Hurtigruten, the iconic leader in Norwegian coastal voyages, is increasing capacity on its premium Signature offering in response to strong demand for immersive Arctic and Norwegian coastal voyages. MS Midnatsol will join sister ship, MS Trollfjord, and MS Finnmarken in the Signature fleet from summer 2026, following a comprehensive upgrade of the onboard facilities. At the same time, MS Vesterålen will return to full-time service with the Original Coastal Express fleet on the Bergen–Kirkenes roundtrip route, supporting the state contract.

From summer 2026, MS Midnatsol will offer regular sailings between Bergen and Longyearbyen on the Svalbard Line. In winter, it will alternate with the recently renamed MS Finnmarken (formerly MS Otto Sverdrup) on the North Cape Line, departing weekly from Hamburg. Hurtigruten’s Signature voyages include longer port visits, all-inclusive dining, unique excursions and locally sourced ingredients from over 70 suppliers.

To support this fleet reshuffle, MS Vesterålen will rejoin the Original Coastal Express fleet from spring 2026. The vessel underwent major upgrades in 2019, including new engines, and energy-efficiency measures, making it well-suited to serve under the current state.