Aboard the incredible MS Spitsbergen, HX Hurtigruten Expeditions guarantees memories that will last a lifetime with Arctic adventures and Scottish Highland island hopping on a modern expedition vessel that's designed with more sustainable technologies. Complete with well-appointed modern cabins with contemporary designs throughout, everyone onboard is encouraged to unleash their inner explorer – with the help of the resident Expedition Team and onboard Science Centre. Onboard, you can expect an intimate atmosphere and all the modern comforts you expect from a HX Hurtigruten Expeditions cruise, including a state-of-the-art sauna, a well-equipped fitness centre, hot tubs on the Expedition Deck, and an exquisite restaurant. Visiting breathtaking destinations while calling at charming coastal ports larger cruise ships can’t always get to, an exploration aboard MS Spitsbergen will be one worth remembering.
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The ship in numbers
What's onboard
Dining
While there may only be one restaurant on the ship, guests can expect food of an exceptional standard from morning to evening. Breakfast and lunch are served as a buffet, while dinner has two seating times and a set menu, although there are still extensive buffet options available. Hurtigruten prides itself in sourcing local ingredients, so many dishes are made from products picked up at the destinations you visit. Enjoy everything from classic dishes to sheep’s head, although vegetarians and vegans are also well catered for.
Meanwhile, for light bites and refreshments throughout the day, you can head to the Brygga Bistro; here, you’ll find a range of fresh sandwiches, snacks, and a variety of hot and cold drinks. Boasting a refreshed interior, with comfortable seating and sweeping views of the surrounding scenery, there are far worse places to spend some time onboard.
Entertainment
You’re not going to find traditional cruise ship entertainment aboard MS Spitsbergen, but that doesn’t mean you’ll spend your evenings sitting in your stateroom – unless you want to, of course!
With the newly refurbished Explorer Lounge, you’ll always be able to find a comfortable spot to sit and socialise, all while relishing in the sensational views of the surrounding scenery. Meanwhile, throughout your voyage, you’ll also be invited to attend informative presentations and intriguing talks from the resident Expedition Team – which are all enhanced by the cutting-edge technology in the updated Science Centre onboard. With topics ranging from regional natural history to details on the local wildlife, these are sure to enhance your onboard – and onshore – experience. The Explorer Lounge is also home to a new cocktail menu, which is definitely worth checking out while onboard.
With education and entertainment one and the same aboard a HX Hurtigruten Expeditions adventure, you’ll find each and every day of your voyage – whether you’re at sea or ashore – as rewarding and enriching as the last.
Things to do
With the focus of a cruise on MS Spitsbergen being the destinations you visit, time spent on the ship is designed to enrich your experience. Announcements are made if any wildlife has been spotted, such as whales and puffins, and the ship will slow down so that nobody misses these incredible sights. There are also fascinating lectures which give guests the opportunity to learn more about the history of the Norwegian coastline.
In addition, guests will find a small gym, sauna and two hot tubs available for their enjoyment.
Though, the sights are really the highlight of a voyage aboard MS Spitsbergen. You can find out more about why you should book a HX Hurtigruten Expeditions' Northern Lights cruise aboard this ship right here.
Useful Information
When you opt for a MS Spitsbergen voyage, you can access a range of amenities, activities and more that are included as standard in your base fare. From a HX water bottle to access to the onboard sauna, onboard activities, soft drinks, walking gear you can use on expeditions, an expeditions logbook, gratuities and more. However, from October 2024, HX have announced a fantastic all inclusive offering, that not only includes the above, but the following:
- Daily expeditions led by experts in their field
- Activities related to a range of scientific topics onshore and onboard
- Alcoholic beverages (from 1pm each day of your cruise)
- Professional photographs taken by a talented onboard photographer
- An Expedition jacket
- Starlink Wi-Fi
*Terms and conditions apply.
Want to learn more about what it's like to sail on a stunning ship like MS Spitsbergen? For more information, see our blog - Hurtigruten vs HX Expeditions.
