Sailing up the Norwegian Coast on the Hurtigruten Coastal Express

I am presently on the Hurtigruten Nordlys heading south. Advice and info: (1) The ship is registered in Norway and its crew is Norwegian - so that helps explain costs - but I think this is the way all cruises should be. Great people. (2) You can book port to port to give yourself time in some ports if you wish (I use apt. rentals). My trip up and down is 4 different bookings. You can also choose not to have "full board" when you book port to port, maybe breakfast only, etc. The a la carte food on board is expensive (this is Norway), but it also is cheaper than the full board meals. You can eat the regular 3 meals when you want, paid separately also. If you like indoor activities or much "action", or sun & warm weather, this may not be for you. I have never cruised before, but I have done many overnight ferries around the world, and this is like that, but so much better. I have spent hours watching the scenery go by out on deck all bundled up and also from the jacuzzi. I think this experience is amazing and I have spent almost a decade out of the US wandering everywhere (60+ countries and 300+ cities and towns). Few things in life are as beautiful as this. Norway is super civilized and I always love that when I am here. Top 3 great countries: Switzerland, Japan and Norway. Easy call ;))

Thank you

Thx! Nice info, I’m torn between going Bergen to Svalbard or starting out with the coastal express going Bergen-Kirkenes then back down to Trondheim then train down to Oslo- exploring along the way.

We’re booked for this autumn, so thank you for the heads up.

This looks amazing. Thank you for sharing. Now I get why it is hard for Paul to crack a smile...he is part Norwegian! This looks like a great way to see a beautiful country. Thank you for taking us on the journey. Looking forward to part 2!

Always enjoy your videos. I'm sure it may have been suggested to you a few times, heck maybe you've been on one or more, but I highly recommend a European river cruise. We have done 3 of these, all with Viking. Excellent way to tour "slowly", great docking places, great tours and exceptional food.

Are gratuities included or expected? What was the price of excursions, drinks on board, and the one up charge restaurant? thanks