MS Nordnorge

Table of contents

MS Nordnorge: A Legendary Postal Ship on the Norwegian Coastal Route

History and Development

MS Nordnorge, named after the northern region of Norway, exemplifies the evolution of Norwegian shipping. Since its commissioning in 1997, it has undergone numerous technical modernizations and played a significant role in Norway's coastal culture.

Top Deals from Hurtigruten & Co.

Chronological Development

• 1997: Launch and maiden voyage
• 2002: First technical modernization
• 2009: Comprehensive renovation in Bremerhaven
• 2011: Installation of environmentally friendly technologies
• 2016: Complete interior renovation
• 2024-2025: Planned further modernizations

Historical Significance

MS Nordnorge continues the tradition of Hurtigruten postal ships that have served the Norwegian coast since 1893. It combines:

• Modern cruise technology
• Traditional postal service
• Norwegian cultural heritage
• Economic lifeline for coastal communities

Technical Specifications

Ship Data

Propulsion System and Technology

• Diesel-electric propulsion with 4 main engines
• Total power: 7,560 kW
• Bow thrusters for precise maneuvering
• State-of-the-art navigation systems including GPS and radar
• Stabilizers for smooth sailing in rough seas
• Exhaust gas cleaning systems for emission reduction

Safety Equipment

• Latest generation lifeboats and rafts
• Modern fire protection systems
• 24/7 staffed bridge with high-tech monitoring
• Regular safety drills for crew and passengers
• Medical center with qualified personnel

Cabin Accommodations

Expedition Suites (Deck 7)

• Separate sleeping and living areas (25-30 m²)
• Private balcony with seating
• Premium amenities including coffee maker and minibar
• Exclusive lounge access
• Butler service on request
• Complimentary laundry service

Arctic Superior Cabins

• Comfortable twin beds or double bed
• Large windows with sea views
• Seating area with table and chairs
• TV system with international channels
• Minibar and kettle
• Private bathroom with shower and WC

Polar Outside Cabins

• Sea views through large windows
• Functional design for maximum comfort
• Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer
• Individual climate control
• Ample storage for expedition gear
• Free Wi-Fi access

Polar Inside Cabins

• Cozy furnishings
• Twin beds or double bed
• Desk and seating area
• TV with infotainment system
• Private bathroom
• Ideal for budget-conscious travelers

Dining Concept

Main Restaurant "Kysten"

The Kysten Restaurant offers a journey through Norwegian cuisine:

• Breakfast buffet featuring regional specialties like gravlax and brunost
• À la carte lunch with fresh fish and local meat dishes
• Theme evenings: "Arctic Delicacies," "Fjord to Table," "Sami Cuisine"
• Wine tastings featuring Nordic and international wines
• Cooking demonstrations with the head chef, focusing on traditional preparation methods

Multe Bakery Specialties

The Multe Bakery, named after the Arctic cloudberry, is a highlight onboard:

• Traditional Norwegian pastries like skillingsboller and krumkaker
• Homemade jams from wild berries
• Special Arctic desserts inspired by the midnight sun and northern lights
• Regional coffee specialties roasted by small Norwegian roasteries
• Seasonal offerings like Christmas cookies or Easter treats

Torget Restaurant

• Buffet restaurant with live cooking stations
• Focus on fresh, local ingredients
• Daily changing themes, e.g., "Catch of the Day" or "Game Dishes"
• Vegetarian and vegan options
• Spectacular views of the passing coastal landscape

Brygga Bistro

• Casual dining with Norwegian and international dishes
• Snacks and light meals around the clock
• Special "fika" times with coffee and pastries
• Outdoor terrace for al fresco dining (weather permitting)
• Popular meeting point for passengers

Additional Onboard Facilities

Wellness Area

• Two outdoor whirlpools with panoramic fjord views
• Sauna with sea views and traditional Norwegian infusions
• Fitness room with modern equipment and yoga mats
• Massage rooms for relaxing treatments
• Relaxation zone with heated benches and aromatherapy

Explorer Lounge Activities

The Explorer Lounge on Deck 7 is the heart of the ship:

• Daily lectures on topics like geology, marine biology, and Sami culture
• Cultural presentations, e.g., traditional music or craft demonstrations
• Evening live music, from classical pieces to Nordic folk songs
• Northern Lights announcements and viewing (seasonal)
• Scientific demonstrations, e.g., marine research or climate change

Library and Learning Center

• Extensive collection of books on Norwegian history and nature
• Digital resources and touchscreen displays for interactive learning
• Comfortable reading corners with panoramic windows
• Regular book clubs and discussion groups
• Maps and travel guides for route planning

Route Description

Southbound Route (Kirkenes-Bergen)

The 6-day journey from Kirkenes to Bergen includes:

1. Kirkenes (Start): Border town with Russia, optional snow hotel visit
2. Vardø: Easternmost point of Norway, visit to Vardøhus Fortress
3. Båtsfjord: Important fishing port, bird watching
4. Berlevåg: Sami culture, opportunity to visit reindeer camps
5. Hammerfest: World's northernmost town, Polar Bear Club visit
6. Tromsø: "Paris of the North," visit to the Arctic Cathedral
7. Stokmarknes: Hurtigruten Museum, birthplace of the postal ship line
8. Bodø: Saltstraumen, world's strongest tidal current
9. Trondheim: Historical capital, Nidaros Cathedral
10. Bergen (End): UNESCO World Heritage site Bryggen, Fish Market

Northbound Route (Bergen-Kirkenes)

• Similar stops in reverse order
• Additional ports like Ålesund (Art Nouveau architecture) and Svolvær (Lofoten)
• Flexible port times depending on season and local events
• Seasonal route adjustments for Northern Lights viewing or Midnight Sun
• Special shore excursions based on seasonal activities

Notable Shore Excursions

• Dog sledding in Tromsø (winter)
• Bird watching at Gjesværstappan bird cliffs
• Visit to North Cape, Europe's northernmost point
• Kayaking in the fjords (summer)
• Hiking to Preikestolen near Stavanger

Expedition Team and Educational Program

Expert Composition

The MS Nordnorge expedition team consists of highly qualified professionals:

• Marine biologists specializing in Arctic ecosystems
• Geologists with expertise in fjord formations and glaciology
• Historians focusing on Norwegian coastal culture
• Northern Lights experts and astrophysicists
• Professional nature photographers
• Cultural interpreters knowledgeable in Sami traditions

Onboard Education

• Daily science lectures on topics like Arctic climate change
• Practical workshops, e.g., traditional fish processing
• Photography courses for beginners and advanced photographers
• Cultural presentations on Norwegian folklore and mythology
• Nature excursions focusing on local flora and fauna
• Language courses in Norwegian and Sami

Seasonal Features

Winter Program (October-March)

• Northern Lights viewing with professional guidance and photography tips
• Dog sledding through snowy landscapes
• Snowshoe hiking in pristine nature
• Winter fishing, including ice fishing on frozen fjords
• Cultural festivals like the Northern Lights Festival in Tromsø

Summer Program (April-September)

• Midnight Sun experiences with special deck parties
• Hiking excursions in national parks like Geirangerfjord
• Kayaking in calm fjord waters
• Bird watching, especially puffins in the Vesterålen
• Fjord cruises with detailed geological explanations

Shoulder Seasons (Spring/Fall)

• Unique lighting conditions for photographers
• Whale watching tours (especially in autumn)
• Harvest festivals and culinary specialties
• Fewer tourists, more authentic experiences in coastal towns
• Opportunity to experience both Northern Lights and Midnight Sun

Sustainability and Environmental Protection

Environmental Initiatives

MS Nordnorge implements sustainable technologies and practices:

• Reduction of single-use plastics through reusable alternatives
• Energy-efficient systems, including LED lighting and heat recovery
• Advanced waste management with recycling and composting
• Water conservation through efficient shower heads and taps
• Local food sourcing to reduce transportation distances

Future Environmental Projects

• Installation of battery systems for emission-free port operations
• Route planning optimization for minimal fuel consumption
• New filter technologies for further emission reduction
• Biodiesel testing with fuel from sustainable sources
• Solar energy integration for auxiliary systems

Passenger Education Initiatives

• Lectures on marine conservation and climate change
• Workshops on sustainable travel
• Beach cleanup activities in cooperation with local communities
• Exhibitions about Arctic ecosystems
• Partnerships with environmental organizations for research projects

Service and Amenities

Onboard Shop

The MS Nordnorge's onboard shop offers a carefully curated selection:

• Norwegian crafts like knitwear and woodcarvings
• High-quality outdoor equipment for Arctic conditions
• Local specialties like aquavit, dried fish, and lingonberry preserves
• Books about Norwegian history, culture, and nature
• Expedition clothing with Hurtigruten branding

Internet and Communication

• Satellite phone for emergencies and important calls
• Wi-Fi throughout the ship (fee applies)
• Internet café with shared computers
• Extensive library with books and magazines
• Media center for photo and video editing

Additional Services

• Laundry service for passengers
• Luggage storage and transport
• Concierge service for individual requests
• Photo service for professional memories
• Fitness classes and personal training

The MS Nordnorge continues to evolve while maintaining its historic role as a postal ship, offering modern travelers a unique blend of traditional Norwegian coastal voyages with contemporary comfort and sustainable practices. Its combination of expedition experiences, educational programs, and authentic Norwegian culture provides an unparalleled way to explore the stunning Norwegian coastline.

Related pages