MS Spitsbergen is a compact, purpose-built expedition ship that embodies Hurtigruten's heritage while embracing modern environmental progress. Launched in 2009, rebuilt in 2016 and extensively refurbished in 2025, she blends expedition capability with elegant Scandinavian design and an intimate atmosphere for up to around 150 guests, supported by a dedicated crew of about 80. At 100 meters long and 18 meters wide, with three decks, she is nimble enough to reach off-the-beaten-path places larger ships can't. The ship's focus on sustainability and local engagement makes every voyage a responsible adventure, and her onboard Science Centre invites guests to engage with discoveries in real time. Onboard activities come alive with daily excursions guided by expert naturalists, lectures, hands-on workshops, and field experiences that connect you to Arctic ecosystems. Guests can observe wildlife, capture dramatic landscapes, and participate in expedition demonstrations, all facilitated by the ship's expedition ethos and flexible itineraries. Accessible design is evident in two wheelchair-friendly cabins and a cabin mix that balances comfort with practicality. The ship provides EU 2 Pin 220V electrical plugs (adapters not provided), reinforcing a straightforward guest experience. Together with Hurtigruten's historic routes and the ability to access remote shores that larger ships cannot, MS Spitsbergen offers a relaxed, intimate expedition atmosphere that pairs Scandinavian simplicity with modern expedition capability.
Ship Specifications
Lectures
The ship’s experienced lecturers command an in-depth knowledge of the areas in which we sail. They will conduct, on a regular basis, lectures on topics such as biology, history and geology throughout the voyage. The lecturing schedule will be announced every day in the on board daily program.
Expedition Team
The onboard Expedition Team is composed of the Expedition Leader, the Assistant Expedition Leader, the Expedition Coordinator plus several lecturers and experts. Your Expedition Leader will regularly update you on the progress of the trip as well as the different points of interest and wildlife sightings that may occur. Biographies of the Expedition Team can be found on board. In the ships science center, you will be able to find information regarding the trip and book optional excursions and activities.
Shore Excursions
We offer a rich and varied programme of included and optional shore excursions run by third-party providers in many areas we sail to. In many ports, we offer an included excursion, which can be reserved for no additional charge. In some cases, the included excursion can be combined with other optional excursions in the port. Most excursions can be pre-booked, but may also be bookable onboard if capacity remains.
We advise that you book well in advance in order to avoid disappointment due to the excursion being fully booked. Please note that registration is binding, and once on board the Expedition Team will advise you of booking deadlines for excursions still available. Our excursions have English-speaking guides unless otherwise indicated and other languages cannot be guaranteed unless specified. Excursions are subject to change and possible cancellation due to weather conditions. They are also dependent on the number of participants.
In addition, the Expedition Team also arrange a variety of activities during the cruise. These will depend on location and season but may include hiking, snowshoeing, and kayaking. These activities are booked on board and subject to availability.
Science Centre
This is the core of the onboard experience. The Science Center is packed with state-of-the-art technology and high-tech gadgets such as touch screens and science equipment. This is where guests and staff/crew meet, mingle, and create a deeper understanding of the areas you explore.
The flexible venue features lecture spaces, a small library, and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology, and more. This is also where you'll find HX’ hand-picked Expedition Team.
Expedition Launch
Located on Deck 3
Aune
MS Spitsbergen’s main restaurant serves three meals a day from generous breakfast buffets, casual lunches, to beautifully plated dinners that spotlight regional dishes.
Take Away - Prefer a quieter evening? Aune’s takeaway service lets you enjoy a freshly prepared meal in the comfort of your cabin or suite, perfect for laid-back nights in.
Brygga Bistro
A casual venue new since 2025 serving snacks and light meals between restaurant hours. Perfect for when you've worked up an appetite in between landings.
Explorer Lounge & Bar
This relaxed space is where the day’s stories gather. With sweeping views and a warm atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for sharing discoveries, attending briefings, or simply watching the waves roll by.
Shop
Located on Deck 5
Observation Decks
The ship has spacious outdoor areas. They are perfect vantage points to sit back, relax and watch the world go by.
Reception
Located on Deck 5.
Library
The ship has a small selection of books that are available to guests while on board.
Deck 8
Facilities on this deck:
- Observation Deck
Deck 7
Facilities on this deck:
- Hot Tubs
- Sauna
- Gym
- Observation Deck
- Polar Inside Cabins
- Polar Outside Cabins
- Arctic Superior Cabins
Deck 6
Facilities on this deck:
- Explorer Lounge & Bar
- Polar Outside Cabins
- Polar Inside Cabins
- Arctic Superior Cabins
- Expedition Suites
Science Centre
Deck 5
Facilities on this deck:
- Aune Restaurant
- Explorer Lounge & Bar
- Reception
- Brygga
- Observation Deck
- Shop
Deck 4
Facilities on this deck:
- Polar Outside Cabins
- Polar Inside Cabins
- Expedition Suites
- Luggage
- Gangway
- Medical Centre
Deck 3
Facilities on this deck:
- Expedition Launch Pad
Expedition Suite | Owners Suite
Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Spitsbergen and reserve one of our Expedition Suites. Spacious, serviced, and with bed combinations for up to four people, these well-appointed apartments offer special features such as private balconies, expansive windows, and minibars (charges apply). Suites feature double beds, some with a seating area, some with a sofa bed or a Pullman bed. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, tea-making facilities, and a single-serve coffee machine. Naturally, the accommodation includes a full range of premium facilities including daily turn-down service and laundry. Champagne on ice and a platter of delicacies are provided for your enjoyment as you set sail.
- Upper-deck two-room suite
- Private balcony
- Seating area
- Some are wheelchair accessible, may be available for general booking
- Double bed
- Sofa bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: up to 4 | Size: 32-33 m2
- Cabin Code: MX
Expedition Suite | Grand Suite
Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Spitsbergen and reserve one of our Expedition Suites. Spacious, serviced, and with bed combinations for up to four people, these well-appointed apartments offer special features such as private balconies, expansive windows, and minibars (charges apply). Suites feature double beds, some with a seating area, some with a sofa bed or a Pullman bed. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, tea-making facilities, and a single-serve coffee machine. Naturally, the accommodation includes a full range of premium facilities including daily turn-down service and laundry. Champagne on ice and a platter of delicacies are provided for your enjoyment as you set sail.
- Upper-deck suite
- Private balcony
- Double bed
- Sofa bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: up to 4 | Size: 28-29 m2
- Cabin Code: MG
Expedition Suite | Mini Suite
Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Spitsbergen and reserve one of our Expedition Suites. Spacious, serviced, and with bed combinations for up to four people, these well-appointed apartments offer special features such as private balconies, expansive windows, and minibars (charges apply). Suites feature double beds, some with a seating area, some with a sofa bed or a Pullman bed. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, tea-making facilities, and a single-serve coffee machine. Naturally, the accommodation includes a full range of premium facilities including daily turn-down service and laundry. Champagne on ice and a platter of delicacies are provided for your enjoyment as you set sail.
- Lower-deck suite
- Window
- Double bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: 2 | Size: 16-17 m2
- Cabin Code: Q2
Expedition Suite | Mini Suite
Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Spitsbergen and reserve one of our Expedition Suites. Spacious, serviced, and with bed combinations for up to four people, these well-appointed apartments offer special features such as private balconies, expansive windows, and minibars (charges apply). Suites feature double beds, some with a seating area, some with a sofa bed or a Pullman bed. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, tea-making facilities, and a single-serve coffee machine. Naturally, the accommodation includes a full range of premium facilities including daily turn-down service and laundry. Champagne on ice and a platter of delicacies are provided for your enjoyment as you set sail.
- Lower-deck suite
- Window
- Double bed
- Sofa bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: up to 3 | Size: 22-23 m2
- Cabin Code: Q3
Expedition Suite | Mini Suite
Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Spitsbergen and reserve one of our Expedition Suites. Spacious, serviced, and with bed combinations for up to four people, these well-appointed apartments offer special features such as private balconies, expansive windows, and minibars (charges apply). Suites feature double beds, some with a seating area, some with a sofa bed or a Pullman bed. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, tea-making facilities, and a single-serve coffee machine. Naturally, the accommodation includes a full range of premium facilities including daily turn-down service and laundry. Champagne on ice and a platter of delicacies are provided for your enjoyment as you set sail.
- Lower-deck suite
- Window
- Double bed
- Sofa bed
- Pullman bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: up to 4 | Size: 21-22 m2
- Cabin Code: Q4
Arctic Superior | Outside Cabin
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. They feature double beds, some with a sofa bed. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
- Upper-deck cabin
- Window (limited or no view)
- Double bed
- Some with sofa bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: up to 4 | Size: 14-18 m2
- Cabin Code: QJ
Arctic Superior | Wheelchair-Accessible
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. They feature double beds, some with a sofa bed. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
- Upper-deck cabin
- Window (limited or no view)
- Wheelchair-accessible cabin, may be available for general booking
- Double bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: 2 | Size: 18 m2
- Cabin Code: YA
Arctic Superior | Outside Cabin
Most of our Polar Outside cabins onboard MS Spitsbergen have double beds. Some include a single or double sofa bed and two Pullman beds (upper/lower berths). All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
Polar Outside | Outside cabin - Lower deck for up to 3 travellers
Most of our Polar Outside cabins onboard MS Spitsbergen have double beds. Some include a single or double sofa bed and two Pullman beds (upper/lower berths). All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
- Lower-deck cabin
- Window
- Two Pullman beds (upper/lower berths)
- Twin bed that converts into a sofa
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: up to 3 | Size: 13-14 m2
- Cabin Code: O3
Polar Outside | Middle deck for up to 3 travellers
Most of our Polar Outside cabins onboard MS Spitsbergen have double beds. Some include a single or double sofa bed and two Pullman beds (upper/lower berths). All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
- Upper-deck cabin
- Window (limited or no view)
- Two Pullman beds (upper and lower berth)
- Single sofa bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: up to 3 | Size: 11-12 m2
- Cabin Code: J3
Arctic Superior | Outside Cabin
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. They feature double beds, some with a sofa bed. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
- Upper-deck cabin
- Window (limited or partly obstructed view)
- Some with an observation deck
- Double bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: 2 | Size: 11 m2
- Cabin Code: P2D
Polar Outside | Outside cabin for 2 travellers
Most of our Polar Outside cabins onboard MS Spitsbergen have double beds. Some include a single or double sofa bed and two Pullman beds (upper/lower berths). All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
- Lower-deck cabin
- Window
- Double bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: 2 | Size: 13-14 m2
- Cabin Code: O2D
Polar Inside | Larger inside cabin for 2 travellers
Our cosy Polar Inside cabins feature double beds and some have additional Pullman beds. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
- Upper-deck cabin
- No window
- Double bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: 2 | Size: 15-20 m2
- Cabin Code: K2D
Polar Outside | Outside Cabin
Most of our Polar Outside cabins onboard MS Spitsbergen have double beds. Some include a single or double sofa bed and two Pullman beds (upper/lower berths). All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
- Upper-deck cabin
- Window (limited or no view)
- Double bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: 2 | Size: 11-12 m2
- Cabin Code: J2D
Polar Inside | Superior Inside Cabin
Our cosy Polar Inside cabins feature double beds and some have additional Pullman beds. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
- Lower- or upper-deck cabin
- No window
- Double bed
- Two Pullman beds (upper and lower berths)
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: up to 4 | Size: 15-20 m2
- Cabin Code: K4D
Polar Inside | Inside Cabin
Our cosy Polar Inside cabins feature double beds and some have additional Pullman beds. All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
- Lower-deck cabin
- No window
- Double bed
- Bathrobes and slippers on request
- Guests: 2 | Size: 9-14 m2
- Cabin Code: I2D
Fitness Centre
Well-equipped and compact, the gym includes treadmills, bikes, weights — and even a ping pong table. Finish your workout with a breath of fresh air on deck.
Sauna
Perched high on the ship, the sauna offers not just heat but horizon. The ultimate way to warm up and wind down after a day in the elements.
Hot Tub
Two open-air hot tubs, each with space for five, offer a soothing way to soak in the scenery. Ideal for easing tired muscles or simply watching the world roll by.
