Should I sail Hurtigruten northbound or southbound?
Days, fjords and highlights in each direction.
Short answer
Choose northbound for the longer seven-day voyage with the Geirangerfjord or Hjørundfjord and a long stop at Honningsvåg, or southbound for six days with the Trollfjord and Lofoten. Both directions call at 34 ports between Bergen and Kirkenes, and the full round trip takes 12 days.
Why
- The northbound voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes takes 7 days and visits the Geirangerfjord or Hjørundfjord, depending on the season.
- The southbound voyage from Kirkenes to Bergen takes 6 days and suits nature lovers, with the Lofoten Islands, Torghatten and the Trollfjord.
- On the northbound itinerary the ship enters the Hjørundfjord in May and September and the Geirangerfjord in summer, while from October to April passengers get the whole day in Ålesund instead.
Details
The northbound route is ideal for exploring cities such as Ålesund, Trondheim and Tromsø, with optional North Cape excursions from Honningsvåg. Southbound excursions include a sea eagle safari and the Hurtigruten Museum in Stokmarknes. Which direction is more beautiful is largely in the eye of the beholder.
Tip
If the fjords of Western Norway matter most to you, sail northbound between May and September, when the ship makes its fjord detours.
What may differ
The season matters as much as the direction: you can see the midnight sun from May to July and the northern lights between October and the end of March.
People also ask
- Is northbound or southbound better on Hurtigruten?
- What is the difference between northbound and southbound Hurtigruten?
Sources
- Hurtigruten: Routes and itinerariesChecked at:
- Hurtigruten: Coastal Express itineraryChecked at:
- Visit Bergen: Hurtigruten, everything you need to knowChecked at:
Itineraries change with the season, so check Hurtigruten before you book.
Why Hurtigruten is so popularRelated questions
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Can I kayak on the Lysefjord?
Yes, you can kayak on the Lysefjord with a guided tour from Forsand, or rent a kayak there in summer if you are an experienced paddler.
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How can I avoid the crowds in the fjords?
Travel outside the summer peak and check cruise ship arrival lists, since summer is the busiest time in the famous fjords.
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When do the fruit trees blossom in Hardanger?
The fruit trees in Hardanger usually start to blossom in mid-May, and the blossom lasts for about a month, though it can start in April after a warm spring.
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Can I take a day cruise to the Geirangerfjord from Ålesund?
Yes, the Visit Geiranger boat from Ålesund sails into the Geirangerfjord, and its same-day round trip takes about 9 hours, with about 3 hours each way.