Hurtigruten Boosts Signature Fleet with Midnatsol

Hurtigruten is responding to surging interest in authentic coastal voyages by doubling capacity for its premium Signature sailings next summer, deploying the revitalized MS Midnatsol alongside her sister ship, MS Trollfjord, to meet record demand. The 590-guest Midnatsol will undergo extensive upgrades to cabins, dining venues, the Coastal Expedition Team center and public areas before joining the Signature fleet in summer 2026. During the warmer months, she will chart regular routes between Bergen and Longyearbyen on the iconic Svalbard Line, immersing guests in Arctic landscapes of ice-strewn fjords and wildlife-rich waters. In winter, Midnatsol will alternate with MS Finnmarken—recently renamed from Otto Sverdrup—on the North Cape Line, sailing weekly from Hamburg to eager adventurers drawn to northern lights and remote Arctic communities. This redeployment comes as MS Vesterålen returns to Hurtigruten’s Original Coastal Express service in spring 2026, ensuring that both Signature and classic coastal journeys benefit from carefully optimized vessels. Hedda Felin, chief executive officer of Hurtigruten, notes that “demand for voyages along the Norwegian coast continues to rise sharply—particularly for journeys that offer authentic experiences, comfort, and a deep connection with nature and culture,” and says that Midnatsol’s transformation will “perfectly complement” the existing fleet of expedition-grade ships. Signature cruises stand apart with extended port calls that allow deeper exploration of each destination, all-inclusive dining featuring locally sourced ingredients from more than seventy coastal suppliers, and a variety of unique excursions led by expert guides, from fjord kayaking to cultural hikes and wildlife safaris. By early May, bookings for Signature itineraries had climbed more than forty percent year over year, while travel advisor reservations rose thirty-one percent, reflecting strong trade confidence in the concept. Carly Biggard, head of Hurtigruten in the Americas, highlights sustained growth among North American travelers, particularly through agency channels, adding that “these voyages combine the best of Norwegian nature, culture, and hospitality,” and that escalating demand “confirms we are offering a unique immersive Norwegian cruise experience that no other cruise line can.” As Midnatsol and Trollfjord sail in tandem, guests will enjoy seamless access to expert-led shore experiences, regionally inspired menus in glass-walled restaurants, and accommodations that blend Scandinavian design with panoramic views. This fleet realignment underscores Hurtigruten’s commitment to continuous innovation, marrying rugged expedition credentials with the elevated comforts of the Signature brand. Whether journeying through summer’s midnight sun or winter’s polar twilight, travelers aboard the enhanced fleet will find unrivaled opportunities to witness coastal communities, encounter Arctic wildlife and sample authentic regional flavors, all while benefiting from the line’s deep expertise in sustainable, small-ship cruising. By doubling Signature capacity and fine-tuning its fleet, Hurtigruten is not only meeting current enthusiasm for Norway’s storied coastline but also setting a new standard for immersive, upscale expedition travel at sea.

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