruten and Viking Cruises are top choices for exploring Norway’s iconic fjords, with small-ship itineraries that navigate narrow waterways. Both lines offer expert-led excursions and immersive cultural experiences along the way.

What are the best cruise lines for a Norway cruise in 2024?

In 2024, leading options include Hurtigruten, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and Princess Cruises, each offering unique itineraries from Bergen to the Arctic Circle. These lines feature modern ships, diverse dining, and shore excursions tailored to Norway’s landscapes.

Which cruise line goes to Norway and includes the Northern Lights?

Hurtigruten specializes in Norway cruises with Northern Lights viewing, especially on their “Hurtigruten Coastal Express” route from October to March. Their onboard astronomy experts enhance the experience with aurora forecasts and lectures.

Can I find luxury cruise lines that visit Norway?

Yes, luxury options like Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, and Silversea offer Norway itineraries with all-inclusive amenities and private balcony staterooms. These lines emphasize gourmet dining, butler service, and curated excursions to remote fjord villages.

Do family-friendly cruise lines go to Norway?

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and Royal Caribbean provide family-oriented Norway cruises with kid-friendly activities, water slides, and flexible dining. Their ports of call often include interactive attractions like Viking museums and scenic railways.

Which cruise line goes to Norway and departs from the UK?

Cunard and P&O Cruises offer round-trip Norway voyages from Southampton, ideal for British travelers. These departures typically include stops in Stavanger, Ålesund, and other coastal gems with minimal flight requirements.