Starting shot for Midnatsol: Hurtigruten invested in coastship fleet!

Starting shot for Midnatsol: Hurtigruten invested in coastship fleet!

Bremerhaven, Deutschland - Hurtigruten has announced that it would expand his fleet by integrating the cruise ship "Midnatsol" from summer 2026. This decision is made in response to the increasing demand for travel along the Arctic and Norwegian coast. The shipping company not only modernizes its fleet, but also reacts to the growing trend towards premium trips into these attractive destinations. After extensive modernization, the "Midnatsol" becomes part of the signature fleet, which already includes the ships "Trollfjord" and "Finnmarken", such as Nord24 reported.

The ship, built in Norway in 2003, offers space for up to 532 passengers and was equipped with a hybrid drive in 2021. After an accident in December 2023, in which the ship had to be towed to Bremerhaven, the shipping company is optimistic that the "Midnatsol" will again run under its original name on the classic postal ship route in November 2024. From the summer of 2026 it will take over regular journeys between mountains and Longyearbyen on the Svalbard line and will be used on the North Cape Line in winter, supplemented by the modernized "Finnmarken".

increasing demand for signature trips

Bookings for signature trips increased by more than 40 percent compared to the previous year in May 2025, which indicates the increasing popularity of these trips. This type of travel offers passengers longer port stays, all-inclusive catering options and special excursions. CEO Hedda Felin of Hurtigruten emphasizes that the demand for authentic experiences as well as for comfort and a deep connection to nature and culture increases. This is also reflected in the booking figures that have risen by over 100 percent for the British market, according to James Howlett, sales manager in Great Britain.

In addition, the "Vesterålen", which was built in 1983 and has a capacity of 510 passengers, will return to the full-time operation of the Coastal Express fleet on the Bergen-Kirkenes route in the spring of 2026. Together with the "Midnatsol", these ships will offer a comprehensive and attractive offer for travelers who want to explore the fascinating Norwegian coast and the Arctic waters.

With these measures, Hurtigruten not only strengthens its market position, but also actively reacts to the needs and wishes of its customers who are looking for unique experiences in untouched nature.

Further information can be found in the articles of Nord24 and Read.