MS Vesterålen
MS Vesterålen

MS Vesterålen is one of the oldest and smallest ships, named an archipelago in Nordland country, to the north of Lofoten. Vesterålen was also the name of the first Original Coastal Express steamship from 1893.

Dining options, Entertainment activities, Health & fitness, Educational lectures, Excursion opportunities

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What to expect from MS Vesterålen

Overview

MS Vesterålen is one of the oldest and smallest ships, named an archipelago in Nordland country, to the north of Lofoten. Vesterålen was also the name of the first Original Coastal Express steamship from 1893.

Fresh and lightly refurbished in 2019 and again in 2022, MS Vesterålen has bright, informal public areas and lounges throughout. The last refurbishment included upgrading 32 outside cabins to Arctic Superior standard with double beds, rebuilding 4 cabins into 2 mini suites, upgrading the restaurant, the café, the reception area, and the gym, in addition to giving Trollfjord lounge a new look and feel.

On a journey with MS Vesterålen, we will have a "behind the scenes" focus where the guests will get an opportunity to get closer to the Hurtigruten heritage, emphasizing maritime operations, logistics and hotel operations. With a focus on edutainment and engaging activities, we will provide guests with an in-depth knowledge of the different departments and the interaction between them.

Accommodation

Expedition Suite
Our Expedition suites are the most luxurious cabins on the ship. Situated on the upper deck of the ship, the cabins feature double beds, seating areas with TV, and bathrooms with shower/WC. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.

Arctic Superior
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic superior cabins. Situated on the upper deck, these suites have double beds, bathroom with shower and WC, and tea and coffee-making abilities.

Polar Outside
Our Polar outside cabins on the middle or lower decks all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins offer separate beds (one of which is a sofa bed) or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.

Polar Inside
Our cosy Polar inside cabins are on all decks and include bathrooms with shower/WC, separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.

Expedition Suite | Mini Suite for up to 2 travellers

These refurbished suites situated on the upper deck have separate bedroom, double bed, chair, TV, and coffee and tea facilities.

Arctic Superior | Upper deck for up to 2 travellers

These comfortable, refurbished outside cabins for up to 2 people on the upper decks have a double bed, a small desk, a chair, TV, and coffee and tea facilities.

Polar Outside | Middle deck for 2 travellers

These comfortable outside cabins for up to 2 people on the upper or middle decks have separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa, and a chair. Some cabins have limited or no view.

Polar Outside | Middle deck for 2 travellers

These standard outside cabins for up to 2 people on the middle decks have bunk beds, one of which converts into a sofa, and a chair.

Polar Outside | Upper deck for 3 travellers

These comfortable outside cabins for up to 3 people on the middle decks have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa.

Polar Outside | Lower deck for 4 travellers

These comfortable outside cabins for up to 4 people on the middle or lower decks have bunk beds and a chair. Some have a double bed and bunk beds, sofa, and a chair. The cabins have portholes with limited view.

Polar Outside | Accessible cabin on lower deck

Two wheelchair accessible rooms for up to 5 people on deck 3. These spacious cabins have wider doors, and accessible WC. One has double bed, pullman and a single bed. One has bunk beds, sofa, and chair.

Polar Inside | Upper or middle deck for up to 2 travellers

These comfortable, standard inside cabins for up 2 people on the middle or upper decks have separate beds or bunk beds, one of which converts into a sofa, and chair. Some have a hairdryer.

Polar Inside | Upper deck for 1 traveller

These comfortable standard inside cabins for one person are on the upper deck.

Polar Inside | Middle deck for 2 travellers

These comfortable, standard inside cabins for up to two people on the lower, middle or upper decks have separate beds (one of which converts into a sofa) or bunk beds.

Decks

Deck 7

  • Fyret Lounge & Bar

Deck 6

  • Observation Deck

Deck 5

  • Trollfjord Lounge
  • Inside Cabins
  • Outside Cabins

Deck 4

  • Vesterålstuen Lounge & Bar
  • Lecture Hall
  • Library
  • Fitness
  • Playroom
  • Shop
  • Cafe
  • Restaurant 
  • Inside Cabins
  • Outside Cabins

Deck 3

  • Reception
  • Gangway
  • Luggage
  • Laundry
  • Inside Cabins
  • Outside Cabins

Deck 2

  • Car Deck
  • Car Lift
  • Inside Cabins
  • Outside Cabins

Deck 1

  • Inside Cabins

Gratuities

It is not common practice to tip on Hurtigruten ships on the coastal voyage, but if you feel that crew members should be rewarded for providing exceptional service, tip boxes are placed in the restaurant together with envelopes.

Entertainment

The emphasis onboard is on relaxation and discovery, and not the commercial entertainment that is so often a part of conventional cruises. Hertigruten’s aim is to get you closer to unique environments∘ and to allow you to share the experience with your fellow travellers. Occasionally there may be some musical entertainment onboard in the evenings.

Fyret Panorama Lounge

In the Fyret Panorama Lounge on deck 7, you can enjoy Norwegian aquavit, international beers, and classic drinks while listening to other peoples’ tales and admiring the beautiful view.

Trollfjord Lounge

Trollfjord Lounge can be found on Deck 5.

Shopping

Selling souvenirs, knitwear, books, postcards, postage stamps and a limited supply of toiletries.

Library

The books are in a variety of languages including Norwegian, German and English, also there are game tables available to play cards and chess.

Enrichment

Enjoy a lecture on the ship's deck or in one of the conference rooms and learn something new.

Excursions

Enhance your voyage with our wide range of optional excursions that allow you to delve deeper into the dramatic landscapes, rich history, and charming culture of Norway and Svalbard. We offer more than 130 excursions up and down the coast, each run by local suppliers who are ready to showcase the wonders of their home.

Take your pick from a palette of active adventures such as kayaking along Ålesund’s waterways, quad biking to the North Cape or snowshoeing in Tromsø. If you’re interested in history, you can join a World War II tour in Kristiansund or explore the hidden rooms of Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim.

There are plenty of opportunities to sample the delicacies of the Norwegian coast, too, with visits to the world’s northernmost brewery and boat trips to go king crab fishing with locals. We also recommend cultural visits that introduce you to Sámi culture or to the workings of a family-run dairy farm in Lofoten.

An excursion for every season

While many excursions are offered year-round, some are season specific. Summer is a glorious time to be in Norway and Svalbard, with a variety of activities that make the most of the long, leisurely days of the Midnight Sun. Why not enjoy a RIB safari in search of Sea Eagles or a guided e-bike tour around the island of Senja?

The cooler weather in autumn, winter, and spring turns Norway into a wonderland of snow, best enjoyed by dog sled or on cross-country skis. You could also try your hand at snowmobiling, hopefully with the Northern Lights dancing above.

Activities that are right for you

Our diverse excursions cater not just for varied interests but also for different mobility levels, so you can choose the activity that’s right for you.

We offer four distinct physical levels that cater to all - from accessible museum visits to challenging hikes that require a good level of fitness. Certain activities are even wheelchair-friendly, ensuring inclusivity for all.

Caring for the community

We work with on-the-ground suppliers to offer you a truly authentic experience with every excursion. These local outfits have a wealth of knowledge about the area, and they’re passionate about sharing their expertise and unique offerings with visitors like you.

Not only that, but your bookings help to preserve the local culture and heritage of the Norwegian coast. It feels great to know that your support directly benefits the people and communities who call this beautiful place home.

Hikers’ heaven

Feel a sense of friluftsliv, the Norwegian word that encapsulates a love of the outdoors, on optional hikes guided by your Coastal Experience Team.

You can purchase hikes individually, as a seasonal bundle of four, or as a pass that gives you access to all hikes.

How to book an excursion with Hurtigruten

It’s easy to book an excursion. To book online, go to our excursions hub and either input your booking reference or select your voyage from the drop-down menu. Choose the excursion you want and then click the ‘Add to Reservation’ button. A member of our team will then contact you to arrange payment and confirm your booking. 

The “Fresh Air Factor”

There are often lectures and presentations held on deck out in the fresh air. These lectures and presentations∘ are related to marine and coastal life. For example, there is a performance of "Arctic Circle Ceremony" or "Leaving the Arctic" rituals when crossing the Arctic Circle, cod tongue-cutting demonstrations and training on how to fillet a fish, all of which are led by local fishermen. There are other activities on board, such as hunting for the Northern Lights in winter or sleeping on deck under the midnight sun.

Of course, all of these activities and lectures are voluntary. If you wish to simply relax and enjoy the view of the ever-changing scenery, you are more than welcome to do so.

Also enjoy a lecture in one of the conference rooms.

Photo Programme

With the Hurtigruten Photo Programme you’ll learn how to improve your photography skills as well as share photos with fellow guests, take part in contests and geotag your images using Cameralla.

Take your photography to the next level as you travel in one of the most beautiful regions of the world. Along with fellow enthusiasts of all levels, join our Photo Club where you can upload your images and receive valuable feedback. Here, the joy of photography takes centre stage, whether you’re bringing top-end camera equipment or simply using your phone to capture the beauty and magic of the voyage.

Preserve the unforgettable moments from your voyage by joining our Photo Club. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a beginner with a smartphone, the club offers tips, inspiration, and a platform to share your best shots. Discover how to enhance your onboard experience and turn your travel memories into lasting treasures.

Dining

Reflecting our love of food and Norway, each of our onboard restaurants is named after an aspect of the Norwegian coast. Together, they offer our guests an exciting exploration of Norwegian cuisine.

Cuisine that brings you closer

Your voyage with us is also a culinary journey to experience the food of the Norwegian coast.

The authentic, delicious meals in our onboard restaurants feature ingredients sourced from the areas we sail to. With us, you won’t just see the coast; you’ll taste it too.

Through our Experience Team and optional excursions, learn about regional specialities, how food is at the heart of local life, and listen to the life stories of brewers, chefs, and farmers. 

A love of local food

Over 80% of the ingredients in our onboard restaurants come from more than 50 Norwegian suppliers, delivered to our ships at 15 out of the 34 ports we visit.

Enjoy the likes of melt-in-your-mouth Arctic char from Vesterålen, award-winning cheeses from Aalan farm in Lofoten, and succulent king crab from Troms and Finnmark county. 

Sustainable and seasonal

Sourcing our food locally isn’t just about fresh, farm-and-fjord-to-table flavours. It’s also about achieving the lowest footprint possible and making sure there is minimal food waste.

By carefully managing supply and seasonality, we believe cuisine can and should be kind to the planet while still tasting authentic and amazing. 

Restaurant

Passengers are requested to go to the restaurant on embarkation to make their table reservation. The usual meal times are: breakfast from 08.00 to 10.00 hours (open sitting); lunch from 13.00 hours (open sitting); dinner from 18.00 hours (set seating). During high season, there may be several sittings, the times of which will be shown on board. Full board begins with a buffet dinner on departure from Bergen and ends with brunch on the arrival day back in Bergen. The food is Norwegian and breakfast is buffet style with a selection of cold meats, cheese, eggs, cereals and fruit. Lunch is the famous Cold Table with a choice of fish dishes, cold meats, salads, a selection of hot dishes, desserts and fruit. Dinner is a three-course set meal; there is not usually a choice of menu. Occasionally the Cold Table may be served in the evening and the set meal at lunch time. All vessels are fully licensed.

Kafé Galleriet

On deck 4, Kafé Galleriet serves traditional ‘husmannskost’ - home-cooked dishes such as our signature burger and famous shrimp sandwich, soup of the day, sirloin steak, and grilled salmon, plus desserts and sweet cakes. Juices, soft drinks, and wine are also available.

Health and Fitness

Keep yourself feeling fresh and active in the Fitness Room or sweating away the day in the sauna.

Sauna and Fitness Room

Keep active in the fitness room before enjoying a soothing steam in the sauna.

Other Cruise Information

ClassCruise Type: ocean

Class: Traditional

Ship Size: small

Style: expedition

Operator Reference: hurtigruten

Nursery: none

Child Facilities: none

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