Hurtigruten represents the proud legacy of the Hurtigruten Group and has been a national icon since 1893, offering what many consider the world’s most stunning voyage along the Norwegian coastline. Currently, its seven ships call at 34 ports between Bergen and Kirkenes, connecting communities, transporting freight, and showcasing the beauty of the Norwegian coast to visitors from around the globe.
1893
Captain Richard With establishes Hurtigruten with the steamship DS Vesterålen, linking northern and southern Norway. The first voyage departs on July 2, 1893. 1896
The "Sports Route" between Hammerfest and Spitsbergen is introduced, and a hotel is shipped to Spitsbergen. 1937
All ships are equipped with sonar, an electronic logbook, and radio transmitters. 1940-1945
During WWII, 14 ships and 700 lives are lost. Post-war fleet redeployment is prioritized. 1949
MS Erling Jarl, the first post-war ship, is built. 1993
Hurtigruten celebrates its 100th anniversary and the construction of MS Kong Harald. 2002
Hurtigruten expands to Antarctic expeditions. 2010
Hurtigruten bans heavy fuel oil from its ships. 2011
MS Nordnorge’s voyage is broadcast live for 134 hours, setting a Guinness World Record. 2015
The Hurtigruten Foundation is established to support communities and environmental initiatives. 2018
Hurtigruten bans single-use plastics fleet-wide and celebrates its 125th anniversary. 2021
Certified biofuels are phased in on ships. 2022
Environmental upgrades begin, with hybrid-powered MS Richard With reducing CO2 emissions by 25%. The Sea Zero Project launches to develop an emission-free ship by 2030. 2023
Hurtigruten celebrates its 130th anniversary by launching the Svalbard and North Cape Lines.
Sustainability
Sea Zero
Hurtigruten has launched its most ambitious sustainability initiative in its 130-year history, aiming to develop a zero-emission propulsion ship designed for the Norwegian coast by 2030. They are collaborating with SINTEF, one of Europe's largest independent research organizations, to explore energy efficiency and battery power solutions.
Upgrading the Fleet
By 2025, Hurtigruten will implement one of the largest environmental ship upgrades in Europe, enhancing the fleet's energy efficiency. This upgrade aims to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 25% and NOx by 80%, with three ships transitioning to hybrid power.
Towards Zero Food Waste
Food waste from the fleet is processed in a compost reactor at the port of Stamsund in the Lofoten Islands. This compost is then used by nearby Myklevik farm to grow new food for Norway and the ships, supporting local farmers and minimizing waste.
Eliminating Single-Use Plastics
In summer 2018, Hurtigruten became the first cruise line to eliminate single-use plastics across all ships and offices, spearheaded by Helga Bårdsdatter Kristiansen.
Awards & Accolades
Hurtigruten recognised by multiple 2023 sustainability travel awards for commitment to green travel
Recipient of the prestigious 2023 Sustainability Award by NTIA, Hurtigruten's accomplishment stands out with 1,483 peer nominations, 545 submissions, and 195 finalists.
Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
Justin Chappelle
TrustScore 4.8 | 346 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 346 reviews on
3 days ago
Having done a trip in the past with Adventure Life, I found picking a trip and customizing it was a breeze and fit everything I wanted
Scott Drayer
4 days ago
Careful service
older gentleman
4 days ago
We had to book within a certain time. Adventure Life came to our rescue as most of the other operators were sold out. We went with the website ad on Big Five Borneo Tour for 6 days 5 nights. Adventure Life was professional, timely and honest about the itinerary for small groups at a reasonable cost. This was our first time with Adventure Life. From the beginning to the end, they were supportive, responded to email immediately and provided emergency contacts through out our stay. As indicated, the deluxe accommodations were luxurious, there were 3 meals a day including early morning coffee was available before the 6am river cruises and evening tea. The itinerary was well laid out, to time and the guides/drivers though different after 2 days for river cruise and for the cave, were experienced, we felt safe. We were lucky to see the Big Four, except the orangutan on our tours at Sukau and the orangutan with the baby was at the poolside of the Sukau Rainforest Lodge. The meals were alright without variety. Wifi was in/near reception area. We stayed 3 nights at Sukau and 2 nights at Utan. The two lodges were different. Utan focused on animals and birds not seen at Sukau on plenty of nature walks, night safaris and river cruises. Utan is a new lodge started in July 2024, smaller, luxurious and intimate. The meals were excellent with a personal touch. Guide was very experienced and willing to take us on more nature walks to see our luck for the animals which were missed. Utan provided knee length rubber boots and binoculars can be rented (try it out before you take on tours). Initially we were disappointed not getting the accommodation at Danum Valley but after Utan experience we had it all. We will recommend Adventure Life to those looking for worry free adventures at a reasonable cost.
Pb
5 days ago
Arvin has been very responsive and professional.
Carlotta Diaz
6 days ago
Claudia Corona was very helpful and professional. She answered all my many questions in a very timely manner and really worked with me to taylor-make my trip. Very good experience.