Hurtigruten is doubling down on one of its most meaningful innovations in recent years: the Open Village Experiences, a community‑led shore excursion program that has struck a chord with guests and locals alike. After a successful first season, the cruise line is preparing to roll the concept out to even more towns along Norway’s dramatic coastline.
A New Era of Community‑Led Cruising
The Open Village Experiences were born from a simple but powerful idea—let local communities tell their own stories. Instead of relying on large‑ship models where guides are flown in and experiences feel standardized, Hurtigruten partnered directly with residents in three remote villages: Træna, Bessaker, and Sæbø.
These communities curated exclusive, deeply personal encounters that showcased the rhythms, traditions, and pride of Norwegian coastal life. Guests were welcomed with:
• A colourful village parade
• Intimate church concerts
• Guided visits to local museums and cultural sites
The result was an experience that felt less like tourism and more like being invited into someone’s home.
Why the Program Is Expanding
According to Hurtigruten leadership, the program exceeded expectations. The cruise line already maintains community relationships with more than 30 ports along the coast, giving it a strong foundation for expansion. While the next destinations haven’t been named, the enthusiasm from both guests and locals makes further rollout inevitable.
Hurtigruten’s head of the program explained that the concept emerged partly in response to growing cruise competition in Norway. With more ships entering the region, Hurtigruten wanted to reinforce what sets it apart: authenticity, expertise, and deep local roots.
“We are the largest operator in the country, the expert, and the one showing the authentic Norway,” he said. By involving communities directly in tourism development, Hurtigruten creates a “win‑win”—towns benefit economically and culturally, while guests enjoy richer, more meaningful encounters.
A Model for Sustainable, Inclusive Tourism
One of the program’s core strengths is its commitment to sustainable tourism. Instead of overwhelming small towns with large crowds or generic tours, the Open Village model:
• Empowers locals to design and lead experiences
• Ensures economic benefits stay within the community
• Encourages cultural preservation
• Fosters genuine connection between visitors and residents
It also addresses a growing concern in the cruise industry: the tendency for large ships to bring their own guides and services, leaving little room for local involvement. Hurtigruten’s approach flips that script entirely.
What’s Next for Open Village Experiences
With more than 30 coastal communities already connected to Hurtigruten’s network, the potential for expansion is significant. Each village offers its own traditions, landscapes, and stories—meaning no two Open Village Experiences will ever feel the same.
As the program grows, travellers can expect:
• More immersive cultural encounters
• Greater diversity in local activities
• Deeper engagement with Norway’s coastal heritage
For guests seeking authenticity, and for communities eager to share their identity with the world, this initiative marks a promising new chapter.
