Northbound vs. Southbound: Which Norway Coastal Cruise is Right for You?
Planning a Norway coastal cruise? One of the first choices you’ll need to make is whether to travel northbound from Bergen to Kirkenes or southbound from Kirkenes to Bergen. While both directions offer stunning scenery and memorable experiences, there are some key differences that can help you decide which 6-day or 7-day journey is the best fit for you.
The Scenic Highlights: What You See and When
Northbound (Bergen to Kirkenes)
On the northbound route, you’ll experience Tromsø during daylight hours, which gives you the perfect opportunity to explore this Arctic city’s rich culture and beautiful surroundings. During the summer months, the northbound journey also includes a visit to the Geirangerfjord, one of Norway’s most iconic fjords and a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
Southbound (Kirkenes to Bergen)
The southbound route offers daytime sailing through the stunning Lofoten Islands, with their dramatic peaks, tiny fishing villages, and postcard-perfect scenery. On the northbound itinerary, this stretch is often passed during nighttime or early morning hours, which means you might miss these remarkable views unless you're traveling during the midnight sun season.
Onboard Atmosphere: Livelier or More Peaceful?
The northbound journey typically has more passengers, as most travelers begin their voyage in Bergen. This gives the ship a more social and energetic atmosphere, especially in the first few days.
The southbound cruise tends to be quieter, as fewer people sail the full return leg. With fewer passengers onboard, you'll enjoy more personal space, a calmer vibe in public areas, and more availability for excursions or conversations with the crew.
Logistics and Planning
Northbound Cruise
Starting your cruise in Bergen is often more convenient. Bergen has frequent flights from major European hubs and is easy to reach from Oslo by plane or train. This makes the northbound itinerary a simple and seamless starting point for your journey.
Southbound Cruise
Flights to Kirkenes can be less frequent and are more susceptible to weather delays, especially in winter. That’s why we recommend arriving at least one night early—either in Oslo or Kirkenes—if you choose the southbound itinerary. This pre-cruise overnight helps avoid stress and ensures you're well-rested before boarding.
Price and Value
If you're looking to stretch your travel budget, the southbound 6-day cruise is usually a bit less expensive than the 7-day northbound option. You’ll still enjoy all the comforts of the ship, including delicious meals, engaging lectures, and shore excursions—but at a slightly lower cost. It's a great option for travelers who want the full experience at a better price point.
More Excursions Available on the Northbound Route
It’s also worth noting that the northbound cruise generally offers more excursion options compared to the southbound leg. Many operators concentrate their most popular and scenic experiences—like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and guided city tours—on the journey from Bergen to Kirkenes. This can be a deciding factor if you're someone who wants to make the most of your time ashore and explore as much as possible along the way.
The North Cape Excursion: A Journey to Europe’s Northernmost Point
One of the most iconic experiences on a Norway coastal cruise is the excursion to the North Cape (Nordkapp)—a dramatic cliff rising over 300 meters above the Arctic Ocean, marking the northernmost point of mainland Europe accessible by road.
Northbound Experience (Honningsvåg to North Cape)
On the northbound cruise, this excursion takes place during the day, departing from the port of Honningsvåg. Guests are taken by bus along a scenic route to the North Cape plateau, where they have free time to explore the visitor center, take photos at the iconic globe monument, and soak in the vastness of the Arctic landscape. Afterward, the bus returns you comfortably back to the ship, usually with some time left to browse the quaint harbor town.
Southbound Experience (Mehamn to North Cape via Honningsvåg)
The southbound version of the excursion begins early in the morning from the port of Mehamn, and includes a longer bus ride due to the greater distance to the cape. While the journey takes more time, it also includes a hearty Arctic breakfast en route, adding a cozy and scenic touch to the adventure. Guests are still given time to visit the North Cape plateau before continuing on to meet the ship again in Honningsvåg.
While both versions reach the same destination, the northbound version is shorter and takes place during daylight, which many travelers find more appealing for photos and exploration. The southbound option, though longer, is a great fit for early risers who enjoy a more extended excursion with a local breakfast experience along the way.
What Both Directions Offer
No matter which direction you choose—northbound from Bergen to Kirkenes or southbound from Kirkenes to Bergen—you are guaranteed an unforgettable journey filled with stunning scenery, authentic culture, and memorable moments.
Both routes take you through a constantly changing coastal landscape of deep fjords, towering mountains, charming fishing villages, and vast Arctic wilderness. The natural beauty of Norway is on full display, day after day, hour after hour.
A highlight of both directions is the port of Trondheim, which is visited during the day on northbound and southbound sailings. You’ll have time to explore this historic city, home to the majestic Nidaros Cathedral, colorful wharfs, and a lively cultural scene.
Food lovers will also be in for a treat. These cruises are well known for their excellent onboard cuisine, with menus inspired by the Norwegian Coastal Kitchen. Many of the ingredients are sourced locally from ports along the route, offering you a true taste of Norway.
Throughout the journey, you’ll be immersed in Norwegian culture and heritage, from onboard lectures and local entertainment to optional excursions that let you dive deeper into regional traditions, crafts, and ways of life.
And don’t forget the iconic Arctic Circle crossing celebration! Whether you’re heading north or south, you’ll take part in this playful maritime tradition as your ship crosses the invisible line into the Arctic region.
So, Which Route Should You Choose?
Choose the northbound cruise if:
You want to visit Geirangerfjord (summer only)
Exploring Tromsø during the day is high on your list
You prefer starting your trip in a major city like Bergen
Choose the southbound cruise if:
Seeing the Lofoten Islands in daylight is important to you
You enjoy a quieter, more relaxed onboard atmosphere
You're looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option and don’t mind planning a pre-cruise overnight
Our Expert Tip: Take the Full 12-Day Round Trip
If your schedule allows, we always recommend the full 12-day round trip voyage. Sailing the entire route gives you the best of both worlds—Lofoten by day, Tromsø by day, Geirangerfjord in summer, and every one of the 34 ports along Norway’s coast. It’s the most immersive way to experience this unique destination and a true slow-travel vacation in every sense.
Ready to Set Sail?
Whether you choose northbound, southbound, or both, a Norway coastal cruise promises majestic landscapes, authentic encounters, and a deep sense of connection to nature and tradition. We’re here to help you select the itinerary that best fits your goals, timeline, and travel style.
Contact us today to start planning your journey along the most beautiful coastline in the world.
