The journey between Bergen and Kirkenes is a truly epic sea voyage. But did you know that the northbound and southbound journeys don’t have the same stops on their route? Here’s some of what you can expect to see, do and enjoy.
When there’s a highlight every 10 minutes, is it even a highlight anymore? With spectacles of nature coming at you like beads on a string, the coastal route between Bergen and Kirkenes is the epitome of «the journey is the destination». It feels almost insulting to the voyage trying to pick out a few moments that stand out – because they all do in their own way.
But we did it anyway.
Northbound - the most popular choice
The northbound route – from Bergen to Kirkenes – is the most popular choice. For many it’s the obvious pick because you get to see the magnificent Geirangerfjord. This UNESCO World Heritage fjord is something truly unique, and exclusive to the northbound direction during the summer months (June–Aug). Another important point is that the routes are «opposites» in terms of night and day departures. So while they mostly dock at the same harbors, you get to decide what you want to see in daylight (or under the starry sky!). The northbound direction, for example, lets you see beautiful Ålesund during the day. Check the itineraries before you decide!
Photo: C.H. - Visitnorway.com
Southbound - the real gem
Despite the northbound direction being the most popular, many swear that the North-South route is the real gem. Here you get to see Nordlandskysten in broad daylight. It also takes you to Trollfjorden, which is exclusive to this journey (and the summer months). Trollfjorden is truly breathtakingly majestic, and you even get to go on a sea eagle safari! For many of us, Brønnøysund and Kristiansund are also destinations worth seeing in all its daylight glory.
Important: The amount of light – whether daylight, northern light or midnight sun – depend on the season!
Photo: Hurtigruten - Nina Helland
What you see – both directions
No matter if you choose the northbound or southbound route, you really do get to see the world’s most beautiful sea voyage. Breathtaking fjords, charming ports, and thrilling adventures under the magical northern lights, or the enchanting midnight sun. Whatever the season, unforgettable scenery awaits. Besides, you either start or end your journey in lovely Bergen. What’s not to like about that?
Don’t know how to get here? Here’s an overview of the different ways to get to Bergen!
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Mount Fløyen in Bergen. Photo: Sverre Hjørnevik - www.fjordnorway.com
But what do I actually do while on the ship?
This might seem like something to worry about, but trust us: It’s really not. All the ships operating the coastal route between Bergen and Kirkenes have modern facilities, great food, bars, and lounges where you can relax. The ferries vary slightly between them, so if the on-cruise facilities are really important to you, you could read up on the different ships before choosing your route.
Photo: C.H/visitnorway.com
The only negative thing about thsi journey, is that there is too much to see. Some passengers hardly sleep in fear of missing something! With that many fjords, mountains, rivers, bridges – simply miraculous sights – passing by at any moment, you won’t even remember you’re on a cruise ship. Just sit down in one of the many comfortable chairs on deck, kick back, and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Still wondering if this journey is for you? There are now two companies operating this route:
No matter which route you pick, you either start or finish in Bergen? Get an overview of things to do in Bergen here!
to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
