MS Nordnorge and Crossing the Arctic Circle in Norway
By ANL | UPDATED:
Crossing the Arctic Circle on MS Nordnorge is one of the classic highlights of a Hurtigruten coastal voyage in Norway. This journey combines dramatic Arctic landscapes, traditional coastal communities and a unique onboard atmosphere as the ship sails south from the Lofoten Islands towards Bergen.
Passengers can customise their itinerary by travelling between selected ports, making MS Nordnorge both a practical transport link and a memorable travel experience. We joined the ship in Svolvær, where changing spring weather quickly reminded us that we were still far above the Arctic Circle. Snow showers, sunshine, mountain peaks and remote islands accompanied us throughout the voyage.
For many travellers, the symbolic crossing of the Arctic Circle becomes the defining moment of the trip, complete with maritime traditions, spectacular scenery and a genuine sense of travelling through Arctic Norway.
Lofoten | Photo: Travel In Culture
Passengers can customise their itinerary by travelling between selected ports, making MS Nordnorge both a practical transport link and a memorable travel experience. We joined the ship in Svolvær, where changing spring weather quickly reminded us that we were still far above the Arctic Circle. Snow showers, sunshine, mountain peaks and remote islands accompanied us throughout the voyage.
For many travellers, the symbolic crossing of the Arctic Circle becomes the defining moment of the trip, complete with maritime traditions, spectacular scenery and a genuine sense of travelling through Arctic Norway.
MS Nordnorge Facts
- 🚢 Operator: Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express
- ⚓ Ship Name: MS Nordnorge (“Northern Norway”)
- 📅 Built: 1997
- 🔨 Refurbished: Major refurbishment completed in 2016.
- 🗺️ Route: Operates between Bergen and Kirkenes, calling at ports along Norway’s coastline.
- 👥 Passenger Capacity: Approximately 590 passengers.
- 📏 Length: Around 123 metres (404 ft).
- ✨ Highlights: Arctic Circle crossings, fjords, Lofoten Islands, northern lights and midnight sun.
- 🏊 Onboard Facilities: Restaurant, café, lounges, expedition team, sauna, fitness room and Jacuzzis.
- 🎒 Best For: Scenic coastal travel, cultural exploration and Arctic experiences.
- 📍 Embarkation Ports: Bergen, Trondheim, Bodø, Svolvær, Tromsø and Kirkenes.
- 🌊 Unique Feature: Serves both cruise passengers and local coastal communities.
MS Nordnorge is one of the best-known vessels in the Hurtigruten fleet and remains a popular choice for travellers wishing to experience Norway’s coastal route while crossing the Arctic Circle.
1. A Tailored Personal Experience
We have booked our tickets on Hurtigruten’s Norwegian website, where you can select the preferred stops along the West Coast (‘havn til havn’). That is the way to ‘customise’ a Hurtigruten trip – just like the Norwegians who use ships such as MS Nordnorge as a means of transport to get from one coastal town to another – and maybe to cross the Arctic Circle! You can combine it with flights, trains, buses or cars to make the perfect Norway itinerary.
If you enjoy exploring destinations through local traditions, landscapes and history, our cultural travel method explains how to create more meaningful travel experiences throughout Norway.
We have chosen to embark on MS Nordnorge in Lofoten on this leg of our trip for the southbound voyage.
As we board the ship in Svolvær at the end of the day, the weather changes unexpectedly fast from bright and shining sun to a regular snowstorm. Even if it is April, there are still moments of winter weather and snow in the air in the Lofoten Islands.
The passengers now disembarking MS Nordnorge have appropriately dressed for more winter-like conditions with warm hats firmly pulled down over their ears and jackets zipped up. They seem ready for some hours in Lofoten in harsh, stormy weather – probably not what they had hoped for. As far as we understand from the sporadic phrases we overhear when passing a few of them, some have booked a horse ride on the beach – will this now be possible?
We consider ourselves lucky that, most of the time during our stay here on Lofoten, we could enjoy decent weather, even with moments of pleasant spring-like sunshine!
The Hurtigruten Fleet
MS Nordnorge is one of the ships operating on Hurtigruten’s famous coastal route. Unlike a traditional cruise ship, it also serves local communities along the Norwegian coast.
For a complete overview of the Hurtigruten route, fleet and ports of call, see our guide to travelling Norway by Hurtigruten coastal cruise ship.
Photo: Travel In Culture
2. Life On Board MS Nordnorge
Aboard MS Nordnorge, we are introduced to various Norwegian specialities in the restaurant. The buffet features ‘fenalår’ (salted, dried and cured leg of lamb), reindeer, freshly caught salmon, dishes of stockfish and ‘bokna lam’ – another dish made from dried lamb. Among the desserts, we find goat cheese ice cream, which, maybe a bit surprisingly, is delicate!
The breakfast buffet matches the quality of the dinner buffet, abounding with smoked and freshly marinated salmon and halibut, as well as gravlax. It is all accompanied by colourful cucumber and raspberry smoothies.
MS Nordnorge is one of the modern ships which underwent an interior restoration in 2016. The ship has an expedition team on board, who arrange excursions from the ports of call and give lectures on relevant subjects on board. Moreover, on deck, just a few steps from our cabin is the coolest Jacuzzi!
Photo: Travel In Culture
Our cabin is equipped with a flatscreen of considerable size on which we can follow the position and route of the ship. Additionally, we have from our bed a phenomenal view through the window of the islands and snow-covered mountains we pass. To complete the Arctic setting, we can use the ‘Arctic Purée’ at our disposal in the bathroom to wash our hair in – maybe at least when we cross the Arctic Circle!
The weather is remarkably changeable in this region. One moment, we experience the brightest sunshine and sensations of spring. Next, we must put on thick layers of clothes to be adequately protected against the polar climate. We continuously change clothes on board. Solid winter boots, thermal underwear, woollen jumpers, hats, and gloves are repeatedly replaced by indoor shoes and lighter outfits for the lounges!
Our small rucksacks also include an appropriate shirt for dinner, although the dress code on board is utterly casual. A few passengers seem to prioritise being elegant and stylish in the restaurants rather than warmly dressed on deck. We spot summer jackets, short skirts, and even bare feet and thin shoes on a few passengers outside in a lighter snowstorm!
Before or after your voyage, consider spending time in Tromsø, one of Northern Norway’s most rewarding destinations for Arctic culture and northern lights experiences.
Photo: Travel In Culture
3. Crossing the Arctic Circle on MS Nordnorge
The changeable weather teaches us to take advantage of the good moments during the day for outdoor activities. When the sun appears in the afternoon, the Jacuzzis on deck 6 are popular – and ultrafast filled with passengers in bathing costumes … and hats! If you like, you can continue to the sauna afterwards.
One of the absolute highlights of the Norway trip is when we are crossing the Arctic Circle. Travellers continuing along the coast may also enjoy visiting Trondheim’s historic attractions, one of the most fascinating cultural stops on the Hurtigruten route.
There have always been certain rituals related to crossing the polar circle. Polar baptism is an act for those who cross for the first time. To our great surprise, Hurtigruten introduces quite another tradition to the passengers on the southbound voyage.
Well suited to the situation, all of a sudden, we enter directly into a lighter snowstorm, reminding all passengers of the northern latitude. There is not much sight now, but we can discern the marking of the Arctic Circle. Minutes later, it clears up, and the symbolic monument is right there!
The Arctic Circle monument.
The specific location is marked on a rock we closely navigate past – this is, for most passengers, a climax on the cruise. We probably have not seen that many people gathered on deck until today!
The crew now prepares a small ceremony on deck, bringing plentiful bottles of cod liver oil so everyone can get a spoonful. This tradition evokes memories and even emotions among the passengers. Some look at it with disgust, whereas others approach it out of curiosity.
That is an old Arctic tradition, practised now that we pass the polar circle.
The well-heeled can supplement with a glass of exquisite champagne to relieve the bitter aroma. The entire ceremony is accompanied by traditional Norwegian tuneful music and catchy songs. The crew has put on their polar hats, matched by a reindeer hat worn by one of the passengers, presumably just acquired on his Norway trip – the perfect outfit for crossing the Arctic Circle!
All courageous passengers can keep the special Artic Circle spoon, which each participant receives when lining up for the cod liver oil tasting – a fine souvenir from Norway!
Check out where to stay in Bergen or Oslo before or after your cruise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MS Nordnorge?
MS Nordnorge is a Hurtigruten coastal ship that operates along Norway’s west coast, serving both local communities and cruise passengers.
Where does MS Nordnorge cross the Arctic Circle?
The crossing takes place along the Norwegian coast between Bodø and Sandnessjøen, marked by a globe monument on a small island.
What happens when crossing the Arctic Circle on Hurtigruten?
Passengers can take part in a traditional Arctic Circle ceremony, often including a tasting of cod liver oil and commemorative souvenirs.
Can you board MS Nordnorge in Lofoten?
Yes, passengers can embark and disembark at several ports, including Svolvær in the Lofoten Islands.
What is the dress code on MS Nordnorge?
The atmosphere on board is relaxed and casual, although many guests choose slightly smarter clothing for dinner.
Is MS Nordnorge suitable for winter travel?
Yes, the ship operates year-round and is well equipped for Arctic conditions, including winter voyages.
What can you see during the voyage south from Lofoten?
Passengers enjoy views of mountains, islands, fishing villages, fjords and changing Arctic weather conditions.
How long does it take to travel from Lofoten to Bergen on Hurtigruten?
The full southbound journey usually takes several days, depending on your embarkation point and chosen itinerary.
Going to Oslo? Then you might like to read 9 Cultural Things to Do in Oslo
Would you like to go on a West Coast trip? Get inspiration here: Norway’s West Coast in 12 days
Images courtesy of Travel In Culture. Selected images from Pixabay.