Nordlys Review
Rating by category
Additional details
This was our fourth cruise but first on Hurtigruten. We were looking for a less hectic and more relaxed experience. The cruise from Bergen to Kirkenes was all that we had hoped for and more. From wonderful food, to efficient staff, to friendly fellow passengers to the absolutely stunning scenery, we were very happy with the experience and sad to leave the ship in Kirkenes. Follow the suggested packing list even for summer cruises. We needed our hats, gloves, waterproof jackets and wool socks.
Embarkation in Bergen was quick and easy. We got to the terminal about 4 pm, dropped off our luggage (no waiting in any lines!) and took the escalator upstairs for the safety briefing and video. We boarded the ship, hung out in the cafeteria area on deck 4 for a little while, then stopped by the expedition desk to sign up for the Meet the Vikings excursion. When I'd tried to book it over the phone, I was told it was full but that additional places would be available once on board the ship, which thankfully was the case. Our cabin was ready before 6 pm so we unpacked, explored the ship, and had a nice dinner in the main dining room. The first night is a buffet with open seating. The other evenings are set meal times but we found the dining room staff to be very helpful and flexible in changing your dinner seating or table number.
We took four excursions and found them all to be excellent value - Geiranger with Trollstigen pass, Meet the Vikings, the North Cape, and Sami Culture. You can book them by phone before you travel but it was easy to add Meet the Vikings and the North Cape once we were on board. The expedition team's materials on the excursions is much better than the information on the web, which we often found confusing and lacking in key details. The information you receive on board the ship clearly tells you when the excursion departs, from which port, and where you reembark. The expedition team held several talks in English and German about flora and fauna in the area, polar explorers, etc which we found very interesting.
Cabin Review
Deck 6, starboard aft which meant we were away from the noise of loading and unloading cars and people. Two single beds, one of which folds into a couch. Large window and unobstructed view. Easy access to the large open deck on the back of the ship. Enough space to put everything away although the shower is small.
Port Reviews
Alesund
Beautiful art nouveau buildings. The Nordlys only stopped for a short time but still enough to walk into town, take pictures and re board the ship.
Trondheim
The cathedral is well worth the walk. Check out the top floor of the Army Museum which has a great exhibition on resistance to the German occupation. Free admission.
Bergen
Beautiful town. Sad we only had a day there. Loved the funicular, the Hanseatic and the Bryggens museums. The city walking tour which departs from the Bryggens museum fills up quickly so book early.