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A misty morning in the Norwegian fjords

The Coastal Express

Bergen Roundtrip - Example 12 Day Cruise aboard MS Nordlys
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Set sail from Bergen, Norway's second-largest city, to embark on a 12-day coastal adventure exploring the stunning fjords and picturesque towns of Norway. Start your journey with visits to Alesund, famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, and picturesque Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cruise past iconic landmarks such as Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim and the Arctic Circle, where you'll participate in traditional ceremonies. Explore charming towns like Hammerfest, Honningsvag, and Kristiansund, each offering unique cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Witness the Northern Lights above the Arctic Circle, spot wildlife such as reindeer and sea eagles, and marvel at the towering peaks of the Lofoten Islands. Conclude your voyage in Bergen, where you'll disembark with memories of an unforgettable cruise along Norway's spectacular coastline.
An aerial view of BergenDrying stockfish on Lofoten, NorwaySmall, picturesque villages line the shores of NorwayCharming port cities of the Norwegian fjordsA misty morning in the Norwegian fjords
Highlights
  • Visit Alesund, renowned for its unique Art Nouveau architecture
  • Enjoy the views from Gamle Bybrua in Trondheim
  • Explore the charming fishing villages of the Lofoten Islands
  • Cross the Arctic Circle and participate in an on-deck ceremony
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Bergen | Embark

Your journey starts in Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city and gateway to the fjords. Founded in 1070 A.D., the city’s architecture reflects the influence of the 14th-century Hanseatic League, a German trading group.

If time allows before departure, stroll through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district, now home to artisan shops and picturesque cobblestone streets. Nearby, the famous fish market offers fresh seafood, and the Fløibanen funicular provides stunning views from Mount Fløyen.

Before boarding, relax in the guest lounge at the terminal. Once on board, enjoy your first meal made with fresh coastal produce as the ship sails from Bergen along the historic Viking route through the Hjeltefjord.

You'll also meet the Coastal Experience Team, who will guide you along Norway’s coastline with lectures, activities, and optional hikes during the voyage.

Day 2: Alesund

Begin your day in the Nordfjord near Torvik, then sail past the West Cape toward Ålesund.

Famous for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, Ålesund also boasts Atlanterhavsparken, one of northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums. In spring or winter, you'll have plenty of time to explore this charming town.

Day 3: Trondheim

This section of the voyage brings us to the Trøndelag region of Norway, marked by crumpled hills, fields dotted with farmsteads, and low-lying coastal settlements.

Magical, medieval, and modern

Trondheim was founded by Viking King Olav Tryggvason in 997 A.D. and is now Norway’s third-largest city. It features a mix of historic buildings and a lively student population.

You’ll have about three hours to explore Trondheim and its various highlights.

Day 4: Bodo

You cross the Arctic Circle early in the morning, kicking off your Arctic adventure. A traditional ceremony marks the occasion and will definitely wake you up.

In summer, enjoy 24 hours of daylight above the Arctic Circle, while in winter, your chances of spotting the Northern Lights increase dramatically.

Day 5: Tromso

The ship docks in Harstad around 7 a.m., giving you time for a peaceful morning stroll.

Next, we sail to Finnsnes, linked to the scenic island of Senja by the Gisund Bridge. Watch for seabirds like puffins, as several colonies are nearby.

Day 6: Honningsvag

The ship arrives in Hammerfest on Kvaløya island early in the morning. In summer, thousands of reindeer migrate here.

As we approach Havøysund, look for the wind turbines of the Havøygavlen wind farm, which powers 6,000 local homes.

Day 7: Kirkenes

The ship stops at Båtsfjord and Vardø overnight, arriving in Vadsø early in the morning.

The area around Vadsø is a prime birdwatching destination, positioned under the migration path of birds flying east to west. Keep an eye out for Hooded Crows and Sea Eagles.

After breakfast, you reach Kirkenes, having traveled further east than St. Petersburg and Istanbul! You’ll have various optional excursions to explore the area.

Kirkenes marks the point where the Norwegian Coastal Express turns south. Many of the places visited overnight will now be seen during the day.

In Vardø, visit the Witches’ Monument and the star-shaped Vardøhus Fortress, built in 1737. This northernmost fortification is still in use by the military today.

Later, you return to the bustling port of Båtsfjord before heading to Berlevåg in the evening, crossing paths with the northbound ship.

Day 8: Hammerfest

In the early afternoon, you’ll spend time in Hammerfest, which has the largest population on a list of the world’s northernmost settlements.

See the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, shop for souvenirs at the Polar Bear Society, or take the path behind the town to the viewpoint atop Mount Salen.

Day 9: Svolvaer | Lofoten | Vesteralen

On this day, you’ll be exploring the archipelagos of Lofoten and Vesterålen, true highlights of your scenic Norwegian route.

After a call at Finnsnes in the early morning, the ship calls at Harstad. Here lies the world’s northernmost medieval stone church on the peninsula: the white-washed Trondenes Church.

Next, stop at Risøyhamn, your smallest port of call. Then it’s off to Sortland, where the landscape slowly transforms from hills to mountains towering over 3,280 feet high.

Day 10: Bronnoysund

The ship arrives in Bodo early in the morning, then stops at Ornes at 7 a.m. After breakfast, you cross the Arctic Circle and celebrate with the traditional tasting of Norwegian cod liver oil.

Next, enjoy a brief stop at Nesna before continuing to Sandnessjøen, the gateway to the stunning Helgeland Coast.

Day 11: Trondheim

You spend the morning in Trondheim before sailing past beautiful islands and small communities, heading to Kristiansund and Molde.

In Trondheim, stroll as the city awakens, visit Nidaros Cathedral, and take photos at Gamle Bybro bridge. Enjoy coffee and a pastry in Bakklandet before heading to Kristiansten Fort for views of Norway’s third-largest city.

In the late afternoon, you dock in Kristiansund, known as Norway’s ‘Bacalao Capital’ for salted cod dried on cliffs. Explore the cobblestone streets and the lively port, and visit Varden viewpoint for panoramic views.

Your second-to-last stop is Molde, where you can see the Romsdal Alps and enjoy blooming flowers from mid-June to late August in this ‘City of Roses.’

Day 12: Bergen | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
At least for this time around, your voyage reaches its end today. During the previous night, we called Alesund and Torvik. On your approach to Maloy, you might glimpse the Norwegian Coastal Express heading north (if you're up early enough). You can see the Nordfjord, under the enormous Jostedal Glacier, mainland Europe's largest. The ship then docks at Floro in the morning. There, you can take in the harbor and marina. Leaving Floro, you see Stabben Lighthouse, a favorite subject for photographers. Enjoy stunning views as we cross the mouth of the Sognefjord, the longest and widest fjord in all of Norway.

As you reach your final port in the afternoon, the ship navigates through your scenic route's last islands and skerrie and sails down the Hjeltefjord into Bergen.

 

Ship/Hotel

MS Nordlys

MS Nordlys

MS Nordlys

The ship's art, decor, and colors are inspired by the northern lights, creating a unique ambiance. MS Nordlys is comfortable, and passengers can relax in the lounges after a day of activities.
MS Nordlys

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  • Jul 4, 2026from $3,575
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  • Sep 8, 2026from $3,205
  • Sep 19, 2026from $3,070
  • Sep 30, 2026from $3,070
  • Oct 11, 2026from $3,014
  • Nov 2, 2026from $2,566
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  • Nov 24, 2026from $2,140
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Deals

Save up to 25% 27073
Book before April 30, 2025, and enjoy savings of up to 25% on select departures! This promotion is subject to availability, valid for new bookings, and is not combinable with any other offers. It may be withdrawn at any time without notice. The discount applies to the cruise portion of the package only. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.​
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Per person starting at
$2,140
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
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Polar Inside - I2
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Polar Inside - I
Inside cabin, 90-118 sq ft. Separate beds, where one bed can be turned into a sofa, bathroom with shower.
Polar Outside - L2
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Polar Outside - L
Outside cabin, 94-121 sq ft. With portholes, separate beds, where one bed can be turned into a sofa, three-berth cabins with additional upper berth, bathroom with shower. Some with limited view.
Polar Outside - J2 and P2
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Polar Outside - J
Outside cabin, 90-121 sq ft. With limited/no view, J2D cabins with queen bed, J2 cabins with separate beds, bathroom with shower.
Polar Outside - N2D
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Polar Outside - N
Outside cabin, 90-121 sq ft. N2D cabins with queen bed, N2 cabins with separate beds, where one bed can be turned into a sofa, N3 cabins with separate beds and additional upper berth, bathroom with shower
Polar Outside - O2
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Polar Outside - O
Outside cabin, 90-121 sq ft. Separate beds, where one bed can be turned into a sofa, three-berth cabins with additional upper berth, bathroom with shower
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Polar Outside - SD
Outside cabin, 181 sq ft. Separate beds, where one bed can be turned into a sofa, bathroom with shower. Accessible to guests with limited mobility.
Arctic Superior - P2D
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Arctic Superior - P
Outside cabin, 121 sq ft. Queen bed, TV, kettle, bathroom with shower
Arctic Superior - U2D
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Arctic Superior - U
Outside cabin, 121 sq ft. Queen bed, some with table, TV, kettle, bathroom with shower.
Expedition Suite - Q2
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Expedition Suite - Q
Mini suite, 183-248 sq ft. One-room suite with queen bed and double sofa bed, seating area, TV, kettle, bathroom with shower. Select cabin with queen bed and accessible to guests with limited mobility.
Expedition Suite - M4
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Expedition Suite - M
Suite, 291 sq ft. Two-room suite with queen bed, TV, kettle, bathroom with shower
Expedition Suite - MG4
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Expedition Suite - MG
Grand suite, 161-215 sq ft. Queen bed with one sofa bed, seating area, TV, safe, mini-bar, bay window with full view, bathroom with shower
Included
  • 11 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 11 Dinners
  • 11 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) from Norway's Coastal Kitchen
  • Norwegian- and English-speaking Coastal Experience Team
  • Onboard lectures and presentations on Norway's history, biology, geography, geology and culture
  • Introductory photo presentation, camera adjustment and tips and tricks
  • Presentation of excursion programs
  • A welcome event and daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come
  • Presentations about the ports you visit
  • Point of interest presentations out on deck
  • Captain’s dinner and a farewell event
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Luggage Handling 
  • Flights and transfers
  • Optional seasonal excursions
  • Optional hikes with the Coastal Experience Team

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