Cultural Voyages Along Norwegian Coast with Hurtigruten

Seattle, December 2015–To celebrate Norways rich cultural heritage, Hurtigruten has announced new Cultural Voyages along the Norwegian Coast inspired by Norway’s national hero, classical composer Edvard Grieg.

Cultural Voyages invite guests to experience an in-depth view of Norway’s music, art and cultural history while traveling along the breathtaking landscape that makes up the country’s coastline. Although the cultural voyages will follow the same itinerary as Hurtigruten’s Classic Coastal Route, the addition of concerts, art tours and lectures bring a more in-depth educational element to the sailings. Booking by January 15 offers savings of up to 30% on any of the 12 departures in April and May, 2016.

The Cultural Voyages includes 17 exclusive music, art and cultural events not available on any of Hurtigruten’s other Norway Coastal sailings. Learn about “The Story of the Norwegian Witch Process” – the tale of the witch trials that took place in Vardø in the 1600s; enjoy a piano concert featuring Grieg’s music at his former Bergen home – Troldhaugen; and a unique opportunity to attend a concert in an old fish-oil tank in Vesterålen.

Other highlights include an organ concert at the beautiful Church of Ålesund; several onboard concerts during the course of the sailing; onboard lectures on “What Is Norwegian Culture?” and “Norwegian Legends and Myths”; a guided tour of the ship’s artwork; an excursion to Witch Monument in Vardø; and storytelling in Andersgrotto in Kirkenes, where locals took refuge during WWII.

Six optional culturally-focused excursions are also available for booking (either on board, or in advance). These include Classic Art excursions in Lofoten and Tromsø; a concert at the Nidaros Cathedral and trip to the Ringve Museum of Musical History in Trondheim; an Art, Music and History Tour in Harstad; a trip to KaviarFactory, an international venue of contemporary art located in Henningsvær; and a tour of the museum dedicated to 18th-century Norwegian poet, Petter Dass, in Alstahaug.

Seven out of the 12 Cultural Voyages departures will be on Hurtigruten’s newly renovated ships: MS Polarlys, MS Nordkapp, or MS Kong Harald. All of these ship’s common areas, reception foyers, cafes and bistro areas and the aft deck will be renovated. Designs and shapes are expected to bear a resemblance to those found in nature – such as the flow of the waves or the strength of the majestic fjords.

Additional information and reservations can be obtained from travel agents or Hurtigruten’s website, www.hurtigruten.com; by phone at 800-323-7436; or fax at 888-524-2145. Brochures can be ordered online or by calling 800-582-0835.