The Norwegian coast offers a breathtaking journey through history and nature, where the Arctic experience comes to life. With a coastline stretching over 62,706 Miles or 100,000 kilometers, including an array of fjords and islands, it is the second longest in the world. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Hurtigruten's historic and famous coastal route has been operating since 1893, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Norway's rich maritime heritage and local culture. From the majestic North Cape to the picturesque Lofoten and Vesterålen Islands to the charming towns like Bergen and Trondheim, each location presents a tapestry of cultural richness and architectural marvels, such as the medieval Trondenes Church or the iconic Kjeungskjær Lighthouse.

The Svalbard archipelago, a majestic cluster of islands between Norway and the North Pole, offers a unique travel experience for those seeking adventure in the Arctic wilderness. Here, you can immerse yourself in the region's stark beauty, explore glaciers, encounter polar bears, and experience the mesmerizing midnight sun.

Sailing Dates: July 14th – July 29th 2025
Route: Bergen-Svalbard-Bergen
Ship: MS Trollfjord

Just 400 miles from the North Pole, Svalbard offers many exciting activities for the intrepid traveler, from glacier hiking to dogsledding and kayaking in the crystal-clear Arctic waters.

The history of exploration in Svalbard is rich. The Norse discovered the islands as early as the 12th century, although Dutch explorers were the first to document their visit in the late 16th century.

Operated by Hurtigruten, this exclusive Cruise Norway experience provides an array of exceptional excursions and carefully selected accommodation, and dining options designed to highlight the region's majestic beauty. You can rest assured that every aspect of your journey is well-catered for.

The air in this Arctic desert is fresh and pure, and summer temperatures range between zero and eight degrees Celsius or 32 to 47 degrees Fahrenheit, thanks to a warm northern branch of the Gulf Stream.

The culinary scene in Longyearbyen is equally impressive, providing a diverse range of dining experiences to complement the adventure. With three unique hotels, each stay is a different favorite for visitors.

As the local experts, the Hurtigruten Svalbard team delivers unforgettable adventures regardless of the season.

Double occupancy
Polar Inside: $5,845 per person
Polar outside: from 6,566 per person
Arctic Superior: from 8,679 per person

Single occupancy
Polar Inside: $7,684
Arctic Superior: from $11,649

• All transfers
• One pre-cruise hotel night in Bergen
• A comfortable stateroom of your choice
• All meals
• Selected beverages
• Four exclusive lectures hosted by Dr. Leiren
  1. Introduction to Norway as a modern country with Viking heritage – overview of the country, the different regions, their influence, and development
  2. The nature of Norway - exploration of the polar regions, development of modern weather forecasting
  3. National romanticism - the role of nature in the Norwegian experience and how Norwegians came to explore their own country
  4. Norway and World War II – how it affected the country and different regions within it

• Services of the Coastal Experience team – additional lectures, points of interest, and activities on board
• Three shore excursions
  1. Tromso on foot – the city and its Polar history
  2. Svalbard Wilderness and History Experience
  3. Lofoten Scenery and Henningvaer

Dr. Terje Leiren is Professor Emeritus of Scandinavian Studies and History at the University of Washington, Seattle. He was the first holder of the prestigious Sverre Arestad Endowed Chair from 2007 to 2017. With a Ph.D. in history from the University of North Texas and years of teaching at the University of Oslo and the University of Washington, Professor Leiren's research and writing focus on Nordic countries with a special emphasis on the history of Norway. His expertise and passion for the region will enrich your Arctic adventure.

Dr. Leiren is the author of four books and more than forty scholarly articles on Scandinavian history and culture. His latest book, Historical Dictionary of Norway (2nd ed.), was published in 2019. Terje has lived in and traveled extensively throughout the Nordic region and loves sharing his knowledge of the North with his fellow travelers.