Helsinki, Finland
Cruise & Tour Package
from $10, 925 per person share twin
- HOT Bonus AU$150 Onboard Credit per person
- Interested in different departure dates? Let us know!
- Travel 29 Oct - 11 Nov 27
Norway
Follow the Northern Lights – Finland to Norway
Begin from Helsinki on this fully escorted southbound search for the Aurora Borealis. During the tour you'll cross Finland and Norway, visit charming hamlets, and sail through picturesque fjords, all the while making the most of plentiful opportunities to see the magnificent Northern Lights. Along the way, enjoy unique accommodation in both an Aurora Cabin and a Gamme cabin and meet the huskies and reindeer of the region.
Your trip also includes the amazing journey by rail, coach and ferry on the famous ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ route between Bergen and Oslo.
Departs
- 29 Oct 27 | Choose from a range of dates in 2027-28. Ask your consultant or visit in-store for details on departure dates, sailings, and pricing.
Deal Inclusions
- 14 Night Cruise onboard MS Kong Harald
Hurtigruten Inclusions
- A stay in a cabin of your choice
- Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) onboard
- Selection of aromatic teas and black drip coffee
- Welcome basket with sparkling wine
- Daily themed lectures on varied Norwegian topics
- Knowledgeable Expedition Team
- Special access to Hurtigruten photo sharing app
- Free Wi-Fi
- Accommodation on land & at sea
- Full-board dining on ship + some meals on land
- Scenic coach travel
- Norway in a Nutshell - Flam Railway
- City tours
- Arctic safaris
- Entrance to the Santa Claus Village
- Entrance to the SIIDA Museum
- Expert tour manager
- Stay at the Snowhotel Kirkenes
Additional Suite Inclusions
- Priority check-in
- Choice of dining time
- Traditional Norwegian wool sweater
Cruise itinerary
Welcome to Helsinki, Finland’s compact and design-forward capital on the Baltic Sea. Broad boulevards, neoclassical architecture and a strong maritime influence shape the city’s character, offering a calm and comfortable introduction to your Nordic journey.
From the airport, make your own way to your centrally located hotel and settle in. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore the city centre or stroll along the waterfront before meeting your fellow travellers.
This evening, meet your guide and fellow travellers before enjoying a welcome dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Helsinki.
After breakfast, we’ll start our journey north with a transfer to the city’s railway station for your train journey into Lapland. As the train departs Helsinki, the landscape gradually shifts from lakes, farmland and small towns to Arctic forest and open fells, offering a changing view of Finland’s scenery.
You’ll arrive in Rovaniemi in the late afternoon and transfer to your centrally located hotel. The town sits on the edge of the Arctic, where forested landscapes and northern light define the pace of life. This could be your first opportunity to spot the Northern Lights, so make sure to look skyward this evening.
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a relaxed morning at leisure before departing for one of today’s highlights – a husky safari in the forests of Finnish Lapland.
This “Born to Run” experience includes a guided husky cart or sleigh ride, depending on the snow conditions. At the kennels, learn how the enthusiastic dogs are trained and conditioned to become the remarkable Arctic athletes they are. Gain insight into their care and preparation before setting out along the trail.
For animal welfare reasons, husky carts are used when the snow conditions are unfavourable. When there is sufficient snow, the programme changes to a safari by sled. This is not a self-driving experience, allowing you to focus on the scenery and the energy of the dogs as they move through the landscape.
A simple soup lunch is included, followed by time to mingle with the dogs.
The remainder of the afternoon and evening are at leisure, with optional excursions available locally or time to relax at your hotel.
After breakfast at the hotel, check out and meet your long-distance coach for the journey north. A short drive brings you to the Santa Claus Village, located directly on the Arctic Circle. You’ll have time to explore this well-known landmark at your own pace – cross the Arctic Circle line, browse the shops or simply take in the atmosphere. Lunch is at your own arrangement.
Continuing north towards Saariselkä, we pause in Sodankylä for a brief stop to view the town’s historic Old Church, a simple wooden structure reflecting Lapland’s rural heritage.
By late afternoon, arrive at the Northern Lights Village on the outskirts of Saariselkä. Here, you’ll spend the night in a private Aurora Cabin or Glass Igloo, designed to offer uninterrupted views of the night sky away from light pollution. Dinner is served in the hotel restaurant.
In the evening, enjoy a reindeer safari hosted by local Sámi guides. Visit the reindeer farm, learn about traditional herding culture and gather inside a wooden kota around the fire for hot berry juice and smoked reindeer meat. If the conditions are right, you can step outside to look for the Northern Lights overhead.
Overnight in an Aurora Cabin or Glass Igloo.
Today we depart Saariselkä and continue north through Finnish Lapland. After around an hour, we arrive in the small township of Inari, where entrance is included to the SIIDA Museum, the national museum of the Sámi in Finland. Here, exhibitions present the spiritual and material culture of the Sámi people and explore the relationship between community, identity and the Arctic environment. Lunch is included during the visit.
Later, we continue north, crossing the border into Norway before arriving in Kirkenes. At the Snowhotel Kirkenes, enjoy a short tour of the property, which is home to resident reindeer and a husky farm. Entrance and a drink are included.
You may choose to join the included King Crab Experience, beginning with an expert presentation at the pier before enjoying a freshly prepared king crab tasting.
Dinner is served in the farmhouse restaurant, Låven. You’ll overnight in a traditional Gamme Cabin, inspired by hunting and fishing huts typical of the Lapland wilderness. Optional Northern Lights excursions may be available in the evening.
After breakfast at the hotel, the morning is at leisure. Later, transfer by coach to the Hurtigruten pier in Kirkenes for check-in and embarkation procedures.
Your voyage on board the Coastal Express begins here in Arctic Norway. Shortly after departure, we call at Vardø, home to the distinctive star-shaped Vardøhus Fortress, built in 1737 and still in military use today. Weather permitting, the hardy may even consider a brief dip in the icy Arctic Ocean.
Continuing along Norway’s northern coastline, we arrive in Båtsfjord in the evening before sailing onward to Berlevåg. Along the way, you may glimpse Mount Tanahorn rising to the west or see Kjølnes Lighthouse blinking atop the cliffs above the Barents Sea. These remote fishing communities are also known for their celebrated male choir, formed by local fishermen.
Dinner is served on board.
During the night, we call at Mehamn, where there is the option to join a snowmobile excursion into the Arctic wilderness. This guided adventure takes you across open snowy plains and through quiet valleys under the vast northern sky. With crisp winter air and minimal light pollution, it can be an excellent opportunity to search for the Northern Lights.
As morning breaks, we continue along Norway’s far northern coastline, calling at ports including Honningsvåg and Hammerfest. In Hammerfest, you may wish to visit the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, erected in 1854 to commemorate the first precise measurement of the Earth’s meridian arc – a landmark in scientific history.
Throughout the day, the ship threads between islands and exposed headlands, revealing the scale of this remote region.
Late in the evening, we arrive in Tromsø. An optional Northern Lights concert may offer a memorable end to the day, combining Arctic atmosphere with local culture.
This morning, we arrive in Harstad. Here, you may choose to join the optional excursion A Taste of Vesterålen, exploring local history, coastal landscapes and cultural heritage sites that define this northern region. Those remaining on board experience our passage through Risøyrenna, a shallow channel constructed in the 1920s specifically for Hurtigruten, allowing safe navigation through these waters.
As we continue south, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. We sail through the island chains of Vesterålen and Lofoten, where steep mountains rise sharply from the sea and fishing villages cluster along sheltered harbours. After a brief call at Risøyhamn, we arrive in Stokmarknes, the 19th century birthplace of Hurtigruten.
Further south, it may appear as though we are heading directly towards a mountain wall, but soon we enter the narrow Raftsund. Weather and conditions permitting, we detour into Trollfjord, where sheer cliffs rise almost vertically from the water, creating one of the voyage’s most memorable moments.
Just after breakfast, we cross the Arctic Circle, marking our exit from Arctic Norway to the mainland regions further south. The moment is traditionally celebrated on board, often with a spoonful of cod liver oil – a light-hearted rite of passage for those on deck.
Sailing along the Helgeland coast, you’ll soon spot Torghatten, the distinctive mountain known for the natural hole through its centre. Local legend offers an explanation for this unusual formation, and your Expedition Team will be happy to share the story.
Further south, we pass the Seven Sisters mountain range. According to folklore, seven troll sisters were caught by the sunrise and turned to stone, forming the peaks that rise dramatically from the coastline.
Although we are now south of the Arctic Circle, winter skies can still offer opportunities to see the Northern Lights, should conditions allow.
Today, we arrive in Trondheim, offering time to explore Norway’s former capital at your own pace. Visit Nidaros Cathedral, built over the burial site of King Olav II, who reigned from 1015 to 1028. Its Gothic façade and intricate stonework make it one of Scandinavia’s most significant religious landmarks.
Wander through the Bakklandet district, where colourful wooden warehouses now house cafés and small shops. You may wish to pause for coffee and a Nordic pastry before walking up to Kristiansten Fortress for views across Norway’s third-largest city and its surrounding fjord.
As we continue south, the coastline reveals how closely Norway’s communities are tied to the sea. In Kristiansund, long known as Norway’s “dried cod capital,” fishing traditions remain central to local life. An optional excursion to the Bergtatt marble mine offers a contrasting experience, taking you deep inside a mountain and across an illuminated underground lake before a meal is served in the mine’s impressive hall.
During the night, we call at Ålesund, Torvik and Måløy as our sea voyage gradually draws to a close. Before docking in Bergen, there is still striking scenery to experience, including Nordfjord beneath the vast Jostedal Glacier. South of Florø, we cross the mouth of the Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, taking in views of the island-dotted coastline.
In the early afternoon, we arrive in Bergen, marking the end of your Coastal Express journey. After breakfast on board and disembarkation, meet your private coach and English-speaking local guide for a city sightseeing tour.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, with its colourful wooden warehouses reflecting Bergen’s Hanseatic heritage. Continue to St Mary’s Church and Håkon’s Hall, reminders of the city’s medieval importance. Your city tour concludes with a return journey on the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen, where wide views stretch across the harbour and surrounding mountains.
You’ll then be brought back to your hotel where dinner is by your own arrangement.
After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to Bergen railway station for the start of today’s Norwegian fjord journey. Your luggage will be forwarded to your hotel in Oslo, allowing you to travel comfortably with a small day bag.
Travel by train from Bergen to Voss, where you change to a coach. The journey continues through a valley landscape shaped by rivers and cascading waterfalls as you make your way to Gudvangen.
In Gudvangen, board a ferry for a fjord cruise along the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, one of the narrowest arms of the Sognefjord. Sheer mountain walls rise from the water, waterfalls thread down the rock face and small farms cling to the slopes, offering a sense of scale that is distinctly Norwegian.
On arrival in Flåm, walk to your hotel and check in. Dinner is included at the hotel restaurant this evening.
This morning you’ll board the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s most renowned rail journeys. The ascent from the fjord to the mountain station of Myrdal reveals waterfalls, steep valley walls and sweeping views as the train climbs through dramatic terrain.
At Myrdal, change trains and continue onward to Oslo. As the journey progresses, the landscape gradually shifts from mountain scenery to farmland, forests and small towns as you approach the capital.
On arrival in Oslo in the afternoon, walk to your hotel and check in. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure, with lunch at your own arrangement.
This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner at the hotel restaurant, marking the conclusion of your journey through Finland and Norway.
After breakfast at the hotel, your escorted tour comes to an end. Departure transfers are not included, and you will make your own way to the airport according to your onward travel arrangements.
If your schedule allows, you may wish to spend a little more time exploring Oslo before departing. A walk along the waterfront promenade offers views across the Oslofjord, while the Opera House invites you to step onto its sloping roof for a final panorama of city and sea. Art enthusiasts might consider a visit to the Munch Museum or the National Museum, home to a wide collection of Norwegian and international works.
For a quieter moment, stroll through the Royal Palace gardens or along Karl Johans gate, the capital’s main boulevard.
From Arctic wilderness and coastal voyages to fjord landscapes and Nordic capitals, your journey now draws to a close. We wish you a safe onward journey.
Cabin Types
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.
Polar Outside Cabin
These comfortable, outside cabins for up to two people on the lower deck have separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa. The cabins have portholes, some with limited or no view.
Helsinki, Finland
Cruise & Tour Package
from $11,255 per person share twin
- HOT Bonus AU$150 Onboard Credit per person
- Interested in different departure dates? Let us know!
- Travel 29 Oct - 11 Nov 27
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.
Helsinki, Finland
Cruise & Tour Package
from $12,229 per person share twin
- HOT Bonus AU$150 Onboard Credit per person
- Interested in different departure dates? Let us know!
- Travel 29 Oct - 11 Nov 27
The images are representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same stateroom category).
Terms and Conditions
All cruise packages are based on Twin share, inside cabin and costs are per person. Availability is current as at 02 Oct 26 and deals are available until date shown or until sold out. Space is strictly limited and is subject to availability at time of booking. Note some categories of Oceanview or Balcony may have obstructed views. 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. Included airfares are based on special nonrefundable 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 prepay this aspect of the hotel rate and must settle at check in. Saving amounts reflect a discount from the published best price fare at time of publication. Where Onboard Gratuities are not included, we aim to give an approximate value but these are subject to change and are indicative only. ESTA Visas are required for itineraries visiting the UK, USA, Canada, India, China, Vietnam, Bali, Schengen states & 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 the applicable embassy. Passport validity, Visas, Vaccinations and health requirements are the responsibility of the passengers.
Northern Lights Promise Terms & Conditions
Subject to the following 'Terms and Conditions'
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For sailings departing between 20 September 2025 – 31 March 2026, you will receive a 6-day southbound or 7-day northbound Coastal Express Classic Voyage, departing between 20 September 2026 and 31 March 2027.
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For sailings departing between 20 September 2026 – 31 March 2027 you will receive a 6-day southbound or 7-day northbound Coastal Express Classic Voyage, departing between 20 September 2027 and 31 March 2028.
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For sailings departing between 20 September 2027 – 31 March 2028 you will receive a 6-day southbound Coastal Express Classic Voyage, departing between 20 September 2028 and 31 March 2029.
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We promise that in the event of there being no Northern Lights occurrence as defined above, you will receive a Original Coastal Express Classic Voyage, departing between 20 September and 31 March of the following year in an unspecified inside twin cabin on a full-board basis free of charge. You may upgrade to another grade of cabin subject to additional costs and availability. Please note that upgrading to suites with this offer may not be available.
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This offer applies to all new bookings of voyages of 11 days or more along the Norwegian coast aboard The Coastal Express and The North Cape Line, departing between 20 September and 31 March.
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A 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 Lights occurred is final.
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We announce occurrences of the Northern Lights on board the ship and you have the option of announcements direct to your cabin or suite. We hope that you will experience seeing the Northern Lights whilst on your voyage with us of 11 days or more, but we cannot be held responsible if you don’t.
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We reserve the right to withdraw or amend the offer at any time. Please check at the time of booking as to the current status of the offer. The offer must be claimed and booked within 28 days from your return date. A choice of departure dates will be given.
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The complimentary voyage includes accommodation in an unspecified inside twin cabin on a full-board basis. Cabin upgrades are available at an additional cost and subject to availability. Suite upgrades are not available with this offer.
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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
