Hurtigruten has announced the expansion of its premium Signature offering, with MS Midnatsol scheduled to join the fleet in summer 2026. This move comes in response to increased demand for immersive voyages along the Norwegian coast and in the Arctic region. MS Midnatsol will join sister ships MS Trollfjord and MS Finnmarken—the latter recently renamed from MS Otto Sverdrup—following a significant refurbishment aimed at enhancing onboard facilities to align with the Signature service standard.
From the summer of 2026, MS Midnatsol is slated to operate on the Svalbard Line, running between Bergen and Longyearbyen. During the winter months, the vessel will serve the North Cape Line, offering weekly departures from Hamburg. These routes form part of Hurtigruten’s Signature series, which is characterized by extended port stays, curated excursions, and a focus on locally sourced cuisine from over 70 regional suppliers.
Concurrent with this development, MS Vesteralen will return to full-time duty with the Original Coastal Express fleet, operating on the traditional Bergen–Kirkenes roundtrip. This redeployment supports Hurtigruten’s state-supported contract and reflects a broader strategic adjustment to fleet utilization. The ship, originally upgraded in 2019 with new engines and enhanced energy efficiency measures, is deemed well-suited for resumed regular service.
According to Hurtigruten CEO Hedda Felin, there has been a marked rise in interest for voyages offering both comfort and an authentic experience of Norway’s coastal landscapes and cultural heritage. She noted that the introduction of MS Midnatsol to the Signature fleet is a direct response to this rising demand and provides an upgraded vessel that aligns with Hurtigruten's elevated service model.
Felin also reported that, as of early May 2025, global bookings for Signature voyages had increased by over 40% year-on-year, indicating strong market performance and a solid platform for future growth. She emphasized that the rising interest affirms the appeal of voyages combining Norwegian nature, culture, and hospitality.
In confirming the return of MS Vesteralen, Felin remarked that the vessel holds a distinct place in Hurtigruten’s history and remains a favorite among returning guests due to its character and heritage. The redeployment of this vessel is seen as both a practical and symbolic reinforcement of Hurtigruten’s longstanding commitment to Norwegian coastal travel.