Norwegian Coastal Voyages

50 Degrees North is an official partner of both Havila Voyages and Hurtigruten.

Sail Norway's coastline on a range of voyages calling at up to 34 ports, part of a working sea route that still serves the country's remote coastal communities. Traditionally known as the Kystruten, this government-funded shipping service has kept coastal Norwegian life and trade connected since 1893. Ships sail year-round from Bergen in the southwest to Kirkenes in the far north, carrying freight and mail alongside travellers exploring Norway’s coastal towns and landscapes. For more on the route, the ships, the seasons and how to plan your voyage, read on below the voyages.

Norwegian coastal voyages: your questions answered

What is the Kystruten?

The Kystruten (Norwegian for 'coastal route') is a government-funded shipping service running the length of Norway's coast between Bergen and Kirkenes. It has operated since 1893, when it began as a way to carry mail and goods to communities with no road access. Today it still delivers freight and serves local passengers, while also carrying travellers who want to experience the coast at close range. The route calls at 34 ports northbound and 33 southbound, some large towns, others home to just a few hundred people. For the full story of the route, see our guide to the Kystruten, Norway's coastal route.

Who operates the voyages, Havila or Hurtigruten?

Both. The route is shared between two companies: Hurtigruten runs seven ships and Havila Voyages runs four, alternating departure days so there is a sailing every day of the year. 50 Degrees North is an official partner of both, so we can book either fleet and help you choose the ship and departure that suits you. To understand how the two compare, see the Hurtigruten fleet and the Havila fleet, and our guide to what to expect on board a Havila voyage.

Why does 50 Degrees North prefers Havila on some tours?

The Norwegian coastal route was a Hurtigruten monopoly for around 130 years, until the Norwegian government opened it up in 2017 and granted Havila Voyages access to carry travellers along the coastline. We choose to sail with Havila on several of our small group tours for a few reasons.

Havila ships are newer and run on a battery-hybrid system: the batteries are charged with renewable hydropower ashore, allowing stretches of emissions-free sailing, with reduced noise and emissions that improve both the experience on board and the impact on the fjord environment. It also positions the fleet well for the tighter emissions rules the Norwegian government plans to introduce for the fjord region later this decade.

The onboard experience suits the way we like to travel, too. Seaview cabins come as standard, no upgrade needed, each with a sofa, desk, tea and coffee and a modern ensuite. Dining is à la carte with full table service and seasonal Nordic menus, rather than a busy buffet queue, which makes mealtimes calmer and more of an occasion, and means less food is wasted. Panoramic lounges, a quieter atmosphere and clean, modern design leave you feeling more connected to the coastline passing by.

On tours such as Chase the Northern Lights Express and Experience the Northern Lights, we sail with Havila for these reasons. On our independent voyages you can travel with either fleet, and we are happy to help you choose.

What are the different voyage options?

There are three main ways to sail the Kystruten. The Norwegian Coastal Voyage Round Trip sails the full route from Bergen to Kirkenes and back. The Northbound and Southbound voyages each sail the route one way. You can also travel shorter port-to-port sections, or combine Norway trips with a coastal voyage.

When is the best time to go?

The route sails all year, and each season is different. From late September to early April, the route comes with snow-covered mountains and the chance to see the Northern Lights. Summer brings the midnight sun and long days on deck.

What is life like on board?

Each ship carries passengers, freight and local travellers together, which is part of what makes the voyage feel like a working route rather than a cruise. Meals feature regional Norwegian produce, and there is time ashore at the longer port calls.

Your read, for example, our guide to what to expect on board a Havila voyage.

Can I combine a voyage with other travel in Norway?

Yes. A Kystruten voyage pairs well with time on land. We offer a range of Norway trips with a coastal voyage, and voyages combine naturally with the fjords, the Arctic north and the Nordic capitals. See, for example, Norwegian Coastal Voyage and Nordic Capitals or Lofoten and Norwegian Coast Cruise.

Why book with 50 Degrees North?

As an official partner of both operators, we offer live availability, the best available rates and instant confirmation, along with genuine Nordic knowledge to help you pick the right voyage, ship and season. Read more about why travellers book with us.