Watch the Northern Lights from your own private balcony
Hurtigruten named its new ship MS Spitsbergen after the largest island in the Svalbard Archipelago where the company’s founder, Richard With, first started explorer tourism in the Arctic.
The newest addition to the fleet has a capacity of 320 guests and 180 berths. The guest area offers stylish cabins and modern common areas, making it possible to experience the spectacular polar scenery in comfortable surroundings.
Facilities on MS Spitsbergen are similar to those already offered across the fleet and she offers suites with a private balcony and full length windows – offering passengers their own private space from which to watch the northern lights or midnight sun.
Guests wont have to wait long before they can enjoy the newest addition to the fleet, as it has been confirmed that her refurbishment will be completed in time for her to operate from 8 May.
For the first few months of operation, MS Spitsbergen will plot a parallel route alongside the MS Lofoten. However, while MS Lofoten will follow her regular schedule, MS Spitsbergen will not stop overnight, leaving her more time to spend in selected ports during the daylight hours. All of the regular excursions such as rib boat rides, whale watching, horse-riding and sea eagle safaris will all be on offer.
She will also be the latest ship to offer Hurtigrutens new Coastal Expedition concept, with a lecture programme, regular hikes and expedition team on-board. The new product, which was announced earlier this year, will operate on three other coastal ships from 1 January.
From September, MS Spitsbergen will take the place of MS Midnatsol, who is heading south to Antarctica for the winter season. At that point she will operate the traditional Hurtigruten schedule, as a working ship.
The renovation work is being undertaken by the Norwegian Fosen Yard.
PASSENGERS : 320
BERTHS : 180
CREW : 40
FACILITIES : Expedition team, explorer deck, lounge with panoramic views, library, bars, restaurant, fitness room, sauna, conference centre, two restaurants, Wi-Fi