As a world leader in sustainable exploration, HX Hurtigruten Expeditions offers unforgettable voyages to the planet's most remote corners, from the icy reaches of Antarctica to the lush Galapagos Islands. Their modern, custom-built fleet provides an elegant sanctuary at sea, featuring high-end dining, wellness facilities, and stylish staterooms. Beyond the physical comfort, each journey is elevated by a resident team of experts who provide deep insights into every destination, ensuring your adventure is as enriching and educational as it is thrilling.
MS Spitsbergen
- Launched - 2009 (refurbished in 2020)
- Tonnage - 7,334
- Maximum capacity - 335
- Number of crew - 65
- Number of decks - 6
- Number of restaurants - 1
- Number of pools - 1
The MS Spitsbergen offers an intimate and more sustainable way to explore the Arctic and Scottish Highlands, utilising its nimble size to reach remote coastal ports inaccessible to larger ships. Onboard, the experience balances discovery with comfort, featuring a dedicated Expedition Team, an interactive Science Centre, and premium amenities, including a state-of-the-art sauna, hot tubs, and fine dining. With its contemporary design and focus on immersive education, the vessel is engineered to transform curious travellers into true explorers.
On board experience
The main focus when you are on board the amazing MS Spitsbergen is the places that you visit, and your time spent on board will really enhance and enrich your experience. There will be announcements if any local wildlife has been spotted, so you can expect to hear one if whales are swimming nearby, so that all guests have the chance to see them!
There is a resident onboard photographer ready to capture those special moments, as well as daily expeditions led by experts and onshore and offshore activities.
On board accommodation
The MS Spitsbergen features a range of modern, Scandinavian-inspired accommodations designed to be a comfortable "basecamp" after a day of exploration. Each cabin includes an en-suite bathroom with a shower, a TV, and sleek, contemporary decor.
The accommodation is generally divided into four main categories;
Polar Inside, Polar Outside, Arctic Superior and Expedition Suites.
To learn about the cabins available on the MS Spitsbergen, click here.
Dining
Dining aboard centres on high-quality, locally sourced cuisine, ranging from diverse breakfast and lunch buffets to set-dinner menus featuring regional specialities and catering to all dietary needs. For a more casual experience, the Brygga Bistro offers light bites and refreshments within a recently refreshed interior. Both venues emphasise fresh ingredients and provide comfortable settings to enjoy the passing scenery between explorations.
Entertainment
Instead of traditional shows, MS Spitsbergen offers enrichment through the Explorer Lounge and a high-tech Science Centre, where the Expedition Team hosts captivating talks on local wildlife and history. Guests can socialise over a new cocktail menu while enjoying panoramic views or dive into educational presentations that enhance every discovery. This unique approach ensures every day is both rewarding and intellectually stimulating, seamlessly blending relaxation with discovery.
Wellness
There is a small gym, a sauna, and hot tubs on board.
Fancy a cruise on board the beautiful MS Spitsbergen?
Head to our dedicated MS Spitsbergen cruise deals page to find your perfect voyage.
MS Fram
- Launched – 2007 (refurbished in 2020)
- Tonnage – 11,647
- Maximum capacity – 318
- Number of crew – 75
- Number of decks – 8
- Number of restaurants – 2
- Number of pools – 0 (features 2 outdoor hot tubs)
Designed specifically for polar exploration, the MS Fram is the ultimate basecamp for adventurers seeking the heart of Antarctica and the Arctic. Named after the legendary original vessel used by Nansen and Amundsen, this modern expedition ship combines a sturdy ice-strengthened hull with an elegant interior filled with commissioned Norwegian artwork. With a focus on science-led discovery and a commitment to sustainability, the ship offers a sophisticated yet rugged environment where education and exploration go hand in hand.
On board experience
The MS Fram is built to bring you closer to nature, with expansive observation decks and a highly specialised Expedition Team that leads daily excursions. Life on board is centred around the Science Centre, the "beating heart" of the ship, where guests participate in Citizen Science projects and hands-on research. Much like her sister ships, the bridge is often open to guests, and the crew provides real-time updates on wildlife sightings to ensure you never miss a breach or a colony on the horizon.
On board accommodation
Accommodations on MS Fram reflect a refined Scandinavian aesthetic, providing a warm and inviting retreat from the polar elements. Every cabin and suite is thoughtfully designed with natural materials and features an en-suite bathroom, TV, and ample storage for expedition gear.
The accommodation is generally divided into four main categories: Polar Inside, Polar Outside, Arctic Superior, and Expedition Suites.
Dining
Dining on MS Fram is a culinary journey that mirrors your physical one, with menus often inspired by the regions you sail through. The main restaurant, Aune, serves generous breakfast and lunch buffets and sophisticated three-course dinners. For those seeking a more refined experience, Lindstrøm offers fine dining with a focus on high-end Norwegian and international cuisine. Both venues emphasise the "Norway’s Coastal Kitchen" concept, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
Entertainment
Rather than West End-style shows, entertainment on MS Fram is found in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer 270-degree views of the icebergs and fjords. The evenings are filled with deep-dive lectures from historians, biologists, and geologists, or quiet reflection over a signature cocktail. It is an environment designed for curious minds, where the "show" is the spectacular landscape passing by outside.
Wellness
Wellness on board is focused on recovery and relaxation; the ship features a well-equipped fitness room and a traditional sauna. For the ultimate polar experience, guests can soak in the two outdoor hot tubs on the deck, providing a warm vantage point to watch the frozen world drift by.
Fancy a cruise on the beautiful MS Fram?
Head to our dedicated MS Fram cruise deals page to find your perfect voyage.