Launched in 2002, MS Finnmarken is one of three almost identical ships of Hurtigruten’s Millennium class, all built to accommodate the growing popularity of coastal Norwegian cruises. Named after the northernmost region of the country, MS Finnmarken differs from her sisters MS Midnatsol and MS Trollfjord in that she’s a touch more upscale, with gleaming art deco interiors and bonus spaces like an al fresco café and a pool flanked by hot tubs.
Local Cuisine: Hurtigruten serves just-caught fish and fresh ingredients sourced from regions around Norway, including smoked salmon, clip fish, and salted leg of lamb.
Pool and Sauna with a View: Don’t take these features for granted — MS Finnmarken is the only ship of her sisters that offers both of these amenities.
Panoramic Lounge: This space hosts the best seats in the house for landscape- and nature-peeping.
Nature: No matter the season, there’s flora and fauna to capture on camera and landscapes known only to Norway: dramatic fjords, tumbling waterfalls, rugged mountains, and, of course, the Northern Lights.
Coastal Itineraries: Hurtigruten has been cruising up and down the coast of Norway from Kirkenes to Bergen since 1893. Today, it still runs a similar itinerary with the dual functions of a ferry and cargo service and tourism vessel. Some stops can be as short as 15 minutes: Keep an eye on your watch and be sure not to dawdle in port if you choose to disembark.
Soft-Core Adventurers with a Cultural Bend: Offshore, you’ll have the option of dog sledding, snowmobiling, and attending midnight concerts in an Arctic church; while on board, you can kick back to the scenery and attend an occasional class like a cloudberry tasting or fish-filleting demonstration.
Standard Cabins Are Tight: Fitting more than two people in a starting cabin could be a squeeze (and expect bunks, not double beds). Book the higher categories for parties of three or more.
No Internet Access in Remote Regions: Be prepared for some true unplugging — in some areas, the Wi-Fi connection is slow and spotty at best.
It Can be Sleepy On Board: While the shore excursions and exploration in port can be quick-paced, there are few organized onboard activities.
