Hurtigruten has welcomed newly refurbished vessel MS Midnatsol into its Signature fleet, expanding capacity on its premium Norwegian coastal and Svalbard voyages in response to growing international demand.
The extensively upgraded ship has commenced its first sailing on The Svalbard Line, strengthening Hurtigruten’s premium cruise offering across Norway’s coastline and the Arctic archipelago.
Demand drives fleet expansion
MS Midnatsol departed for Svalbard on 19 May following a major refurbishment program that included upgrades to accommodation, dining venues and onboard facilities.
The vessel will operate weekly departures between Bergen and Longyearbyen during the European summer season, alternating with sister ship MS Trollfjord. During winter, it will sail Hurtigruten’s North Cape Line from Hamburg alongside MS Finnmarken.
Hurtigruten CEO Hedda Felin said demand for immersive Norwegian coastal experiences continues to grow.
“We are seeing strong growth in demand for voyages along the Norwegian coast and to Svalbard from Australia, both in summer and winter,” Felin said.
“The Svalbard Line has been very well received, and with MS Midnatsol we are further strengthening the offering with additional departures and a ship specially rebuilt for this type of travel.”
Major refurbishment completed
The refurbishment has transformed several key areas of the vessel, including the introduction of the Sami-inspired Arran restaurant and fine dining venue Røst.
Both venues join the ship’s main restaurant, Flora, with menus highlighting regional ingredients and local Norwegian produce.
Additional enhancements include a redesigned Panorama Lounge bar, upgraded gym and sauna facilities, and extensive cabin renovations.
All Arctic Superior cabins have undergone a full refurbishment, while Polar cabins and suites have received significant upgrades. Nearly 9,000 square metres of carpeting has also been replaced throughout the ship.
The vessel has also been adapted to comply with the international Polar Code, which governs safe operations in Arctic and Antarctic waters.
Strong appeal for Australian travellers
Hurtigruten APAC Managing Director Damian Perry said the Signature product continues to resonate strongly with travellers from Australia and New Zealand.
“Demand for our Signature portfolio from both partners and guests across the APAC region has never been stronger,” Perry said.
“The Signature Voyage style has always resonated deeply with Australian travellers and MS Midnatsol now delivers that experience at its fullest.”
Perry said the ship’s upgraded dining experience, including the popular Røst restaurant, would further enhance the onboard experience for guests seeking a deeper connection to Norwegian culture and cuisine.
Premium coastal cruising focus
Hurtigruten’s Signature voyages differ from its traditional Coastal Express itineraries by offering longer port stays, fewer stops and a stronger focus on curated experiences and destination immersion.
The addition of MS Midnatsol reinforces the company’s investment in premium coastal cruising as travellers increasingly seek slower-paced journeys centred on nature, culture and local experiences.
