MS Trollfjord
If there’s a ship that can be simultaneously stately and unpretentious, it’s Hurtigruten's 500-passenger MS Trollfjord. The public spaces, extensively refurbished in 2023, don’t shout out for attention (in fact, there’s no over-the-top anything), but the service is solid, and staterooms a comfortable base for the main attraction: the scenery. When passengers aren’t off exploring in port — on a dogsledding run in Kirkenes, for example — then they’re gazing out the window in the lounges or taking a dip in the hot tub.
What We Love
Observation Lounge: This double-height space with panoramic windows and ample seating is the spot of choice to catch the views — while enjoying a Nordic-themed cocktail from the 1893 Bar.
Locally Sourced Cuisine: Hurtigruten has sourced homegrown ingredients before it became trendy. Try crabs caught from the waters near Hitra, roast reindeer from Finnmark, and beer-braised beef with victory onions from Lofoten. Hurtigruten even has its own label of wine made from grapes from a Portuguese vineyard. MS Trollfjord features three restaurants: Flora, the main dining restaurant for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; Brasserie Arran for lunch and dinner; and Rost, available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner to suite guests (cabin guests can also dine here if they pay an upgrade).
Best Known For
Spectacular Scenery: Lush and green in the summer, snow-capped and dramatic in the winter — the variety of landscapes changes with the seasons.
Coastal Itineraries: Hurtigruten started in 1893 as a ferry servicing Norway’s coastal communities; today it still serves that function in addition to catering to leisure travelers. Cargo unloading is a sight to watch, and you’ll also see locals hanging out at the café.