Hurtigruten Relaunches MS Vesterålen with New Coastal Heritage Concept

Hurtigruten Relaunches MS Vesterålen with New Coastal Heritage Concept

Hurtigruten, the leader in iconic Norwegian coastal voyages, has relaunched MS Vesterålen with a unique onboard concept inspired by the company’s 133-year history sailing the Norwegian coast.

Following an extensive renovation, MS Vesterålen has returned to regular service between Bergen and Kirkenes, combining modern comfort with the character and nostalgia of one of Hurtigruten’s most distinctive ships.

Most recently, 100 cabins and public areas have been refreshed, with Arctic Superior and Mini Suites introduced, while the ship’s original style, charm and intimate atmosphere have been carefully preserved.

As the smallest ship in Hurtigruten’s fleet, MS Vesterålen offers a uniquely personal coastal experience with only 133 cabins. Throughout the ship, guests will find historic details, coastal artwork, classic design references and tributes to the generations of ships and crew that have shaped Hurtigruten’s legacy.

Living History with Strong Traditions Given New Life

“With MS Vesterålen back in service, it is not just a ship being put back into operation. It is living history with strong traditions being given a new life,” said Hedda Felin, CEO at Hurtigruten.

“Vesterålen offers a completely unique travel experience, both for those living on the Norwegian coast and tourists.”

The ship’s new onboard concept brings Hurtigruten’s coastal heritage to life throughout the guest experience. In the restaurant, menus take inspiration from those dating back to the 1930s, while crew uniforms and specially designed tableware reference classic designs from the company’s past.

Together, these details create a nostalgic yet refreshed onboard atmosphere that reflects MS Vesterålen’s long connection to the Norwegian coast.

A Special Atmosphere Combining History and Modern Comfort

Lounge on board MS Vesterålen. Photo: Kristian Dale / Hurtigruten

“The changes have been very well received by guests who have been on board for the first sailings,” said André Pettersen, Chief Product and Hotel Operations Officer at Hurtigruten.

“Many highlight the special atmosphere on board and the combination of historical details and modern comfort. This confirms that we have succeeded in preserving Vesterålen’s unique character while elevating the experience to today’s standard.”

Guests on the first sailings have responded positively to the renovation, with many highlighting the special atmosphere and the careful balance between historical details and contemporary comfort.

This confirms that Hurtigruten has succeeded in preserving Vesterålen’s unique character while elevating the experience to today’s standards.

Year-Round Service on the Original Coastal Express Route

The main restaurant on board MS Vesterålen. Photo: Kristian Dale / Hurtigruten

Menu and tableware on board MS Vesterålen. Photo: Kristian Dale / Hurtigruten

MS Vesterålen is now sailing year-round on Hurtigruten’s Original Coastal Express route between Bergen and Kirkenes.

As the smallest ship in the fleet, MS Vesterålen offers a uniquely personal coastal experience, allowing guests to:

• Experience the Norwegian coast at an intimate pace
• Discover historic details and coastal artwork throughout the ship
• Enjoy menus inspired by 1930s heritage recipes
• Wear crew uniforms and tableware that reference classic designs from the company’s past
• Feel the intimate atmosphere that has defined Hurtigruten for 133 years

Why MS Vesterålen Stands Out

Photo: Kristian Dale / Hurtigruten

MS Vesterålen stands out for several reasons:

• Smallest ship in the fleet: Only 133 cabins, creating a more personal experience
• Historic character preserved: Original style, charm and intimate atmosphere carefully maintained
• Modern comfort introduced: 100 cabins and public areas refreshed, with Arctic Superior and Mini Suites
• Coastal heritage integrated: Menus, uniforms and tableware inspired by the 1930s and classic Hurtigruten designs
• Year-round service: Sailing the Original Coastal Express route between Bergen and Kirkenes throughout the year

For travellers who want to experience the Norwegian coast with a sense of history, authenticity and personal connection, MS Vesterålen offers a journey that is as much about heritage as it is about destination.