Named after Hurtigruten’s first Coastal Express ship to set sail in 1893, MS Vesterålen is one of the smallest cruise ships in the Hurtigruten fleet, meaning everyone onboard can expect a cosier feel to their cruise holiday and wonderfully attentive service from the crew onboard. Whilst it’s one of the oldest ships in the fleet and it boasts a traditional feel, there are also modern amenities and technologies throughout thanks to recent refurbishments. So, you’ll have everything you need to embark on a fantastic getaway. And, with a limited passenger capacity affording you even more space while aboard, a voyage aboard MS Vesterålen is truly something special.
The ship in numbers
- Launched 1983
- Tonnage 6261
- Wheelchair accessible cabins 2
- Decks 7
- Lifts 1
- Pools 0
- Restaurants 3
- Maximum capacity 510
- Crew 50
- Refurbished 2025
What's onboard
Dining
MS Vesteralen offers amazing dining from breakfast through to dinner. Breakfast and lunch are both open seating buffets, meaning guests can enjoy the delicious dishes at their leisure. Dinner features a set menu with ingredients freshly sourced from the destinations the ship visits, all beautifully prepared and presented by the passionate team of chefs.
There is also a café open all day where guests can choose from sandwiches, burgers and drinks to keep them going between mealtimes.
Entertainment
While you won’t find much in the way of traditional cruise ship entertainment aboard MS Vesteralen, you will find plenty of places to relax and unwind after a busy day ashore.
This Hurtigruten cruise ship is home to bright, informal lounge areas throughout; in these, you’ll find sensational views of the passing scenery, good conversation, live music (on occasion) and interactive activities – from quizzes to arts and crafts.
Beyond this, the resident Coastal Experience Team provides in-depth presentations and informative lectures on everything from the natural history of the Norwegian Coast to Scandinavian cuisine. So, even though there aren’t Broadway-style stage shows available on MS Vesteralen, there’s still entertainment to be had when you’re at sea.
Things to do
MS Vesteralen provides guests with an exciting programme where you can learn more about the ship’s operation. Including evening talks hosted by the ship’s tour leader and various members of the crew about life onboard, as well as practical sessions featuring activities such as learning to read and use marine charts, this is the perfect cruise for those who want to learn more about the history and workings of the vessel.
In addition, guests will find several lounges dotted across the ship, as well as a small fitness centre and shop, meaning that there’s always something to keep you occupied during your free time on the ship.
MS Vesteralen Image gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Cabins
What are the main types of cabins on MS Vesteralen?
You can choose from standard Inside, Oceanview, and Balcony staterooms, alongside a selection of spacious, premium Suites.
Families and Kids
Is MS Vesteralen family-friendly?
Families are permitted, but the ship is primarily designed for adults with no dedicated kids' clubs or youth facilities.
Does MS Vesteralen have waterslides?
No, this ship focuses on a more relaxed, elegant pool deck experience without waterslides.
Food and drink
What speciality dining is there on MS Vesteralen?
Vesteralen keeps things simple, with all meals served in the ship's main restaurant rather than a separate speciality venue. Expect hearty Norwegian and international dishes, plus a café for lighter bites throughout the day.
What are the main dining options on MS Vesteralen?
Enjoy complimentary, multi-course meals in the elegant Main Dining Room, or visit the casual buffet for relaxed, flexible dining.
Itineraries
Which ports does MS Vesteralen usually sail out of?
The ship frequently sails from Bergen, Oslo, or expedition hubs like Ushuaia and Longyearbyen depending on the season.
Ship Features
What are the top highlights onboard MS Vesteralen?
Its excellent service, comfortable accommodations, and the unique destinations it visits.
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