MS Vesterålen is a 274-guest Hurtigruten cruise ship, in service since 1983. This page lists 222 upcoming departures across 16 itineraries in Northern Europe, day by day and port by port. Its live AIS position is plotted on the map below and refreshed through the day.
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A small expedition-size ship at 6,261 gross tons — #330 of 565 ships we track. 23 tons of ship per guest.
Currently on: Tromsø - Honningsvåg - Båtsfjord - Kirkenes (2 nights) — En route to Honningsvåg — last stop Tromsø
Position via AIS — updated periodically, not real-time.
MS Vesterålen is Hurtigruten’s smallest coastal ship and one of its most traditional vessels. Built in 1983 and refurbished in 2025, it combines classic maritime character with updated cabins and public spaces. The ship carries 274 guests and is designed for an intimate Norwegian coastal experience, with expansive outdoor areas, close access to the crew, and expedition-led insight into the coastline, wildlife, and local culture.
An intimate working coastal ship with traditional Norwegian art, polished brass and wood details, outdoor viewing areas, expedition programming, informal bridge visits, and a relaxed atmosphere. Its smaller size provides closer access to the crew than Hurtigruten’s larger vessels.
Two restaurants serve meals onboard: Torget, the main restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and Brygga, a casual bistro with lighter Nordic-inspired dishes. The Explorer Lounge & Bar provides panoramic coastal views and drinks.
The focus is on the voyage rather than large-scale production shows. Guests can attend lectures, join guided walks and excursions, participate in expedition activities, and enjoy lounges, maritime artworks, and informal onboard gatherings.
Cabin categories include interior cabins, outside cabins, Arctic Superior cabins, and refurbished Mini Suites or Expedition Suites. Available features vary by category and may include windows, seating areas, double beds, television, toiletries, hairdryers, and coffee and tea facilities.
The ship offers a smaller, quieter coastal-voyage environment and can carry vehicles within its limited vehicle-deck capacity. Family suitability depends on cabin availability and the vessel’s relatively simple range of onboard facilities.
A fitness room is available. MS Vesterålen does not have a sauna or hot tubs.
The ship has step-free access to key public areas, four wheelchair-accessible toilets, and a limited number of accessible cabins with automatic doors, including cabins 313 and 317.
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| Northern Europe | 29 | 38 | 42 | 21 | 9 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 12 | 11 |
Jump from MS Vesterålen sailings into the broader destination network with cruise line and region hub pages.
MS Vesterålen is registered in Norway.
MS Vesterålen carries about 274 guests.
MS Vesterålen entered service in 1983 and was last refurbished in 2025.
At 6,261 gross tons and 109 m long, MS Vesterålen is a small expedition-size ship — larger than 41% of the 565 cruise ships cruises.to tracks.
