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Sunset at Trondheim, Norway

Norway

Follow the Midnight Sun - Norway, Sweden & Finland

Bask in long, summer days as you explore the Finnish Lapland and take in Norwegian coastal towns on this flight-inclusive escorted small-group tour.

From Stockholm, an overnight ferry brings us to Helsinki. We spend the next few days exploring Rovaniemi, the home of Santa Claus, and Saariselka, cultural centre of the indigenous Sámi.

Crossing over to northern Norway, you’ll join the ship in Kirkenes for a southbound voyage along the Norwegian coast. Visit places like Hammerfest and Tromsø and experience the beauty of the Lofoten islands and the Helgeland coast on our way to Bergen.

Departs

  • 31 May 26 | Other dates available May - Jul 2026. sailing from Stockholm, Sweden

HOT Cruise & Tour deal Includes

  • 7 night Tour from Sweden to Kirkenes
  • Check in & Welcome Dinner
  • Guided Tour of Stockholm including Gamla Stan and City Hall
  • Overnight ferry to Helsinki, Finland – city tour including Temppeliaukio Church and Sibelius
  • Travel to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus
  • Visit Saariselkä, a Sámi cultural center
  • Optional excursions like hiking with huskies and visiting the Snowhotel
  • Cross into Norway, arrive in Kirkenes
  • 5 nights cruise onboard MS Nordlys
  • Hike with huskies, weather permitting
  • Guided city tours of Stockholm, Helsinki, Bergen
  • Rail journey from Helsinki to Rovaniemi
  • 2 night Tour in Bergen
  • Guided tour of Bergen, known as the “City of Seven Mountains.”
  • Farewell and departure


Food and drink on board

  • Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Selection of aromatic teas and black drip coffee
  • Choice of dining time (Suite or Select Fares only)
  • Welcome basket with sparkling wine (Suite only)

Life on board

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Knowledgeable Expedition Team
  • Special access to Hurtigruten photo sharing app
  • Traditional Norwegian wool sweater (Suites Only)

Included in the Tour:

  • 4-star hotel accommodations
  • Enjoy 9 total nights of hotel stays on land
  • Scenic hike with huskies, weather permitting
  • Meals on land: breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Guided city tours of Stockholm, Helsinki, Bergen
  • Rail journey from Helsinki to Rovaniemi
  • Midnight Sun Photography Expedition


Cruise itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Sweden! Arriving at Stockholm Arlanda Airport, you'll make your own way to your hotel for check-in.  

Depending on what time you arrive, you’ll be able to enjoy some time at the hotel or exploring Stockholm before we all meet at the hotel in the evening.  

You’ll meet your Tour Manager along with the rest of your group and be treated to a welcome dinner at the hotel which will be a three-course set menu or a buffet.

 

Day 2

Today, you’ll get to see more of Stockholm on a private four-hour guided tour of the city. The tour will take us past Stockholm’s main highlights by coach, including a walking tour of the old town or Gamla Stan in Swedish.  

We’ll also visit the City Hall, one of Stockholm’s most iconic buildings. Entrance is included, so step inside to admire the impressive mosaics of the Golden Hall, which is the venue of the Nobel Peace Prize ball held each year, along with the Blue Hall, which is the venue for the banquet before the ball.  

The city tour ends at your hotel, at which point you’ll have some time at your leisure.  

A coach will then pick us up from the hotel and bring us to the ferry terminal. Board Tallink Sijla ferry bound for Helsinki, via the Åland Islands at the entrance to the Gulf of Bothnia. The archipelago here is made up of some 6,500 skerries and islands with less than a hundred of them inhabited. 

Enjoy an evening buffet dinner on the ferry while admiring views of the islands before retiring to your cabin for the night.

 

 

Day 3

Enjoy a buffet breakfast aboard the ferry before we arrive in Helsinki. After disembarking, we’ll meet with a local English-speaking guide and board a private coach for a three-hour tour of Helsinki. 

You’ll be shown the highlights of the city, including the spectacular Temppeliaukio Church. Built into the bedrock of the city in 1969, this iconic structure is often called the ‘Church of Rock’.  

You’ll also get to see the Sibelius monument, an impressive sculpture dedicated to the late Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius. Found in Sibelius Park, this imposing structure is made of over 600 hollow steel pipes welded together to create an abstract, wavy form. 

The tour ends at your Helsinki hotel for check-in. Spend the afternoon exploring more of the city at your leisure, and discover the many hidden gems dotted around the centre, such as Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral.

 

Day 4

After breakfast at your hotel in Helsinki, we’ll make our way to the train station next door in time for our departure to Rovaniemi.  

Reputed to be the home of Santa Claus, our destination is known for its Arctic scenery and dense forests. At this time of year however, the area is unrecognisable, with its white fields and snow-capped trees replaced by lush greenery lit by the soft glow of the never-ending Midnight Sun. 

We’ll spend almost the whole day travelling north by train. Gaze out the window and admire the Scandinavian wilderness as it rushes by us — you won’t want to miss a moment. Our journey will take us across the Arctic Circle, to the far north of Finland. On arrival, a private coach will transfer you from the railway station to another hotel for check-in.  

You’ll be free to use the rest of the afternoon and evening however you like. Why not enjoy a dinner at Sky Kitchen & View Restaurant with the Midnight Sun still shining high above.

Day 5

Board a tour bus from your hotel in Rovaniemi in the morning and let out your inner child as we explore the wondrous Santa Claus Village. Here in the Arctic, you can see herds of reindeer and even meet the jolly bearded man himself – looking suitably relaxed until the winter. 

We’ll continue our journey north and make a quick stop in Sodankylä, where you can admire the facade of the Sodankylä Old Church. Built in 1689, this is one of Finland’s oldest wooden churches. Enjoy some lunch and free time before we continue to Saariselkä. 

Arriving at the Midnight Sun Village in Saariselkä, you’ll be wowed at your accommodation. For the next two nights, you’ll be staying in your very own Midnight Sun cabin, where you can enjoy the Arctic summer view through the 360 degree glass roof.




Day 6

You’ll have the morning to spend at leisure. Relax and take in the tranquil surroundings, or join one of the optional excursions, such as a safari on your own electric fat bike. Enjoy an included lunch at the hotel before setting off for an excitement-filled afternoon. 

As part of today’s included activity, you’ll get to meet several friendly Siberian huskies. Have one of these energetic dogs accompany you on a hike through the wilderness, tied to a waist belt. Learn about arctic wildlife and plants from your guide as you follow the scenic trail. Pick and eat fresh berries along the way, take a drink straight from a mountain stream, and lose yourself in the pristine nature around you. The route includes a moderate climb, so this activity is recommended for fairly confident hikers. 

Enjoy dinner at the hotel followed by a Midnight Sun Photography Expedition. We’ll make a photo stop at the quiet, picturesque Lake Inari, which was believed by ancient Laplanders to be the home of Ukko the Overgod. Then, we’ll continue to a wilderness camp on the lake shore, where we’ll enjoy a warm drink and prepare a traditional Lapland midnight snack while waiting for the sun to near the horizon.

Day 7

After breakfast at your hotel in Saariselkä, we’ll board a private coach to continue our journey through Finnish Lapland.  

Our first stop in the morning is the small township of Inari. There, we’ll explore the newly renovated SIIDA museum and take a guided tour of the open-air exhibition. This museum houses exhibits and artefacts that document the rich culture of the Finnish Sámi. 

We’ll have lunch at the museum restaurant before continuing north and crossing the border into Norway, finally arriving at Kirkenes in the afternoon.  

Just a few miles from the border, Kirkenes was a strategic location during WWII and has a number of WWII museums and monuments today which chronicle that era.   

The waters around Kirkenes also teem with king crab, a local delicacy and important source of livelihood for those living in this frontier town.  

You’ll check in to your hotel in Kirkenes in the evening in time for dinner.

Day 8

Breakfast at the hotel will be followed by our morning visit to the Snowhotel, Kirkenes 365. This is the first ever hotel completely made of snow and ice. Here, you’ll enter a real life winter wonderland, even in the middle of summer.  

Your visit includes a guided tour of the Snowhotel along with a welcome drink. Make sure to visit the resident huskies and reindeer – the excited squeaks of the pups will surely melt your heart.  At the end of the visit, you’ll transfer from your hotel to the pier to board your ship.  

The ship will depart from here. Please note that no porterage service is available at Kirkenes pier, and the tour manager leaves the group after embarkation.  

After boarding, we’ll prepare for our sea voyage. Take some time to get used to your new nautical home and to find your sea legs. Settle into your cabin for the night and get ready to see the famously beautiful Norwegian coast.

 

Day 9

We make stops at Mehamn and Kjøllefjord during the night, before early morning visits to Honningsvåg and Havøysund. 

In the early afternoon, you’ll spend time in Hammerfest, which has the largest population on a list of the world’s northernmost settlements. See the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, shop for souvenirs at the Polar Bear Society, or take the path behind the town to the viewpoint atop Mount Salen.

We’ll continue cruising Norway’s coastline south to Øksfjord and then to Skjervøy, a town surrounded by stunning mountain peaks. We’ve been docking at this vital fishing port since 1896. 

As we make our way to Tromsø, you might catch a glimpse of the Lyngen Alps, which boast some of the highest peaks in all of Norway. We’ll dock at Tromsø just before midnight, and we’ll stay in port for a couple of hours. If you’re feeling energised by the 24-hour daylight, why not take a stroll around the city under the Midnight Sun - you might be surprised at how busy it is. 

As part of an optional excursion, you can take a midnight boat ride around the city or experience a candlelit classical concert at Tromsø Cathedral.

Day 10

Today, you’ll be exploring the archipelagos of Lofoten and Vesterålen, real highlights of our Norway scenic route. 

After Finnsnes early in the morning, the ship calls at Harstad, where you can join one of our classic optional excursions for “A Taste of Vesterålen”. Discover history, beautiful scenery, and cultural heritage sites on this tour, then rejoin the ship further south at Sortland. 

Those who stay on the ship will experience our passage through the Risøyrenna, a shallow channel built for our ships in the 1920s. 

Prepare for some amazing scenery as we sail through the world-famous islands of Lofoten and Vesterålen. Lofoten is known for its natural beauty, steep mountains, wilderness, and picturesque fishing villages. Our daylight route through the region is the voyage highlight for many of our guests. 

After a short stop at the tiny village of Risøyhamn, we continue to Stokmarknes, where we, The Hurtigruten Coastal Express, began more than 125 years ago. You may wish to visit the Hurtigrutemuseet here. 

Continuing south, it’ll look like we’re headed straight into a mountain, but don’t worry, we’re in fact sailing through a passage into the narrow Raftsund, flanked by peaks rising 1000m out of the sea. 

We now arrive at the amazing Trollfjord. If conditions allow, we’ll sail between sheer cliffs that seem close enough to reach out and touch. It’s an unforgettable experience! 

 

Day 11

Crossing the Arctic Circle is an important ‘rite of passage’, and today, we’ll celebrate the occasion on deck with a taste of Arctic tradition – a spoonful of Norwegian cod liver oil. Leaving the Polar region means saying goodbye to the Midnight Sun, but you’ll still see incredibly long days throughout the rest of the summer voyage. 

Sailing along the Helgeland coast, you’ll find the strange mountain, Torghatten. This mountain rises 258m above sea level and is famous for the distinctive hole through its centre. The hole is 160m long, 35m high, and 20m wide, and was formed during the ice age. 

Another highlight is sailing past the Seven Sisters mountain range. According to legend, the seven peaks were formed from seven beautiful troll sisters; when they were caught out at sunrise, they turned to stone, thus creating the seven beautiful mountaintops. 

Next, we make a brief stop at the idyllic trading post of Nesna before moving on to Sandnessjøen. In Brønnøysund, join an optional excursion to the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre for an informative tour and taste of fresh salmon.

 

Day 12

This morning, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the historic royal city of Trondheim for a few hours. Be sure to visit the majestic Nidaros Cathedral, built over the burial site of King Olav II who reigned from 1015 to 1028. 

Leaving Trondheim, we’ll sail past beautiful island scenery and some of Norway’s smallest communities before arriving at Kristiansund and Molde. 

Kristiansund is regarded as Norway’s ‘dried cod capital’ because of its long-time export of salted dry fish. Here, you can join an excursion along the Atlantic Road, a National Scenic Route. The 8km stretch of highway spans eight bridges, crosses picturesque landscapes and is surrounded by open sea. 

Another interesting excursion is to the Bergtatt marble mine, which takes you inside a mountain and across an illuminated subterranean lake before serving you a meal in the mine's ‘Grand Hall’. 

Those who remain aboard at Kristiansund will experience the ship´s open sea crossing towards Molde - Norway´s ‘City of Roses’ which, if you’re there in season, is adorned with rose bushes in bloom. You can also see the distant 222 pointed peaks of the Romsdal Alps across the fjord, called ‘the Molde Panorama’.



Day 13

Today marks the end of our Norwegian coastal cruise together, but there’s still plenty to see during your last day with us. During the night, we’ll call at Ålesund and Torvik, and on our approach to Måløy, you might catch a glimpse of the northbound Coastal Express if you’re up early enough. 

Before docking in Bergen, you’ll have a chance to glimpse Nordfjord under the enormous Jostedal Glacier, mainland Europe’s largest glacier. Here, the fjord widens to the east and forges 90 km inland. 

We’ll dock at Florø, Norway’s westernmost community, in the morning. You’ll have some time to take in the harbour and marina before we set off again soon after. As we leave the port, get your camera ready to snap some shots of Stabben Lighthouse, a favourite subject for photographers.  

As we reach our final port in the afternoon, the ship will navigate through the last islands and skerries of our Norway scenic route, and we’ll sail down Hjeltefjord to arrive in Bergen, Norway’s second largest city.  

After saying goodbye to the captain and the crew, we’ll board a private bus for a city sightseeing tour of Bergen, which includes a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Bryggen, St Mary’s Church, and Håkon’s Hall. 

The tour ends at your hotel in Bergen, where you’ll check in. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Spend some time browsing the food stalls at the fish market, or head across to the colourful Hanseatic wharf at Bryggen for some souvenir shopping.

 

Day 14

You have the day at leisure to further explore the city. Surrounded by seven mountains, Bergen is often called “The Gateway to The Fjords” and offers a perfect mix of pristine nature and rich culture. 

You can get stunning views of the city and the surrounding waterways from the top of Mount Fløyen. A leisurely ride on the funicular railway will take you all the way to the peak. 

There’s also the art collections and exhibits of the four KODE museums and galleries to peruse, as well as the shops, cafés, and restaurants around Market Square. 

Reconvene in the evening to enjoy a farewell feast at a local restaurant, perhaps Bryggeloftet & Stuene, located in the historic Bryggen area.

 

Day 15

After breakfast at your hotel in Bergen, it’s time to bring your tour of Scandinavia with us to a close and head home. Make your own way to the airport in time for your departure. 

Although your journey with us is over for the time being, you’ll take home with you souvenirs that will last a lifetime. Whether in the form of photographs, handmade crafts picked up along the way, or simply treasured memories, these will forever remind you of your time with us.  

We hope to see you again soon for another adventure.

 

Follow The Midnight Sun Map

Cabin Types

from Auckland

Polar Inside Cabin

Our cosy Polar Inside cabins can be found on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins have separate beds where one doubles as a sofa, while some are equipped with a double bed or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.

Stockholm

Cruise & Tour Package

from $8499 per person share twin

  • Onboard Credit - AU$1000 per person*
  • Included Savings of AU$1000 per couple*
  • HOT Bonus additional onboard credit AU$300 per couple
  • Travel 31 May 26 - 14 Jun 25
MS Nordkapp Polar Outside Cabin Single Bedroom

Polar Outside Cabin

Our Polar Outside cabins are situated mostly on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with shower/WC, and most have flat-screen TVs. The cabins offer separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.

Stockholm

Cruise & Tour Package

from $8865 per person share twin

  • Onboard Credit - AU$1000 per person*
  • Included Savings of AU$1000 per couple*
  • HOT Bonus additional onboard credit AU$300 per couple
  • Travel 31 May 26 - 14 Jun 25
MS Nordkapp Artic Superior

Arctic Superior Cabin

Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both upper and middle deck, they all have bathrooms with shower and WC. They are also equipped with tea and coffee -making facilities. All Arctic Superior cabins have double beds. All the cabins have individual specifications.

Stockholm

Cruise & Tour Package

from $10,039 per person share twin

  • Onboard Credit - AU$1000 per person*
  • Included Savings of AU$1000 per couple*
  • HOT Bonus additional onboard credit AU$300 per couple
  • Travel 31 May 26 - 14 Jun 25

Expedition Suite

Suite, one or two rooms, queen size bed,seating area, TV, mini-bar, some with private balcony

Stockholm

Cruise & Tour Package

from $12,545 per person share twin

  • Onboard Credit - AU$1000 per person*
  • Included Savings of AU$1000 per couple*
  • HOT Bonus additional onboard credit AU$300 per couple
  • Travel 31 May 26 - 14 Jun 25

The images are representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same stateroom category).

Terms & Conditions

All cruise packages are based on Twin share, inside cabin and costs are per person. Availability is current as at 29 Jul 25and deals are available until date shown or until sold out. Space is strictly limited and is subject to availability at time of booking. On board credit where shown is per cabin & must be spent on board and is not refundable in cash. All passengers are bound by the individual cruise lines terms & conditions, please ask your consultant for a full copy. Current Deals must be paid in full at time of booking or deposit dates as shown. All passengers must have a valid passport with more than 6 months validity at the end of their holiday. Travel insurance should be taken out at time of booking to cover in the event of any unforeseen cancellation, we recommend that you purchase a policy that includes cover around Covid-19. Included airfares are based on special non refundable economy fares, ground transfers are not included unless specified, any hotels included are on a room only basis unless specified. Hotels in certain destinations in Europe, USA and Asia may require local tourist taxes or resort fees payable at check in, We aim to give an indication of these where possible, but unfortunately you cannot pre pay this aspect of the hotel rate and must settle at check in. ESTA Visas are required for Itineraries visiting USA ,Canada, India, China, Vietnam & Sri Lanka. Visa costs are not included. If travelling on a non NZ passport other visas + NZ re-entry permits may also be required, please check with applicable embassy. Vaccination and health requirements are the responsibility of the passengers, please note that most cruise lines require guests to be double vaccinated against covid-19 up to 14 days prior to cruise departure.

*Northern Light Promise Terms & Conditions

Northern Lights Occurrence is defined as a sighting from the ship which is recorded by the ship’s deck officers and which is announced to passengers on board. An occurrence can last anything from a few minutes to a matter of hours, and the ships decision as to whether the Northern light occurred is final. We hope that you will experience seeing the Northern Lights whilst on your Classic Round Voyages cruise or select Expedition cruises in Norway, although we cannot be held responsible if you don’t. We do however, promise that in the event of there being no Northern Lights Occurrence as defined above on your voyage, we will invite you back to cruise with us once more

*Sail the Norwegian coast with us during the auroral season between 26 September and 31 March on a voyage of 11 days or more. If the Northern Lights do not occur within sight of your ship during your voyage, we will give you a 6-day southbound or 7-day northbound Original Coastal Express Classic Voyage FREE OF CHARGE*.
Hurtigruten reserves the right to withdraw or amended the offer at any time . Please check at the time of booking as to current status of offer The offer cruise must be booked within 28 days from your return date. A choice of departure dates will be given. 'Exclusions' Offer excludes flights, transfers, all on board expenses, excursions, luggage handling. Offer does not apply to re-scheduled or cancelled cruises. Bookings are non-transferable, non-changeable and have no cash value.

*Offer valid for new bookings made between 16 July 2025 and 12 September 2025.

Up to 10% off the selected Original Coastal Express sailings from 1 April 2026 to 31 December 2026, plus bonus $250 per person onboard credit.

Up to 20% off selected Signature Svalbard Line sailings from 10 May 2026 to 13 September 2026.

$500 per person off selected Original and Signature Tours departing 1 January 2026 to 9 April 2027.

Bonus $500 per person onboard credit on selected Original and Signature Tours departing 1 January 2026 to 31 March 2027.

Offers are based on two people sharing a cabin and are not applicable to solo travellers.

Discounts are combinable with the Ambassador Loyalty Programme.

Prices are based on a flexible pricing system that is capacity controlled and confirmed at time of booking.

Offers are subject to availability and may be changed or withdrawn at any time.

Standard booking, payment, and cancellation conditions apply.

HOT CODE: CMPHURT0108

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose which type of cruise is right for me
There are three main types of cruising

Ocean Cruises
There is a wide range of itineraries, cruise lines and cruise ships to choose from for those seeking an ocean experience, or an exciting adventure across many countries. Ocean cruising is an amazing holiday where everything you could possibly need is within easy reach.

River Cruises
A leisurely cruise along the world’s waterways is a relaxing, and luxurious, way to travel. Whether you’re navigating across Europe or cruising Southeast Asia’s Mekong River, each new day on a river cruise brings a new experience.  

Luxury Cruises
Luxury beyond belief. Soak up Michelin-star fine dining restaurants, butler service, and luxurious suites. Luxury cruising appeals to those travellers demanding an unparalleled, all-inclusive travel experience away from the hustle and bustle of the large crowds

What types of cruises are there?
There are cruises tailored to every type of traveller ie; adults only, couples, families, retirees, singles, large groups etc.  Depending on the cruise line will depend on the type of cruise available and what is best suited to the experience you want. 

Most offer a full range of activities and facilities to participate in as a family. Kids clubs are also offered in some ships and are focused on keeping children entertained.  Be prepared, some are more “kid-friendly” than others -always check with your HOT travel consultant 

Many cruise lines have adults only areas, and some are even fully adults only cruise ships.  The larger the ship, the more space you will have. If you are looking for something a little smaller and more intimate, your cruising specialist will help you find that.

Can I go on a cruise if I’m travelling alone?
Yes - taking a cruise is a great way to relax and see the world at your own pace. A cruise is a fun and safe environment to meet other people, or just soak up the experience solo. Ask your cruise consultant about what’s best for solo travel and find out about the special add on rates for single occupancy of double staterooms.

Should I check in before I go
YES - we highly recommend checking in online ahead of time. While the process differs between cruise lines, you will usually need to create an account and enter your personal and booking details. It’s a must to do this in advance as you will be provided with a lot of important information to ensure you are fully prepared. This takes the stress out of the boarding process.

You may be offered a choice of a few different boarding times, although some cruise lines do pre-allocate this for you.  Your check in process will also outline when your bags are likely to be available once you are on board. This is important as it may not be immediately so you might want to reconsider what you take as carry-on so you have some essentials on hand 

What happens when I embark
Like all travel, ensure you arrive at your embarkation port on time (preferably a little earlier) for your allocated boarding time. Make sure you have your boarding passes printed, your luggage tags securely attached to your bags and your passport on hand ready to go.  

Look out for your designated terminal, drop off your bags, then make your way through the security process. This is very similar to an airport, with metal detectors and x-rays for smaller carry-on bags.  

Once through security, you will approach the check-in counter, where you will have your photo taken and receive your onboard card, which will serve as your cabin key, onboard payment method and onboard ID. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin during embarkation.

Is cruising expensive?
Like all travel, the cost is dependent on a lot of factors – things like the length of cruise, destination(s), the type of cruise line or room type.  But because there is so much variety, there will be a cruise to suit everyone's budget.  It can work out to be great value for money compared to a regular fly/stay holiday.

Will I get seasickness?
Most modern cruise ships have stabilizers in place to ensure passenger comfort. Plus, cruise ships will alter their routes in advance to avoid any adverse weather patterns and storms etc.

But if you are prone to motion sickness, you could find yourself getting seasick on your cruise holiday. You could try natural remedies or over-the-counter prescribed medicines to counter motion sickness. 

Do I need a passport or visa to cruise
You will require a passport to cruise internationally. Some close to home domestic sailings will only require a valid driver’s license. It is always recommended to have a valid passport whilst cruising and is your responsibility to ensure you have the applicable photo identification. Some countries do require you to obtain a visa in advance if you wish to disembark the ship in port. You will need to check the visa requirements for the countries visited on your cruise itinerary. Countries such as China, Russia, India, Canada and the USA require all New Zealand passport holders to obtain a visa. Always check with your HOT travel consultant and they will direct you to the right information.

Will I save money if I book at the last minute or early?
We recommend that if you are looking for a great deal book your cruise early. Some cruise lines offer great incentives for the early booking travellers. Thery could be things like complimentary room category upgrades, bonuses and discounted prices. Some even do airline flight credits! But these deals are normally for a limited time and will not last.   Join our HOT cruise newsletter / email database, and we will let you know when there are offers or special deals available.

Cruise pricing, like most things, reflects supply and demand. The more demand there is for a particular cruise the higher the price will be. Demand could be determined by factors such as the destination, seasons & duration of the cruise holiday. 

Like anything, waiting till the last minute does involve risk. If you wait, your cruise may have sold out.  Then there is also the possibility of getting the cruise but in a room category that you don’t want. Our expert advice is - book early!

 

Is there a dress code on board
It will depend on what cruise line you are sailing with. As a rule, casual dress is accepted during the day, with smart casual or formal attire being required at night. Most cruise lines do not accept caps, jandals, bare feet, swimwear or sleepwear in formal dining venues.  

Some cruise lines enforce a stricter dress code, with men required to wear jackets and women cocktail attire at dinner. If you do not comply with your cruise line’s dress code, you may be asked to leave a particular venue. Make sure you check with your HOT travel consultant   - you don’t want to get caught out

Do cruise ships cater for passengers with accessibility requirement?
Yes, most cruise lines have accessibility assistance in place for passengers with disabilities. Cruise ships typically offer a range of wheelchair-accessible cabins, however, the number of these may be limited. You must advise at time of booking – make sure you speak to your HOT travel consultant and outline any requirements for you or your travelling companions

Some ocean ships can be large, which at times can be difficult for passengers with mobility problems to navigate. To make things easier, on some cruise ships you can rent a scooter or wheelchair for the duration of your cruise. Always check in advance with your HOT travel consultant

Can I smoke onboard a cruise ship?
All cabins and public areas onboard cruise ships are strictly non-smoking / vaping. You can, smoke/ vape in the ship’s designated smoking zones only

If in doubt, ask the staff onboard your ship. 

Are my valuables safe on board?
If you bring valuables with you, they are best to be kept in your in-room safe.  We also recommend you keep your passport, and any important documents locked in the your safe also.


Are gratuities or tips included?
This depends on the cruise. Your cruise consultant will outline this as part of the booking process.  Some holidays include gratuities in the total price, whilst others might require you to pay once you are onboard.

How much luggage can I bring on the cruise?
Cruise lines are not generally concerned about how much luggage you bring onboard, so there are largely no luggage restrictions on cruise ships. But be aware, some staterooms have limited closet space!  But remember, if you are travelling by air etc to your departure port, all airlines have weight and ‘number of bag’ restrictions.

Don’t get caught out – make sure you check the details carefully and be aware of any restrictions.  Airlines do charge for oversize or excess baggage. Be prepared, check the restrictions with your travel consultant or the airline carrier directly before you book your flights.


Should I book shore excursions or do my own sightseeing?
Talk to your HOT travel consultant, it depends on what you want to do.  You have options – you can do the shore activities arranged directly by the ship, as the quality and service offered is guaranteed.  A bonus, if the tour is delayed the ship will wait for you before it sets sail again.

You can, however, book shore excursions, whilst on board, or in advance if you want a more structured adventure.  Doing your own local sightseeing can be exciting, however you’ll have to pay close attention to time as the ship will not wait for you if you are running late.


What currency is used onboard?
This varies depending on cruise line and destination.  You can almost guarantee that the currency on most cruise lines will not be in NZD. Ships based in Australia will usually have AUD onboard. Ships that cruise in a variety of destinations will have a currency to reflect their company's ownership, which could be currencies such as USD or Euro. Make sure you ask your HOT travel consultant in advance, so you are prepared.


What if I require a special diet?
If you have special dietary requirements, you should advise your HOT travel consultant at time of booking.  If you do have special requirements, make sure you arrange your meals in advance. However, if you do forget, you can arrange it onboard.


What room type should I book?
A lot of first-time cruisers choose an inside room (internal without a window) mainly due to the cost.  However, it is normally only a small difference per day to upgrade to an oceanview room (with a view).

Or investigate an upgrade to a balcony/veranda room which offers floor to ceiling windows that open to allow the fresh ocean air in. Check with your HOT travel consultant

Can I take visitors on board?
Think of a cruise ship like an airplane.  No you can’t. Due to immigration and security reasons only registered guests are permitted onboard at all times.


Is there babysitting on board?
Babysitting is available at extra cost on some ships. Many cruise lines will offer popular kids club facilities onboard, and some cater better than others.  But if you are on a cruise that is targeted at families will be spoilt for choice for ways to entertain the whole family


Is there WiFI and mobile reception?
Yes you can. Most ships offer Wi-Fi throughout the ship, whilst some only offer in designated areas. Most cruise ships have internet cafes on board. Charges do apply for the use of broadband & because it is based on satellite 
Phone Reception is generally only available in ports. Some cruise lines have agreements with land-based phone service companies. If you chose to use this service, you will be paying international roaming rates for these calls.  Find out before you go – your HOT travel consultant can help

How do I pay for on board expenses?
Just like many hotels, an onboard account will be set up for you prior to departure. This means all your onboard purchases can be charged to this account.  Payment will be made at the end of the cruise.

Are there laundry services on board?
Laundry and cleaning services are always available. It’s either self-service laundry facilities or a professional laundry service.  You will find washing machines, dryers, ironing boards, irons and detergent on board. Self-service washing machines & dryers generally tend to be coin operated.

Can I bring alcohol onboard the ship?
You are not allowed to bring alcohol onboard the ships. Duty free and personal alcohol purchased onshore will be collected upon your check in and can be collected on the last day of your cruise. Any Duty- and Tax-Free alcohol purchased on the ship will be held for safekeeping and can be collected on the last day of the cruise.

Not to worry - cruise lines largely offer drink packages so you can purchase drinks onboard. If not, your drinks can be charged to your cruise card.

Can I place a deposit for a cruise booking?
At time of booking you can choose to pay for the cruise in full or pay the minimum per person deposit amount.

When do I need to pay for my cruise in full?
If you have chosen to pay a deposit only, your full payment deadline will be determined by the cruise you book, so please check your Invoice for the final payment due date.

What is included in the price of a cruise?
Cruise holidays are one of the most value for money holidays you could go on. Your transportation, accommodation and main meals are included whilst onboard. Selected activities and entertainment are also included in the price.

There are some additional activities that you may have to pay separately for, like special restaurants & shows.  Ask your HOT travel consultant for a full list of inclusions and added extras you can pay for separately

Do I need travel insurance?
YES – we absolutely recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance at the time you book your cruise. Your HOT travel consultant can organise a quick and simple quote for you. 


Can I book my complete holiday including a cruise?
Your local HOT travel consultant will be able to curate you the perfect holiday making sure that it all works like clockwork.  We can organise your flights, transfers, an amazing cruise, then accommodation and add in extras like a tour, car hire or sightseeing etc. This is where using a HOT travel consultant is critical – it’s complex and our consultants are expert and making it the best holiday ever. 

How can I cancel or make changes my cruise booking?
We know ‘life’ happens.  To cancel your booking, get in contact with your HOT travel consultant as soon as you can. Please note that cancellation fees will apply. Similarly, if you need to make any changes or amendments, we can help, but again, be prepared, change / amendment fees will apply.  Some of your booking may be non-refundable.

When is my final payment due?
Your final payment will be due approximately four to five months before departure. You can find all payment amounts and due dates on your Booking Advice.

When will I receive my travel documents?
Approximately one to two weeks before your departure date. These documents will be sent directly to your email. If in doubt, ask your HOT travel consultant. You would have already received your online passenger information to complete well in advance.

Can I hold a cruise booking?
Pricing for cruises is dynamic and is subject to change. Talk to one of our HOT travel consultants and they can talk you through how it can / does work.

How do I book a cruise for more than 4 people, or book multiple staterooms?
Contact a HOT consultant if you are travelling with more than 4 people, you may need two or more rooms – there are also limitations around the age of children being in rooms by themselves etc –ie; children may not be booked in a room on their own. Children must be accompanied by an adult (over the age of 21) in a room.

What if I am cruising with children?
There are various restrictions imposed by cruise liners around ages of children travelling.  If you are travelling with a child under the age of 12 months, make sure you let your HOT travel consultant know. There are also some restrictions around travelling if you are pregnant and will depend on what stage you are at, again, contact your travel consultant to find out more  as these can vary by cruise liner